Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a much bolder looking new E-Class at the Detroit show.
Completely revising the exterior of the 10th-generation model, which rivals the phenomenally successful BMW 5 Series, the Audi A6 and newer contenders such as Jaguar?s XF, is thought to be aimed at widening the car?s customer base and attracting younger buyers.
Mercedes says it is taking ?a big step into the future? with a car that it regards as the core of its brand. The exterior look is clearly evolved from the smaller C-Class and larger S-Class, all-new versions of both cars having recently launched.
At 4923mm, the new E-Class is 43mm longer than its predecessor with a wheelbase increased by 65mm to 2939mm. The bonnet is longer and the roofline more coupe-like, while the drag coefficient is a class-leading 0.23. The front-end design of global models is different depending on the specification, with two designs of radiator grille ? UK models however will all use the Sports grille option.
The interior has seen some of the most significant upgrades with the aim of both increasing space and perceived quality, and again adopting measures already used in the C-Class and S-Class.
Highlights include touchpads, mounted between the front seats and on the steering wheel and able to be issue commands to the Infotainment system by thumb swipes, which Mercedes says keeps with its safety motto of ?hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.?
Top of the interior desirables will be an optional double panel with t...