Mercedes-Benz is in the final stages of developing its next-generation E-Class, which is due for a reveal in its standard sedan bodystyle around the end of the year. We’ve been spying prototypes for the sedan for over year but recently prototypes for additional bodystyles have started to surface. Only a couple of weeks ago we saw a long-wheelbase variant that we hear might be a new Mercedes-Maybach model, and today we have our first spy shots of the new E-Class Wagon. The longroof sports a design similar to the one used for the latest C-Class Wagon, and unlike its smaller sibling the E-Class Wagon will be sold in the United States. Underpinning the car is Mercedes’ flexible MRA platform designed for rear- and all-wheel-drive cars. It made its debut in the latest C-Class, and with its light yet sturdy construction it promises to make the new E-Class more fuel efficient and better handling than the outgoing model. Autonomous systems more advanced than anything we've seen on a production car will also feature in the new E-Class, one of which will be a cool remote parking system. The engine lineup will be similar to the current model’s offering and should once again include a V-8 in a high-performance Mercedes-AMG variant. We’ve also heard that the new E-Class will be the first model to receive a modular straight-six engine being developed at Mercedes. The modular design will also be used for new three- and four-cylinder engines. The standard transmission should be a nine-speed automatic. Sales will likely commence by late summer 2016. _______________________________________ Follow Motor Authority on Facebook and Twitter. HI-RES GALLERY: 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien