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The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: All-round safety, outstanding comfort
The new E-Class from Mercedes-Benz represents the innovator when it comes to safety, comfort and environmental compatibility in its market segment. With its unique combination of driver assistance systems, the new E-Class further consolidates the leading position of Mercedes-Benz in the luxury class. Its features include a drowsiness detection system (ASSISTANCE ASSIST), Adaptive Highbeam Assist and the proximity control system which is capable of performing automatic emergency braking when there is acute danger of a collision.
Mercedes-Benz has improved the already exemplary long-distance comfort of the
E-Class even further in the new sedan, principally through the use of intelligent bodyshell technology with up to 30 percent greater rigidity, further improved seats and a newly developed suspension whose shock absorbers automatically adjust to the current driving situation. The optional air suspension now works in combination with an electronic damping system.
The outstanding safety and comfort of the E-Class are matched by its environmental compatibility and economy: the four- and six-cylinder engines are direct-injection units, and consume up to 23 percent less fuel than before. The combined NEDC consumption of the new four-cylinder CDI engines is just 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres, which corresponds to 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
“As well as being the best-established and most successful business sedan, the E-Class is the "heart" of the Mercedes brand -- it is the typical Mercedes-Benz. No other model reflects the core values of the brand as precisely as the E-Class: safety, comfort, environmental compatibility, design, quality and individuality,” says Eckart Mayer, Divisional Manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The new E-Class is the world’s most aerodynamically efficient luxury sedan, with a drag coefficient of only 0.25, making it better than the already excellent Cd figure of the preceding model by another four percent. This represents a fuel saving of around 0.25 litres per 100 kilometres when driving at a highway speed of 130 km/h.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: 20 percent fuel saving thanks to direct injection
As previously, the E300 (E280), E 350 with direct petrol injection (200 kW) and the top-of-the-line E 500 (285 kW) are included in the range of engine variants in the new E-Class. By optimising details of their design, it has been possible to reduce the fuel consumption of these V6/V8 models by up to 0.6 litres per 100 kilometres.
The E-Class Coupé is introduced with the E300 6-cylinder engine which is based on the previous E280 model. There is no change in power - 2 996 cc - 170 kW output of power producing 300 Nm of torque. The E300 forms part of the nomenclature naming strategy.
Mercedes-Benz equips the V6 and V8-models as standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission, steering wheel selector lever and shift paddles.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Safety: "Intelligent” partner thanks to unique combination of assistance and protection systems
For more than 50 years, the sedans in the E-Class and their predecessors have been acknowledged as trendsetters in the safety field. The new E-Class continues this tradition with an unrivalled combination of the very latest assistance and protection system whose concept and development are based on what actually happens during accidents. These technologies make the E-Class an "intelligent partner" able to see, feel, react reflexively in critical situations and if necessary act independently to prevent accidents or mitigate their consequences. With this concept, the new Mercedes-Benz model not only protects its own occupants, but also contributes decisively to the greater safety of other road users.
The new E-Class is the first car in the world to be equipped with headlamps which adapt to the traffic situation and respond automatically to avoid dazzling other drivers. The optional Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a camera on the windscreen to recognise oncoming traffic and vehicles moving ahead and to control the headlamps so that their beams do not reach the other vehicle. This achieves the best possible road illumination in a given situation.
The range of the dipped headlamp beams can be extended from 65 to as much as
300 metres. If the road ahead is clear, the system performs a gentle transition to high beam. Mercedes-Benz offers this new system as part of the lighting package that includes bi-xenon headlamps, the Intelligent Light System, active cornering lights and daytime running lights.
The Lane Tracking package for the new E-Class includes Blind Spot Assist, which is a new development and Lane Keeping Assist which seeks to prevent the vehicle from leaving the road unintentionally. When the system recognises that the car is drifting from its lane, the driver is prompted to take counter-steering action by brief but unmistakable vibrations of the steering wheel. These options are packaged together to form the Lane Keeping package.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Detection of drowsiness based on 70 parameters as standard
Thanks to an innovative technology, the new E-Class is very sensitive to its driver’s attention level, and warns him or her of drowsiness in good time. This new ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, which is standard equipment, is equipped with highly sensitive sensors that continuously monitor more than 70 different parameters. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes-Benz engineers have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in characteristic ways. These corrections are recognised by a highly sensitive steering angle sensor.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Automatic emergency braking when a collision is imminent
The well-proven, radar based assistance systems from the S-Class are now also optionally available to E-Class customers. An enhanced long-range radar sensor now has a range of 200 metres (previously 150 metres), and is able to monitor the mid-distance so that dynamic events such as a vehicle ahead suddenly pulling out to overtake can be detected even more effectively. The two wide-angle short-range radar sensors, which have a range of around 30 metres, continue to be included in the system.
