What is there to say about the E-Class that has not already been said or written about? Style, luxury, sophistication, comfort, class are all terms used and associated with this executive car from Mercedes-Benz. Since the latest generation was premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in March, there was much anticipation about its arrival on the marketplace. To be honest, there has not been much to shout about on a positive note from the industry for the past year or so. Following the Geneva Show, we subsequently found out that an all-new Coupe edition is to join the family alongside the Saloon and Estate version. New Mercedes-Benz E-Class is indeed more dynamic in its design and strikes a more imposing appearance compared to the old model. There is no doubt that with its sporty look, the age profile associated with the E-Class will continue to come down but not as broad as its main rival – the BMW 5 Series, especially when a new version of the latter is revealed in the Autumn.
What will also appeal is the competitive pricing. At €43,600 (ex works) for the four cylinder 2.2 litre 170 bhp E220 CDI you get a lot of car for your hard-earned money – especially with the high level of specifications on board. Expect the E200 CDI and E200 CGI Compressor by September. It’s worth noting that all E-Class diesel versions with manual transmission fall into Band B with annual road tax of €156. According to factory estimates – its Euro 5 compliant engines consume up to 25 pecent less fuel. Among the vast array of safety features installed include a drowsiness detection system and automatic dimming headlamps (similar to the new Audi A6).
When the full range is complete, Mercedes-Benz Ireland will have 12 models on sale here, 6 petrol and 6 diesel – 8 of those coming under its new Eco-friendly BlueEfficiency label. Power outputs will stretch from 136 bhp – 525 bhp.
Three trim levels include high spec Elegance and Avantgarde featuring chrome trim, sporty alloys, Airmatic (air suspension), leather and wood elements.
As always, comfort and interior refinement are central to the E-Class experience with every detail formed to convey that sense of security that has been a feature of the E-Class for many years. Long-distance comfort has been improved even further thanks to new body-shell technology that boosts rigidity by up to 30 percent. Seating too has been improved and a newly developed suspension fitted with shock absorbers that automatically adjust to driving conditions.