Motoring Extra: Mercedes’ E-Class in evolution

Most evident in its latest guise is the design ethos that has guided the E-Class success through various upgrades and re-designs throughout the course of its model life.

Continuing to favour evolution in their approach to change, designers and engineers have transformed the new E-Class in a host of different ways, bringing it fully up-to-date in terms of technology, safety, comfort and customer appeal whilst gently refining those exterior elements that underpin its appeal as a luxury transport amongst its dedicated customer base.

Particularly evident in its latest form are the subtle design and engineering shifts that have been taken to retain its traditional appeal whilst moving E-Class ever so gently up the luxury ladder towards its S-Class stablemate, in terms of size, appearance and passenger appointments.

The new E-Class retains its classic, three-box proportions, with its elongated bonnet, well-proportioned rear and elegant character lines.

Standard are high-performance LED headlamps, all with a distinctive day and night design. AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering are optionally available.

Described by Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz in Ireland as ‘a long-standing success story with a heritage that goes back to the very early days of the brand,’ the new

E-Class continues to evolve in ways that will appeal to its established customer base.

Improvements to watch for – made possible by its slightly longer wheelbase – are its increased headroom, greater rear leg and knee space, and a 25mm increase in elbow width. Luggage capacity has also increased up to 540 litres.

Improved tech and a more software-driven approach boosts the performance and speed of data streams in a way that has led to a greater use of ‘intelligent’ functions, enhanced driver assistance features, better communications, a superior music and entertainment package, and a more extensive use of third-party apps.

An available feature is one that allows the driver to participate in online video conferencing.

The MBUX Superscreen is an imposing feature through which the E-Class information, communications, entertainment and guidance systems are managed.

Using its ‘Just Talk’ function and ‘intelligent voice control’ drivers can call-up assistance without using the keyword ‘Hey Mercedes’ all prompted by a red microphone symbol on the display indicating that the vehicle is ready and waiting for commands.

Four petrol versions (E200, E300 e, E300 e 4MATIC and E 400 e 4MATIC) and two diesel versions (E220 d and E220 d 4MATIC) will make up the range at launch – three equipped with fourth-generation plug-in mild hybrid electric power.

A new battery increases electric motor power from 15 to 17 kW and boosts torque to 205 Nm.

Further details including specifications and price will be announced closer to its expected Autumn arrival in Ireland.

Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz has flagged this month for the arrival here of its new, second-generation, entry-level van, Citan. With first deliveries expected by June, the arrival of Citan will mark the entry by Mercedes-Benz in Ireland into the highly-competitive small van market.

Ford charts new route to EV ownership

Ford has unveiled a new vision to make discovering, testing, buying and owning its products not only simpler, but also more satisfying – starting with Ford electric vehicles (EVs).

The company, in partnership with its retail partners across Europe, is entirely reimagining the customer journey to EV ownership, with online access and touchpoints available every step of the way.

The new approach introduces online showrooms and virtual test drives for exploring products and services from the comfort of the sofa or during a 10-minute break between meetings. Big decisions will be easier to make with transparent pricing for no surprises. And customers will be able to personalise their vehicle handover, access charging, and arrange pick-up and delivery for servicing with a few clicks on their smartphone.

By making it easier for greater numbers of customers to go electric, Ford’s new customer experience will support the company’s commitments to achieving carbon neutrality for its European operations, logistics and direct suppliers by 2035, and building a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable transportation future.