Europe-spec Mercedes-Benz E-Class gets hybridization across the range – Mild Hybrid setups with lower trims and PHEV architecture on higher trims
Mercedes’ rival to BMW 5-Series and Audi A6 is here and is an evolutionary leap over the current model. 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has made its global debut as a European-spec version in SWB (Standard Wheelbase) only. India will get the LWB (Long Wheelbase) version, just like the current E-Class. It is yet to break cover.
E-Class is a mid-size sedan and slots between C-Class and S-Class. Mercedes is betting big on connectivity, content consumption and social media activity with the new gen E Class. Hence the selfie camera, and native app support like Zoom, TikTok, Angry Birds and video streaming apps. Powertrains are greener than before too. Let’s take a look.
2024 Mercedes Benz E Class – Tech Fest on the inside
With the C-Class taking S-Class interior cues, the E-Class felt like a generation behind. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class fixes that by getting interiors cues from EQS and EQE. The 40.4” screen takes center stage and is a culmination of the passenger screen and central infotainment screen. The driver’s display is likely to be a 12” unit. Unlike on the EQS, the driver’s display on the new E-Class is separate.
Ambient lighting, powered front and rear seats, ventilated and heated front seats, quad-zone climate control and massaging front seats are likely to be on offer. The third passenger display is optional. The MBUX media screen will stream videos, connect to social media and more. A face monitoring system is present to disengage content from the main screen if the driver is less attentive on the road ahead. This screen is now powered by a faster processor too.
Exterior Differences
Family lineages are evident on the outside. Despite that, rear tail lights with Star LED signatures are unique. Previously Mercedes-Benz followed a 1,2 and 3 LED signature design to distinguish between C, E and S classes respectively. New 2024 E-Class gets two LED lower lash lines and two upper LED bars. There’s no pattern to follow up with C and S Classes.
There are two grille designs on offer, depending on trim levels. ‘Progressive’ grille gets tiny Mercedes-Benz stars or the ‘Classic’ grille with Daimler’s slatted design. Lower bumper is vastly similar to the outgoing model. Door handles are flush, like on the S-Class. An Estate version and its All-Terrain version are likely to be offered in Europe too. A new E-Class All-Terrain 4X4 Squared with portal axles from a Unimog is less likely.
2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is Greener across the range
Europe is likely to only get the SWB version. It measures 4949 mm long, and has a 2961 mm long wheelbase. Outgoing India-spec E-Class LWB has a 3079 mm wheelbase. Powertrain options for Europe get electrification in varied capacities. The 201 bhp E200 petrol and 194 bhp E200d diesel powertrains get assistance from a 17 kW (22.8 bhp) ISG (Integrated Starter Generator). RWD is standard and the E200d gets a 4Matic AWD option too. 238 km/h top speed and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.8 seconds are common.
Then comes the PHEVs. The 2.0L turbo petrol gets a 95 kW (125 bhp) electric motor and can travel 62 miles (100 km) electric power. This is fantastic for Europe’s LEZs (Low Emission Zones). E300e and E300e 4Matic get 308 bhp, while E400e gets 376 bhp and can hit 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. Just like AMG C63s, top-spec AMG E-Class is likely to get a 2.0L turbo engine and electric motors too. 2024 Mercedes E Class prices have not been announced.
