Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new E-Class station wagon. The model turned out to be more spacious and more aerodynamic than its predecessor, and also received a rear air suspension and amplitude-dependent shock absorbers already “in the base”. All announced versions are hybrids. E 200 and E 220 d – “soft”, E 300 e – with the possibility of charging from the mains. Six-cylinder options will appear later, and not only petrol, but also diesel.
In Germany, a loyal fan base has long been formed around the E-Class Estate, so no one is going to abandon the model yet. Visually, the five-door almost completely repeats the sedan (of course, adjusted for body type). Although we must pay tribute to the designers – in profile, the “yeshka” looks faster than its predecessor and strongly resembles the discontinued CLS Shooting Brake.
The drag coefficient of the new E-Class Estate is 0.26 instead of 0.27 for the S213 station wagon. Moreover, even such a small decrease was achieved by an impressive set of funds. These are not only computer simulations at an early stage of development, but also serious optimization of all surfaces, including tires. Well, where without innovations like side hood seals, an aerodynamic shield in the radiator grille and wheels with special inserts from Mercedes-EQ electric cars.
The dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate also surpassed its predecessor. On the second row it became freer, although the volume of the trunk decreased. Now it varies from 615 to 1830 liters for conventional cars and from 460 to 1675 liters for charged hybrids. The difference is small, but in the case of hybrids, it is compensated by a completely flat floor and the absence of a traditional step. As standard, all versions of the E-Class Estate are equipped with a pull-out shelf and a dividing grid. But the optional third row of seats is no more.
In addition, the buyer of the new station wagon will not have to pay extra for the fifth door electric drive, rear air struts and amplitude-dependent shock absorbers “in a circle”. However, Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ electronically controlled dampers, climate control with electric deflectors and Digital Light pixel headlights with and without projection are still on the options list. The range of engines is meager and consists of “mild” hybrids E 200 (204 hp) and E 220 d (197 hp), as well as the PHEV version of the E 300 e (312 hp).
All five-doors come with a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic and rear-wheel drive. Later, they will be joined by the E 450 4Matic variant, equipped with a three-liter in-line “turbo-six” with a capacity of 380 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, as well as a station wagon with a six-cylinder diesel engine. The main market for the new E-Class Estate will be Europe. Here, sales will begin next fall.
Photo: Net Car Show
Author: Aleksey Nosachenko
Source: Motor.ru