‘Smartest-ever’ E-class
Mercedes E-class Estate
MERCEDES has revealed the all-new E-class Estate, which is set to go on sale later this year. The German brand claims the new wagon is the “most intelligent estate” it has ever built.
At the front, the new car is nearly identical to the saloon on which it’s based, yet from the B-pillar, the roofline extends further back. The rear lights appear as if they’ve been lifted from the smaller C-class Estate, wrapping around from the tailgate on to the wings. Long overhangs ensure the new E-class is the most practical premium estate in its class.
It features a total load volume of 1,820 litres. That beats the Audi A6 Avant (1,680 litres), yet it falls short of the giant and significantly cheaper Skoda Superb (1,950 litres). The Mercedes has a trump card, though, as later this year it’ll be available with a third row of seats in the boot.
Practical touches such as keyless go and a hands-free tailgate are included, while a load-securing kit can divide the boot floor using fasteners, rods and luggage holders. Self-levelling air-suspension is standard, too.
The Estate features the same high-quality interior as the saloon. That means top-spec versions get the huge 12.3-inch screen and digital dials, while entry-level models make do with a conventional analogue set-up.
An Acoustic Comfort package will be available from the end of the year. This applies a special film to the windscreen and side windows – along with further insulation in the footwells – to provide lower levels of background noise.
The same classy materials feature, including open-pore woods, metals and leather. Like the saloon, the Estate comes with plenty of kit. Active Brake Assist is standard, while the semi-autonomous Drive Pilot system is also available, allowing drivers to safely follow the car in front at up to 130mph. Remote Parking Pilot is optional.
At launch, UK engine options will be the same as for the saloon, with E 220d and E 350d diesels, as well as a new AMG E 43 petrol. All cars use the familiar ninespeed 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox.
Mercedes’ new 2.0-litre four-cylinder 220d promises 67.2mpg and 109g/km CO2 emissions. Performance suffers due to the bulkier body, so this car covers 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds – four-tenths slower than the saloon. The more powerful V6 E 350d claims 52.3mpg and 140g/km, while the 4WD AMG E 43 promises 33.6mpg and 192g/km.
Prices haven’t been announced, but we expect the Estate to command a £2,000 premium over the saloon. So an E 220d SE should start from around £37,000.
News Mercedes reveals striking new wagon, with raft of the latest tech