WITH all-new S and C-Class models on the road, Mercedes-Benz is turning its attention to the E-Class executive saloon.

This development mule hides what will be evolutionary, rather than revolutionary styling, although expect the flared wheelarches from the S-Class to make it into production.

Due to make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, the new model will feature a range of direct injection petrol engines, ranging from the E250 V6 to the E63 AMG, and a new family of diesels using Bluetec technology to drastically reduce NOx levels.

Also expect to see the next generation of the PreSafe accident mitigation technology and lane departure warning.