Mercedes-Benz E-Class Debuts a Bevy of New Tech
Mercedes-Benz introduced the outgoing E-Class, codenamed W213, in 2016 as a model that brought new levels of technology to make it stand out in the executive sedan fold.
For the 2023 model year, the Stuttgart-based marque has revealed its all-new E-Class model that bears the W214 codename that brings new electronic infrastructure while pointing the way in the shift to electric drive.
At first glance, the new E-Class reminds us of the EQ models, thanks to a high-gloss black insert connecting the radiator grille with the headlights. The front end is further equipped with a 3D-designed radiator grille that can be specified as progressive or classic, as well as standard high-performance LED headlights that can be upgraded to Digital Light.
Moving to the rear, the new E-Class gets two-section LED lights with a new contour and unique star motif design in both light units.
Speaking of dimensions, the E-Class features a longer wheelbase stretched by 2 cm to 2,961 mm compared to the outgoing model, while the front and rear tracks now measure 1,634 mm and 1,648 mm, respectively.
Buyers can specify the E-Class with flush-fitted wheels that measure up to 21” depending on the trim level.
Before getting into specifics about the interior appointments, it’s worth mentioning that the E-Class’ interior is nothing we’ve seen before, thanks to an interior filled with cameras and up to five screens depending on the trim level.
Besides that, you get the large glass surface of the MBUX Superscreen that extends to the central display. Mercedes-Benz offers an optional MBUX Premium Plus package that adds a passenger screen that is only activated when the front passenger seat is occupied. To avoid driver distraction, the screen is only visible to the passenger.
As for the models without the passenger screen, they get a sizeable trim element that extends to the centre. As standard, the E-Class comes with a mono camera that constantly checks if the driver’s eyes are on the road. The second stereo camera is added to the instrument display for advanced functions such as driver-assist systems, while a third gesture camera positioned on the overhead control panel is responsible for the MBUX Interior Assistant feature.
Strange but true, Mercedes-Benz has added a selfie camera for other related functions and a dash cam.
The local line-up will reportedly soldier on with a similar choice of engines but will gain a hybrid system. The current local range consists of the E200, E220d and potent E63 S. As for the new E200, the model packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 150 kW and 320 Nm - an increase of 5 kW over its predecessor.
The E220d, on the other hand, makes use of a 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit with 145 kW and 440 Nm – up from 143 kW and 400 Nm. All the models shuffle through an enhanced 9G-Tronic transmission as standard.
At this stage, the local arm of the Stuttgart-based automaker hasn’t announced the launch timing of the new E-Class, but its production is earmarked to begin at the Sindelfingen plant in Germany later this year.
The E-Class remains an essential model in the Mercedes-Benz range even with the slowly declining sedan market, and it will be interesting to witness how the new competes with the 5-Series from BMW on the sales charts.