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in terms. It’s the new Mercedes E 300 de SE, below, and the fact that you can choose from a saloon or an estate has nothing to do with the “de” part of its name.
In fact de stands for diesel electric, because this particular E-Class is a hybrid electric vehicle (EV).
That means you can drive around either: a) continuing to pollute the atmosphere more than most cars; or b) driving along like you’ve just joined the green movement.
Merc prefer to say that: “The E 300 de provides the ultimate combination of diesel’s long-distance efficiency and frugality with the emissions-free running of electricity.”
Either way this Merc is not short of speed. Its 2.0-litre diesel, with 194hp and
400Nm (296lb) of torque, plus a 22hp electric motor with 440Nm
(326lb) torque
That means 0-62mph comes up in a mere 5.9s for the saloon and 6.0s for the estate. Top speed of both is limited to just the 155mph.
Meanwhile, the E 300 de SE’s overall fuel economy figure is an incredible
166mpg while emissions are more acceptable at just
41 or 44g/km.
That’s the good news. Not so impressive is an electric-only range of 34 or
32 miles, but Merc say it charges up from just 10 to
100% in less than two hours with a quick charger.
Want to drive a diesel and do your bit for society at the same time?
Personally, I don’t think it can be done, but you can order one now with prices starting at £47,700 or
£49,700. First deliveries are next March.