First introduced in 1946, the Mercedes E-Class is the German automaker's best-selling model. The current model has been on sale since 2016 so the time is right for a mid-cycle refresh to keep the luxury model looking modern. We've already seen spy shots of the updated Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, and Wagonundergoing testing, and now Mercedes has released the first official photos and details about the upcoming facelift model ahead of its debut.

Mercedes' teaser photos show lightly camouflaged models roaming the streets of Las Vegas. As you would expect from a mid-cycle facelift, the styling changes appear to be relatively minor. Expect the front and rear fascias to be updated with new bumpers and redesigned headlights and taillights resembling the lights on the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

The Mercedes E-Class facelift will also be equipped with the automaker's latest driver assist technology including an active distance assist Distronic that can detect and respond to traffic jams and slow-moving traffic. If a traffic jam is detected, the car's speed is reduced to around 62 mph. Additional safety tech will include an active steering assist, active brake assist, active blind spot assist, and a parking package with a 360-degree camera.

Inside, Mercedes promises the cabin will have "enhanced interior comfort", a new steering wheel with touch control buttons, two large 10.25-inch displays as standard, and an MBUX infotainment system. Other luxuries will include a new air quality indicator and a Mercedes-Benz Urban Guard function providing all-around surveillance of the parked vehicle.

As for powertrain options, Mercedes has confirmed there will be as many as seven plug-in hybrid versions of the E-Class facelift available including 4MATIC variants and wagons. Two new engines will also join the lineup, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an integrated starter generator and a 48-volt system delivering 268 hp, while the EQ boost provides an additional 20 hp. There will also be a six-cylinder gasoline unit with an integrated starter generator and 48-volt system rated at 362 hp, with an additional 20 hp available via EQ boost.

The Mercedes E-Class facelift will arrive in European showrooms this summer. Mercedes hasn't said when it will debut, but we're expecting the updated E-Class to break cover at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show in March.