It is one of the 14 novelties of this year's contest and, without a doubt, the one that treasures behind it a greater tradition and tradition. A true classic of the category, the three volumes from the German giant continue to set the standard in technology, comfort, well-being on board, safety and solvency, both for long trips and for everyday use.
The new E-Class (4,949m long, 1,880m wide and 1,468m high) has the proportions of a classic saloon. The short front overhang and long bonnet are followed by a generously dimensioned, set-back cabin, which is also due to a two-centimeter longer wheelbase (2,961 millimeters) compared to the predecessor.
This translates into knee and leg room that increase by 10 and 17 millimeters, respectively. The increase in the width of the elbows at the rear is even greater: 1,519 millimeters. This is an increase of 25 millimeters, almost at the level of the S-Class. The boot capacity in the new E is up to 540 liters.
A bridge between tradition and modernity, the new E-Class sports more conventional visual cues along with highly innovative ones: for example, the front features a black panel-shaped surface that connects the radiator grille to the headlights. This high-gloss black insert is visually reminiscent of the brand's electric EQ models. The three-dimensionally designed radiator grille can be progressive or classic, depending on the chosen equipment line, while the illuminated radiator grille frame is optionally available for both finishes.
Inside, the leading role is for the MBUX Superscreen. Its huge instrument panel is responsible for shaping the immersive digital experience proposed by the E-Class, which can be optionally equipped with a dedicated screen for the passenger, creating a large glass surface along with the central display. The main icons are now simpler and are also color-coded to match smartphone tabs.
Also new to the E 2023 is the new (optional) active ambient lighting with sound display, a technology that allows occupants to also "see" music tracks and sounds from movies or apps. The visualization takes place in the light band of the active ambient lighting. In this way, fast rhythms can cause rapid changes in light, while flowing rhythms create light environments that transition from one to another by blending smoothly.
The E-Class entertainment program and solutions and resources are more interactive than ever. Mercedes-Benz software experts have developed a new compatibility that allows the installation of third-party applications such as the entertainment platform TikTok, the game Angry Birds or the office application Zoom, among others. Also an outstanding novelty (optional) is the selfie and video camera on the top of the instrument panel.
Beyond the exhaustive digitization that Mercedes proposes for the new E-Class, the Stuttgart manufacturer is committed to a systematic electrification of all models and an intelligent downsizing strategy to establish a new standard in the field of efficiency.
In this sense, half of the versions will be fourth-generation plug-in hybrids: three of the six mechanical variants of the E-Class combine the advantages of a vehicle with an internal combustion engine with those of an electric car. The PHEV options for sale at the moment include the E 300 e and 300 e 4 MATIC, with 313 CV, or the E 400 e 4 MATIC, with 381 CV. More plug-in hybrids combined with diesel engines will be incorporated later.
In addition to turbocharging, both the diesel and gasoline engines are intelligently supported with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) to make them mild hybrids. And thanks to a new battery, the power of the electric motor has increased from 15 to 17 kW and the torque to 205 Nm. The mild hybrid versions available at launch will be the 204 hp E 200 and the 197 hp E 220d, with rear-wheel drive or optional 4 MATIC.
When it comes to driving dynamics, the new E-Class also conquers new heights of efficiency and comfort thanks to the extensive application of its high technological load. It is optionally available with a package that includes the AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS and rear axle steering. The AIRMATIC with air springs and ADS adaptive dampers responds with great sensitivity to irregularities in the road, while it behaves in a particularly agile and stable way thanks to the steering of the rear axle.
Sales of the new E-Class in Europe will begin this summer but, as is traditional, Mercedes-Benz offers special conditions for some of its most emblematic models within the framework of the Salon Automobile.
