The launch of a new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is always a landmark event, especially since it only comes around once in a decade. Mercedes-Benz India has timed this launch to perfection, introducing the new E-Class sedan with great fanfare. This new iteration holds its own not just against its rivals but even against its own sibling, the GLE luxury SUV. Despite the growing popularity of luxury SUVs, the E-Class remains a beloved and iconic brand in India, with a legacy that resonates across generations.
A Cult Following and Legacy
The E-Class has a special place in Indian automotive history. It was the first Mercedes to be manufactured in India, starting with the W124, and it has since garnered a devoted following. The sedan’s legacy is not just limited to corporate magnates but is also admired by the younger crowd who appreciate its balance of heritage and modernity. For many, this car was their first introduction to the world of luxury, and over the years, Mercedes has done an exceptional job of keeping the E-Class relevant with timely updates and modern features.
A Design That Honors Tradition
Where do we begin with the new E-Class? The design. Mercedes has exercised great restraint in evolving the design, preserving the iconic silhouette that has been loved for decades while incorporating bold new touches. The front end is more assertive with a striking grille and LED headlamps, yet the side profile retains that unmistakable elegance, especially in the long-wheelbase version. This time, however, Mercedes has seamlessly integrated the longer wheelbase into the design, making it look like a cohesive sedan rather than a stretched one.
From the rear, the updated LED tail lights add a touch of modern sophistication, and a subtle boot spoiler hints at the car’s sportier side without compromising its luxury DNA. Despite being 13mm taller and 14mm longer than its predecessor, these changes have been masterfully hidden within the design, keeping the car’s proportions refined and balanced. The E-Class is like a perfectly tailored sports blazer—sharp in the boardroom, yet effortless on the golf course.
Tech-Forward Interior: An Office on Wheels
Step inside, and the new E-Class takes luxury to a new level. Mercedes-Benz has designed the interior to resemble a high-end business suite, making the E-Class an “office on wheels.” The star of the cabin is the hyper screen—a futuristic, split-screen display featuring a 12-inch freestanding unit, a 14.4-inch main infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch driver display. This trio offers seamless access to information and entertainment, whether it’s opening an Excel spreadsheet or browsing the web with the built-in Vivaldi browser.
While the lack of ventilated seats in the E 200 might be a minor oversight, the overall build quality, seat comfort, and screen real estate make up for it. The seats are plush and supportive, and the driver’s position feels thoroughly modern and ergonomic.
In terms of business features, the E-Class takes things up a notch by offering access to Office 365, allowing you to work on documents or even join video conferences from the comfort of your car. There’s even a built-in selfie camera, though it requires a USB drive to store photos and videos.
Rear-Seat Luxury and Tech
For the chauffeur-driven owners, the rear seat is where the new E-Class truly shines. The rear seats now recline more than before and come with extended thigh support, providing unparalleled comfort. You also get features like 64-color ambient lighting and a 17-speaker Burmester audio system that ensures a rich sound experience regardless of where you’re seated.
The middle armrest folds down to reveal a wireless charger and USB-C ports, further enhancing the tech-savvy appeal of the cabin. The E-Class is nearing S-Class standards when it comes to rear-seat comfort and ambiance.
Performance and Ride Quality
Powering the E 200 is a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 194 bhp and 32.63 kgm of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and a 48V mild-hybrid system. While it may not seem overly powerful on paper, the engine offers a smooth, linear power delivery that makes it ideal for city driving, especially in the comfort mode.
Driving the new E-Class is a truly serene experience. The steering feels light and effortless, allowing you to maneuver through city traffic without ever feeling the car’s size—a big plus for a sedan of this length. On open roads, the E-Class glides smoothly, and hitting three-digit speeds feels almost effortless, with the car remaining composed and steady. The engine’s power delivery is linear, ensuring a calm, unhurried drive, while the suspension soaks up bumps, keeping you in complete comfort. Whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on highways, the E-Class delivers a sense of calm and control, making every drive feel stress-free and refined.
The true standout feature, however, is the ride quality. The new E-Class is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels that, combined with its suspension setup, absorb potholes and bumps with ease, providing a plush ride even on rough city roads. Mercedes has wisely chosen not to opt for larger wheels, preserving the car’s renowned ride comfort, which is one of the best in its segment.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
For a car of its size and stature, the E-Class delivers a respectable fuel efficiency of 11 km/l in city traffic, which is impressive considering its luxury pedigree. While fuel efficiency might not be a top priority for most buyers in this segment, it’s reassuring to see the E-Class offer a balance of performance and practicality in today’s eco-conscious world.
In addition to its efficient fuel consumption, the E-Class also boasts a massive boot, making it ideal for long-distance road trips or daily commutes. Mercedes-Benz has equipped the sedan with a range of advanced driving aids to enhance both convenience and safety. One thoughtful feature is the memory function for the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), which allows you to retain your preferred settings. For instance, you can keep the forward collision warning off without needing to deactivate it every time you start the car.
That said, we would recommend keeping some of the driving aids on, as they can be invaluable in unexpected situations, providing an extra layer of security during your journey. Overall, the E-Class combines practicality with a host of intelligent features to make both city driving and long trips more comfortable and relaxed.
Final Thoughts
After spending a day with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, it’s clear that this is more than just a luxury sedan—it’s a mobile workspace, a status symbol, and a testament to Mercedes’ commitment to innovation. Priced at ₹78.5 lakh (ex-showroom) for the E 200, it offers significant value with cutting-edge technology, luxurious comfort, and impeccable build quality. While it may be slightly more expensive than its German rivals, the E-Class justifies its premium with a host of features and a legacy that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re an industry titan or a young hustling start-up entrepreneur, the new E-Class sets the benchmark once again for what a luxury sedan should be.
