Mercedes launches biggest executive estate

If you've no idea what 1,950 litres of capacity looks like then take a glance inside the boot of the new E-Class Estate. You'll have to travel to Germany to do so in person though, as the E-Class Estate will make its official debut at the Frankfurt Show in September, but we've got the first pictures of Mercedes' load-lugging machine on Yahoo! Cars. That ultimate capacity is claimed to be the best in its class, it achieved with the rear seats folded. Doing that should be a cinch too, the E-Class featuring a one-touch folding system that doesn't even require you to remove the rear headrests.

Drop those seats and you've a flat load area, which is underpinned by self-levelling air suspension at the rear as standard on every E-Class wagon. Other useful storage and restraint solutions in the back include an under-floor compartment, luggage bars and netting, and a high level retractable boot cover. If you need to haul more than just gear and need some extra seating the E-Class Estate is also offered with a pair of optional rear-facing seats in the back - giving it seven seat capability.

Aside from the extra capacity and rear styling changes, the E-Class Estate is the same as its saloon sibling. That means you'll be in one of the most advanced cars you can currently buy, the E-Class so clever it actually monitors the driver's drowsiness and suggest a break if it thinks you need it. Add in more airbags than you can imagine, automatic emergency braking and a whole host of other options and the E-Class Estate is an attractive proposition - particularly in fuel-sipping turbodiesel guise. Prices have yet to be officially confirmed, but expect a premium of up to £2,000 for the extra space and the car to reach showrooms by the end of the year.

Kyle Fortune