What’s new?

It is a brand-new version, and this time its new electronics architecture allows a comprehensive digital user experience the manufacturer promises.

Exterior:

The new E-Class has the proportions of a classic three-box saloon: the short front overhang and long bonnet are followed by a greenhouse which is set well back.

A black panel-like surface connects the radiator grille with the headlamps. This insert in high-gloss black is visually reminiscent of the Mercedes-EQ models. The three-dimensionally designed radiator grille is either progressive or classic, depending on the equipment line.

The new E-Class has high-performance LED headlamps as standard. As an optional extra, DIGITAL LIGHT is available with and without a projection function. All headlamp variants offer a distinctive day and night design.

The side view shows off the harmonious proportions and the distinctive "cab-backward" design to particularly good effect. The flush-fitting door handles, familiar from the luxury Mercedes-Benz models, are available as an option.

Interior:

The dashboard makes for the digital experience in the interior. If the E-Class is equipped with the optional front passenger screen, the large glass surface of the MBUX Superscreen extends to the central display.

Visually detached from this is the driver's display in the driver's field of vision. The models without a passenger display feature a large trim element that extends to the centre. Visually detached, the central display appears to float above the concave surface.

When it comes to spaciousness, the E-Class is one of the favourites in its segment. The driver enjoys five millimetres more headroom and the rear passengers particularly benefit from the two centimetre longer wheelbase with increased legroom. The increase in elbow width in the rear is up by 25 millimetres and almost S-class level. The luggage capacity has grown to 540 litres.

Electronics architecture and equipment:

The electronics architecture is more software-driven and less hardware-driven. The computing functions of previously separate domains take place in a single processor. Screens and the MBUX infotainment system therefore share a new, very powerful central onboard computer. This form of networking improves the performance and speed of the data streams.

The entertainment experience for the front passenger is always impressive. On the front passenger’s optional screen, dynamic content such as TV or video streaming can be watched even when the driver at the wheel is looking over at them. This is because the display is switchable. The advanced camera-based privacy function reduces its brightness and therefore the risk of driver distraction.

The standard equipment of the E-Class with driving assistance systems includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package with reversing camera and Speed Limit Assist. The status and activity of the driving assistance systems are shown as a full-screen view in the Assistance mode of the driver's display.

Engines:

The E 200 uses a 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 150 kW (+17 kW from the electric motor) and 320 Nm with extra 205 Nm torque boost available through the hybrid system. The E 220d four-cylinder, 2.1-litre diesel engine is good for 145 kW (+17 kW) and 440 Nm with 205 Nm torque boost.

Prices:

The E 200 is priced at R1 344 750 and the E 220d costs R1 430 550.