Coming up, sixth generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class was followed up again ahead of its expected reveal this year.
Although this spy electronic class prototype might look like former spy exampleOur spy photographers were able to capture a specific design element for the first time: a new LED strip.
The strip runs across the top of the grille and is a design element previously reserved for Mercedes-Benz’s EQ line of electric vehicles (EVs).
It is similar to what Volkswagen has added to some of its vehicles, in the context of broader industrial design trends.
It is unclear whether this front LED strip will be standard across the E-Class range or if it will be an optional feature.
Leaked images of the front end of the E-Class with no camouflage has previously appeared online, albeit with a masking tape where the light strips are located.
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Leaked images of E-Class -
Other design elements these leaked images reveal are the twin headlight design inspired by the W211 generation and the horizontally oriented touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system.
The E-Class is the middle child in Mercedes-Benz’s trio of internal combustion engine, rear-wheel drive/all-wheel drive sedans.
The new generation will follow the redesign WORLD RANGE launch locally in 2021 and new version Grade launch in 2022.
The coupe and convertible lines will be discontinued, with a new line of coupes and convertibles – possibly called CLE – generic replacement for all two-door C-Class and E-Class models.
A wagon is set to continue, at least in other markets, and has been tracked. The body style is dropped here in 2021 when Mercedes-Benz stops making the premium All-Terrain, and the brand doesn’t currently sell any wagons locally.
Diesel engines are also set to continue, but they are also phased out in Australia in 2021.
Expect a range of 48V mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains but no electric options, with that role in the Mercedes lineup being served by balance.
It’s unclear whether the E-Class will follow the smaller C-Class offering only four-cylinder powertrains on both the core and AMG lines.
Currently, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is offered with three turbocharged four-cylinder engine options, one of which is paired with a plug-in hybrid system.
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Former spy prototype -
Stepping up to the AMG range, however, you get a turbocharged inline-six in the E53 and a twin-turbo V8 in the E63.
E-Class’ arch rival is BMW Series 5, is also about to enter a new generation. Prototypes of the new 5 Series have been tested ahead of the expected launch in 2023.
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