The New Mercedes-Benz E-Class - AutoWeb News: The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class:
Trendsetter for top technology, design and driving enjoyment
* Series-production premiere for numerous trailblazing innovations
* SBC electrohydraulic brake system in large-scale production for the first time
* Newly developed AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension
* Intelligent protection systems for exemplary occupant safety
* Fuel consumption reduced by up to 0.9 litres per 100 kilometres
* Dynamic multicontour seat as a world first
* The world's most successful saloon in its class
After a development time of 48 months and an investment totalling more than two billion euros, Mercedes-Benz is presenting the new E-Class. With numerous technical innovations the new saloon sets new standards in the areas of vehicle safety, comfort and handling dynamics.
The new E-Class will be in the showrooms of Mercedes-Benz dealerships throughout Australia from late-August 2002.
As with its successful predecessor, Mercedes-Benz continues to demonstrate its worldwide technological leadership with the new E-Class. This saloon redefines the standards in the automotive luxury class and assumes an exemplary position in all major engineering disciplines.
Trailblazing innovations offered by no other automobile brand are entering series production with the new E-Class, or are available in this vehicle class for the first time. One example of the technological exclusivity at the highest level is the electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), developed specially by Mercedes-Benz, which is standard equipment in the new E-Class. An innovative multicontour seat which automatically adapts to the current driving situation and the enhanced AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension system for outstanding ride comfort are also celebrating their automotive premiere.
New, dynamic reinterpretation of typical design characteristics
The design of the new E-Class continues the elegant lines of the preceding series and emphasises the dynamic character of the saloon more than ever. The striking twin headlamps, with which the E-Class first made its mark in 1995 to initiate a design trend, have been redesigned and slightly angled back, characterising the progressive, dynamic appearance of the front-end. The same message is conveyed by the side view: typical E-Class, but with a new, unmistakable sportiness and elegance.
Newly developed air suspension combines comfort with sportiness
The new E-Class shows its dynamic character with outstanding agility, sportscar-like handling and superb cornering. A newly developed four-link front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension mainly of aluminium create the technical conditions for this. At the same time the standard-fitted electrohydraulically controlled braking system Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) ensure maximum handling safety and help the driver to cope better with emergency situations. SBC celebrated its world premiere in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class recently, and is now entering large-scale production for the first time in the new E-Class.
Mercedes-Benz has also increased ride comfort with the equally innovative AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension system, which uses state-of-the-art microelectronics to control both springing and damping. Sensors monitor the road condition, driving style and loading of the saloon, ensuring that AIRMATIC DC always selects the best possible shock absorber and spring settings. In this way the new system resolves the previous conflict of aims between near-perfect suspension comfort and excellent handling dynamics, thereby meeting very varied customer requirements. This air suspension is standard equipment in the top-of-the-range E 500 V8 model, and is available for all other models in the new E-Class as an optional extra.
Premiere for two-stage belt force limiters and new crash sensors
Mercedes-Benz has further optimised occupant safety with newly developed, intelligent restraint systems which adapt to the current occupant and accident situation. In addition to adaptive front airbags the new E-Class is for the first time equipped with two-stage belt force limiters and automatic weight classification for the front passenger. In combination with additional crash sensors these systems provide occupant protection which is even more precise and adapted to the specific accident situation. Sidebags for the front seat occupants, large windowbags, high-performance belt tensioners, automatic child seat recognition and a rollover sensor are further components of the standard safety features. Compared to the preceding model the body structure of the new E-Class has even larger deformation zones at the front end. They ensure an even better energy absorption during an accident, allowing the passenger cell to remain substantially undamaged even during a severe impact. The new Mercedes saloon has passed the most stringent worldwide safety tests.
The proportion of high-strength alloys, which provide maximum safety with minimum weight, has been virtually doubled in the new Mercedes saloon. The bonnet, front wings, boot lid and front-end/rear-end modules are made of aluminium.
Four different engines including second-generation CDI engine
Four different engines will initially be available for the new E-Class saloons – three petrol engines with six and eight cylinders and an output range from 130 kW to 225 kW, and one CDI engine with five cylinders, with an output of 130 kW. The fuel consumption of the new E-Class has been reduced by up to 0.9 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the preceding model.
The maximum torque of the diesel engine has been increased by six percent, reaching a new peak of 425 Newton metres in the E 270 CDI. The direct-injection diesel unit is a second-generation CDI engine, which features a number of trailblazing technical innovations. At a later date the range of engines for the E-Class will be extended with a new, supercharged four-cylinder petrol unit.
Superlative climatic comfort with the new four-zone THERMOTRONIC
With enormous attention to detail and the utmost precision, Mercedes designers have developed a comfortable interior for the new E-Class whose choice of high-quality materials ensures typical Mercedes quality and value impression. Outstanding long-distance comfort is assured by the standard automatic climate control, newly developed seats and state-of-the-art driver support systems. As an optional extra, Mercedes-Benz will install the efficient four-zone air THERMOTRONIC climate control, whose microprocessor individually determines and controls the temperature for the driver and front passenger, as well as the passengers on the outer rear seats.
For owners requiring even more individuality in terms of seating comfort Mercedes-Benz has developed the dynamic multicontour seat as a world first. This is equipped with several air chambers which automatically inflate and deflate according to the driving situation to offer the driver and front passenger the best possible lateral support.
Three lines with individual characteristics and a full range of standard equipment
Individuality has always been a major characteristic of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Three distinctive design and equipment lines meet different customer requirements: CLASSIC, ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE. Even the basic model, CLASSIC, comes complete with a radio, CD changer, automatic climate control, Sensotronic Brake Control, light-alloy wheels and a host of other safety-related and comfort features. The AVANTGARDE line distinguishes itself with its own dynamically designed bumpers and side skirts, as well as fabric/leather upholstery and cockpit instruments with white dials.
The latest technical innovations from the entertainment electronics and telecommunications sectors are available in the new E-Class. The innovative control and display system COMAND APS (available from the first quarter of 2003) – with integral navigation computer – features a graphics-capable colour display which also enables SMS messages and emails to be displayed in conjunction with a fixed-installation car phone. For the first time the navigation system in the new E-Class can also be controlled using the LINGUATRONIC voice control system.
Average worldwide market share of 24 percent
The new E-Class replaces a preceding model whose average sales of more than 200,000 units per year made it the world's the most successful luxury class saloon. The proportion of this market segment accounted for by the E-Class is an average of 24 percent, and in some countries even above 40 percent. DaimlerChrysler has produced approx. 1.4 million E-Class saloons since 1995.
