Hey, it's a big C-Class...

No, it's definitely the 2016 E-Class. Okay, so Mercedes-Benz hasn't gone wild with the styling of its new saloon, but as it's a core model for the brand and executive buyers are a typically a conservative bunch then that's no surprise. Merc's design boss said as much to us when talking all things new E-Class at the LA Auto Show late last year.

So it doesn't look vastly different.

Truth is, under the skin it shares a lot with the C-Class, or, as Merc's engineers are at pains to point out, the C-Class shares a lot with the E-Class - despite the smaller car's earlier arrival. It's a new platform that's used in the GLC, too, while the E-Class takes a further step forward with its electronic architecture, making it the most technologically advanced Benz you can currently buy. It also features a whole new family of diesel engines, and we could fill this entire website with its advanced safety, driver aid, comfort, lighting, info and entertainment features so comprehensive is the list.

Advanced then?

Hugely, with its Drive Pilot system as close as you'll get to autonomous driving. As close as legislation allows, at least, as we found out on an early passenger ride; the E-Class can conceivably drive itself, but it's not allowed to yet. Near self-driving aside, it's the improvements to the refinement, space and comfort, as well as the very cool dual-screen set up (on upper models) that dominates the dashboard that define the new E-Class. It can all be personalised, and works better than the similar system in the S-Class - though the bigger saloon is set to get the E's most advanced kit in its next facelift.

And the engines?

The E-Class debuts a new four-cylinder diesel, which is smaller in capacity and physical size and, yet improves economy, emissions and performance. There's a standard nine-speed automatic helping all that, as well as standard stop-start - and more besides. It'll be offered in 150- and 195hp guises initially, and it's hard to imagine anyone in the UK opting for anything else. If you do you can choose an E 200 petrol, an E 350 d diesel or E 350 e plug-in-hybrid petrol, while there'll also be an E 400 with a six-cylinder petrol engine and AMG E 63 model with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo and a power output anticipated to start with a '6' We're told that that AMG version will be 4Matic four-wheel drive only. That plug-in hybrid promises, provisionally at least, sub-50g/km CO₂ and unachievable in real-world combined economy figures - Merc quoting about 134mpg.

Should BMW, Audi and Jaguar be worried?

No question; from the passenger seat, the new E-Class feels like it has taken an evolutionary leap rather than step forward, the comfort surpassing the S-Class and the build quality nothing short of exceptional. It felt quick and agile, though we'll reserve final judgement for when we're sat behind the wheel driving it - or not, for that matter...