It’s been almost a year since we first got our first look at the next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class in disguise. The road to uncover could be nearing its end, as we have a new batch of spy photos showing the luxury sedan with most of its camouflage covers removed.
The only hidden parts of the test car are the front and rear. With the sides and roof open, we can see that Mercedes certainly hasn’t strayed far from the design language of the current E-Class. Recessed doorknobs are clearly visible, and we can see the curved body line just below the now broken windows, flattening out against the doors to make the front and rear fenders stand out more. And unless Mercedes plans to release a retro 1970s model with 15-inch wheels on high-profile tires, we’d say the shoes on this particular Benz are decidedly no production specifications.
24 Photo
The heavier camoflage still hides exactly what’s going on up front, but on closer inspection, the slightly thinner headlights with narrower grille drop further down into the lower fascia. Visible through the wrapper are the outlines for the corner vents, which are very similar to the current model but had to connect with thin openings under the grille. This will bring the E-Class in sync with the similar design language used on the S-Class and C-Class. At the rear, there are only minor differences compared to the 2022 model.
We haven’t had much of a chance to get a peek inside the new E-Class, but our first glance has shown one large screen that will likely contain two displays for the driver and center infotainment system. Unlike the outside, the cover on the dashboard is mostly still attached. However, we get a good look at the sedan’s leather upholstered seats.
Dropping the camouflage is generally a sign that the automaker is getting closer to its debut. Given that our first E-Class sighting will be in December 2021, we could still see an official reveal at the end of the year. If not, expect the mid-size Merc to debut sometime early next year, possibly as a 2024 model.
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