The 2017 Mercedes E Class has been leaked through 31 official photos and a video ahead of its world premiere at NAIAS 2016 (Detroit Auto Show) on January 11. The new gen mid-size luxury sedan is very different from the outgoing model but has several things in common with its stablemates, the C Class and S Class.
The new E Class is certainly more sophisticated and elegant than its predecessor but that said, it has lost its individuality. Following Mercedes’ latest design trend, the new E’s styling is characterized by almond shaped LED headlights (partitioned into two by DRL elements), a familiar chrome grille, a smoothly arching roofline and a tapered rear fascia with LED taillights.
Underpinned by the MRA modular architecture, the lightweight new gen model sits on a 2,939 mm wheelbase (65 mm longer than the old car). At 4,923 mm, the 2017 E Class is longer by a good 43 mm. So one can expect the newest Merc to offer better rear seat space and boot volume.
The higher variants get S Class inspired digital instrument panel.The interior has already been revealed. The new dashboard design is an amalgamation of C Class and S Class. Higher variants are kitted with fully digital instrument console derived from the flagship S Class while the entry level models make do with traditional analog dials. The centre console houses a wide COMAND infotainment system, also inspired by the S Class. The circular AC vents and transmission console have an unmistakable C Class aura.
Also read – Next gen Mercedes E Class interiors unveiled
The new E Class will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a newly developed 195 PS 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine (E220 d) in Europe. Bigger six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines would also be a part of the powertrain lineup. An AMG version and a station wagon derivative would be unveiled at a later stage.
