Although we're close to being caught up on the numerous tips we received during our absence, one story which we haven't yet brought you is a article published by AutoWeek last month - one which provides spy photos and new details of Mercedes' next-generation E63 AMG.

In the article, AutoWeek touches briefly on AMG's strategy of incorporating more exhaustive model testing, and also speculates (rather vaguely) what we can expect from the model. 

Aside from the changes already expected on the next E-Class ("an edgier appearance," "tauter surfacing" and "trapezoidal headlights"), AutoWeek believes the AMG variant will also incorporate "unique body panels," some of which may "be made of composite material to reduce weight." As for the power, horsepower is expected to increase from 507 to around 525, while some speculate a double-clutch gearbox could also be incorporated (the test model still utilized the current AMG seven speed transmission, however).

Obviously it will still be some time before any official details of the next E63 AMG are revealed - the basic E-Class isn't expected to be revealed for another 18 months - but at least you now have the first glimpses of what to expect.

We will of course keep you posted if we hear anything new; in the meantime, head over to AutoWeek for the full article detailing the next E63.

And to our friend Monk:  thanks for the tip my good sir; we sincerely appreciate it.