2017 Mercedes E-Class LWB First Drive: It’s a Game Changer

This luxury 4-seater sedan battles the Jaguar, BMW and the Audi in India.

Mercedes E-Class gets an S-Class looking touch to it in 2017. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

The all-new tenth-generation E-Class has come to India in its long-wheelbase version, which promises a limousine-like experience in the backseat but at a mildly higher price, starting from Rs 50.6 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The new Mercedes will be going up against Volvo's very capable all-new S90 and BMW's soon to be launched new-generation 5-Series and it will also have to deal with Audi's all-rounder, the A6, and Jaguar's new XF.

Pros:

• Fantastic seats
• Incredible amount of space
• Class-leading comfort in the backseat
• Feels luxurious

Cons:

• Misses out on some features
• Boot space is reduced
• Definite four-seater
• Lacks touch functionality

Design & Interiors

The E-Class is absolutely attention-grabbing and a lot of that is because of its size! For the very first time we are getting the stretched version of the E-Class in India.

This Mercedes is 18 cm longer than the previous E-class and its wheelbase, an indicator of the space inside the cabin, is even greater than the standard wheelbase version of the S-Class!

The taller frame makes the E-Class look bigger than it actually is. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

The large swept-back headlamps with flowing rods that act as LED daytime running lights and LED headlights strengthens the connection. The prominent grille and the deep bow tie air-dams on the bumper make the E-Class look a bit aggressive.

High-tech features on board the Mercedes E-Class 2017. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

Once you step inside, the design for the dashboard, the incredible amount of space, the beautiful cushioning for the seats and the quality of materials make you wonder whether you are in the E-Class or the S-Class!

The seats are beautifully cushioned and shaped, and motorised functions include an extendable seat base and memory functions too.

Power

Mercedes are offering the E-Class with two familiar engines: the four-cylinder two-litre petrol and the six-cylinder three-litre diesel, and both engines come coupled with 9-speed gearboxes that send power to the rear wheels.

Mercedes claims a 0-100 kmph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 kmph. It’s important to note that the E-Class is refreshing and easy to drive calmly too. The E-Class also offers drive modes to change how the car drives.

Available in petrol and diesel variants. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

There are four modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ which adjust suspension, gearbox and steering. The fifth mode, Individual, allows the driver to customise the settings for these parameters as per his preference. To make parking this long sedan easier, it is offered with Active Parking Assist for semi-automated parking.

Features

Like on the S-Class the E-Class has a dashboard design that wraps onto the doors; there’s open-pore (or, un-lacquered) wood, and a large 12.3-inch infotainment system with a touch pad for the COMAND (Mercedes’ infotainment system) system.

Big-screen infotainment screen, driving modes and sunroof is there too. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

The E-Class is offered with a panoramic sunroof as standard, with power controls for the sunshade as well. The Chauffeur Package, which allows you to adjust the front passenger seat, is standard too. You get motorised sunblinds for both rear windows and the rear windscreen.

Safety is well covered with the E-Class 2017. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

The E-Class passes the Euro-Ncap test with five stars, but Mercedes claim it surpasses the standard by a significant margin. The use of aluminium and high strength steel help create a light yet rigid body and the India spec E-Class comes with seven-airbags.

On the Drive

The E 350d is offered with air-suspension for all four wheels and this multi-chamber system delivers quite an impressive experience. The ride quality is also helped by Mercedes India’s decision to use 17-inch rims instead of 18-inch or 19-inch wheels, as the taller sidewall helps improve comfort while reducing chances of tyre failure.

Mercedes E-Class 2017 gives you the luxury feels. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

At low speeds, bumps and potholes seem to just vanish when in Comfort mode. But, drive just a bit faster and there is a notable amount of up-and-down movement which feels troublesome.

In Sport mode, the suspension firms up such that there is less body movement without compromising comfort distinctly, and as such would be the ideal mode to cover long distances in.

Verdict

The tenth generation E-Class is a game changer. Not only does it change what we expect from a Mercedes E-Class, but also changes our expectations from the segment.

This luxury sedan is good fit for 4 passengers at best. (Photo Courtesy: CarDekho)

Yes, the E-Class could do with a bit more equipment for a greater sense of luxury, but the overall smoothness, quietness and quality of the cabin make the experience properly luxurious. The new E is also quick and effortless to drive. The only limitation of this big luxury sedan is that it feels its size when you try to drive in a sporty manner.

(CarDekho is one of the leading automobile portals in India, part of GirnarSoft. The site offers in-depth analysis, comparisons and reviews of the latest car launches in the country.)