Following the recent introductions of the new S-Class and C-Class models, Mercedes-Benz->ke187 is about to complete its passenger car overhaul with the new 2017 E-Class. A recent set of spy shots has captured the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan->ke142 wearing only minimal camouflage, which gives us our best look yet at Mercedes’ next-generation, mid-size sedan.

The first thing that is clear about the 2017 E-Class is its restyled greenhouse, which is more rounded than the current E-Class and has thinner C-pillars. As expected, the design language introduced on the 2014 S-Class (and then again on the 2015 C-Class) will carry over heavily into the 2017 E-Class, including the large grille, oversized headlights and vertical LED taillights. The psychedelic body wrap makes it difficult to discern any more details about the design, but the wheel design is interesting.

Sadly, our spy photographer was not able to capture any interior images, but as predictable (albeit attractive) as the exterior design will be, expect the interior to carry over a number of styling cues as well.

Continue to reading to learn more about the 2017 Mercedes E-Class.

Why it matters

In addition to revealing more about the styling of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, these new spy shots would suggest that the redesigned sedan is getting closer to its introduction date. Mercedes-Benz has yet to release any official information about the sedan, but judging by the lack of camouflage on this prototype, it wouldn’t be out of the question to see the next-gen E-Class debut later this year (perhaps at the Frankfurt Motor Show->ke235) before going on sale in early 2016 for the 2017 model year.

2017 Mercedes E-Class - spy shots

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will have some tough competition from luxury sedans such as the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Cadillac CTS. Few details are known about the E-Class, but it is expected to ride on a lengthened and widened version of the platform that underpins the current C-Class, and it will be lighter thanks to extensive use of lightweight materials such as aluminum. Like the current model, the 2017 E-Class will include coupe, sedan and wagon body styles, not to mention a range of powertrain options including gasoline and diesel engines, a plug-in hybrid and of course a high-performance AMG version.