TRADITIONAL large wagons face a rockier path than ever before, but the likes of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain are at least trying to steer around a treacherous sales fall.

In local Mercedes-Benz showrooms the single-specification E220d All-Terrain is far removed from the swoopy, glitzy multi-tier GLC and GLE coupe-SUV ranges that have been rushed out – in the case of the latter, mid-model cycle – in an attempt to halt huge BMW X4 and X6 sales.

The only variation of the 10th-generation E-Class Estate we will now see in Australia is also a new addition to a long line of large Benz wagons, forging a new path for the brand but one also leading head-on into established rivals such as Audi’s A6 Allroad and various Cross Country Volvos.

Brash populism is flicked for quiet restraint, both literally in terms of the single efficient diesel four-cylinder offered and the modest sales volumes expected.

But is this a case of haute cuisine trumping a rush for family-favourite fast food?

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