since 1976
since 1976
By Lee Pang Seng
ENGAGING the driver even more is the latest focus for the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class as it ‘evolves around you’ being its development theme. The new E-Class is hailed as the most advanced business sedan with its artificial intelligence (AI) learning capabilities via ‘routines’.
What that means is that the AI function makes everyday tasks easier by learning and automating frequently used comfort systems. With this latest ‘intelligence’ feature, Mercedes says customers could use standard routine templates or create their own.
For a Mercedes-Benz model that is said to set the standard for mid-range luxury sedans for more than 75 years, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia believes the latest E-C lass opens another new chapter for business sedans with its new electronics architecture in 2024. With that it is expected to continue the E-Class successful run in Malaysia where it has sold more than 74,000 cars since 1974.
The launch of the latest E-Class here also sets a new precedent in the introduction of new Mercedes-Benz models. Where previously, customers were introduced to the latest models with an imported selection, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is now opting to launch them as CKD (complete knock down) cars. That might mean a later launch date but the timeframe is said to work just fine in marketing strategy.
The new E-Class launch sees two models as expected; the E 200 Avantgarde mild hybrid and E 350 e AMG Line plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The latter is said to achieve a fully electric drive of up to 118 kilometres (WTLP) and that should mean better fuel mileage overall as no fuel is used while driving along on electric power, especially in city mobility.
Both models share a similar turbocharged 2.0-litre (1999cc) engine that delivers 150kW (204hp) but at different peak points – 5800rpm for the E 200 and 6100rpm for the E 350 e. Similarly, the peak torque output of 320Nm is from 1600-4000rpm for the E 200 and 2000-4000rpm for the E 350 e.
Bring a PHEV, the E 350 e has an electric motor that is rated at a high 440Nm and 230kW (313hp). The combined electric range is given as 100 to 118 kilometres. Another highlight is the better standing acceleration (0-100km/h) of 6.4 seconds to the E 200’s 7.5. It loses out only in top speed at 236km/h against 240.
The E 200 mild hybrid comes with a new battery that raises the power of the electric motor to 17kW from 15 and boost torque to 205Nm. Both continue to come with intelligent support from the integrated starter generator (ISG) that functions as an engine cut-out and restart system when coming to a stop.
Power aside, the new E-Class commands attention with its new looks, in particular the unusual triangular LED (light emitting diode) rear lights, two per side. You couldn’t miss identifying it when approaching from the rear. In front, the grille bearing the prominent Mercedes-Benz star logo clearly stamps the E-Class identity and status.
Mercedes employs an ‘eyebrow’ daytime running lights design on top of the headlamps to give the new E-Class an eye-catching and striking look while the rear sees the seamless connection of the rear lights to portray a wider profile. The V-shaped bootlid is complemented by a chrome trim bar along its edge for a better visual impact. Completing its ‘athletic’ looks are the alloy wheels of different impactful designs; 19-inch units for the E 200 and 20-inch wheels for the E 350 e.
Styling-wise, the latest E-Class features a ‘cab-backward’ design that emphasises a short front overhang and long bonnet that ‘transitions smoothly into a well-set-back greenhouse’. Its aerodynamic efficiency matches the previous model at 0.23 Cd as Mercedes-Benz says the wider wheel portfolio and larger underbody cavities limit improvements here.
It runs on a longer wheelbase of 2961mm (almost 3mm longer) to provide ‘generous passenger space’. Completing the cab-backward design is the ‘well-proportioned’ rear overhang that enhances the car’s sleek profile. Even a business sedan has to look smart yet athletic to reflect its forward and dynamic character.
Inside the E 350 e, the MBUX Superscreen is said to transform the dashboard into a striking digital hub. This sees a 14.4-inch central display and the 12.3-inch high-resolution driver display. Through this hub lies the wide choice of AI features and capabilities to bedazzle the new E-Class owner. There is also a new App Store integrated into the Mercedes me Store with many apps available – TikTok, Angry Birds, video conference system ‘Zoom’, Microsoft Teams Meeting, Webex, among others.
If music on the move is your cup of tea, the E 200 comes with seven speakers and a five-channel 125 watts amplifier but the E 350 e takes the cake with its virtual surround sound system that is specially mixed for Mercedes-Benz. There are 21 speakers including sound resonating transducers and a 15-channel 730 watts amplifier.
Perhaps the best part about the new E-Class is the somewhat painless increase in price; the latest E 200 goes for RM355,888 on the road without insurance (up by about RM6000) and the E 350 e is priced at RM418,888 under the same terms.
New GLC 350 e
Capitalising on the new E-Class event, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also introduced the latest addition to the GLC range, this being the GLC 350 e 4MATIC. This plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model has an even longer electric range than the E 350 e at up to 131 kilometres (WTLP). This new GLC now comes with the signature Driving Assistance Package Plus that offers ‘state-of-the-art driving assistance for utmost safety and comfort in all driving situations’.
Powered by an engine similar to that in the E 350 e, the turbocharged 2.0-litre (1999cc) engine delivers the same output of 150kW (204hp) at 6100rpm and 320Nm torque available from 2000rpm to 4000, It is supported by an electric motor rated at 100kW (136hp) and 440Nm, leading to a combined system output of 230kW (313hp) and 550Nm peak torque.
The GLC 350 e could almost match the E 350 e in standing acceleration (0 to 100km/h) being slightly slower at 6.7 seconds although the top speed is significantly lower at 218km/h. It comes equipped with a standard-fit 11kW charger for three phase charging that ensures convenient charging at home with a Wallbox or public charging stations.
The Driving Assistance Package Plus features Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with extended automatic restart function on highways, Active Stop-and-Go Assist and Active Steering Assist with hands-off warning. This is said to complement the existing safety systems such as Active Brake Assist with vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian detection, Cross-traffic function, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Blind Spot Assist.
As an AMG Line model, the GLC 350 e upholds its expressive stance with such key features as the AMG front apron with chrome trim, a rear apron with a diffuser look and the Panoramic sliding sunroof.
The interior comes with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system featuring MBUX Navigation Premium and Augmented Reality for enhanced route guidance. For an ‘immersive audio experience’, there is the Burmester 3D surround sound system with 15 high-performance speakers.
If SUV (sport utility vehicle) driving is your preferred mobility option, the GLC 350 e is definitely right up your alley and it comes competitively priced at RM398,888 on the road without insurance. Like the new E Class models, the GLC 350 e is also locally assembled at the Pekan facility in Pahang.
