Our favorite German luxury automaker is already working double-time on the next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan. Recently, a test vehicle of the range was spotted in full camo while sprinting on track. The spy video shows that the E-Class will retain its classic styling, but with subtle changes to keep its styling fresh.
Let’s take a closer look at what we know so far about the upcoming next-gen E-Class that’s due this week.
Design and Features
The E-Class in the video is heavily clad in camo but some of the partially exposed areas and protruding outlines on the covers do give us a lot of clues about what to expect from it. From the looks of it, the next-gen model will feature a few design updates, including a slightly revised front grille and pop-up door handles mirroring those of the S-Class.
It’s hard to see the exhaust ports of the vehicle in the video here due to the distance and angles its shots were taken. However, cranking out the sound reveals that it still carries an internal combustion engine partnered with an electric motor. In addition, the source of the video does confirm that the subject is indeed a plug-in hybrid.
Although not shown in the spy vid, the interior of the car is set to have a generous number of screens similar to the C-Class and S-Class. Particularly, it will feature the MBUX Superscreen with a trio of displays in the dashboard.
Based on a previous teaser, the new screen layout of the next-gen E-Class resembles that of the electric EQE, with some minor changes such as reshaped air vents and remapped buttons below the center screen. The other noteworthy features of the luxury vehicle include a 17-speaker Burmester surround sound system and a new Active Ambient Lighting function that changes the light pattern depending on the rhythm of the music produced by the audio system.
Engine and Performance
According to related reports, the upcoming E-Class will be powered by an assortment of four-cylinder engines, with some configured as mild hybrids and others serving as a part of a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Meanwhile, the most potent AMG E63 will likely lose its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 in favor of a downsized engine with either a four- or six-pot banger working with an electric motor.
The move to a PHEV setup will definitely add to the car’s weight, so it certainly makes a lot of sense if AMG does crank up its most powerful trim’s output to compensate for it. With that, the AMG E63 might get to produce more than its current 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.
Release Date of the Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The standard 2024 E-Class sedan will make its debut next week, but the AMGs are expected to arrive later in the year, with the E53 variant possibly being the first to launch. The range-topping E63 might follow suit in 2024.
Final Thoughts
As Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts await the launch of the next-gen 2024 E-Class sedan, the recent spy video and earlier teasers have given us a glimpse of what to look forward to. With subtle design changes, generous screens, and new features like Active Ambient Lighting, the E-Class promises to be a luxurious ride. Furthermore, the move to a PHEV setup might result in a more powerful AMG E63 amid having a downsized engine.
With the standard E-Class sedan set to make its debut soon, we can’t wait to see what other surprises its maker has in store for us.