The Hindu Business Line : Daimler E-class to sport new look

DaimlerChrysler India plans to give a facelift to the existing E-class range. According to company sources, changes to the mid-range luxury model of the DaimlerChrysler stable will be introduced at the end of this year.

The new look E-class cars will sport broader side rear view mirrors similar to the ones found on its S-Class cars. The three-point star badge on the grill too will be bigger thus enhancing its visibility and again, similar to the ones found on its S-class cars. The car will also have modified bumpers. The new changes will take place with the price hike in the model. When contacted, the company spokesperson said he did not wish to comment on the development.

The E-class (W211) has undergone various technical changes since its introduction in 2004. The model was first introduced as a petrol E240 and E220 Cdi diesel variant. Later on, it was hiked to E270 petrol and diesel variants. E280 petrol and diesel variants were launched this year and now spearhead the E-class range. Subsequent price hikes were announced during the product launches. Since January 2006, the company has sold 585 units of the E-class model (petrol & diesel) with an average of 83 units on a monthly basis.

The company has plans to introduce the high-end Mercedes Benz E 350 for the domestic market. It is going to import 40 limited `Avant Garde' units of the E-class variant which will be available next month priced approximately in the range of Rs 63-64 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).