At a glance:
Technical innovations in the E-Class*
Technical innovations Standard/optional
Active seat ventilation: Mini-ventilators allow air to flow through the seat interior. optional in conjunction with leather upholstery
Adaptive accelerator pedal: The engine characteristics are adapted to the personal driving style. standard in all petrol
models
Adaptive front airbags with two-stage gas generators:
Driver and front passenger airbags inflate according to accident severity.
standard
Air control system: A microprocessor closes the lower air intake depending on the driving situation, improving the Cd value. standard in models E 240 and E 320
AIRMATIC DC: The enhanced air suspension now adjusts the springing and damping according to the driving situation. optional/standard in the E 500
Auxiliary ventilation: Solar cells in the roof supply the power to drive the ventilation fan of the automatic climate control system, cooling the interior when the saloon is parked. optional in conjunction with panoramic sliding sunroof
Belt force limiters: During a crash this system reduces the forces exerted on the occupants by the seat belts. For the first time belt force limiters with adaptive control are fitted for front seat occupants. standard, on the outer seats in the rear
Belt tensioners: Any slack in the seat belt is instantly taken up during a crash. standard, on the outer seats in the rear
Bi-xenon headlamps: Powerful gas discharge lamps for dipped and high beam improve safety at night. Optional
COMAND APS: The system integrates radio, DVD player, navigation system, telephone operation and optional TV unit. optional/standard in models E 320 and E 500
Crash boxes: Energy-absorbing elements in the front end can be inexpensively replaced after a minor collision. standard
DISTRONIC: Intelligent cruise control keeps the E-Class at the right distance and eases the driver's workload. optional
Dynamic multicontour seat: The backrest contours automatically adapt to the driving situation. optional
Easy Entry: When getting out, the steering wheel automatically moves upwards and the seat moves to the rear to allow the driver more freedom of movement. optional
E-mail: E-mails appear on the Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS display if a telephone is installed. optional
ESP®: This dynamic safety system reduces the risk of skidding. standard
Four-link front suspension: A new design improves wheel location, comfort, directional stability and steering precision. standard
Four-zone THERMOTRONIC: This newly developed system enables the temperature and airflow to be individually controlled for each of the four seats. optional/standard in the
E 500
Headlamp Assist: A sensor on the windscreen detects when darkness falls and automatically switches the vehicle lights on. standard
Heated steering wheel: Heating wires warm the rim of the steering wheel. Optional
Heater booster: An electric heater booster ensures a comfortable temperature. standard in the CDI models
HP bulbs: New "High Performance" bulbs last the entire life of the vehicle. standard
Infra-red reflection: The windows reflect the infra-red component in sunlight, thereby improving climatic comfort. optional
Integral child seats: The child booster seats emerge from the rear seat unit at the touch of a button. optional
KEYLESS-GO: The doors and boot lid may be opened without the use of a key. optional
Key-operated memory function: The seat and mirror positions as well as the settings for four-zone THERMOTRONIC are stored in the microchip of the electronic ignition key. optional
Lightweight construction: The bonnet, front wings, boot lid, front-end/rear-end modules and parcel shelf are of aluminium. standard
LINGUATRONIC: The radio, CD player, telephone and now also the navigation system can be voice-controlled. optional with COMAND APS
Multifunction steering wheel: The radio, telephone, navigation system and other units can be operated from the steering wheel. standard
Panoramic sliding sunroof: The glass roof extends from the windscreen to the rear end. optional
Rain sensor: The windscreen wiper is now variably controlled according to rain intensity. standard
Sensotronic Brake Control: This electrohydraulic system improves safety when braking in an emergency. standard
Short Message Service: SMS messages are shown on the display of the COMAND system if a telephone/mobile phone is connected. optional
Sidebags: Air cushions along the sides reduce the risk of injury during a lateral impact. standard
Sound system: A new multi-channel system provides surround-sound at every seat. optional with COMAND APS
THERMATIC automatic climate control: The system operates with a humidity sensor and infinitely variable compressor. standard
Tunnel closing: Pressing the air recirculation button closes all open windows and the sliding sunroof when entering a tunnel or underground car park. Standard
Tyre pressure monitoring: The air pressure of the tyres is automatically monitored. optional
Underbody panelling: Large plastic panels replace the previous, environmentally questionable PVC anti-corrosion protection. standard
Upfront sensors: Crash sensors in the front end enable the restraint systems to be activated as the situation requires. standard
Weight classification: A measuring membrane in the seat registers the weight of the front passenger and uses these data to activate the airbag according to the relevant crash situation. standard
Windowbags: The large air cushion extends from the A-pillar to the C-pillar like a curtain during a crash, reducing the risk of head injuries. standard
Words to the wise:
Statements on the new E-Class
"A reflection of the Mercedes basic values"
"The E-Class is the "heart" of the Mercedes-Benz brand. No other model reflects the basic values of our brand as clearly as the new E-Class: safety, comfort, innovative engineering and individuality packaged in an exciting design. With the new saloon our engineers have once again made significant advances in several technological areas. The first large-scale series use of the SBC brake system, a further development of the AIRMATIC air suspension system from the S-Class, the world premiere of the dynamic multicontour seat or the new, adaptive belt force limiter are just a few examples of pathfinding innovations which make the new Mercedes model very special and distinguish it from other cars in this class."
Professor Jürgen Hubbert, member of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars and smart
"Extending market leadership"
"With approx. 1.4 million units produced since 1995 the E-Class is one of the most successful Mercedes models. No other saloon in the luxury class segment is as popular as the E-Class, as witness the average worldwide market share of 24 percent. The new saloon will continue on this successful course, embodying all the expertise that we at Mercedes-Benz have to offer. With an even more dynamic bristling with trailblazing innovations, with even more extensive standard specification and an even larger measure of individuality, this car has the potential to extend its market leadership."
Dr. Joachim Schmidt, member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars and smart, head of Sales and Marketing
"The new standard among luxury class saloons"
"After seven years in production and approx. 1.4 million units there is a change of generation in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The new saloon continues the successful concept of its predecessor, namely to be the trendsetter for an entire vehicle class. Outstanding technical developments provide the conditions for this: in the field of passive safety the new E-Class sets new standards with optimised crash structures and adaptive restraint systems, a combination of Sensotronic Brake Control, ESP and ABS has enabled further significant progress to be made in active safety and ride comfort has been perfected with a unique air suspension system. In short: the new E-Class points the way to the automotive future.
Dr. Hans-Joachim Schöpf, member of the Divisional Board for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars and smart, head of Development
"Quality and value perception at the highest level"
"The new E-Class will be a worthy successor to a most important and successful model series. In addition to trailblazing technical innovations the saloon particularly excels with its extraordinarily high quality and perceived value. New production processes and modern manufacturing methods have enabled us to achieve even greater body rigidity, further improvements in crash behaviour, outstanding acoustic comfort and typical Mercedes durability. We have invested approx. € 1 billion for the new E-Class at the Sindelfingen production plant alone."
