MERCEDES-BENZ could be back with a vengeance with the all-new, W212-series E-class range. Following the template set by the highly successful current-generation C-class launched in 2007, the lower-end W212 models’ prices have been cut significantly while equipment, safety, efficiency and technology levels soar. With the opposition all fielding ageing large luxury sedans dating from the earlier part of this decade, the Stuttgart crew have created a new segment leader that promises to banish the reliability and quality woes of the previous E-class. And early signs are promising indeed