Introducing the new Mercedes E 300
Mercedes-Benz has a long and celebrated history of building mid-sized luxury sedans. This history dates back to the early 1950’s with the introduction of the 180 and 190 sedans. Luxury sedans were a concept that started in the post-war era. That era was defined by an overall sense of optimism and unprecedented economic growth. A true testament of the time, the luxury sedan was a car that was meant to be driven in comfort and style.
E-Class
The first generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class arrived in 1984 and was in production for 11 years straight until the year 1996. The production run of the first E-Class redefined the values that Mercedes-Benz represented: impeccable build, quality, and attention to detail. It gave way to a reputation of unparalleled reliability and performance as well, such as a million-mile E-Class that was used as a taxi in Ireland.
Another well-known feature that became a part of the E-Class lineup was the number of customizable configurations with a variety of different options. Throughout the 11-year-old lifespan of the original design, there were over 50 different versions of the car in different bodies and body-engine combinations. Everything from a bare and utilitarian version designed to be used for taxi service, all the way to cutting-edge sports cars that were created for motorsport competitions. The distinctive performance and usability accomplish a true testament of the level of innovation and engineering for Mercedes-Benz at the time.
The Competition
The automotive world has changed quite a bit since the 50’s. Back then only a handful of manufacturers produced true luxury sedans. Today, over 12 different manufacturers have a car that fits the mid-size luxury sedan description.
Each of the brands has their own take on what a luxury vehicle should be, how it should look, and how it should perform. The market for mid-sized luxury is definitely crowded and highly competitive. Each brand uses the segment to showcase the best of what they have to offer. Ever since its inception, the mid-size luxury sedan has been a showcase of the manufacturer’s attention to detail in functionality, top technology features, and best performance.
Today the segment is as competitive as ever, and each manufacturer is pushing the boundaries of what a driving experience should be. In this segment, you’ll find just about every engine configuration possible starting at four, six, and up to eight cylinders; line or v cylinder shape; turbo diesel, hybrid, or electric engines, you name it, was manufactured in that line of production.
As far as technology, just about every innovation and modern breakthroughs you can think of was made during that time. In this automotive segment it takes a truly exceptional combination of design, technology, luxury and performance to stand out. These are the cars for consumers that expect the best and are willing to pay for it.
Brand new Mercedes
The new Mercedes-Benz E 300 for the year 2017 showcases the next step in the natural evolution of the model, and of the brand. The fifth and latest generation of the E-Class is Mercedes-Benz’s finest display of design, technology, and performance to date.
In the words of Gorden Wagener, head of design for the Daimler AG Company, “the wheels sit perfectly to create an incredible stance with a long hood and super sleek integrated surfaces. I am fascinated by the new E-Class.” The new Mercedes is the latest iteration of the sensual purity design language and the institution of Mercedes-Benz Style stands behind it.
This is an entirely new car. Virtually no components from the previous generation were used. It runs on all-new Mercedes-manufactured parts. The innovative W213 platform also includes the new generation of gasoline and diesel engines. Whereas the outgoing model was angular, the new design is curvy and flowing. Along with the new platform and engine comes a host of new technology features.
Overall, the new generation is larger and it provides more interior space and comfort for the passengers. All of these features are added with the benefit of significantly reduced weight, which translates to better fuel economy and improved driving dynamics.
Gadgets and Gizmos
To say that the new E 300 is a technology powerhouse is an understatement.
Active Blind Spot, Assist Active Brake, Assist with Cross-traffic, Congestion, Distronic, Emergency Braking, Speed Limit Pilot, Surround View System, PRESAFE® Impulse Side, PRESAFE® PLUS, and Steering Pilot are some of the most innovative features that the new Mercedes model holds in store for the latest model of the car.
The latest technology in autonomous driving is already featured in last year’s E 300. Distronic, Emergency Brake, Assisted and Self-Parking, and Steering Pilot are the most anticipated features, which will be featured again in the 2017 model.
The Engine
The options for the most recent model will have a major update with a switch to inline-6 cylinder rather than V6 engines, and the start of a new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines along with the already existing four-cylinder gas engines. The turbo charged 2.0-liter gas engine generates 241hp and is capable of taking the car from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds. If you were wondering, it can cover the quarter mile in just less than 15 seconds. Good to know, although this probably won’t be your first choice to take to the drag strip. It has an electronically limited top speed of 130 miles. Solid performance for the 4000lb. car.
The suspension on this sedan is extremely capable, while at the same time comfortable. Even in the sportiest settings available and at higher motorway speeds, passengers will be in for an out-of-the-ordinary and delightful sensory experience. The new chassis allows for an ideal weight distribution and combined with a very precise electronic steering system, inspires confidence around corners. Although capable, the suspension is tuned for comfort and adequately matches the performance of the engine. Neither component feels overwhelmed, despite the fact significant mass of the vehicle.
Overall the new Mercedes-Benz E 300 achieves what it set out to be. A car that effortlessly combines the latest technology while providing a luxurious driving experience. It is without a doubt a car that you could see yourself driving day in and day out.
Source
https://www.engadget.com/2016/06/18/mercedes-benz-e300-test-drive/
http://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mercedes-benz/e-class
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2017-mercedes-benz-e-class-first-drive-review
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_E-Class#W120_.281953.E2.80.931962.29
https://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/model/class-E/model-E 300W