Helmut Petri, member of the Divisional Board for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars and smart, head of production
Model concept & equipment: Evolution of a best-seller
* All clear for the second generation of this successful model series
* Standard specification significantly upgraded once again
* Three lines, four engines and 15 colours for superb individuality
* Almost 1.4 million E-Class Saloons since 1995
A Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains a Mercedes-Benz E-Class -- unmistakable, unique and typical. This principle had the highest priority during the development of the new model series. The Saloon is deliberately oriented towards evolution and the further development of a successful concept which will make the new model even more dynamic, lively and attractive. With no changes to basic values such as safety, comfort, quality, aesthetics, individuality and value retention. A typical E-Class, in fact.
In other words: the E-Class has remained true to itself.
This message is conveyed even at first sight. The new Saloon continues the lines its predecessor, applies the evolutionary principle to a number of typical stylistic features and thereby reveals an even more self-confident character.
Three distinctive design and equipment lines, a wide range of engines, four interior colours and up to 15 exterior colours, as well as numerous innovative optional extras make for outstanding automotive individualisation, enabling each saloon in this Mercedes model series to become a valuable one-off.
In the CLASSIC line the E-Class presents itself with all the typical Mercedes quality characteristics. Fully equipped, with Sensotronic Brake Control, sidebags and windowbags, automatic climate control, CD changer and light-alloy wheels as standard, this model variant provides an extremely attractive entry into the world of the new E-Class. Some of the standard equipment in the CLASSIC line:
· 4 power windows · Central locking with crash sensor
· Adaptive airbags and belt force limiters for the driver and front passenger · ELCODE locking system
· Aero wipers · ESP®
· Anti-lock braking system (ABS) · Exotic wood trim in calyptus linea
· Armrest with stowage compartment · Five-speed automatic transmission
· ASSYST PLS service system · Fog lamps
· Belt tensioners and belt force limiters in the front and on the outer rear seats · Front and rear sidebags
· Brake Assist · Front passenger recognition with weight classification
· Central display in instrument cluster · Green-tinted thermal insulation glass
· Light-alloy wheels · Headlamp Assist
· Lumbar support · Heated, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors
· Multifunction steering wheel · Side indicator repeaters in the exterior mirrors
· One-touch wiper function · SPEEDTRONIC with cruise control
· Outside temperature display · Steering wheel adjustable for height and reach
· Power steering · THERMATIC automatic climate control with dust/activated charcoal filter
· Radio Audio 20 CC with telephone keypad · Three inertia-reel seat belts in the rear
· Rain sensor with variable intermittent wipe · Three rear head restraints
· Remote boot lid closing · Windowbags
· Rev counter
· Seat electrically adjustable for height and backrest angle
· Sensotronic Brake Control
The V6 model E 320 is additionally equipped with speed-sensitive power steering and an 80-litre fuel tank.
The ELEGANCE line does full justice to its name with an even more exclusive appearance. The exterior features elegant highlights in the form of discreet chrome trim on the bumpers, side rub strips and door handles, as well as a radiator grille with vanes painted in atlas grey. In the interior this model variant is mainly distinguishable by brown burr walnut trim and chrome surrounds on the cockpit instruments. Some of the additional standard equipment in the ELEGANCE line (as compared with CLASSIC) at a glance:
* Ambient lighting in the exterior mirrors
* Automatically dimming mirrors
* Bumpers with chrome strip
* Door handles in the vehicle colour with chrome strips
* Fine wood trim in brown burr walnut
* Instrument cluster with chrome surrounds
* Interior lighting with nightlight
* Leather steering wheel in the interior colour
* Light-alloy wheels in 13-hole design
* Radiator grille with four vanes painted in high-gloss atlas grey
* Seat belts in interior colour
* Shift lever gaiter and knob leather-covered
* Side rub strips with chrome inserts
* Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
The name AVANTGARDE characterises Mercedes models with a particular flair: youthful, dynamic, progressive and very individual indeed. The new E-Class lives up to this claim with line-specific bumpers and side skirts, blue-tinted glass, seats with fabric/leather upholstery and cockpit instruments with light-coloured dials. Here are some of the additional standard equipment in the AVANTGARDE line (as compared with CLASSIC):
Ambient lighting in the exterior mirrors
* Automatically dimming mirrors
* High-pressure headlamp washer system and dynamic range control
* Blue-tinted thermal insulation glass
* Brake lights with LED technology
* Door handles in body colour, with chrome highlights
* Fine wood trim in black bird's-eye maple
* Instrument cluster with front panel in matt chrome, white markings and chrome rings
* Interior lighting with nightlight
* Leather-covered steering wheel in interior colour
* Light-alloy wheels in 5-spoke design
* Line-specific bumpers with chrome decorative strips
* Radiator grille with five vanes painted in high-gloss black
* Rotary switches for radio, blowers and temperature with chrome rings
* Seat belts in interior colour
* Shift lever gaiter and knob leather-covered
* Shift lever panel in matt chrome with chrome surround
* Side rub strips with chrome inserts
* Side skirts of line-specific shape
* Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
* Upholstery in combined fabric/leather
The new top-of-the-line V8 model E 500 is available in the ELEGANCE or AVANTGARDE lines and also features a five-speed automatic transmission, AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension, four-zone THERMOTRONIC, 17-inch light-alloy wheels, speed-sensitive power steering and an 80-litre fuel tank.
All in all even the standard specification in the lines of the new E-Class offers significantly more features than the preceding model. Mercedes-Benz is able to meet even more individual requirements with a wide range of optional extras for even greater comfort, functionality and driving enjoyment. The majority of these innovations are described on pages eight to ten.
Comprehensive insurance and costs: advantages for Mercedes customers
A progressive vehicle concept such as the new E-Class is not just noticeable in terms of safety, comfort and dynamism, it also saves its owner money. For insurance premiums, for example: German car insurers have honoured the fact that the new Mercedes saloon is very easy to repair. After extensive analyses and crash tests they have placed the E 240 in the favourable fully comprehensive model category 20, which means that the V6 model has improved by five model categories compared with its predecessor and incurs significantly lower premiums. The other engine variants have also improved with respect to the previous E-Class with the E 320 also improved by five model categories. Mercedes customers can also save money when servicing their E-Class, as the extended ASSYST PLUS system reduces these costs by approx. 20 percent.
Markets and models: up to 40 percent market share
The E-Class Saloons are on the overtaking lane worldwide. With average sales of more than 200,000 units per year this Mercedes model series is the world's most successful luxury car. Its average share of this market segment is 24 percent, and in some countries even exceeds 40 percent:
* In western Europe approx. every fifth new car buyer in this market segment decides in favour of the E-Class.
* In Germany the Mercedes Saloon shows the best result for this vehicle class, with an average market share of more than 40 percent.
* In the USA the market share of the E-Class is between 15 and 23 percent.
* In Asia (including Japan) an average of approx. 20 percent of all new car buyers in the upper medium class segment choose the model bearing the star.
