The Power
The entry-level E200 price starts at just shy of £40,000 in the UK and is powered by a 2.0L petrol engine with hybrid EQ Boost, generating 197bhp and 320Nm of torque. That manages a combined 38.7mpg with just 165g/km of CO² emissions on the UK specification.
Also offered is a 3.0L straight-six turbo-petrol engine, producing 367bhp and 500Nm. Both petrol engines come with the EQ Boost, a 48-volt onboard electrical system; mild-hybrid technology to improve efficiency as standard. All models drive through the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission.
There’s still a place for diesel too: The E300de hybrid is powered by a 2.0L diesel engine and also a 13.5 kWh battery. The combustion engine produces 194bhp and 400Nm, while the electric motor can add up to 122bhp and 440Nm. Mercedes Benz say that this astonishingly frugal model is capable of achieving an average of up to 235.4mpg on the combined cycle, although this of course is dependent upon how it is driven! The E300de emits just 33g/km of CO² and has an all-electric range of between 32 and 34 miles.
The Interior
Model specifications vary hugely and the options are many. As examples, the entry AMG Line Edition includes the MBUX infotainment system with twin 12.3-inch screens; 18-inch alloy wheels; front and rear parking sensors; reversing camera; LED headlights. It doesn’t end there either: There’s also three-zone automatic climate control; Blind Spot Assist; wireless smartphone charging; leather upholstery; and heated front seats.
Other options include a head-up display, air suspension, massaging seats, a surround-view camera, a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof. There’s even a Burmester surround-sound audio system. The list goes on and on. The extremely comfortable interior is as would be expected from this prestige manufacturer. Lavish is the word but be warned; the options can add up to a hefty bill for the unwary so select wisely.
The Drive
Each of the body styles bring with it unique driving dynamics. The saloon for example is about family and business use without ever sacrificing performance. Whichever variant is selected though, clicking through the various drive modes will provide actual dynamic differences in throttle, braking, and suspension response. There’s also the 4Matic all-wheel drive set-up to consider, optionally.
Whichever model is selected, from the wind-in-your-air cabriolet with a new power top to the robust All-Terrain estate car (station wagon), the Mercedes Benz E-Class remains one of the best premium cars on the global market. Get in touch for more information.
