2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Dramatic, Luxurious and Functional

Mercedes-Benz has made a big step with the introduction of the new E-Class. This is the tenth generation of luxury sedan and it comes with that distinct and dramatic design, blended with advanced technologies and superior levels of comfort. And along with the premiere of countless technical additions the beautiful vehicle also offers and enhanced safety and utility features. For example, Mercedes now offers new dimensions and next-gen infotainment system, along with the optional AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension that ensures smooth and pleasurable drive. So, let's check out what more this sweetie has to offer.

Exterior design

The new E-Class definitely looks beautiful, but also reminds that it has and aggressive spirit and uncompromising performance capabilities. Compared to previous models, this one has its wheelbase widened by 2.6 inches and is a bit longer: with a total of 1.7 inches. This extended and widened body is characterized by short overhangs, large wheels and defined flanks with fresh and dynamic interpretaition of the main line.

The front shows muscular components and overall aggressive visuals, which brings some overall changes to the business-class sedan. Along with the slightly restyled radiator grill, the star on the hood varies in terms of design for each individual models. For example, the Sport models will be recognized by the sportier radiator grille and a bit larger Mercedes star.

At the rear, the vehicle proudly demonstrates its wide shoulders, placed exactly on the top of the large wheels. The single-piece taillights also come with a two-bar design that clarifies the E-Class overall looks. Also, the rear lights provide that appealing stardust effect via the innovative reflector technology, which is especially developed for the E-Class lineup.

Interior design

The interior embodies the intelligent, yet dramatic approach and of course, demonstrates this impeccable Mercedes-Benz definition: distinctive forms, premium materials and one-of-a-kind experience while on the run.

Now, the new E-Class offers a next-gen high-resolution display, a well-known gauge cluster behind the steering wheel. The touch-sensitive control buttons on the steering wheel also make their first appearance in this model. Similar  to a smart phone interface the touch controls respont quickly and precisely to horizontal and vertical sweeps, allowing the driver to control the entire suite of infotainment features.

Further controls are provided by a touchpad with controller that can even recognize handwriting and voices. And for the air-conditioning system and other driver-assistance goodies there are buttons on the center stack.

Drivetrain system

For the United States, the new E-Class will offer a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline power unit that produces a total of 241hp (177kW) and 273 lb-ft of torque. Later this year there will be more options and variants available.

What is special about the drivetrain system is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic gearbox as a standard feature. It is known for its fast and smooth gear shifts and for providing cruising on low engine revs which further enhances the efficiency and reduces interior noise levels.

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The suspension system also had its special attention and now offers highest levels of quality and comfort. The E-Class sedan comes with a steel-spring suspension with two DIRECT CONTROL systems with selective damping modes: Comfort, Sport and Air.

Additional equipment

Standard for the new E-Class is the PRE-SAFE audio system. It is based on a protective human reflex in the inner ear and emits short interference signal through vehicle's 23 speakers if a possibility for a collision is detected.

The Active Brake Assist is also a part of the standard equipment and warns the driver for unpredictable crash situations and, if needed, engages the emergency brake system. In fact, it can also detect pedestrians that cross ahead of the vehicle.

Addition goodies come in the shape of ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity. This one warns the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, while the Crosswind Assist can deal with strong crosswinds and prevents the vehicle from drifting too far off the track.

Also, new for the E-Class is the Remote Parking Pilot which allows the vehicle to be moved into and out of garages and parking spaces remotely by smart phone app. How cool is that?

Car-to-X is a mobile phone-supported information system that somehow allows driver to "see" what is going on in front of him or through obstacles in order to prevent collisions.

The PRE-SAFE is a system that is part of Driving Assistance pack PLUS. If there is a situation that will lead to imminent collision, this system is engaged and prevents driver and passenger away of danger zone. In order to do it, the system inflates an air chamber in the side bolster of the front backrest and in this way increases the distance between occupants and door. 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be available in US in the summer of 2016.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2017)

Source: Mercedes-Benz