The E-Class is not only a "world car" with respect to its market success, it is also produced in six locations worldwide: in Germany for Australian bound cars, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt and the Philippines. Since 1995 Mercedes-Benz has produced a total of 1,374,409 saloons in the series preceding the new E-Class.
Since its launch late in 1996, the current model E-Class has notched up over 10,000 sales in Australia. With a share of over 40 percent the E 230/240 have been the most popular model variants, followed by the E 280/320 with roughly 36 percent, and the E 200 KOMPRESSOR with around 8 percent.
Thanks to its dynamic presence, outstanding technology and typical Mercedes quality the new E-Class has all it takes to continue the success story of its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz plans to increase unit sales by approx. ten percent, with 200,000 units planned for 2002 and more than 250,000 for 2003.
Design: Shape and shapeliness
* New reinterpretation of the twin-headlamp face
* Elegant side contours with the design characteristics of a coupé
* Interior with high value impression and attention down to the last detail
March 1993, at the Geneva Motor Show: Mercedes-Benz gained public attention with a coupé study whose shape and design was a clear departure from previous models bearing the star. Instead of conventional, rectangular headlamps and the striking, chrome-decorated radiator grille the front-end design of the coupé was characterised by four oval headlamps.
Specialists knew right away that this heralded a new start. Mercedes-Benz was going over to the offensive – not just in design terms, but also in brand policy. Just two years later the new front-end design was a reality.
24th June 1995: The new E-Class first appeared in the showrooms of the dealerships and company-owned sales outlets – and literally set the scene with its unique appearance. The "four-eyes face" became the signature of Mercedes-Benz, which was henceforth seen "with new eyes".
Although sceptics initially feared that the new front-end design would turn out to be a short-lived fashion statement, and therefore completely contrary to the brand's principle of stylistic timelessness, these critics rapidly fell silent. Even with this twin-headlamp face Mercedes-Benz has shown formal continuity: seven variations have appeared to date, and each has expressed a distinctive, highly up-to-date character.
The new E-Class presents the eighth interpretation of this exciting theme: the elliptic twin headlamps are more angled to form a harmonious parallel with the lines of the redesigned radiator grille, emphasising the dynamic appearance of the front end. Additional elegance is provided by the clear headlamp lenses and brilliant, highly polished reflectors. The lens focussing the beam of the projector headlamp is another highlight which makes the appearance of the new E-Class unmistakable even in the dark.
The elliptic headlamps shape the whole form of the front section
For the Mercedes designers, the four "eyes" naturally represent more than just an interesting headlamp design or an eye-catching way of signalling. From day one, they recognised the huge stylistic potential of this idea for the design of the whole body, and used it to create an integrated design concept. The E-Class is the latest example of the idea at work. The four eyes determine the shape and lines of the entire front section. The bonnet and wings take the striking curves of the headlamps and stretch them back towards the rear in taught, powerful bulges. In this way, the four-eyed design has inspired an attractive shape which also has a forceful symbolism. It's no coincidence that the E-Class' lines form an association with the human anatomy. The smooth curves recall, more specifically, the muscular body of a trained athlete – a rather fitting image for the dynamic character of the new E-Class.
Both the radiator grille and the front apron emphasise the width of the front end, embodying the car's power and performance potential. At the same time both features serve as distinguishing characteristics for the design and equipment lines: the AVANTGARDE model is fitted with a painted cross-piece in the lower air inlets of the front bumper, plus small spoiler lips on the outer edges, to underline its progressive sporting credentials. Five painted black, high-gloss slats with chrome trim strips set the radiator grille apart from the other two lines.
Exterior: the lines' most prominent distinguishing characteristics
CLASSIC
ELEGANCE AVANTGARDE
Bumpers Painted in body colour Painted in body colour with chrome trip strips Distinctive form, painted in body colour with chrome trim strips
Headlamps Clear-lens design with projection technology Clear-lens design with projection technology Clear-lens design with projection technology
Radiator grille Waffle structure with chrome trim strips Four slats, painted atlas grey, high gloss Five slats, painted black, high gloss
Door handles In body colour In body colour with chrome inlay In body colour with chrome inlay
Windows Green tinted windows Green tinted windows Green tinted windows
Wheels 16-inch light-alloy wheels in 6-hole design 16 or 17-inch light-alloy wheels in 13-hole design 16 or 17-inch light-alloy wheels in 5-spoke design
Side rub strips In body colour In body colour with chrome inlay In body colour with chrome inlay
Paintwork 3 standard and 10 metallic shades 3 standard, 10 metallic and 2 special metallic shades 3 standard, 10 metallic and 2 special metallic shades
The coupé-style body lines symbolise spirit and elegance
The sporty overall impression of the E-Class is enhanced by the wedge-shaped side view of the new Saloon. The taught curve of the waistline emphasises the powerful presence of the E-Class and stretches out the body. This powerful, muscular waist supports a striking C-pillar, which again emphasises the underlying dynamic feel with its discreetly forceful form. Another prominent feature are the coupé lines, which ease the roof into a graceful, elongated dome shape. The deliberately unobtrusive B-pillars are painted in black, so as not to disturb the flow of the roof lines.
Whilst the tail of the new car does betray typical Mercedes design features, it also underlines the individual status of the E-Class as one of the most important models of the Stuttgart-based brand. The rear section, with its pointedly compact proportions, offers a deliberate contrast to the elongated bonnet, emphasising the wedge-shaped silhouette of the body.
The interior: quality and perfection down to the last detail
The dynamic, elegant and emotional appeal of the E-Class exterior also pervades the interior. It is immediately apparent when you get into the car: superior materials, high-quality surfaces and covers, and attractive details are central features of a luxurious ambience – making the driver and passengers comfortable is the foremost consideration.
The dashboard adopts the familiar Mercedes "double-sweep" effect. It has distinctive, strong lines, which are characterised by their seamless integration into the centre console and door panel trims. This all combines with the quality materials and delicate chrome trim to give high-class looks and feel. Quality down to the last detail – it's a case of styling elements and tactile properties joining together in perfect harmony.
The precise edges and smooth curves of the dashboard are the product of a cost-intensive and cutting-edge manufacturing procedure, allowing a homogeneous surface to take shape, unruffled by joins or stitching. The grain is similar to leather and adds further weight to the general impression of excellence. The horizontal fine wood trim strip separates the upper section of the dashboard, which remains in a darker shade, from the lower section, which shares the colour of the interior.
The ventilation outlets are grouped together with the ergonomically arranged control unit of the standard-fitted THERMATIC climate control system, integrating them seamlessly into the shape of the dashboard.
In other words, the form and function of the new E-Class interior reach new levels of excellence. The same applies to the controls in the centre console and door panel trim, where the individual buttons and switches are grouped together into units. In the centre console, for example, they form an attractive panel which is easy to reach. However, the best is yet to come. At the touch of a button, this control panel pivots slowly upwards by means of an electric motor and opens up the stowage compartment behind, where a CD-changer is fitted.
