An approximate date of 14th Nov has been set for the arrival here of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, first shown to international media some weeks ago. Now in its sixth-generation, this new model is one of three new Mercedes-Benz introductions set to launch here before year-end, others being the new C-Class Cabriolet and GLC Coupe, both of which are now featuring in dealer showrooms. Styled and equipped along lines similar to the new Saloon, the new E-Class Estate offers innovative engineering and a compelling concept of space that Mercedes-Benz says ‘makes it the most intelligent estate they have ever built.’
Visually, it has a longer, sleeker, less upright look, thanks to its high beltline, short overhangs, long wheelbase, large wheels and low, stretched side windows. For the first time, roof rails are organically integrated as part of the standard equipment. Standard also is a load sill guard in stainless steel. As with the Saloon, its frontal appearance varies depending on the chosen design and equipment line. The Exclusive line has a classic radiator grille with bonnet-mounted star, while more sporty Avantgarde and AMG lines have the star motif centred within the grille. In terms of space and load volume, rear seat backrests split 40:20:40 to create cargo space expandable from 670 litres up to 1,820 litres. While carrying rear seat passengers, backrests can be tilted towards upright to create an extra 30-litres of cargo volume. Towing capacity is up to 2100kg. Quiet running and low vibration are features achieved by the use of sound absorbers and bodywork insulation and strengthening, and other acoustic measures.
A feature appealing to those with larger families is a backwards-facing rear seat within the luggage area. When needed, it can be folded open to accommodate two children, increasing passenger carrying space to seven seats, and then folded away into the floor when not in use. The styling, safety and technical innovations present in the E-Class – including autonomous driving technology – combine with the practical attributes of an estate to offer what Mercedes-Benz sales manager in Ireland, Ciaran Allen believes is ‘a compelling model offering made for urban and rural owners alike’. In Ireland, emphasis will be on the E220d Avantgarde Automatic version selling at an ex-works price of €55,700. Available to order will be an Exclusive version at €58,085 and an AMG line at €61,415.
Following in time will be a E350d, E350e Hybrid and a powerful 43 AMG. Driver Assistance Systems include such standard fitments as Active Brake Assist, to support drivers during emergency braking; Attention Assist, to alert the driver to inattentiveness or drowsiness; and Crosswind Assist, which lessens the effects of strong crosswinds. An optional Driver Assistance package offers a further suite of safety features that makes the E-Class the most intelligent estate in its class. Recognising that demand for estate models is not as strong in Ireland as in other European markets, Ciaran Allen regards this latest E-Class Estate as the one that will ‘turn convention on its head’. ‘Combining, as it does, legendary E-Class luxury, comfort and prestige with the versatile and practical features that estate car owners will recognise, we are confident the new E-Class Estate will appeal to many who may be considering estate car ownership for the first time,’ Mr. Allen said.
