2016 Mercedes E-class

2016 Mercedes E-Class: interior design

Merc has pulled the wraps off the E-Class's interior before we see the outside, and it's pretty much as we'd expected. It's a watered-down version of the S-Class cabin, with a large high-def digital readout that's over 24-inches across.

The screens are configurable and can display things such as nav instructions and vehicle settings, while you can choose between three separate instrument cluster designs – Classic, Sport and Progressive.

It'll be fitted as standard on all except base models, while the rest of the cabin features similarly premium details. The four central air vents are straight from the firm's most expensive models, as is the wraparound dash, while the flowing centre console houses the COMAND controller for the infotainment. 

E-Class chassis and design 

First on Mercedes’ to-do list is to bring the E-Class in line with the smaller C-Class and larger S-Class, with a more homogeneous look. The boxy design and numerous joints, folds and creases as seen on the current car will be long gone, and in their place will be the flagship S-Class’s more fluid and softer panels. The new headlamps will also take on a familiar shape, and come fitted with 84 individual high-performance LEDs rather than the 24 used in the current E-Class.

Mercedes E-Class 2016: engines

There’ll be significant changes under the bonnet as well. The new running gear will allow Mercedes to offer ultra-efficient plug-in hybrid versions of the E-Class for the first time if it chooses to, but an official announcement has yet to be made. It’s not all about economy, though, as the E63 AMG range-topper will still be offered, featuring the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. 

At January’s Detroit Motor Show the wraps will come off the company’s all-new BMW 5 Series rival – the most technologically advanced model it’s ever produced.