Fine wood and aluminium elegantly combined for the first time
The ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE lines offer a new type of refinement, which gives the interior a subtle, but effective upgrade. This comes in the shape of a slim chrome trim strip on the upper edge of the wood trim. It is the first time that Mercedes designers have brought wood and metal together to such exquisite effect, an achievement made possible by an innovative and cost-intensive manufacturing process. In addition, the differently styled wood trim strips in the ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE lines emphasise the elegant design of the door panels. The rear doors are also fitted with wood trim strips.
Interior: the lines' most prominent distinguishing characteristics
CLASSIC
ELEGANCE AVANTGARDE
Interior colours Anthracite, sierra grey, pacific blue, pebble beige Anthracite, sierra grey, pacific blue, pebble beige Anthracite, sierra grey, pacific blue, pebble beige
Fine woods Calyptus linea Brown walnut Black bird's-eye maple
Instrument cluster Black trim panel and black dials Black trim panel and black dials, chrome rings Front panel in matt chrome, white dials, chrome rings
Steering wheel, gearshift lever gaiter and knob Anthracite Leather covered in interior colour Leather covered in interior colour
Gearshift lever inlay Anthracite Brown walnut wood Matt chrome
Seat belts Black In interior colour In interior colour
Doors Wood trim strip in the area of the door opener Wood strip across the whole door panel trim and on the rear doors Wood strip across the whole door panel trim and on the rear doors
Customers of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class can choose from four interior and 15 exterior colours. There are a total of 46 possible colour combinations.
Body: Robust and strong
* Bonnet, wings, boot lid plus other components made of aluminium
* Proportion of high-strength steel alloys almost doubled
* Drag and lift further reduced
* Projection-beam headlamps with a choice of halogen or xenon bulbs
Taking something good and making it even better, that was the main task assigned when developing the bodywork for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Whereas the predecessor model already led the field in important disciplines such as structural strength, long-term quality, lightweight design, aerodynamics and, last but by no means least, safety, the new Saloon raises standards yet further. These standards translate into even lower noise and vibration levels, outstanding roadholding, exemplary occupant safety and straightforward vehicle repairs. Torsional rigidity, a reliable indicator of safe and comfortable vehicle handling, has also been further increased by some 18 percent compared to the previous E-Class model.
High-strength steel and aluminium are the most important of the lightweight materials used for the bodyshell. This heralds the first-ever use of aluminium in large-scale series production by Mercedes-Benz, whereby the engineers from the Stuttgart-based automobile manufacturer continued to apply the tried-and-tested principle of "intelligent lightweight construction". Also known as "having the right material in the right place", this prescribes using the different materials intelligently to fulfil specific purposes.
In other words, aluminium is only used for those areas where it delivers real benefits compared to steel. In the case of the new E-Class, these areas are:
* Bonnet
* Front wings
* Boot lid
* Front-end module and front-end module carrier
* Rear-end module
* Parcel shelf
* Rear panel behind the rear seat backrest (on models with single-section seat unit)
Proportion of high-strength steel alloys increased from 20 to 37 percent
All other components in the bodyshell are made from sheet steel, with the proportion of high-strength steel alloys increased from approx. 20 percent in the case of the previous model to around 37 percent. These include a cutting-edge dual phase steel whose special dual-phase micro- structure is renowned for its high strength, making it capable of with- standing extremely high loads. Various underfloor components as well as the reinforcements used around the bumpers and springs are made from this high-tech material. The newly developed plastic well for the spare wheel reduces the weight still further.
The modular concept used for the design of the front and rear in other model series from Mercedes-Benz has now been adopted by the engineers at Sindelfingen for the E-Class, considerably improving the ease with which bodywork repairs can be carried out and simplifying body assembly. The reason for this is the fact that the front and rear-end modules are bolted together with the bodywork structure, allowing them to be replaced without the need for lengthy welding work should they become damaged in an accident. Even the individual components contained within the modules are bolted together.
* The front-end module basically consists of a sturdy aluminium cross member which both serves to reinforce the front bumper and plays a vital part in the event of a frontal offset collision: the cross member redirects the forces to the side not subject to any direct load, thereby playing a definitive role in the absorption of the impact energy. Two aluminium crash boxes, as they are known, form an energy-absorbing link with the front side members.
* The rear-end module in the new E-Class is made up of a high-strength, flexible aluminium cross member, connected to the structure at the rear by two steel crash boxes. Once again, bolted connections allow damaged parts to be replaced quickly and at low cost.
Apart from the easy-repair, aluminium front-end module, distinguishing features at the front of the new E-Class also include support elements capable of bearing high loads. These make a major contribution to the exemplary levels of occupant protection offered by this Mercedes saloon. The frame-type integral support, to which components from the front axle, the steering gear and engine suspension are attached, also crumples in a severe frontal collision to absorb impact energy. The assembly carrier is made of high-strength plate steel and is bolted to the front side members of the bodywork. By combining a number of different manufacturing processes, Mercedes engineers were able to trim some four kilograms off the weight of the frame-type integral support, without sacrificing either rigidity or strength.
Passenger cell: tailored blanks for the floor
When it came to the manufacture of the floor unit and connecting members, the Sindelfingen team once again adopted a revolutionary approach in order to strike a perfect balance between the safety levels Mercedes is renowned for and the ideal lightweight design. The main floor assembly thus consists of three different panel blanks, which are laser welded together and then precision fitted. The middle of the three blanks is a thick (1.0 millimetre) panel forming the transmission tunnel, the sturdy backbone of the passenger cell.
Mercedes-Benz uses a new, flexible rolling technique for manufacturing the two connecting members, which extend the front side members back into the structure of the floor assembly, to give them the required material thickness and stability. This manufacturing process is described as flexible as the high-strength steel can be machined at the rolling plant in such a way that different panel thicknesses can be achieved within a single component. In short, the front of the connecting members, where the loads exerted in a collision are greatest, is made thicker (1.15 millimetres) using the new rolling technology than the rear section (0.88 millimetres), which is not subject to such high loads. The key benefit derived from using this sophisticated process compared to joining a number of different, pre-fabricated panel blanks is the smooth flow of forces within the component. This is the first time this flexible rolling technique has been used in large-scale series manufacture. Maximum rigidity is achieved by a solid cross member beneath the front seats, a load-bearing section between both B-pillars and reinforcement panelling in the footwells, in addition to the two flexibly rolled connecting members. Also new is the concept of a continuous firewall cross member connecting the two side wall panels.
Side wall: technical perfection for effective passenger protection
Although the side walls of the saloon form a single section, they are actually made up of a number of panel blanks, which are laser-welded together at the steel works and then formed into the desired shape.
