The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate – fourth model in the new E-Class series after the saloon, coupé and cabriolet – has arrived into Ireland and can now be seen in dealer showrooms.
Billed by some as an ideal option for those in search of a more eco-friendly, load-bearing alternative to the SUV, the new E-Class Estate is the fifth generation of a model whose history dates back to 1977 since when over one million models have been sold.
Claimed by Mercedes-Benz to be the largest estate car in the premium segment, it has a load space that can be expanded from 695 to 1,950 litres, all within an area large enough to accommodate an optional third row of seats.
One operational feature of its load area is a key-activated tailgate that opens and closes automatically at the touch of a button. Another is a quick-fold mechanism that lowers the split rear seat backs to create a level carrying surface. This is done by means of a cable pull from the load compartment – a procedure that is carried out without the need to adjust head restraints or rear-seat cushions. Other practical features are a folding load compartment floor that can be raised up and secured in various positions to increase usable height and a securing net to prevent loads from sliding around in transit.
Visually, the new estate has all of the body design features seen in the saloon with a strong shoulder-line that emphasizes its estate car pedigree. In addition to its larger load space, interior dimensions have increased to give more rear elbow room and head clearance. Viewed in profile, its side pillar design creates the illusion that its windows are formed as a single unit. As befits an estate, the load section has a rather muscular, sweeping line and a rear end set off in chrome trim with a wrap around LED taillights cluster that highlights its practical purpose.
Despite the wide range of engines available, in Ireland attention will focus on the 200CDI, 220CDI and 250CDI diesel models, all of which come with low emissions BlueEFFICIENCY technology and low road tax. In price terms, the 200CDI is introduced at EUR44,185 (ex works) with the 220CDI following at EUR46,575 and the 250CDI at EUR48.825.
On the technical side, the new estate has all of the features found in the E-Class saloon, coupé and cabriolet including the much-publicised drowsiness detection system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive high beam assist and nine airbags. Air suspension with self-levelling at the rear is an additional enhancement.
Welcoming the new estate and the fact that it could be introduced at prices that are as competitive as those of the new E-Class range as a whole, Mercedes-Benz chief executive Stephen Byrne said that its arrival means that the market now has a comprehensive choice of models with a single E-Class range.