Our spy photographers...

Our spy photographers captured the new executive saloon being put through its paces during winter testч­ing to bring you this first picture.

The BMW 5-Series rival is set to get a sharp look inspired by the flagship S-Class and the all-new C-Class. One-piece headlamps will replace the existing twin set-up, while its face will feature Mercedes" now-familiar arrowhead design.

Inside, the big saloon is expected to offer a range of advanced safety features, including the PRE-SAFE collision warning and mitigation system. As with the forthcoming C-Class, it gets a simplified multimedia interч­face, too. This gives drivers control over the interior functions through a single rotary dial - although the major systems are likely to retain their own unique switches.

The E-Class will also benefit from the eco-friendly BlueTec diesel engines which parent firm DaimlerChrysler is co-developing with Volkswagen. Already available in the US, these units help to cut harmful nitroч­gen oxide emissions. They are set to be offered in the current E-Class in Europe next year, before the new car appears in 2009. A practical estч­ate version will follow the saloon.