Mercedes-Benz unveils updated E-Class range

MERCEDES-BENZ has announced updates to its E-Class luxury large sedan, including the introduction of its new pair of inline six-cylinder engines on the turbo-diesel E400d and hybrid-petrol E53 AMG.

The 53 AMG powertrain, which was first revealed at the Detroit motor show this year, will be used in the E-Class as a replacement for the twin-turbo V6 E43 in European markets, however its Australian fate is yet to be confirmed.

Powering the E53 AMG is the new M256 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol engine that produces 320kW/520Nm – up 25kW over the E43.

The inline-six engine is also teamed to an EQ Boost starter/alternator which is able to momentarily deliver up to 16kW/250Nm while powering the on-board 48V electrical system.

A zero-to-100km/h sprint time of 4.5 seconds is achieved by the E53, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h.

Power is sent to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system and a nine-speed 9G automatic transmission.

The other new engine in the updated E-Class range is found in the E400d variant, which will replace the existing E350d.

Employing the OM656 inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine found in the updated S-Class range, the E400d is capable of producing 250kW from 3600-4400rpm and a meaty 700Nm of torque from 1200-3200rpm, representing a 60kW/80Nm bump over the E350d. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive system will also be used by the E400d.

The rest of the range that has been detailed consists of three four-cylinder diesel powertrains, underpinning the E200d, E220d and E300d.

It is expected that the remaining updated line-up, including the petrol-powered E400 and plug-in hybrid E350e, will be announced further down the line.

Borrowing technology from the S-Class, the refreshed E-Class will be offered with the driver assistance package that includes the latest version of its adaptive cruise control as well as active steering assist, which can change lanes autonomously simply by activating the turn signal.

The latest generation of Mercedes-Benz’s steering wheels will be included in the update, while paddle shifters will be painted rather than galvanised.

High-gloss brown ash wood and high-gloss brown walnut trims on the centre console will be offered as options, while the seat comfort package, which includes four-way lumbar support and electric adjustment, will be offered on Exclusive, Avantgarde, and AMG Line trim packages. An analogue clock embedded in the dash will be standard across the range.

A new trim package called SportStyle will be offered, consisting of a chrome louvre below the front bumper, a badge on the front wing, a chrome trim element in the rear bumper, tailpipe embellishers, 17-inch ten or five-spoke alloy wheels, a black fabric headliner, open-pore black ash wood centre console, stainless steel sport pedals and floor mats.

Four new alloy wheel designs will be available on Avantgarde and Exclusive lines, in either 17- or 18-inch size.

While the European E-Class includes Estate wagon variants, Australian versions are expected to remain sedan only.

Australian timing and pricing is expected to be confirmed in the near future.