With reports that Mercedes-Benz is planning to unveil the facelifted E-Class (W212) at the North American International Auto show in Detroit in January next year, the world’s automotive press have been at pains to catch a glimpse of what the new E will look like. Thanks to these spy images and an Autobild report, we have a much better idea.
Although the current generation remains an undoubted player in the executive saloon segment, much concern has been placed on the Stuttgart-based automakers stylistic ambition, so it’s safe to assume that a slight exterior adjustment (to the nose and, as these photographs suggest, the rear end) is on the cards. According to Autobild, the revisions include a new, larger grille, longer headlamp units that do away with the “four-eye” design used previously, new character lines in the side sheet metal and at the rear and a new taillamp design.
According to a local spokesperson, the engine line-up will remain largely the same – with the possibility of a few tweaks and adjustments to increase power and/or torque outputs but reduce overall fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
And just as our previous report stated, the updated E-Class will definitely boast more than a prettier face; namely a raft of new technologies that are more associated with its larger S-Class luxury sibling. These niceties will include a 360-degree monitoring system that continuously makes calculations about the E-Class’s surroundings (which will enable the system to pre-detect threats or collisions), a intersection assistance system that will determine the proximity of crossing vehicles that the driver is not yet able to see, as well as high-beam assistance – that keeps the light cone out of the eyes of oncoming motorists.
Click here to read our previous report
We’ll keep you updated on the new E-Class as the North American International Auto Show approaches.