Precision use of materials at those points subject to the greatest loads again ensures maximum strength. An extra steel tube is also used for the two B-pillars, to maximise occupant protection in a lateral impact or should the vehicle roll over.
Rear: versatile rear seat anchored on a solid base
For the first time, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is available with an optional 1:2 split-folding rear bench seat, which can be folded down in just a few simple steps (please refer also to the press kit entitled "Everything about the interior and electronics"). To make sure that the folding backrests of the rear seats are also held firmly in place, Mercedes engineers developed a wrap-around structural support for the rear wall of the passenger cell which is welded together with the side walls, the floor panelling and the parcel shelf. As well as forming a solid foundation for anchoring the backrest hinges and locks, this structure also contributes to the bodyshell's high torsional resistance.
A key feature of the rear side members in the new E-Class is the use of a continuous closed box section with carefully graduated material thicknesses. These components are capable of absorbing high forces, and are therefore crucial to occupant safety in the event of a collision from the rear.
Boot lid can be opened and closed at the push of a button
A convenient remote control is available as an option for the aluminium boot lid. Simply pressing a button on the electronic key for the E-Class or on the switch panel located on the interior trim of the driver's door unlocks the boot lid. It then swings up automatically by means of an electric motor and two springs. To close the boot again, the driver merely has to press a button on the boot lid itself or on the interior door trim control panel to actuate the electric motor again. The boot lid then slowly swings down and finally closes fully by virtue of its own weight pushing down on the lock. A servo locking mechanism located in the boot lid lock then locks the boot lid completely.
Head-to-head: the key bodywork data for the new E-Class
Compared to the predecessor model, the new Mercedes saloon is 23 millimetres wider and 12 millimetres higher. Vehicle length remains unchanged at 4818 millimetres, whilst the wheelbase has been extended by 21 mm to 2854 millimetres.
New E-Class
Predecessor model
Length mm
4818
4818
Width mm
1822
1799
Height mm
1452
1440
Wheelbase mm
2854
2833
Overhang, front mm
831
841
Overhang, rear mm
1133
1144
Corrosion prevention: 70 percent of all panels galvanised
The 30-year "mobilo-life" warranty promise made by Mercedes-Benz to customers in many countries throughout Europe is founded on the sophisticated corrosion prevention concept used for the bodywork, which engineers in Sindelfingen have now significantly improved on yet again in the new E-Class. To do this, increased use has been made of galvanised panels which now account for over 70 percent of the bodyshell weight (65 percent in the previous model).
Mercedes engineers were also able to omit the conventional PVC underbody protection in the new E-Class without compromising long-term corrosion prevention in any way by lining the entire underbody of the vehicle with a total of eleven plastic panels. These cover the engine compartment, wheel arches, outer floor panels and rear axle links, effectively protecting the body from stone chippings that can easily lead to rust. The smooth underbody panelling also plays an important role in terms of aerodynamics, as it allows a virtually turbulence-free air stream beneath the body.
Aerodynamics: new best Cd figure of 0.26
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class was already redefining standards when it was premiered back in 1995 with its drag coefficient (Cd figure) of just 0.27, which at the time made it the most aerodynamic series-production saloon in the world. With the new model, Mercedes engineers have succeeded in undercutting that best mark by some 3.7 percent, to achieve a new record drag factor for this category of a mere Cd = 0.26. It was also possible to reduce the aerodynamic drag, which is all important for fuel consumption and performance, down to just 0.57 square metres.
New E-Class Preceding model
Drag coefficient Cd 0.26 0.27
Frontal area A 2.21 m² 2.16 m²
Aerodynamic drag (Cd x A) 0.57 m² 0.58 m²
These outstanding figures are the product of meticulous precision work in the wind tunnel and intensive co-operation between designers and aerodynamics engineers, a partnership which began back in the preliminary draft design phase for the new saloon. Body styling experts were therefore able to take crucial details into account right from the start, details which combine into an overall end result which is exemplary in every way. There are accompanied by a whole host of technical details devised by experts at Mercedes which all contribute to the streamlining of the new E-Class:
* The smooth panelling used for the engine compartment, the transmission and the underbody efficiently directs the airflow beneath the body and prevents it from swirling.
* Aerodynamically designed plastic elements in front of the front wheel arches improve the flow around the front axle links. Panelling is also use to streamline the spring links on the rear axle.
* Mini spoilers placed in front of all wheels reduce the back pressure which builds up in front of the tyres and optimise airflow around the wheels.
Engineers at Mercedes have made further great leaps forward thanks to a computer-based air control system housed in the front bumper trim of the E 240 and E 320 models. The system consists of a compact plastic casing holding 16 electro-pneumatically adjustable louvers which stretch the length of the lower air intake. The system's micro-processor analyses various data such as road speed, coolant temperature and refrigerant pressure and decides whether additional cooling air feed is required or not, depending on driving conditions and temperature. If extra cooling air is not required, the louvers of the air control system close. The result of controlling the supply of cooling air to meet current demands is a clear three-percent drop in the Cd value.
Rear axle lift cut by ten percent
The multitude of finely honed aerodynamic measures used by engineers at Sindelfingen has had a double effect: as well as reducing drag, they also help to improve roadholding at high speed and when braking. The coefficient for rear axle lift betters that for the previous model by up to ten percent, a figure which was achieved by the engineers without compromising the balance between the lift forces acting at the front and rear axles. Together with a number of other factors, this is decisive for the saloon's exemplary straight-line stability.
Sophisticated aero-acoustics analysis lowers noise levels
Reducing noise levels was one of the priority tasks assigned to the aerodynamics engineers. In the aero-acoustics tunnel, aided by the latest measuring techniques, they were able to pinpoint bodywork details responsible for irritating wind noise or vibrations, and undertook remedial measures where necessary. Examples of these measures are the special sealing sections used for the doors and side windows, as well as the extra seals fitted to the front wings. Specially-designed microphones were used to perform aero-acoustic testing on the roof pillars, the roof trim strips and the exterior mirror housings too, which were then formed so as to almost eliminate any flow noise caused by the air stream.
Lighting technology: projection-beam headlamps for high lighting power
Thanks to one of the most sophisticated and powerful headlamp systems to be ever fitted in a car, the new E-Class truly stands out when it comes to lighting technology too. Engineers have replaced the dipped-beam reflector headlamps used previously with a new projection system. With this design, the lens itself, which has a 70-millimetre diameter, is responsible for distributing the light rays. H7 halogen bulbs are the standard dipped-beam bulbs fitted behind the clear plastic lenses; as an option Mercedes-Benz can fit the same bi-xenon headlamps which have proved so successful in the Stuttgart manufacturer's flagship models.
