Despite swoopy new EVs, the E-Class remains the cornerstone for Mercedes-Benz and now it’s received a huge update with boatloads of technology crammed into its sleek new body shell. The new E-Class is a lot more clever, more spacious and takes the best bits from cars like the EQS including the superscreen. Yes, the gigantic touch panel with three screens also enters into the E-Class and that also brings added infotainment options like in-built third-party apps like TikTok or Angry Birds. Fret not, executive buyers will also like the inclusion of Webex, Zoom and a selfie camera for video conferencing (when the vehicle is stationary).
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2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan | Image: Mercedes-Benz
Aside from being a boardroom on wheels, the new E-Class gets a more powerful single processor for all the MBUX functions while AI is also embedded with the new ‘routine’ feature where you can link several functions and conditions. For example, “Switch on the seat heating and set the ambient lighting to warm orange if the interior temperature is below twelve degrees Celsius.” Elsewhere, luxuries like a 4D Burmester surround sound system are linked to Active ambient lighting along with a rear seat entertainment package and a new massage programme.
It seems the E-Class now has leapfrogged to S-Class levels of luxury while Mercedes-Benz has also added a tinge of sustainability with recycled raw materials used in the interior.
The EQ brand of EVs has also influenced the exterior styling with black trim surrounding the headlamps and new tail-lights with a star motif. While the classic sedan silhouette has been maintained, the new design is clearly more aerodynamic and links itself closer to the flagship S-Class. It is longer as well with rear seat passengers having increased knee room and legroom by 10 and 17 millimetres. The increase in elbow width at the rear also enables it to nearly match the S-Class at 1519 millimetres.
2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan | Image: Mercedes-Benz
In terms of powertrains, the focus is clearly on electrification with three plug-in hybrids being offered with an electric output of 129 hp and an all-electric range of up to over 100 kilometres (WLTP). Four and six-cylinder units in diesel and petrol are still offered with an integrated starter-generator. As standard, the mild-hybrid models will come with a steel spring suspension with a selective damping system. Buyers can spec air suspension system with ADS+ continuously adjustable damping and rear-axle steering which reduces the turning circle by up to 90 centimetres.
It remains to be seen whether these new plug-in hybrid models come to Australia although at launch (early 2024) expect a petrol-only specification. The new E-Class will lock horns with the upcoming 5-Series and with this, the executive luxury sedan battle will certainly heat up in the days to come.
Check out the Mercedes-Benz E Class
2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan | Image: Mercedes-Benz
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