News / 19 June 2024 / Michael Taylor

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class launched in South Africa – Pricing and specifications

Mercedes-Benz has officially launched the new E-Class in South Africa after more than a year of anticipation.

The next-gen sedan was first unveiled in April 2023 and is finally available to local motorists in two specifications, with prices starting at R1,344,750.

Engines

The new E-Class is available in Avantgarde and AMG Line trims, with both options having access to one of two powertrains that incorporate 48V mild hybrid (MHEV) technology providing a boost of 17kW and 205Nm.

The base “E200″ option consists of a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol plant with 150kW and 320Nm, letting the car sprint to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds before maxing out at 240km/h.

It also has an average fuel consumption of between 6.4l and 7.3l/100km.

The other option is a”220d” 2.0-litre turbo-diesel block, which pumps out a total of 145kW and 440Nm.

Not only is the diesel engine more powerful than the petrol one, it also has a more frugal consumption ranging from 4.8l to 5.5l/100km.

The trade-off is that it is fractionally slower than the petrol units, with a 0-100km/h time of 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 238km/h.

Regardless of the drivetrain selected, the E-Class is rear-wheel drive with gear changes being handled by a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Additionally, the Mercedes is fitted with the Agility Control suspension system with selective damping, and buyers have the option of installing a rear-axle steering package that can turn up to 4.5 degrees, reducing the turning circle by 90cm.

Features

The new E-Class is designed to have the proportions of a classic three-box saloon, with a short front overhang and a long bonnet followed by a sweeping cabin.

A black panel-like surface connects the radiator grille to the headlights and daytime running lights, evoking a similar aesthetic to the brand’s EQ electric models.

The standard LED headlights can be swapped out for Digital Light projector headlamps at the customer’s request.

The back also features new taillights in a two-section design with a star motif.

Turning our attention inwards, the centre piece is the 14.4-inch Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system that can be optionally extended to encompass the passenger-side dashboard.

The sedan is also fitted with a 12.3-inch digital driver display and ambient lighting strips that help to illuminate the instrument panel.

The centre console has a metallic finish and includes a stowage compartment, cupholders, and generously-sized armrests.

One of the biggest selling points of the executive car is its spacious interior, as the new model’s rear passenger knee and legroom have been expanded by 10mm and 17mm, respectively.

Elbow room now sits at 1,519mm – similar to the S-Class – and the boot can swallow up to 540 litres of luggage.

As for its equipment list, the Avantgarde units come with 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, Artico man-made leather upholstery, heated front seats with lumbar support, a Nappa leather steering wheel, wood panel finishes, keyless entry and start, climate control, a wireless charger, adaptive cruise control, and driver alert monitoring.

The AMG Line, meanwhile, brings a number of sporty additions such as bigger 19-inch alloys, front Sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and AMG-branded floor mats and sports pedals.

Furthermore, the E-Class is fitted with helpful items like active distance assist, attention assist, active brake assist, active lane-keeping assist, speed limit Assist, and the Parking Package with a reverse camera.

Optional equipment includes a Burmester 4D surround sound stereo and a Driving Assistance Plus package with Active Steering Assist.