Mercedes plans big changes for '14 E class
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LOS ANGELES -- With the rapid pace of technology, Mercedes-Benz says it no longer can rely on relatively minor midcycle changes for key models. So the E-class freshening planned for next year will be more extensive than usual, with major sheet metal and interior changes, said Steve Cannon, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.
The 2014 E-class family, including a sedan, station wagon, coupe and convertible, will go on sale next summer.
Cannon said the luxury market is changing because buyer "expectations are being driven by consumer electronics, and its rapid pace of new product introductions.
"The ability to just keep the product going for seven years with just minor tweaks is a strategy we have gone away from," he said
The current E class, which debuted in 2009, competes with the BMW 5 series and the Audi A6.
Cannon also said a redesigned S-class sedan will arrive next fall with major interior and exterior changes.
He said the 2014 S class will have a host of technological features, including two cameras in the front that can adjust suspension settings. It will also have a rear camera that can sense an impending rear crash and make adjustments to safety systems.
You can reach Diana T. Kurylko at dkurylko@crain.com. -- Follow Diana on 
