The new E-Class is extending the leading position held by Mercedes-Benz within this segment with excellent comfort and outstanding safety. Notable features include the unique combination of driver assistance systems. These include drowsiness detection, the adaptive high beam assistant and automatic emergency braking, which can help in the avoidance of accidents. The long-distance comfort so typical of the E-Class is increased by intelligent bodyshell technology boasting 30 percent greater stiffness, further improved seats and a redeveloped chassis with shock absorbers that adjust automatically to suit the prevailing driving conditions. In the interior, high-end materials, craftsmanship displaying great attention to detail and perfect ergonomics all combine to create the feeling valued by Mercedes-Benz customers the world over '“ "welcome home" "The new E-Class is the heart of the Mercedes-Benz brand and the best E-class ever," says Dr. Zetsche. "We are certain that it will send out a positive signal for the 2009 auto year and be among the winners on the market. Positive indicators include the over 40,000 pre-orders we have already received." Independent analysts are also lauding the new E-Class as the vehicle with the most stable value in its class. The residual value has been forecast at an outstanding 62 percent after three years. Equally impressive is the efficiency of the new E-Class, which consumes up to 23 percent less fuel than its predecessor. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research, and for Development of Mercedes-Benz Cars, comments, "All four and six-cylinder engines in the E-Class now operate with the latest direct injection technology. These models have also been equipped with our fuel-saving BlueEFFICIENCY package. This means that two-thirds of new E-Class models consume between 6.8 and 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The excellent second fuel consumption figure applies to no less than three CDI models." The new CDI diesel power units require only 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). This equates to 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre. All engines in the new E-Class fulfil the EU5 exhaust gas standard and, in the case of the E 350 BlueTEC, emissions are below the EU6 limits planned for introduction in 2014. When it comes to quality, too, the new E-Class is ahead of its already outstanding predecessor, which twice achieved a number one ranking in the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Survey. Dr. Weber once more, "The new E-Class is perfectly prepared for its market launch. It is backed by extensive virtual testing with digital prototypes, plus a total of 36 million kilometres of test driving. This new E-Class has thus passed the most comprehensive test program of any Mercedes model to date." With the coupé version of the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz is introducing a further highlight in parallel to the launch of the sedan. The new E-Class coupé is a very special combination of emotion and efficiency. With the classic coupé profile, without a B-pillar and featuring fully retractable side windows, the new two-door provides a particularly sporty interpretation of the dynamic design of the new E-Class. At the same time, the coupé sets a new record in wind resistance. With a Cd of 0.24, it is the most aerodynamically efficient series production car in the world. The model range includes two new four-cylinder turbocharged engines that consume up to 17 percent less fuel, while providing a considerable increase in power output and torque. The AGILITY CONTROL suspension comes as standard and is equipped with an exceptionally sensitive shock absorber system that automatically adjusts to the prevailing driving conditions. It combines driving fun and agile handling with the best in body roll comfort. The new E-Class coupé will appear at European dealerships and Mercedes-Benz sales outlets at the beginning of May. |