So following a huge number of teasers and previews, the new 2017 Mercedes E-Class – which we have wrongfully been referring to as 2016 modelyear – has finally made its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show. The new E is pitched as the “most intelligent business saloon” ever.
That is of course because of all the new technology features packed in the 2017 Mercedes E-Class. But before we get to that, let’s address the exterior design, the supposedly new look which Mercedes calls coupe-esque and chic. Be that as it may, it kind of bugs us that the new E-Class should look pretty much identical to the C-Class. It’s as if Mercedes designers have run out of ideas and are using tracing papers these days to design these cars.
The main reason why these models – E, C, and S – look similar is because Mercedes wants a unified, recognizable look across the range. What that means is you also get one kind of interior design across the range, and in the case of 2017 Mercedes E-Class that means an S-Class-like cabin with a huge screen, Touch-sensitive control buttons, voice control, and most of the other toys you get with the big car. It’s also true in terms of the materials, colors, and the ambient lighting featured in the E.
The new E-Class also comes with a revised engine lineup. At launch, the car will be available with two engines, including the E200 petrol and E220 diesel four-pots. Later on, the E350 e plug-in hybrid will be added to the range with 280 horsepower. Depending on the market, you may also choose between the six-cylinder models E350 d (260 hp) and E400 (333 hp). But there’s no V8 option anymore. The standard transmission is a 9-speed automatic.
As for the tech features and innovative systems that make the 2017 Mercedes E-Class intelligent, the car gets Direct Control suspension with three modes plus multi-chamber air suspension, standard Active Brake Assist and Attention Assist, and an optional Driver Assistance package which includes semi-autonomous Drive Pilot system, Evasive Steering Assist, remote parking and …
