MERCEDES-BENZ is heralding the changes to its new E-Class line-up as the most significant model revision ever undertaken by the brand.

New E-Class models arrive in April with prices from £32,400 for the saloon and £34,310 for estates, all boasting more standard kit.

The simplified range consists of SE and AMG Sport versions, replacing the SE, Avantgarde and Sport models from the previous generation E-Class.

And with more than £4,000 of added equipment in the new SE model - for a £2,280 increase over the previous one - and almost £3,000 of extra standard features in the new AMG Sport for £575 over the previous Sport, the new E-Class is boasting better value for Benz fans.

The powertrain line-up for the SE features three diesel engines - E 220 CDI, E 250 CDI and E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID - plus two petrol units for the E 200 saloon and E 250.

AMG Sport models come with the same engines as the SE, with the addition of the 350 BlueTEC and is priced at £2,495 above the SE, starting from £34,895.

The E 220 CDI is the only engine with manual transmission and there are significant CO2 improvements across the range, with reductions of up to 20g/km in emissions.

In fact the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID saloon's figure remains at 109g/km, but is now achieved with 17-inch wheels.

Style-wise the front has been completely altered with a single headlamp lens replacing the previous twin headlight design and at the rear, the lights and bumper have also been revised - the latter sporting a distinctive lip and a black insert with chrome trim.

New technology includes Active Park Assist with Parktronic as standard, which measures potential spaces to the left and right of the direction of travel from 0-20 mph.

If a suitable space is detected and reverse gear engaged, the car will be automatically steered into the parking space, with the automatic braking function active throughout.

Options include the all-new 360-degree camera equipped with four surround view cameras that provide assistance during parking, manoeuvring and exiting parking spaces. It costs £715.

Other notable options include the LED Intelligent Light System with cornering light function and Adaptive High Beam Assist at £1,280, nappa leather at £1,935 and AirMATIC semi-active air suspension with self-levelling and Adaptive Damping System for £1,455.