Sixth-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class unveiled; India debut expected in 2024

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new generation of its iconic luxury sedan, the E-Class. It is now in its sixth generation (W214), with a completely redesigned body, technologically advanced interiors, and economical powertrains. The new E-Class is also one of Mercedes' final dedicated internal combustion engine vehicles before switching to all-electric powertrains.

The new E-Class is a lot smoother, has a more aerodynamic body and a 22mm larger wheelbase. The new E-Class retains conventional styling, with a wider grille with illuminated surrounds, more shapely headlights, and a longer bonnet than the previous model. The sedan now has flush-fitting door handles from the S-Class, as well as new alloy wheel styles.

The new E-Class has split taillights with new triangular LED components in a triangle pattern, as well as a full-width chrome strip above the number plate holder, similar to the S-Class. Aside from that, the sedan has rear-wheel steering for the first time.

The new E-Class sits on Mercedes-Benz's Modular Rear Architecture (MRA).

The new W214 E-Class will only be available with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The engines have been modified, with slightly greater combined outputs thanks to a stronger electric boost of 23PS. The ordinary petrol and diesel models will all be powered by 2-litre four-cylinder engines, while the top-spec E-Class will be powered by an electrified version of Mercedes' six-cylinder engine.

All engines will be coupled to a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard. All petrol and diesel engines have a 48-volt mild-hybrid, with a gearbox-mounted integrated starter motor delivering more power and torque, as well as coasting features for better fuel economy.

The inside of the new E-Class has been extensively redesigned, with a new style for the cabin incorporating more current digital capabilities, enhanced comfort, and higher-quality materials. With tiny AC vents and a huge MBUX Superscreen, the dashboard boasts a simple design that appears to be EQS-inspired. The digital driver's display is a distinct floating device, similar to the Hyperscreen used in Merc's EV products.

The new E-Class comes standard with the latest version of the MBUX infotainment interface as well as a Burmester 4D sound system. It will have four-zone climate control with electrically controlled front air vents, a smartphone-based digital vehicle key, a voice assistant, and even routines for the AC and heating that will be established automatically by an AI in the future.

The 2018 Mercedes E-Class (W214) receives Level 4 autonomous technology as part of a driverless valet parking feature, which was previously only available on the S-Class, as an option in areas where regulations allow, such as Germany.

Mercedes Benz India has confirmed that the LWB version of the new E-Class will be introduced at a later stage, after the debut of the standard wheelbase. We can only expect this new E-Class to hit the Indian market in 2024

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