E-Class outline teaser shows visual elements similar to the C-Class and S-Class. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed an almost two-year speculative report by announcing that the all-new sixth generation E-Class will become a reality on the 25th of this month.
Set to replace the current W213 that debuted in 2016, the W214 will continue to be offered as either a sedan or estate, but will go without a coupe or cabriolet as these, together with the C-Class variants, will be succeeded by the CLE three-pointed star will also debut this year.
Despite not revealing much in its latest teaser image, which shows the outline of the W214, what can be seen though is a distinct visual reference to the C-Class in the design of the headlights, an almost coupe-like roofline and a tail section reminiscent of the S-Class.
Underneath, and as reported by Britain’s Autocar in 2021, the E-Class will ride on a revised version of the MRA platform that underpins the C-Class, which will result in more emphasis being placed on electrification.
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Given Benz’s latest array of facelift or new models, speculation is that all combustion engine E-Class models will receive a 48-volt mild-hybrid system as standard, while AMG models will dispense with the 3.0-litre and 4.0-litre bi-turbo engines in favour of the electrified 2.0-litre mill that powers the C43, SL 43 and C63.
Already seen though is the E-Class’ interior, which follows the same design as approach as the EQS, but with a different execution in the look of the much vaunted OLED Hyperscreen display.
In the E-Class, the setup comprises three displays; the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an integrated central screen for the MBUX infotainment system and a smaller setup on the passenger side.
The latter pair, whose sizes were not disclosed, are set to be offered as options and unlike in the EQS, are not intertwined with another to create a ‘one-piece’ Hyperscreen look.
Also evident from the interior image is Benz’s latest three-spoke steering wheel, air vents that wraps around the side of the dashboard, the a freed-up centre console with a storage lid and LED mood lighting around the outer edges of the dash, on the doors and the console itself.
As before, a wide range of materials and colours are set to be offered, along with new or upgraded safety features derived from the S-Class, plus a new augmented reality Head-Up Display.
Besides the electrified powertrains, the E-Class will feature Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system as standard, but all models will receive the 9G Tronic automatic gearbox, albeit not the AMG versions as the dual-clutch 9G TCT ‘box will suffice.
Despite less than two weeks remaining before the E-Class’ unveiling, chances are that more teasers could become apparent before then.
Although not confirmed for South Africa just yet, the odds are favourite that Mercedes-Benz South Africa will debut the W214 E-Class in sedan guise only before the end of 2023.
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