More models swell E-Class range
MERCEDES-BENZ has bolstered its recently launched tenth-generation E-Class range in South Africa with two additional models: the E250 and the all-wheel drive E400 4Matic.
They join the existing E200, E220d and E350d derivatives which went on sale here in June.
The E400 4Matic marks the first time an all-wheel-drive version of the E-Class is made available here, and it better harnesses the powerful 245kW and 480Nm outputs of that six-cylinder 3-litre turbo engine. Combined with a 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox, drive is permanently fed to both axles in a 31/69 front to rear split to give this Benz added traction off the line and on slippery roads, but with a rear-biased nature that minimises understeer and still makes it fun to drive.
Until an AMG version comes along this is the quickest E-Class there is. The sports sedan takes just 5.3 seconds to reach 100km/h from rest, says Mercedes, while top speed is a governed 250km/h.
All other E-Class variants are rear-wheel driven, including the new E250 variant which is hauled along by a four-cylinder 2-litre petrol turbo motor with outputs of 155kW and 350Nm.
With a factory-claimed zero to 100 figure in 6.9 seconds the E250 offers a shot of extra pace over the entry-level E200 (135kW and 300Nm).
The new-generation E-Class is one of the smartest cars on the market and comes with semi-autonomous driving ability that makes it able to keep a safe following distance, read road signs, automatically stick to the speed limit, and steer itself even when there are no clear road markings.
All models are offered with steel suspension as standard, with a choice of three selective damping options ranging from comfort to sport. Optionally you can order your E-Class with air suspension, which offers the best of both worlds and also alters the ground clearance to match driving conditions.
All engines for the new E-Class are equipped with the fuel-saving ECO start/stop function.
Active Brake Assist warns the driver of impending collisions, and if necessary autonomously applies the brakes when errant vehicles or pedestrians cross the car’s path. PRICES E200 R707 100 E220d R759 100 E250 R759 100 E 350d R958 300 E 400 4Matic R989 500 Including PremiumDrive 6-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.