May 2016 will see the first deliveries of the new E-Class Mercedes-Benz, available in two trim levels; SE and AMG, and two engines; the E 220 d and E 350 d.
The E 220 d uses an all-new four-cylinder 2.0-litre bi-turbo engine producing 195 hp and 400 Nm, with the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox that is standard on all new UK E-Class Saloon models providing seamlessly smooth shifts, a low 102 g/km CO2rating and high 72.4 mpg economy. The E Class also comes with an acceleration from 0-62mph in just 7.3 seconds (0.4 second faster than the outgoing E 250 CDI).
The six-cylinder E 350d produces 258 hp and 620 Nm; making for 0-62 mph in 5.9 sec, while emitting 133 g/km and returning 55.4 mpg. These are improvements over the previous-generation E 350 CDI Saloon of 27 hp; 80 Nm; 0.9 sec; 48 g/km and 14.5 mpg. The petrol-electric hybrid E 350 e (279 hp; 600 Nm; 6.2 sec; 49 g/km; 134.5 mpg) joins the UK line-up later in 2016.
Standard specification on the SE includes: Garmin Map Pilot navigation system; Parktronic parking sensors with reversing camera and Park Pilot self-parking system; Collision Prevention Assist Plus autonomous emergency braking system; Pre-Safe anticipatory safety system; 64-colour selectable LED interior lighting; two-zone automatic climate control; three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with dual touchpads; leather upholstery with heated front seats; LED headlights and taillights; electrically folding mirrors and 17-inch wheels (18-inch on the E 350 d).
In addition the AMG Line models come with AMG exterior styling including unique bumpers and side skirts; 19-inch alloy wheels; perforated front brake discs; three-spoke AMG steering wheel; and Artico leather and Dynamica microfiber upholstery with seat comfort package. All E 350 d models come with Air Body Control multi-chamber air suspension as standard, as well as COMAND satellite navigation with 12.3-inch display and remote online services.
Two further options packages are available – Premium (£2795) and Premium Plus (£3895): alongside a host of individual options, colours and trims. Next-generation driver assistance systems include a Lane Tracking Package (£595) that includes Passive Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Assist, and the more comprehensive Driving Assistance Plus Package (£1,695).
The UK range starts with the E 220 d SE, priced from £35,935, with the E 220 d AMG Line from £38,430. The E 350 d SE starts at £44,930, and the E 350 d AMG Line at £47,425.
