High-spec E-Classes confirmed

Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced pricing for its next-generation E-Class. Due to go on sale Down Under next month (July 2016), the three-model E-Class launch range will be priced from $89,990 – a near-$10K increase over the existing entry-level model.

But the story, the company says, is the boost in standard equipment and safety technology. Indeed, Mercedes claims the new E-Class has the highest level of driver assistance and autonomous features seen on a production car yet.

The new E-Class is tipped also to reintroduce in-line six-cylinder engines to the Mercedes-Benz range. For the time being, however, it’s fours and V6s that lead the way.

Kicking the range off, the 135kW/300Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol E 200 arrives with Driver Assistance package PLUS, multi-screen ‘Widescreen’ digital cockpit, KEYLESS-GO with hands free access, 360-degree camera and LED High Performance headlights and Stardust effect LED taillights all as standard.

Also available from launch locally will be the E 220 d priced at $92,900 (was $82,900) and a new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel E 350 d pitched at $134,900.

Two additional 300 and 400 4MATIC petrol models will arrive locally in late 2016. Priced and equipment for those will be confirmed closer to their arrival.

All models available at launch are equipped with the company’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.

Compared with its predecessor, the E-Class has grown 43mm (to 4923mm) and rides on a 65mm longer wheelbase (now 2939mm). There’s more space and roadholding has been improved in part due to wider tracks front and rear.

The new exterior design slots in alongside the new C and S-Class models but significant focus has been given to the new E-Class’ interior design and accommodation which now sets the benchmark for the three-pointed star brand’s cockpits moving forward.

The widescreen dash set-up is claimed to be “unique to this segment”. Drivers can choose from three control layouts and “is free to configure the information and views of relevance for them and thus create their own personal cockpit”.

In the manner of smartphone interfaces, the new steering wheel controls respond to both horizontal and vertical swiping movements to control the infotainment system.

The new E 220 d is powered by an all-new 143kw/400Nm turbo-diesel engine four which Mercedes says is “more compact, more efficient and more refined than its predecessor”. Combined fuel economy is stated at 4.1L/100km.

Both launch four-cylinder models arrive with five-mode drive system, COMAND Online Infotainment, Steering wheel in Nappa leather with new Blackberry-style touch-sensitive controls, 18-inch alloy wheels, KEYLESS-GO package, front electric seats with memory function, Black Ash Open-Pore Wood trim and DAB+ digital radio as standard.

The 190kW/620Nm V6 turbo-diesel E 350 d adds air suspension and 20-inch AMG wheels. Other standard equipment items include 13-speaker Burmester surround sound audio, head-up display, leather upholstery, LED headlights and glass sunroof. Heated front seats are also specified.

"The E-Class is the core of the Mercedes-Benz brand and in the past has repeatedly redefined the standards in the executive-class segment. Now it carries this tradition into the future with a wealth of top-class innovations,” Mercedes-Benz head of research and development, Dr Thomas Weber stated.

“The new E-Class takes another major step towards autonomous driving. In addition, it enhances efficiency, safety and comfort, reduces the stress level when driving and intensifies the motoring pleasure."

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class pricing
E 200 - $89,990
E 220 d - $92,900
E 350 d - $134,900