2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Next-generation tri-screen cabin revealed

The all-new 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is gearing up for a European launch mid-year.

Wheels has contacted Mercedes-Benz Australia for a local arrival date, and this article will be updated as further information comes to light.

Mercedes-Benz has given an early glimpse inside the ‘W214’ E-Class, with its new cabin architecture based around a more powerful processor. It will feature onboard 5G connectivity and over-the-air software update capability.

The E-Class’s third-gen MBUX operating system will be compatible with third-party apps such as Zoom, TikTok, and Angry Birds. There’s even a third screen for the passenger to enjoy the apps on the move.

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Aside from significantly improved processing power, the E-Class’s cabin architecture picks up the latest Mercedes-Benz familial cues, including; a three double-spoke steering wheel, prominent ambient lighting, and a button-free look.

The E-Class becomes the latest long-standing Mercedes-Benz nameplate to receive a new generation, following the W223 S-Class in late 2020 and W206 C-Class in 2021.

It is a long-standing rival to the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, with a brand-new 5 Series and all-electric A6 E-Tron expected later this year.

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Inside the W214 E-Class

Based on an improved version of the brand's MBUX operating system, the E-Class will support app downloads such as the Vivaldi web browser, and in-car movies/TV using the Zync streaming service. It’s a preview to the future – and even more customisable – MB.OS system.

Following the lead of the Mercedes-Benz EQS, Porsche Taycan and Jeep Grand Cherokee, the E-Class will be available with a passenger touchscreen that can be used for streaming while the car is in motion thanks to clever tech that blocks the screen for the driver.

There’s even a built-in camera for selfies that can be uploaded directly to popular video-sharing platform TikTok.

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Mercedes-Benz has not detailed how large any of the screens in the new E-Class are, but it’s safe to guess that the digital dials and passenger screen are 12.3 inches in size, while the landscape-oriented central screen appears to be about 15 inches.

In addition to the new screens, the E-Class will be available with sound visualisation. Mercedes says the ambient lighting will respond to tracks plated through the optional Burmester 4D surround sound system – expect high energy pulsing for Drum and Bass or soothing sweeps for Debussy.

The optional seats will include a massage function and heating which combines with ‘soothing sounds’ and a light show or a “comprehensive wellness program”, says Mercedes-Benz. There’s even a motion-sickness prevention program.

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The climate controls are accessed through the central touchscreen, and the vent control is digital. It’s teamed with the memory seat function to adjust the ventilation setting for each driver automatically.

While powertrains have yet to be confirmed for the new E-Class, it is expected to mirror the smaller C-Class line-up.

As such, expect the E-Class to start with the 1.5-litre four-cylinder ‘200’ powertrain, and following the four-cylinder-only C-Class, it’s unlikely that we’ll ever see a V8 in the high-performance E-Class again.

However, unlike the latest Mercedes-AMG C63, Autocar reports the range-topping E63 will likely switch to a six-cylinder plug-in hybrid setup to deliver more than 520kW.

The next-generation 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be unveiled in the coming months, with local details set to be announced closer to its arrival.