All-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class India launch in mid-March

Last year, we received a confirmation that Mercedes-Benz would launch the all-new E-Class in India come early 2017. Well, the New Year is here and we’ve just learnt that the new-gen E will be launched in India in March. The confirmation comes from company sources and select dealers have started accepting orders for the car, with the booking amount set at Rs 2 lakh.

Showcased at the Detroit Motor Show in January last year, the W213 E-Class shares its design language with the current S and C-Class sedans. Now first things first, the E-Class has always been a favourite for chauffeur-driven owners in India, which made it one of the brand’s bestselling models.

With the new model Mercedes-Benz is looking to solidify that reputation further, as the car is not only 43mm longer, but the wheelbase is a full 65mm larger as well.

Of course, it’s not just about dimensions and there’s more tech on the inside to play around with. The three-spoke steering wheel, for example, doesn’t get conventional mounted buttons, but touch sensitive controls! Gimmicky? Well, sure, but it’s still pretty cool.

Other goodies available include two 12.3-inch high-res displays housing the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment display, along with a touchpad controller for the latter that also features handwriting recognition. There’s a 23-speaker 3D sound system by Burmester on offer as well. The rear bench seat splits 40:20:40 for added practicality, while the central armrest can be paired with a tablet holder for added rear seat convenience.

Powerplants? Well, that’s still up for speculation. Likely options include the 2.0-litre petrol and the 2.1-litre diesel. The petrol E 200 makes 184PS/300Nm, while the diesel E 250 d could be offered in the same tune as the C 250 d i.e. 204PS/500Nm. We’re also hoping to see the E 350 d that gets a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine producing 258PS/620Nm. All engines will come paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and will come equipped with the eco start/stop function as well.

Expect prices to start around Rs 55 lakh with the luxury sedan going head-to-head against the Jaguar XF, Volvo S90, Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series.

Source: CarDekho.com