The radar-supported systems are able to assist the driver with emergency
braking. Their sensors are linked to the Brake Assist PLUS system, which automatically calculates the braking pressure to prevent a collision in critical situations. The driver is given an audible and visual warning at the same time. When the brake pedal is pressed, the system immediately provides the calculated level of braking assistance.
If the driver fails to respond to the warnings, the radar system first initiates partial braking action. As a second stage, if there is still no driver response and a collision is unavoidable, emergency braking is initiated. This can reduce the severity of an impact considerably as the system can be regarded as a kind of "electronic crumple zone".
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Seven airbags and PRE-SAFE® as standard
During the course of its development, the new E-Class was subjected to more than 150 high-speed crash tests. The crumple zone principle invented by Mercedes-Benz safety pioneer Béla Barényi has been continuously improved by the engineers in Sindelfingen. The front-end deformation zone of the E-Class acts on four independent levels, and is even more effective than before. The increased use of extra-high-strength steel alloys also helps to ensure that the bodyshell is able to withstand high impact forces. Around 72 percent of all the body panels are made from these high-tech steels, yet another unrivalled figure in passenger car development.
With seven airbags as standard, belt tensioners, belt force limiters, crash-responsive head restraints and ISOFIX child seat attachments, the new E-Class has even more extensive safety features than the preceding model.
Another standard feature is the preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. In potentially hazardous situations this reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, so that the seat belts and airbags are able to fulfil their protective function to the full during an impact.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Comfort: Further progress through adaptive shock absorbers and improved air suspension
As well as being a trendsetter in the safety field, the E-Class has been setting the standards for long-distance comfort in this vehicle class for several decades. Bettering the already high level of the preceding series, Mercedes-Benz engineers have achieved further advances with the new saloon -- especially where ride, seating and climate comfort are concerned.
Standard equipment includes a further improved suspension with adaptive shock absorbers. These automatically adapt to the current driving situation by reducing the damping forces when driving normally, thereby noticeably improving ride comfort. When taking bends at speed or during rapid evasive action, the system switches to the maximum damping effect so that the saloon is stabilised to best effect.
A version with dynamic damping characteristics and a lowered suspension is available as an optional alternative to the standard suspension (standard for the AVANTGARDE line).
The air suspension system optionally available for the V6 models (standard in the E 500) has for the first time been combined with an electronically controlled damping system which processes various sensor signals and controls each wheel independently. In this way Mercedes-Benz specialists have achieved significantly better ride comfort while improving handling safety and agility at the same time. The driver is able to select either Comfort or Sport mode at the touch of a button.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Well-proven seat technology with a new design
When it came to developing the seats for the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz chose
a new, enhanced version of a well-established Mercedes concept, namely padded seat piping -- a sophisticated and demanding upholstery technique that is only used by Mercedes-Benz. This involves the insertion of an additional foam filling under the leather cover, and gives an immediate feeling of comfort and well-being when sitting in the car. There are different versions of this padded seat piping: in the basic model and AVANTGARDE line the upholstery has horizontal piping, while the ELEGANCE line has longitudinal piping and is reminiscent of the well-known and well-proven Mercedes seat design from the 1960s and 70s.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Active multicontour seats with massage function from the S-Class
The active multicontour seat package (optional) includes newly developed multicontour seats with luxury head restraints and a two-stage massage function in the backrest that has proven highly successful in the S-Class. Depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and vehicle speed, fast-acting piezo-electric valves on the air chambers in the backrests vary their pressure and volume to give the driver and front passenger even better lateral support.
On request, the E-Class is also available with a rear seat unit consisting of two comfortable, single seats. This rear-seat comfort package includes seat heating, leather upholstery, a centre console, comfort head restraints, roller blinds in the rear doors, an electrically operated roller blind for the rear window, comfort sun visors and a central module for the optional ski bag.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Individual climatisation modes at the touch of a button
Mercedes-Benz has developed a climate control system for the E-Class which not only allows individual temperatures to be set in three zones – for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers – but also offers different "climatisation modes". With this standard multi-zone THERMOTRONIC system, the occupants of the new E‑Class are able to select "Diffuse", "Medium" or "Focus" modes at the touch of a button, and so adapt the air volume and distribution to their personal preferences without sacrificing the convenience of automatic mode.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Design: Distinctive lines as an expression of effortless superiority and status
In 1995 the E-Class was the first Mercedes model to appear with the widely acclaimed twin-headlamp face – a highly symbolic design feature that still characterises the identity of the E-Class. Nonetheless, the design idiom has remained
fluid - even for this characteristic styling feature -- and has been adapted to suit the very self-confident, more masculine overall appearance of the sedan. The designers have now reinterpreted these four "eyes" as rectangles, with a direct reference to the interesting geometrical shapes found in cubism. In the same way, the radiator grille with its three-dimensional chromed surround, dynamic arrow-shape and more upright position underlines the status of the car as the epitome of a business saloon.
