BharathAutos founder Azfar Ahmed spotted the next-generation 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) test-mule wearing heavy camouflage, effectively hiding its exterior design in Dubai, UAE.
The fifth-generation 2017 E-Class will borrow exterior design cues from its younger C-Class and elder S-Class siblings. Even the top-half of the dashboard is expected to be inspired by the S-Class, while the lower-half taken from the C-Class, making the E-Class a perfect middle ground between the two variants.
Based on the MRA (Mercedes Rear Wheel drive architecture), the 2017 E-Class is expected to integrate increased use of high-strength steel and aluminium to be lighter by 100 kg compared to current model. Also the sedan is reported to be longer and wider than the today’s model, so we can expect improved space in this new model.
The major highlight of the 2017 E-Class is that it will offer an array of technologies, including the Parking Pilot System. Similar to BMW’s Remote Control Parking technology, this system allows the driver to move the sedan backwards and forwards into a tight parking space, as well as remotely steer the vehicle in order to avoid obstacles with the help of a smartphone app.
Simply tap a phone with Near Field Communication (NFC) – such as an iPhone 6 or various Android smartphones – on the driver’s door handle to lock and unlock the car. Once inside, placing the phone on the wireless charging plate enables the ignition. A secure SIM card is required for these functions to be available.
Others technological features include the improved Multibeam Adaptive Light System, updated Car-to-X tech, plus more safety features like Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE Plus, beltbag (airbag in the belt), and Attention Assist.
The W213 E-Class is likely to get the Merc’s new carbon dioxide (CO2) air conditioning system, which will debut in 2017 on select versions of the upcoming Mercedes E-Class and S-Class. This feature uses carbon dioxide as a refrigerant, and is claimed to cool the cabin at a much quicker rate than the standard system.
Performance wise, the new E-Class is expected with new generation 4-cylinder diesel engines and a new 6-cylinder diesel and petrol. According to reports, the new in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine and the common-rail diesel motors are undergoing pilot production at the company’s Unterturkheim factory in Germany.
The 2017 E-Class will make its world debut at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show (2016 NAIAS) in January 2016. The company is also working on a Maybach version with even longer wheelbase and individual rear seats, just like on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Other versions of the new E-Class such as wagon, a coupe, cabriolet and E63 AMG too are likely to follow. In India, the sedan will be launched at the end of next-year.
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Also see: New 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift launched in India
