From Tradition to Digitalization: the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class
For more than seven decades, the E-Class has been setting the standard for mid-range luxury sedans. In 2023, Mercedes-Benz will open a new chapter for the legendary saloon: the new E-Class leads the way in the transition from a combustion engine to an electric future. At the same time, its new electronic architecture enables an all-embracing digital user experience. With classic proportions and unique body lines in exterior design, the new E-Class has the proportions of a classic three-volume sedan: the short front overhang and long hood are followed by a greenhouse that is set well back. The “cab-to-the-rear” design is completed by the well-proportioned rear overhang. A black panel-like surface connects the radiator grille to the headlights. This high-gloss black insert is visually reminiscent of the Mercedes-EQ models. The three-dimensionally designed radiator grille is either progressive or classic, depending on the equipment line.
The new E-Class has high-performance LED headlamps as standard. As an optional extra, DIGITAL LIGHT is available without and with a projection function. All headlamp variants offer a distinctive daytime and nighttime design. As a typical feature of the brand, the daytime running lights take the shape of an eyebrow. The side view shows the harmonious proportions and the distinctive “cab-to-the-rear” design to good effect. The flush door handles familiar with the Mercedes-Benz luxury models are available as an option. Highlights at the rear include the two-section LED lights with a new contour and a special design: the star motif on both light units provides a new design.
MBUX Superscreen is the highlight of the interior design, the instrument cluster creates a brand-new digital experience in the interior. If the E-Class is equipped with the optional front passenger display, the large glass surface of the MBUX Superscreen extends all the way to the center display. Visually separate from this, is the driver display in the driver’s field of vision. Models without the passenger display feature a large trim element extending into the center. Visually separated, the center of the screen appears to float above the concave surface of this trim element.
The front section of the instrument panel is illuminated by the Active Ambient Lighting light strip. This runs in a wide arc from the windshield, over the A-pillars, and into the doors. This creates a generous feeling of space. A seemingly floating control matrix in the upper section of the door panels matches the look of the glass surfaces of the displays. the glass surfaces of the displays. The center console is designed as a homogeneous unit and merges in a straight line with the lower section of the dashboard At the front, a storage compartment with lid and cup holder is integrated into the three-dimensional trim element.
There is a soft padded armrest at the rear of the center console. The center door panel merges seamlessly with the armrest with a concave movement. The front section here is designed as a high-tech metal element. It serves as a grab handle and locking handle and incorporates the switches for the power windows. Another highlight is the free-floating control matrix that incorporates the door door opener and the controls for the seat functions. The contours of the seat and backrest surface flow elegantly from the inside to the outside and appear to float above the seat base thanks to their layered design. Vertical indented lines follow the outer contour, widening towards the top.
When it comes to space, the E-Class is a segment favorite. The driver enjoys five millimeters more headroom than in the previous model. Rear passengers in particular benefit from the two-centimeter longer wheelbase. wheelbase two centimeters longer: knee room and maximum legroom increase by 10 and 17 millimeters, respectively, respectively. The increase in elbow room in the rear is even greater: it is now 1519 millimeters. This is an increase of 25 millimeters and almost S-class level. The trunk capacity is up to 540 liters.