A sophisticated interplay between lines and surfaces is one of the hallmarks of today’s Mercedes-Benz design. Large concave or convex surface areas are structured by taut, clearly defined lines. This design concept has been perfected down to the last detail in the new E-Class. The side contours become connecting features that influence the entire body design, that is to say not just the side aspects but also the front and rear-end styling.
At the rear, this harmonious flow culminates in a new feature: a graceful line that follows the rear wheel arches and lends a clear shape to the imposing, muscular contours of the rear wings. Here Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts will recognise styling features reminiscent of the famous "Ponton Mercedes". Introduced in 1953, this model underlined its self-assured character by means of similarly striking contours. In addition to this symbolic role, the rear styling treatment is also a hallmark of the E-Class which well illustrates how tradition is made to harmonise with the future in this model series.
Typical Mercedes-Benz attention to detail has also been lavished on the interior of the new E-Class where the designers have ensured that every feature appeals in both emotional and functional terms with its form, colour or material. The result is a harmonious whole, an atmosphere in which the car’s occupants immediately feel safe and protected, and long journeys can be enjoyed without any feeling of effort or stress. In short: typically E-Class; welcome home!
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Model range: High-specification standard equipment and individual variants
Individuality and variety have always been two of the outstanding attributes of the E-Class. The new saloon not only provides Mercedes customers with a choice of several engines and three suspension variants, but also two design and equipment lines, three wheel/tyre combinations in 16,17 and 18-inch size, twelve exterior paint finishes and six different seat upholstery materials to suit their individual preferences. The choice of interior trim has been increased, with the range now including high-gloss exotic wood, open-pored wood and brushed aluminium trim.
Standard specifications already include 17-inch light-alloy wheels in a nine-spoke design, eucalyptus wood or embossed aluminium trim (optional) and a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel trimmed in fine nappa leather with chrome inserts. Also included in the standard equipment is the Audio 20 CD infotainment system with a twin receiver, CD-player, eight loudspeakers and a Bluetooth interface for a mobile phone. The colour display (5.8-inch screen) in the centre of the dashboard can be operated by the driver or front passenger, using the controller on the centre console.
The individualisation model for the E-Class is based on two design and equipment lines. The ELEGANCE line lives up to its name with a decidedly timeless and elegant appearance. This is in part due to additional features such as a chrome-plated radiator grille with four silver-painted louvres, 17-inch light-alloy wheels in a ten-twin-spoke design, burr walnut trim and stylish ambient lighting with fibre optics that frame the dashboard and door panels.
In contrast the AVANTGARDE line shows the E-Class in a decidedly modern and innovative light. This is ensured by additional standard features such as bi-xenon headlamps with the Intelligent Light System and LED technology for all the rear lights, 17-inch light-alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design, a special, lowered suspension setup, ambient lighting and the instrument cluster in a sporty tubular design. This model variant can also be distinguished by its different bumper design and a chrome-plated radiator grille with three high-gloss, black louvres.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Equipment packages: extras for customers who want even more from their E-Class
The special Limited Launch Edition includes the attractive AVANTGARDE design line as standard together with a number of innovative features. These units are specially designed for the local market and will only be available for the first 300 customers who select this package.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Market position: with ten million models sold over a period of sixty years, the E-Class is the world's most successful business saloon
The new E-Class Sedan is the successor to a Mercedes-Benz model that has been successful throughout the world, achieving sales of more than 1.3 million units since 2002. In Germany, more than 40 percent of all saloons in this market segment have the "E" in their model designation, and in many western European countries this Mercedes-Benz model series is the number one in the luxury class.
“Locally, the E-Class has maintained its dominance in the premium luxury segment with consistent sales giving a market share of 46%. More remarkable, is that in its run-out phase, the E-Class took clear leadership in its segment,” adds Mayer.
Since 1947, when the Model 170 V was introduced as the direct forerunner of the E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has produced more than ten million sedans in this vehicle category. This makes the E-Class the world’s most successful business saloon by far.
“The bottom line, the new E-Class offers efficient proven engines, unique design, relaxed driving, and outstanding safety. We are confident that the new E-Class has the best credentials to be a winner for 2009 and beyond,” concludes Mayer.
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