2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB launched at Rs 56.15 lakh

Mercedes-Benz has launched the 2017 E-Class in India. Prices start at Rs 56.15 lakh for the E 200 petrol and go up to Rs 69.47 lakh for the E 350 d diesel (both prices ex-showroom Mumbai). The new E-Class is being introduced exclusively as a long-wheelbase model and what’s more is that India is the only country to get it with right-hand drive. 

Currently in its tenth-generation, the 2017 E-Class takes on rivals like the BMW 5 Series (soon to be replaced by a new generation itself) and the Audi A6. It also goes head-to-head against the directly imported Volvo S90 and the Jaguar XF, the production of which, was recently localised.

We’ll tell you all you need to know in our first drive review. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick look at what’s on offer:

Features

While the new E-Class’ biggest selling point is its segment-leading rear legroom, there is, of course, more to the car than just space. Goodies on offer include full-LED headlights, air-suspension (diesel only) and electrically-adjustable rear seats.

Sitting at the centre of the dashboard is a 12.3-inch infotainment screen (derived from the S-Class) that can be operated via a touchpad and for entertainment, the car comes equipped with a 13-speaker sound system by Burmester.

Other features include a panoramic sunroof, motorised sunblinds, 64-colour ambient lighting and touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel. There are, however, a few goodies than have been missed out on.

Powertrains

The new E-Class will be available in India in two forms – E 200 (petrol) and E 350 d (diesel):

-The E 350 d’s 3.0-litre, V6 diesel engine produces 262PS of power and 620Nm of torque. 0-100kmph comes up in a claimed 6.6 seconds with the top speed rated at 250kmph. Mercedes-Benz had the same diesel engine powering the outgoing E-Class, tuned to deliver the same power and torque output.

-The petrol engine is also a familiar 2.0-litre, four-cylinder unit. Producing 187PS and 300Nm, this engine drives the new E-Class from 0-100kmph in 8.5 seconds – 0.6 seconds slower than the outgoing E-Class – since the new model is larger and, of course, heavier too.

-Both engines come paired with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission that drives power to the rear wheels only.

Here’s a look at how the new E-Class fares when compared to its predecessor. Don’t need a history lesson? Well, here’s a look at how it sizes up against its current rivals!

Design

The E-Class shares its overall design with the S-Class and C-Class. Despite the similarities, it looks distinctive, thanks to its sheer size. In fact, its 3,079mm wheelbase is even longer than the standard S-Class’, though India only gets the long-wheelbase S-Class, so owners needn’t worry about losing any snob-value. With a length of 5,065mm and height of 1,494mm, it is the longest and tallest car in the segment too. Although, its 2,065mm width makes it the 2nd slimmest after the Volvo S90.

Colour Options

-Obsidian Black
-Iridium Silver
-Citrine Brown
-Selenite Grey
-Polar White

Bookings for the new E-Class are open and Mercedes-Benz will locally assemble the limousine at its plant in Chakan, Maharashtra.

Source: CarDekho.com