2017 Mercedes-AMG E63 spied
The next-generation Mercedes-AMG E63 sports sedan has been spotted by our photographers on the streets of Germany.
While our spies have managed to snap photos of the new E-Class' exterior and interior before, this is the first time they've spotted the AMG fettled model during its development.
The new E-Class range is built on a stretched and widened version of the rear- and all-wheel drive MRA platform that underpins the C-Class and GLC SUV. Aluminium components and the use of high-strength steel should see the new E shed kilos compared to the current model.
As we've seen in earlier photos, the new E-Class ditches the current car's angular lines and graphics, for the softer, more organic shapes that populate much of the rest of the Mercedes-Benz range.
Under the bonnet, many are tipping that the new E63 will be powered by a version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that's currently doing duty in the C63 and Mercedes-AMG GT.
The current E63 S has a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 churning out 430kW of power and 800Nm of torque. That's good enough to move the 1870kg sedan from 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds and towards an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.
At present, the most powerful version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 develops 375kW of power and 700Nm of torque.
The new E-Class sedan is expected to be launched in the first half of 2016. It will be followed in the succeeding months by wagon, coupe and convertible body styles.