Large German luxury sedan to embrace AI – and a full range of mild- and plug-in hybrid powertrains – in its next generation
The new 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been previewed ahead of its full unveiling on April 25.
Apart from a single teaser image of the sixth-generation Mercedes E-Class sedan’s darkened silhouette, no further details have been provided.
However, an earlier leak and official images of the big new premium sedan’s redesigned cabin have already filled in some of the gaps.
We already know, for example, that the next E-Class will come with an optional MBUX Superscreen – a smaller version of the Hyperscreen seen in the electric EQS limousine and EQE sedan.
It contains a pair of digital multimedia displays integrated into the dashboard – including the central infotainment system and a dedicated passenger-side screen – in addition to the driver’s free-standing digital instrument cluster.
The entire MBUX multimedia system is run by a new operating system and a new electronics architecture that Mercedes-Benz says will be more software-driven than hardware-driven, allowing for more individual updating of its multiple functions in the future, as well as faster processing and a more intuitive user experience.
Among the Superscreen’s new features is a dash-mounted selfie and video camera that allows occupants to “participate in online video conferences [courtesy of the car’s 5G connectivity]… and take personal photos and videos”– when stationary, of course.
Other more practical functions include a new voice command system that no longer needs the phrase ‘Hey Mercedes’ in order to activate, the use of artificial intelligence to establish driver routines, a new motion sickness prevention program and digital air-vent control.
Ahead of the driver will be a large digital instrument cluster that is also supported by a huge head-up display.
Beneath the skin, it’s thought the next E-Class will be based on the current model’s MRA platform, while a full range of electrified inline four- and six-cylinder engines will reside under the bonnet.
Plug-in hybrid powertrains, meanwhile, are likely to include the same 28.6kWh battery from the recently revealed Mercedes-Maybach S S580e limousine, which should provide a pure-electric range of comfortably more than 100km.
All engines will be combined with a nine-speed auto, while the most powerful variants will incorporate the German car-maker’s 4MATIC all-wheel drive hardware.
From the earlier leak, it’s clear the W214-series E-Class is heavily inspired by the latest S-Class limo in terms of design, and will feature a prominent chromed grille and angular lines. Similarly, at the rear, there’s a sleeker take on the flagship sedan’s slim tail-light design.
As well as the sedan, Mercedes-Benz will continue to offer an Estate version of the new E-Class (at least in Europe), as well as the high-riding All-Terrain crossover wagon, although the existing E-Class (and C-Class) Coupe and Cabriolet are expected to be replaced by the new two-door CLE-Class coupe and convertible models.
Of course, there will also be a new Mercedes-AMG version, with the E 53 and E 63 S both carrying over – except the latter will no longer come with the current E 63’s twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and will instead be powered by the same advanced 500kW four-cylinder plug-in hybrid system as the new C 63 S super sedan.
Other new tech for the new E-Class will include air suspension and rear-wheel steering from the S-Class, as well as the flagship limousine’s advanced Level 3 autonomous driver aids.
Full details of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class – including European pricing – will be revealed at its launch, while more official teasers are expected in the build-up to its world debut on ANZAC day.
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Keyword: Next Mercedes-Benz E-Class teased ahead of ANZAC day debut