11/08/2008 19:16. It's only due at next year's Frankfurt Motor Show, but out spies have already been our gathering details on the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Dubbed W212, spy shots of the various sedan and estate variants were taken in Germany recently.

Mercedes will apparently abandon its Sensotronic Brake Control in favour of conventional brakes, although it will feature wet-weather disc wiping and cornering brake control. Optional ceramic brake discs could also be introduced, likelyfiltering down the range from the AMG models.

The next E-Class will in many ways mimic the S-Class's design with its wheel arch extensions, rising character line below the door handles, massive bumpers and large greenhouse.

A wider grille and a more wedge-shaped profile should also give the W212 a more athletic stance.

Driver assistance in general is a major theme for W212. Expect lane-departure warnings, an eye-movement monitor, traffic-sign identification, road-condition sensors, and stability control that accounts for crosswinds, camber changes, and tyre wear.

We'll get the usual V6- and V8-engines, plus a normally aspirated 370kW-plus 6.3-litre V8 for the E63 AMG model. // Wheels24.co.za