As one of the best-selling premium cars in the world and the most popular Mercedes-Benz model in history, the E-Class has gone through five generations. And now we are about to usher in the arrival of the new sixth generation E class (internal code name W214). It should be noted that with the introduction of Euro 7 emission regulations, there will be no more traditional fuel-powered models after 2025, which means that the sixth generation E-Class will be the last of the traditional E-Class! In addition, Mercedes-Benz also said that there will be no more travel versions after 2030, which means that the last generation of E-class travel will also end on the sixth generation.
From the spy photos, because it is still in the prototype stage of trial production, the entire model has been camouflaged in large quantities, so there is not much to talk about its styling design, but from the body proportions and exposed part of the details, the new E-class will be somewhat similar to the previously launched C-class W206 and S-class W223. So it's not hard to guess that there will be fewer body creases on the side of the body, pop-up hidden door handles, slimmer headlights and rear triangular windows, and wider taillights.
Also inside, there will be a family-style interior design similar to the latest C and S grades, including a large center console touchscreen with haptic feedback. In more advanced configurations, hyperscreen full screens from EQS will be available.
From Mercedes-Benz's latest power planning layout analysis, the current C-class W206 no longer uses an engine with more than four cylinders, and the E-class W214 will also say no to any engine larger than 3.0 liters inline six cylinders, of course, except for the AMG E 63, which will still be loyal to the powerful V8 engine, but the corresponding expectation is to be equipped with at least two electric motors and use plug-in hybrids to meet emission regulations.
In addition, even the regular version of the E-Class will be electrified as standard with a 48V mild hybrid system, and hybrid and plug-in hybrids with greater EV range will be available.
The diesel version is not dead either, and the recent modular inline four-cylinder and inline-six engines, which have been developed early in their development with future emission regulations in mind, should easily meet the requirements.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that by 2030, the Mercedes-Benz EQE and E-Class will most likely merge into a series, at which point the W214 will become a familiar but marginalized independent individual presence in the Mercedes-Benz car series.