The all-new Mercedes-Benz Long Wheelbase (LWB) E-Class has been launched in India, bringing together a powerful line-up for the coming years. The German manufacturer has stated that this E-Class is specifically tailored for Indian roads. How does it fit the Indian scenario? Here is what we know.
Engine, Performance And The Spec Sheet!
The new LWB E-Class is available in three distinct engine variants, each catering to different performance preferences.
The E200 is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 204 bhp at 5,800 rpm and 32.6 kgm of torque. This variant can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 240 kph, offering a smooth driving experience.
The E220d, powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, delivers 197 bhp at 3,600 rpm with 44.8 kgm of torque. This version reaches 100 kph in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 238 kph, ideal for those who are diesel fanatics.
For those who want to swap their badges for ‘AMG’ soon, the E450 is fitted with a 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine, generating a hefty 381 bhp at 5,800 rpm and 51 kgm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in the blink of an eye in 4.5 seconds and can hit a top speed of 250 kph.
All engine variants also feature an additional power boost of 23 bhp and a torque boost of 20.9 kgm, ensuring extra performance when needed.
All variants of the new LWB E-Class come equipped with a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and five different driving modes through Mercedes-Benz’s ‘Dynamic Select’, which include comfort, eco, sport, sport+, and individual, which we believe is your custom combination. The car sits on R-18 wheels, with an optional R-19 should there be an itch for more rims.
Safety-wise, you get pretty much what any Rs 80 lakh-priced car gets. 360-degree parking, active brake assist, Mercedes’s ‘Pre-Safe system’, which prepares the vehicle for imminent collision through interior changes with seats and seat belts, attention assist, crossing assist, stability assist, and more.
Looks and Size Matter, Do Not Let Anyone Tell You Otherwise!
This Mercedes is a looker! Much like any Mercedes, this is quite a stunning car and will catch your eye. The Mercedes badge stands tall and brightly amongst the rest, and the front grille follows the modern Mercedes-style language. Go up the bonnet to see the body, which has a clean, flowing form. Stationary vibration, like the hum you do in your mind that vibrates your inner head.
Chrome makes a welcome appearance, and while not many are a fan, the way the chrome is used will leave you desiring just a little more. It’s placed on subtle areas like the window frames, door handles, and lower skirt – it’s little but prominent to the bourgeoisie’s eyes.
The rear doors are longer, with a sleeker back look reminiscent of the Studebaker President from cartoons. Mercedes is a car where you are driven around, and that seems to be the case here.
You get LED all over with DRL, the rear boot design is typical Mercedes styling – really not surprising, but not boring either. The car does come with keyless entry, a panoramic sliding sunroof, and other subtle touches like mirror indicators.
The LWB E-Class comes in a variety of sophisticated and premium colour options that further elevate its appeal. These include classic shades like Obsidian Black, Selenite Grey, and Polar White, along with more unique hues such as Emerald Green and Cavansite Blue, allowing customers to personalise their vehicles to match their style preferences.
Now, Is She Pretty on the Inside? Yes, Yes She Is!
Stepping inside this Mercedes – or any from this generation – will feel the same! You are greeted by the MBUX Superscreen, which is a combination of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, central, and passenger display, with access to all the car’s features. The cockpit gets a head-up display as an option, and a selfie/video camera, which is another shared feature from this year’s Mercedes-Benz line-up.
Take a look at the rest of the cabin, and you’ll see the 64 different ambient colours, illuminated door sills, and more. Take a seat, and you’ll find this Mercedes will electronically recline the rear seats for those who smoke cigars, read newspapers, and look for Bugs Bunny sitting in the driver’s seat.
Extendable thigh support also makes a welcome appearance, with memory function and ventilated seating functions for both front passengers.
With the large panoramic sunroof, black roof liner, and more, this car is ready to be your second, or even primary, home.
What Is the Cost?
Ah, this is where we all realise that this costs Rs 78.5 lakh (ex-showroom) for the lowest E200 variant, Rs 81.5 lakh (ex-showroom) for the E220d, and Rs 92.5 lakh (ex-showroom) for the E450.
What do we think about how this Mercedes-Benz will drive, you ask? Well, you will have to wait just a little more before testing her out. Until then, stay tuned to Motoring World.
