New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate pricing revealed

The front-end design, from the bonnet to the back edge of the front doors, is shared with the E-Class saloon, but the roof is fitted with aluminium roof rails. Unlike recent E-Class Estate models, the tailgate is angled slightly and there’s now greater tapering towards the rear, providing a less boxy shape than before.

As with its saloon sibling, there are two separate grille treatments. Base and Exclusive Line trim models have a classic chromed treatment, while Avantgarde and AMG Line trim models get a more sporting look with a large three-pointed star in the middle of the grille.

Inside, the cabin is virtually identical to that of the latest E-Class saloon, with an optional dual-screen instrument and infotainment system dominating the dashboard.

At 670 litres, luggage capacity is 25 litres down on that of the outgoing E-Class Estate. However, it is still 105 litres more than that offered by the A6 Avant and 110 litres more than the 5 Series Touring.

With the standard 40/20/40 split rear seats folded away, load capacity increases to 1820 litres - 130 litres less than before. An electric lever in the luggage area can be used to automatically fold the rear seat backrests down without the need to climb inside, although even with the backrests folded, the forward part of the luggage compartment floor is not completely flat.

Despite the reduction in overall luggage capacity, Mercedes-Benz claims the new E-Class Estate has lost little in terms of practicality. At 1100mm, the loading width between the rear suspension domes is sufficient to accommodate a standard European pallet, according to the German car maker.

As before, an electric-powered cargo blind comes as standard. It motors upwards when the tailgate is opened to ease access to the luggage compartment without the need to fully retract the cargo blind each time.

Another standard feature is a so-called Easy Pack tailgate with electro-mechanical operation for one-touch opening. There is also an optional remote opening feature offering hands-free access as part of an improved Keyless Go function. It uses a sensor to allow the tailgate to be opened by moving your foot under the centre of the rear bumper.