Merc’s new gen E-Class is here finally

The E-Class was the car that built Mercedes-Benz in India. It is the model which so popularised the three-pointed star that even ignoramuses quickly caught on to the point that the occupant of this car was someone important. Every generation of the E-Class starting from the W124 of 1993 has landed on our shores. And there was a certain special character to the next two generation E-Class models with their twin-eyed headlamp design.

The E-Class was always know for its space and special design identifying it as the executive sedan in Mercedes’ portfolio. To that positioning it was true especially in India where its owners have been, and maybe will be for some time to come, warming the rear seats. But the reason for its popularity was also hinged on its ability to pamper the rear seat occupants with its space and ride quality. The E-Class has been a tough competitor in its segment, but clearly the next generation E-Class was being missed. While Merc and its competitors have globally launched their new generation models, Mercedes-Benz India will be the first to bring the next, tenth generation E-Class here. Its key competitor, the new BMW 5 Series, will be here later this year.

The new generation E-Class (sixth in India) comes after the end of the previous gen’s shorter four-year cycle. The new E is neither dramatically different from the previous gen in terms of its design, nor is it too familiar either. On the same note, the new E is neither too much like the S-Class or too much like the C-Class. But it must be obvious already that there are similarities that place the new E somewhere in the middle. None of this is meant to say that the new generation E-Class’ design is any less appealing. The current Mercedes design language is evident in the body lines of the new E. Long sloping bonnet, a roofline with a coupe-like sharply sloping rear half and stubby boot define its design. For the untrained eye, the new E will look like any other Mercedes saloon when viewed from the side. Of course, it is not all too familiar otherwise. The headlamps and the bonnet grille with its large three-pointed star logo in the middle of the twin-slats are all-new, though very much like it is in the new generation C. The differentiating feature in the front is the connected airdam in the front fender. At the rear too, the tail-lamp units look very much like a variation of the new S-Class’ lamps. So, just like the new C looked like a baby S, there are not so subtle hints that point to the flagship even when you view the new E’s rear. The tenth gen E-Class has also grown in proportions and its extra length would already seem evident when you view it from the side. But, what is being brought to India is the extended wheelbase (first-ever) making it look even longer in the flesh. It is over 5.06 metres long now and is about 184mm longer than its predecessor. Its wheelbase is also over 20cms longer than the predecesor.

The new E gets a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloys and high-performance LED lamps as the added bits on the exterior. The other design change is in the waistline, which is now a simple straight stroke that runs from the tip of the headlamp to the tip of the tail-lamp, instead of the earlier criss-crossing lines.

The new E-Class’ cabin has been completely refreshed. Yes, it is obviously a Merc cabin and there is trim that has simply been carried forward from the previous gen and then there are bits which have been poached from a common parts bin. Simply because they were already perfect enough. But, right from when I stepped into the cabin, it is evident that the quality of materials used is a big step up over the predecessor, and that is saying quite a bit because the previous gen’s cabin was a good place to be in. What I liked best in the 2017 E-Class’ cabin was the open-pore black ash wood trim that has been elegantly integrated on to the layered dashboard. Double stitched leather trim on the dash and all the familiar Merc controls like the touchpad on the centre console were just perfect. The additions to the new E include the touch controls on the steering wheel (always welcome for the current smartphone-addicted generation), the new 12.3-inch high-def media display, the Burmester sound system, ambient LED lighting and the parking pilot system with 360-degree camera, which makes a debut in this class.

There is a ridiculous amount of space in the new E with the rear legroom nearly going up by 50 per cent over the previous gen. The extended wheelbase has liberated more room. You can literally stretch your legs and the rear seats also recline. With its nicely bolstered, perforated leather seat and the soft neck pillow, the rear seat is a relaxing spot to be in. The front seats are about as supportive and comfy. Getting the perfect driving position is easy and all the controls are driver-oriented with a touch of familiarity. What I missed was cooled seats, especially since Goa (where we test drove the new E) was already getting uncomfortably warm.

The new E-Class that I test drove was the 350d with the 2,987cc V6 diesel engine. The engine is being brought into the new gen in the same state of tune from the previous E. Though the transmission now is the famous Merc nine-speeder. The engine produces a peak power of 190kW or 254bhp and a peak torque of 620Nm from 1,600rpm. Top speed is 250 kmph and the 0-100 kmph time is 6.6 seconds. Goa’s roads are not the best for a more dynamic driving experience of a car of the E-Class’ caliber, but there are still some sections where the engine’s capabilities can be tested. The most notable reminder one gets from the 350d’s engine is its overall refinement. Quicker than you expect it to be and quieter than the average Merc diesel of the past, this powertrain is a great combination and kind of confirms why Mercedes-Benz India chose to retain it.

There is a lot of low-end torque to work with and even in comfort mode the response from the powertrain won’t be found wanting. The transmission is distinctly quicker kicking down to offer bursts of acceleration when driving in Sports+ mode. Dynamic Select allows more options to individualise features like the suspension and steering. Some of the other usual driving modes like Eco and Comfort are there too. The cabin is well insulated and quiet, except for the mild gurgle of the diesel mill.

With air suspension as part of the package in my test mule, the ride quality was the most outstanding feature. The new E simply glides over the road and whatever it has to throw up. With the option of raising the suspension, I even managed to cross a few really badly laid uneven gradients between two sections of the road. But, I would have liked a bit more feedback on the steering. The new E-Class will also be available with a two litre petrol engine in the E200 in the same state of tune as in the previous E. What’s missing in the India spec new E-Class is the part autonomous driving tech – drive pilot – because of radar restrictions.

Not too many of its owners will however be complaining about the steering feel. The new E-Class is as yet more likely to be chauffeur driven and that is why the choices that have been made, including the call to bring the extended wheelbase and the diesel powertrain are the right ones.

Until the key competitors arrive, the new E will likely rule this segment with its distinct improvement in design, space and cabin quality. Prices will be announced closer to the launch date.

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