Auto Channel

If you're a Mercedes-Benz fan, then today is a great spy photo day for you. First, we gave you a great series of shots on the 2009 Mercedes CLK, and now you get some great pictures and artist renderings of each all-new Mercedes E-Class model.

Not expected on the market for at least two years, our spies have delivered a collection of E-Class pictures taken all over Germany. And despite the less-than-favorable weather around Stuttgart and Bavaria, we were blessed with clear views of the E-Class and the E-Class Estate. The E63 AMG was caught on the 'Ring with the sun shining down on it like a spotlight.

With plans to abandon the Sensotronic Brake Control (brake-by-wire) system, Mercedes plans to put somewhat more conventional braking methods into this car. Judging by the rain all over the streets of Germany, it is probably a good thing that the automaker will put wet-weather disc wiping and wheel-selective cornering brake control on this car. Ceramic-based disc brakes will likely be an option on all models, too.

The next E-Class will likely need that braking ability. Petrol engines begin with a 184 horsepower four-banger, but a 544 horsepower, 6.3 litre eight-cylinder engine will be a reality for the AMG. Diesel engines begin with a four-cylinder, 136 horsepower model, on up to a 354 horsepower V8. We have also heard about V6 engines as well. Hybrid versions of the all-new E-Class will become available, but the timetable is uncertain.

Along with a new stability control meant to take crosswinds, camber-angle changes, and tire wear, a bevy of nanny-state styled safety measures will be optional. These include lane-departure warnings, eye-movement monitors, traffic-sign identification, and road-condition sensors.

Expect to see new styling on the E-Class, some of which will be modeled after the S-Class, like a larger wheel-arch. We also look forward to seeing doors that are more sculpted, gigantic bumpers, and a large amount of glass along the roof and sides. You can see this "greenhouse" design touch in the pictures of the E63 AMG.

Our spy also notes a "more sculpted wide-frame grille, the more geometric nasal air intakes, and the wedge shaped profile" of the new E-Class. All this should make the E-Class sportier, and more presentable. And as our spy joked before, Mercedes-Benz looks to be taking some cues from Lexus, noting the rectangular quad headlights, C-pillars, and the taillights; ironic because of Lexus' tendency to pirate from Mercedes when designing the LS.

Regardless, we look forward to the E-Class debut, currently believed to be during the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.