Mercedes-Benz model planners in Stuttgart have turned their attention to the

E-Class-giving the range a complete new and modernised make-over to a

more modern-day style.

According to Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board at Mercedes, the new-

generation E-Class is “a car to raise the bar for automotive gourmets”.

The new E-Class is available with either of two different front styles.

‘Elegance’ models have a more restrained, conventional design with a

prominent Mercedes grille and the familiar three-pointed star badge riding on

top of the bonnet. It’s the old-school choice.

Alternatively, ‘Avantgarde’ models are more present-day and wear a large

Mercedes star emblem with a black background, in the centre of the grille.

There are both four-door sedans and five-door estates in the range with a

choice of 2.0 or 3.0 litre petrol and 2.2 or 3.0 litre diesel engines (including a

diesel-electric hybrid version.)

The top-of-the-range model is the E63 AMG, which has a powerful V8 petrol

engine and four-wheel-drive.

Across the range, the E-Class has a firm and sporty

handling ability and hugs the road on the bends

firmly.

This is a biggish car with four large doors (five in the

estate version) and access into both the front and

rear is done with ease. The boot is slightly less

practical from a loading point of view.

All round vision out of the E-Class is excellent, and

the large rear window gives a better view than is

sometimes the case in this class of car.

The E Class is beautifully appointed with the

dashboard design well-planned and elegant, and the

quality of materials used is top class.

Seating is excellent for both driver and passengers.

The seat cushioning accommodates the body shape

with adjustments to suit your body-size and height.

‘Safety Equipment’ includes:

Eleven new or improved driver assistance

systems designed to help avoid or at least

minimise any collisions.

Seven airbags as standard, there is a

drowsiness detection system to warn when

the driver seems to be flagging and losing

concentration.

The bonnet has a pyro-technic pop-up

action to protect any unfortunate

pedestrian who collides with the car.

A safety system available that

automatically applies the brakes if another

vehicle is detected entering the E-Class’s

path.

The E-Class is a well-equipped car. All versions

have fuel-saving stop-start technology,

distinctive LED headlamps, DAB radio, satellite

navigation, dual-zone climate control, heated

seats and front and rear parking sensors.

One can specify a split screen monitor that

lets the driver see the ‘satnav’ from one angle,

while his passenger can watch a film from

another angle, with no risk of distraction for

the person at the wheel.

In Conclusion

The Mercedes E-Class is a superb and

desirable car, strong on performance, comfort

and image.