The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E Class range has just gone on sale, complete with a new E400 Hybrid model in the U.S. and an E300 Bluetec Hybrid for other markets. However, the 2014 model year will see some major changes introduced, from the base E Class sedan and wagon to the two-door models and even the E63 AMG performance flagship.

It’s the latter model that we have photos of today, caught while testing in prototype form just outside the Nürburgring race track in Germany. Like the previous E Class prototypes we saw, the headlights on the latest E63 AMG adopt a single shape design instead of the dual-unit design that has featured on the E Class for the past three generations now.

New LED elements at the top of the headlights can be seen, and the heavily disguised bumpers suggest these will feature an all-new design on the 2014 E63 AMG. Clear signs this is the AMG model and not a run-of-the-mill E Class are the quad exhaust tips at the rear, chunky side sills below the doors, and oversized wheels and tires.

Few changes are expected under the hood as the E63 AMG received AMG’s latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 only two model years ago. In the E63 AMG, the engine produces 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque in standard guise or 550 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque when fitted with an available Performance Package. It’s possible output of the standard version will be increased slightly to close in on the BMW M5’s 560-horsepower rating.

Sending drive to the rear wheels will be AMG’s familiar SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission, complete with fuel-saving engine stop-start and ECO modes. Thankfully, Sport, Sport plus and Manual modes will still be available to ensure maximum performance.

There will also be new technology installed on the E63 AMG, including advanced camera monitoring systems in the front bumper designed to read the road ahead for undulations and adjust the suspension accordingly, as well as offer enhanced pedestrian and animal detection. A similar system will debut on the new 2014 S Class. Also shared with the S Class will be a “congestion assistant” that allows you to follow a car in front at speeds up to 40 mph autonomously.

Look out for the debut of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E Class range, including this E63 AMG variant, in the coming months, with first sales to start by late summer.