Is this the new Merc E-Class?

Newswheel staff :: 03 August 2007 :: Filed under Saloon, Mercedes Benz, Mercedes Benz E-Class

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Possibly…

Well, possibly. Motorauthority has shopped up some renderings showing how the next E-Class, due out in 2009, might just look. Plenty of styling cues have been taken from the recently refreshed entry-level C-Class saloon, while the overall vibe is crisper and more dynamic than the rather bland jelly-mould aesthetic of the current E-Class…

Historically, the E-Class has been the bellwether for the whole Mercedes brand. When the mid-‘90s model plunged off the cliff of quality into a sea of production and reliability problems, the rest of the Merc range went with it.

More recently, MB’s perceived and actual quality has been creeping upwards. It still lags well behind the likes of Audi, of course. But today’s Benzes are no longer such a flagrant insult to the memory of offensively over-engineered models of yesteryear, such as the late '80s W124 E-Class.

Mediocre Merc: The current E-Class

If Motorauthority’s images are accurate, the new E is certainly a bolder, more handsome design than the flabby, slightly bloated looking current model. Compact overhangs give a taut overall presence and the rear treatment looks particularly purposeful. The front fascia is sharp and aggressive, if a little busy. But frankly we’ll reserve overall judgement until we still the real deal.

As for engines, the line up will no doubt include the monumental new 550 pony V8 lump from AMG alongside the usual Mercedes fare. Expect to see the direct injection V6 petrol lump from the CLS make an appearance along with a more sedate V8 offering and more diesel options than you can shake a particulate filter at. We would run through the likely suspects, but you know the drill – clattery at idle, unfeasibly torquey on the move.

Linkage:
Motorauthority