Mercedes has revealed the new E-Class Estate, on sale this autumn with increased rear space and latest digital features.

The new E-Class Estate is wider than before and with a longer wheelbase that gives more rear space

Unveiled following April’s reveal of the sixth-generation E-Class saloon, the latest Audi A6 Avant rival is wider than before and with a longer wheelbase that delivers more elbow, knee and leg room to rear passengers. Load spaces stands at 615 litres to 1,830 litres, falling to 460 to 1,675 litres for the plug-in hybrid.

Design draws on Mercedes-EQ models and includes a more dynamic roofline while still focusing on functionality and boot space.

The estate is based on a new electronics architecture that improves performance and speed of data streams for digital technology. As with the saloon, it’s available with the latest MBUX Superscreen, including a selfie and video camera and debuting new third-party apps, including TikTok, Angry Birds, Webex and Zoom.

A Digital Vehicle Key is now available for the iPhone and Apple Watch, enabling users to lock and start the car. It can be shared by up to 16 people.

Drivers can also specify new Active Ambient Lighting with Sound Visualisation, enabling occupants to “see” music tracks and the sounds of films or apps.

Mercedes-Benz is also developing artificial intelligence (AI) powered features, so that the car learns which comfort systems vehicle occupants use repeatedly.

As with the saloon, the engine line-up in Europe will include a range of mild hybrid petrol and diesels and plug-in hybrids, all with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A fourth-generation plug-in hybrid will be available from launch, featuring a 25kWh battery, and with further PHEV models to follow. The line-up won’t include fully electric models, leaving these to the EQE range.

The estate comes with single-chamber air suspension on the rear axle as standard, and all-round Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ continuously adjustable damping is available as an option.

Level 4 driverless parking and manoeuvring technology is available for markets where it’s legal and car parks are equipped with the necessary infrastructure.

Prices for the E-Class saloon and estate are yet to be announced.