Mercedes-Benz has launched two new models to the Irish marketplace, a new E-Class and new CLE Coupe, writes Trish Whelan.
The E-Class has been the mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz model range for over 75 years but with the new model the German premium carmaker is aiming to attract a younger generation of motorists whose choice is influenced by modern trends and technology, whilst still retaining the loyalty and affection of its traditional E-Class customers.
Subtle changes move the new E-Class even further up the luxury ladder in terms of its visual appeal, passenger comforts and interior appointments.
The new E-Class comes with a more dynamic shape emphasised by its sporty appearance, elegant character lines, stretched bonnet, and well-proportioned rear, all fronted by a new generation facia and grille. Standard are high-performance LED headlamps with a distinctive day and night design.
The car has been given a slightly longer wheelbase, increased interior headroom, greater rear leg and knee room, and significantly increased elbow width, all adding to extra comfort for occupants. Luggage capacity has also increased up to 540 litres.
New E-Class owners can access an enhanced menu of driver assistance features, better communications, a superior music and entertainment package, and a more extensive use of third-party apps. One available app would allow the driver, stuck in stationary traffic to take part in online video conferencing, if it’s safe to do so.
The new model has the latest MBUX Superscreen through which information, communications, entertainment and guidance systems are all managed. Using its ‘Just Talk’ function and ‘intelligent voice control’ drivers can call up assistance without using the ‘Hey Mercedes’ keyword for ‘her’ attention. Additional options are Aromatic air suspension and rear-axle steering.
Three petrol versions are E200, E300e, E450 4Matic; the three diesels are E220d, E300de and E450d 4Matic - two are equipped with plug-in hybrid electric power. The E220d (€80,525) and E200 (€82,130) saloons are expected to be the most popular versions with Irish buyers.
PHEV production will begin in mid Q1 2024 for customer orders and pricing will be released shortly on both diesel and petrol plug-in hybrid engines prior to their launch.
Ciaran Allen of Mercedes-Benz is pictured below with the new E-Class.
The new Mercedes CLE coupe has also gone on sale replacing the C-Class and E-Class coupes. This new two-door coupe has a sleek, athletic appearance with strong sporty overtones that will appeal to coupe owners. It is expected to attract a younger generation of Mercedes fans.
Its sporty characteristics are evident in its 15mm lower posture, long wheelbase, and short overhangs. Powerful wheel arches accommodate 18-inch to 20-inch alloy wheels depending on model choice.
Inside is packed with tech-focused features. A fully digital 312mm instrument cluster and a 302mm central touchscreen display ,angled towards the driver, are home to many controls and information.
Features include the latest third-generation MBUX infotainment system, 17-speaker surround-sound system, remote start, proximity lock/unlock, hands-free boot access, numerous driver-assistance systems and a choice from its 64 colour interior ambient lighting.
The range will have three models: CLE 220, CLE 300 and CLE 450. Choice will include 4- and 6-cylinder versions, mild hybrid petrol and diesel units, 9-speed automatic transmission, 4Matic all-wheel drive, and AMG variants. Plug-in hybrid and open-top cabriolet versions will be added later.
At launch, mild hybrid models are: a 255hp four-cylinder CLE 300 and a 375hp 3.0, six-cylinder CLE 450 4Matic.
Of the models being sold in Ireland initially, prices range from €73,215 for the CLE 220d.