The move away from the previous reflector system has not come about purely for stylistic reasons. Although it is true that the projection-beam headlamp takes up less space at the front of the vehicle than the reflector headlamp, offering the designers more stylistic scope, the increase in lighting power is just as decisive, with an increase of ten percent in the halogen version and no less than 50 percent in the bi-xenon version.
Bi-xenon means that only a single bulb is required for both dipped-beam and main-beam headlamps. Whereas main beam makes use of the full luminous flux, switching to dipped beam pushes a shutter between the bulb and the lens, covering a portion of the light beam. With the bi-xenon headlamps switched to main beam, the H7 spotlight of the headlamps positioned towards the centre of the four-eyes face also come on. Dynamic headlamp range adjustment is also included in the bi-xenon specification package for the new E-Class.
Newly developed HP bulbs –designed to last as long as the car
The attractively designed taillights form one of the distinguishing features of the different design and equipment lines: in the case of the AVANTGARDE model, 24 light-emitting diodes in each of the brake lamps ensure they are highly visible, while all the lights at the rear of the CLASSIC and ELEGANCE line models use state-of-the-art HP "high-performance" bulbs. The abbreviation "HP" stands for "High Performance" and indicates that these bulbs have special characteristics: the HP bulb draws the same lighting power from a 16-watt energy supply as a conventional 21-watt bulb, and also lasts for the entire life of the car. In practical testing conducted by Mercedes, the new bulbs lasted for a total distance of over 850,000 kilometres without developing a single defect, twelve times longer than standard bulbs. HP bulbs are used for the brake lights (on CLASSIC and ELEGANCE models), reversing lights, indicators, taillights and rear fog lamps in the new E-Class. The third brake light units are fitted with LEDs as standard.
Windscreen wipers: two wiper arms with an infinitely variable intermittent setting
Mercedes engineers have developed a powerful twin-arm wiper unit featuring special kinematics for the new E-Class: whereas the wiper on the driver's side turns around a fixed axis, its counterpart on the passenger side lifts up at the same time to allow an even larger surface area to be wiped clean. This means that for the first time wiper frequency and the intermittent setting can be varied infinitely to match current requirements even more closely – the standard rain sensor located on the windscreen regulates the windscreen wipers as a function of the intensity of the rain.. The two wiper blades were developed in the wind tunnel, hence their name of "aero" wipers. Instead of the articulated U-holder system of conventional wiper blade assemblies, where the wiper rubber is hooked into the blade lip, the aero wipers consist of a single rubber section with integral spoiler and spring rails on the outside. Replacing the previous U-holder system almost halves the structural height of the wiper blade, greatly reducing wind noise when the windscreen wipers are turned on. The key benefit however is the superior wipe quality, particularly when travelling at motorway speeds.
Safety: All-round protection
* Frontal structure with large crumple zones and strong members
* Revolutionary upfront sensors for even earlier recognition of the accident type
* Belt force limiters and airbags deployed according to collision severity
* Automatic weight classification on front passenger side
* Rollover sensor on the transmission tunnel
* Sidebags and windowbags as standard
Crumple zones and ABS, airbags and ESP, windowbags and SBC, belt tensioners and Brake Assist; all examples of ground-breaking inventions from Mercedes stemming from over 60 years of committed development work in the field of vehicle safety. These innovations help to prevent accidents and form the basis for the exemplary safety standards set by automobiles bearing the three-pointed star. They also demonstrate how Mercedes-Benz perceives the topic of safety as being an integral task.
With the advent of the new E-Class, this integral safety concept has now attained a new level of perfection. Mercedes engineers have devoted more attention than ever before to analysing what happens in real-life crashes, have designed highly effective protective measures which incorporate the very latest findings from accident research, and have developed restraint systems which are even more intelligent than ever before, adapting to the situation at hand with lightning speed. This clearly makes the new E-Class stand out from all other car models, and adds substance to the claim traditionally upheld by the Stuttgart-based automobile manufacturer of being a true pioneer in the field of passenger car safety.
At the same time, the new E-Class also came through the most stringent crash tests conducted at the Mercedes-Benz Safety Centre with flying colours. Testing included:
* ...the frontal 40-percent offset collision against a deformable barrier, the ECE side impact as well as the side impact against a pillar, which all feature in the European New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP).
* ... the 100-percent head-on collision against a fixed barrier and the side impact, both components of the American NCAP testing programme.
Quite apart from this, the newly developed saloon model series underwent a number of no less stringent Mercedes tests. This included collision testing at moderate speeds, a collision type which occurs particularly frequently out on the roads, and which accident research findings show to require specific protective measures. Ease of repair also played a prominent role here: the new E-Class has been designed in such a way that damage resulting from light to moderate collisions can be rectified at relatively low cost. This integral concept means the new Saloon is best prepared for the endless number of situations that can arise in everyday traffic and offers its occupants the best possible all-round protection.
Frontal structure: safety in three phases
Compared to the previous model, the crumple zones at the front of the new E-Class have been greatly enlarged. This allows forces to be conducted even more efficiently in the event of a collision, ensuring that the passenger cell remains more or less intact, even following severe collisions. As with all new Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, impact protection is underpinned by a three-phase concept, which is deployed either fully or only partially depending on the severity of the collision, or in other words the impact speed:
Up to impact speeds of approx. 4 km/h Ø Up to impact speeds of approx.
15 km/h
The foam elements of the plastic bumpers absorb the impact energy and return to their original shape after the crash. The foam elements of the plastic bumpers absorb the impact energy and return to their original shape after the crash.
The new E-Class is also ideally prepared for frontal collisions where the impact speed exceeds15 km/h thanks to an intricately designed load-bearing system, which differs from that used in the previous model in a number of fundamental points. New features include the sturdy sectioned panels above the wheel arches, which form a second side member level, and ensure effective load distribution, particularly in the case of an offset impact. These panels are braced by the A-pillars. A special feature of the lower side members in the structure at the front of the vehicle is the extra third shell on the inner face. These help to direct some of the impact forces towards the sturdy firewall cross member, which combines with the pedal floor members to ensure the energy is distributed over a large area, up to the transmission tunnel and the outer side members.
The fact that 37 percent (compared to 20 percent previously) of all bodyshell panels are made from high-strength steel alloys provides further evidence of the high standards of safety achieved in the new E-Class. The high-strength panelling provides maximum strength with a low material thickness.
Passenger cell: the "hard core" of occupant protection
The passenger cell is correctly termed the "safety cage" by Mercedes engineers. It is designed for all types of collision and proves to be a structure which is virtually immune to deformation and which keeps the passengers' survival space intact even at high impact speeds, regardless of whether the collision is head-on, from the rear or from the side, or whether the vehicle rolls over. The use of high-strength steel and thicker panels plays as important a role here as the installation of additional load-bearing members. Next up on the test rig were the doors, which also had to prove their life-saving potential. The result is a new hinge technology, featuring mounting plates with a high load-bearing capacity, which are welded firmly to the inner door shells. A high-strength, flexible side member located at the bottom between the inner and outer shell of each door supplements the numerous design measures included to boost side impact protection.
