The latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been unveiled internationally, in advance of its arrival in Ireland later this year.
With the EQE taking on the EV challenge, there’s more an air of evolution than revolution about the E Class, which has been on sale, in effect, since 1953.
There’s more than a hint of the styling and equipment already seen on the larger S-Class and the E-Class retains its distinctive saloon shape with a long bonnet.
LED headlamps are standard across the range with air suspension and rear wheel steering available as options.
The wheelbase is slightly longer than before, which releases some more rear leg and knee space. Headroom has also been increased and the boot space has been increased to 540 litres.
There’s improved technology in the cabin, with enhancements to driver assistance systems, communications and infotainment. There’s even a new ability to allow the driver to join an online video conference, something I harbour grave doubts about. I’ve seen the standard of driving across the years and to my mind, a further distraction is far from welcome.
Just like the larger S-Class, the MBUX Superscreen is available as an option and this takes up the entire width of the car to control various systems. Voice control is also supported and there’s no longer the need to prefix every command with ‘Hey Mercedes’ to wake the system up.
Four petrol variants, ranging from E200 to E400 e 4MATIC and two E220 diesels will be available, mostly featuring some form of hybrid drivetrains.
