A spy video emerged recently showing a barely camouflaged next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class prior to its expected official launch next year, as shown on a report from gtspirit.com.

The camouflage was limited to the front bumper, front grille and rear bumper of the E W213 E-Class sedan. Black sticky tape also covered the redesigned headlights and taillights of the prototype. Due to this, this is probably the most exposed E-Class test mule that was spotted on the road.

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class is expected to use the same modular MRA platform currently being used on the latest C-Class and S-Class models. Aside from being lighter compared to the platform currently being used on the E-Class, the new platform is also stronger since it is made of aluminum and high-strength steel.

The new E-Class of Mercedes marks the return of the inline-six cylinder engines in the luxury vehicles of the German company. These engines will come in gas and diesel versions. The first one to be used is a 2.9-liter diesel engine that is capable of producing 313 HP of power. However, there are reports that the development of diesel engines will be put on hold following the diesel engine emissions controversy. Reports indicated that hybrid engines will be developed in place of diesel engines, but this remains to be seen.

The German luxury vehicle manufacturer may also opt to use its 2-liter and 3-liter gas engines on the next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan.