Mercedes has unveiled the sixth-generation E-Class (V214) in India, starting at ₹78.5 lakh for the E 200 petrol variant. The E 220d diesel and the high-end E 450 4Matic are priced at ₹81.5 lakh and ₹92.5 lakh, respectively. Deliveries for the E 200 will begin this week, while the E 220d will start from Diwali, and the E 450 deliveries are expected by mid-November. Notably, India is the only right-hand-drive market where the E-Class LWB is sold, marking the second generation of this long-wheelbase version in the country. Production of the new E-Class LWB commenced at Mercedes-Benz’s Chakan facility a few weeks ago.
Price Comparison
The starting price of the new E-Class LWB is ₹2.5 lakh higher than its predecessor. Additionally, it is priced ₹5.6 lakh above its direct competitor, the BMW 5 Series, which starts at ₹72.9 lakh. The BMW is the sole other long-wheelbase model in this segment, available with a petrol engine in a single top-tier M Sport variant.
Engine Specifications
A key highlight of the new E-Class is the E 450, which features a robust 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 381hp and 500Nm of torque. Mercedes claims that this model can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in just 4.5 seconds. The lineup also includes two 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines: a turbo-petrol variant (E 200) with 204hp and a diesel option (E 220d) delivering 197hp. All three engines are equipped with a 48V mild-hybrid system, providing an extra 23hp and 205Nm of torque, and are mated to a 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission. However, only the E 450 is equipped with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.
Exterior Design
In terms of dimensions, the new E-Class is 13mm taller, 14mm longer, and has a wheelbase that is 15mm greater than its predecessor. Visually, the latest model is easily recognizable due to its updated front-end styling, which takes cues from Mercedes’ EQ models. It features a prominent chrome grille adorned with a large 3D logo and numerous smaller three-pointed stars, along with a gloss black panel framing the grille. The vehicle is equipped with S-Class-style flush door handles and 18-inch wheels, as well as LED tail-lights showcasing a tri-arrow design. Tasteful chrome accents are present on the front and rear bumpers, as well as on the sides.
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India-Specific Features
Mercedes has tailored some features of the E-Class specifically for the Indian market. Notably, the spare wheel is located beneath the boot floor, and the side and quarter glasses are produced locally.
Interior Features
The interior of the E-Class long-wheelbase is particularly noteworthy, with rear seats that recline up to 36 degrees—slightly more than the previous model. Passengers benefit from extendable thigh support, comfort neck pillows, sun blinds for the quarter glass, and electrically operated blinds accessible through the infotainment system. The E-Class features Mercedes’ Superscreen layout, consisting of a 14.4-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch passenger screen, and a 12.3-inch instrument panel.
Sound System and Safety
Additional interior features include a Burmester surround sound system, delivering 730W through 17 speakers and 4 exciters, along with an optional Chauffeur package. Regarding safety, the new E-Class LWB comes equipped with advanced features, including Level 2 ADAS and a unique front center airbag, making it the first and only made-in-India Mercedes-Benz to offer this. The sedan is equipped with a total of 8 airbags and standard Active Brake Assist, which can be customized to retain the user’s preferences.
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Suspension and Testing
Moreover, Mercedes claims that the steel spring suspension with selective damping has been specifically tuned for the comfort of rear seat passengers and the driving conditions in India. This is the first instance of the India-specific LWB E-Class being tested in countries like Spain and Germany for emissions and crash test standards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the launch of the sixth-generation Mercedes E-Class (V214) in India marks a significant milestone in luxury automotive offerings, combining advanced engineering with tailored features for Indian consumers. With its competitive pricing, impressive powertrains, and a host of luxury amenities, the new E-Class is set to elevate the standards in the executive sedan segment. The integration of modern safety technologies, along with the exclusive long-wheelbase design, underscores Mercedes’ commitment to delivering a refined driving experience that caters to both comfort and performance. As deliveries begin, the E-Class is poised to captivate enthusiasts and redefine luxury on Indian roads.
