By Staff Reporter

Having sold over 14 million units globally since inception, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now its tenth generation and is still one the most selling sedans in the Stuttgart based manufacture’s range. The refreshed E-Class will come with a new fresh look, updated interior, new engine derivates, plug-in hybrid model and state-of-the-art safety features to match.

Exterior

The upgrade of the E-Class is reflected in the enhanced model range. The entry-level model will now feature a standard AvantGarde Line exterior, this will see the base model come with a central star in the front for the first time. While the front end will have a new increased chrome content that plays a part in the fresh look. The redesigned the grille of the AvantGarde will see it have two chrome louvres and vertical high-gloss black struts. In the Exclusive line, the special grille, the upright star on the bonnet and large chrome elements in front bumper will emphasise the positioning. The AMG Line will be identifiable by a new bumper in the style of the AMG Performance models. All the E-Class models will now feature all-LED headlamps as standard. The rear has also been updated with a new bumper, split tail lamps and a new boot lid. Additional paint colour options will be available as well, they will include high-tech silver, graphite grey and mojave silver colour.

Interior  

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now fitted with an entirely new steering wheel as part of the model update. It will be available in three versions: as an all-leather steering wheel, in wood-leather combination and a supersport version. It also be equipped the latest generation of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). As standard, it includes two large tablet 10.25-inch screens, for a widescreen view. Two 12.3-inch screens are optionally available. The infotainment also has a bag of standard features to supplement it. They include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and wireless charging for smartphones. There will also be a new touchpad in the center console and increased interior upholstery options. The new E-Class will be fitted with noticeable safety features or driver assistance systems that include attention assist, brake assists, blind spot assist, active lane keep assist and a 360-degree camera.

Engine

The E-Class will be now electrified in some of its markets and will have up to seven models are available as plug-in hybrids, diesel and petrol to mention a few. Mercedes claims that the outputs will range from 115kW to 270kW for petrol engines, while diesel engines will range from 118kW to 243kW.

There’s also a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in line turbo with an electric auxiliary compressor hidden underneath the bonnet which is paired to a 9-Speed automatic, that will be the same for the four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. This means, the E53 AMG will churn out power outputs of 320kW and 520Nm of torque. The power is distrusted to all the wheels thanks to the AMG performance 4Matic+. The E53 AMG will sprint to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds with top speed limited to 250 kph. This is largely thanks to the EQ boost system that generates power to the 48V on-board electrical system.  The electrical system can generate up to 16kW and 250Nm for a short period. It is expected that the South African market will maintain the current 143kW and 190kW 2.0-litre engine turbopetrol and 143kW turbo engines. Once local pricing is anounced we will publish it.