Mercedes has given the clearest view yet of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which will arrive in 2023 with a heavily updated platform, a more powerful electric architecture and a range of all-electrified engines.
Known internally by the codename W214, the new E-Class will receive updates such as level-three autonomous driving in countries where it is legal and 5G connectivity for high-speed over-the-air updates.
The E-Class was photographed testing on public roads in Germany bearing white exterior paint, black alloy wheels and camouflage livery obscuring the front and rear lights, which are expected to feature the popular saloon’s most significant design changes.
One of the last models to be based on Mercedes-Benz’s existing MRA platform, the new E-Class saloon receives a slightly longer wheelbase than today’s fifth-generation model. The track widths have also been increased, giving the new 2023 model a larger footprint and interior dimensions.
All versions of the upcoming E-Class will be driven by an electrified powertrain, with a choice of four- or six-cylinders. The model’s existing M254 four-cylinder petrol and OM654 four-cylinder diesel units will be offered exclusively with an integrated starter-generator and 48V electrical system as well as changes to their exhaust system that allow them to meet EU7 emission regulations.
The turbocharged 2.9-litre in-line six-cylinder M256 petrol and turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder OM656 diesel units are planned to receive similar upgrades and will be offered with both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid functionality with up to 435bhp and 330bhp respectively.
Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid versions are set to receive a 28.6kWh battery, the same unit used by the Mercedes S580e, to give them an electric range of over 62 miles.
Each engine will be mated to a nine-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, with lower-end models feature rear-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system will appear on more powerful models, including those tuned by AMG.
For 2023, the E-Class draws design inspiration from the latest, more premium Mercedes S-Class. Its front end is more pronounced, with more angular headlines and a large chrome grille. The rear meanwhile is sleeker and described as a mix between the new S-Class and Mercedes C-Class.
Alongside the saloon model, Mercedes is also planning to launch successors to the E-Class Estate and E-Class All Terrain in 2024. It will also be joined by a Mercedes-AMG E53 sports saloon variant, which will be differentiated by its bespoke grille, bigger brakes and sports exhaust.
However, the German car maker has remained tight-lipped about the future of the E-Class Coupé and E-Class Cabriolet. It is believed a new CLE – a moniker recently trademarked by Mercedes – could serve as a replacement for both of these cars and the smaller two-door C-Class models.
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Sweet press release. How much money does one make for copy n pasting these days?
I wonder if this new E Class will be more about style rather than substance, just like almost every other Mercedes during the past few years. Mercedes seem more focused on headline grabbing features, style and tech rather than producing a car of genuine all-round ability and quality.
It's a 'facelift'. Same car with new bumpers, new tech.