Rear-end structure: keeping occupants' backs well covered
The three-phase, speed-related safety concept triggered off in the event of a collision from the rear is almost identical to that used for the frontal structure in the new E-Class:
Up to impact speeds of approx.
4 km/h
Up to impact speeds of approx.
15 km/h
The plastic bumpers and the flexible aluminium cross member absorb the impact energy and return to their original shape after the crash. The flexible aluminium cross member in the rear-end module and the two deformable steel crash boxes absorb the energy in such a way that the load-bearing structure in front of them remains undamaged. Thanks to the bolted connections, the damaged components can be replaced quickly and at low cost.
At higher impact speeds, the reinforced rear side members of the bodyshell prove their worth. Here, a continuous closed box section with carefully graduated material thicknesses is used to absorb high forces. The plastic fuel tank is located in front of the rear axle where it is protected from any impacts.
Restraint systems: two-stage airbags and belt force limiters
Mercedes-Benz has been making a vital contribution to boosting occupant safety for a number of years now by fitting intelligent restraint systems which adapt to the current vehicle occupancy and type of collision. This new generation of technology first started in 1998 when the S-Class went into series production. Mercedes-Benz has now taken this adaptive protective concept just a little further: supplementary crash sensors allow early detection of the type of collision the vehicle is involved in, while new control algorithms mean deployment of the airbags and belt tensioners can be adapted even more closely to suit actual requirements. The aim of these measures is to further reduce the loads exerted on occupants in the event of serious collisions, while at the same time optimising the protective functions used in collisions occurring at moderate speeds.
Two upfront sensors, as they are known, positioned on the radiator cross member of the new E-Class form one of the most vital elements for adaptive control of the restraint systems. Their remote position in the front-end structure allows them to detect how severe the collision is even sooner and with greater precision than the third crash sensor on the transmission tunnel. The electronic control module uses information from up front to
* ... further shorten the amount of time which lapses between the impact and the point at which the belt tensioners are triggered. As a result, the belt straps are pulled tight at a very early stage – the high-performance belt tensioners fitted to the front seats and the outer seats in the rear can instantaneously retract up to 13 centimetres of loose belt strap, meaning occupants are firmly strapped into the optimal position within the passenger safety cell when the impact occurs and can be decelerated together with the bodywork structure as soon as possible.
* ... control the front seat belt force limiters adaptively, according to the particular type of collision. This new technology allows the restraining force of the belt strap to be reduced progressively: should the sensors relay information indicating a severe frontal collision, the belt will first be pulled taut until it reaches maximum tension. The belt force limiters switch to a lower tension just a moment later – the extra slack in the belts allows occupants in the front to fall deeper into the airbags, and reduces the loads exerted on their chests.
* ... trigger the driver's and front-passenger airbags not just earlier but in two stages, depending on the type of collision:
* Stage 1: in light frontal collisions, the electronics trigger just one chamber of the two-stage airbag gas generators. As a consequence, the airbags are deployed with a lower internal pressure.
* Stage 2: Should the control module detect a more severe frontal collision, five to fifteen milliseconds later it will also activate the second chamber of the gas generators. This inflates the airbags to a higher pressure and offers the occupants a level of protection adapted to the impact severity.
Accident research indicates that this adaptive airbag control is of particular benefit for collisions occurring between 20 and 35 km/h, as the first airbag deployment stage allows occupants to be cushioned more softly.
Measuring membrane calculates the weight category of the front passenger
With the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has gone a crucial step further and for the first time incorporated a system which accounts for the body weight of the front-seat passenger when deploying the front-passenger airbag. A special measuring membrane in the seat upholstery is used by the electronics to automatically assign the front-seat passenger to one of four weight categories: 1 - 30 kilograms; 31 - 50 kilograms; 51 - 70 kilograms; over 71 kilograms. The airbag can then, for example, trigger both generator stages even in low-impact collisions in order to offer heavier front passengers an ideal level of protection. The second airbag stage is only deployed for lighter passengers, on the other hand, once a higher severity threshold is reached.
Sidebags and windowbags protect the occupants in a lateral collision
The restraint system in the new E-Class features two more highly-effective systems in the form of standard sidebags and windowbags. These two systems complement one another; whereas the sidebags protect mainly the thorax area of the vehicle’s occupants, the windowbags inflate like a large curtain, stretching from the front to the rear roof pillar, to form an expansive head protection.
One of the vehicle's innovations is the activation of both the windowbags and belt tensioners should the vehicle roll over. The new E-Class is the only saloon in the world to be equipped with a rollover sensor which is capable of reliably detecting this type of accident and then relaying the data to the restraint system’s central control module in an instant. The sensor is positioned on the transmission tunnel.
The front sidebags in the new E-Class are now housed in the seat backrests, while the rear sidebags continue to be located in the door trim. In the event of a collision from the side, the sidebags inflate within a few split seconds to cover the area between the occupant and the door at chest height.
The standard occupant restraint system in the new E-Class at a glance:
Front seats
Rear seats
Inertia-reel seat belts
With height adjustment
x
x*
High-performance belt tensioners
x
x
on the outer seats
Belt force limiters
x
with adaptive control
x
on the outer seats
Seat occupancy sensor with weight classification
x**
on front passenger side
--
Head restraints, adjustable for height and tilt
x
x
Front airbags, two-stage
x
--
Sidebags
x
in the seat backrests
x
in the door trims
Windowbags
x
x
x = Fitted as standard; *Height adjustment on the outer seats only; **In front passenger seat;
Interior and electronics: Perfectionism to the last detail
* Characteristic Mercedes quality and value impression
* Powerful THERMOTRONIC with four-zone climate control
* World premiere of dynamic multicontour seat
* New generation of car radios and sound system with surround sound
Adapting the automobile to people starts with the basics – with quantifiable dimensions, which are crucial to spaciousness, ergonomics, comfort and safety. Automobile engineers need to bear this in mind and on occasion look far into the future. In the case of the new E-Class, the reference dimensions used were those of the so-called "95-percentile man" from 2005, whose stature exceeds the current value by a significant margin. Automobile manufacturers take the "95-percentile man " as the upper limit for human stature: only five percent of the male population in Europe is taller.
Mercedes-Benz integrated this increase in size into the dimensional design of the new E-Class to develop an interior in which people of all sizes will feel comfortable, including the "5-percentile woman" who represents the lower limit on the human stature scale. Front seats which are individually adjustable in a wide number of ways, smooth and highly flexible fore/aft seat adjustment through 290 millimetres as well as a steering column adjustable by 50 millimetres for height and by 60 millimetres for reach make it simple to find the ideal position.
The predecessor model, with its truly exemplary levels of spaciousness and comfort, served as the basis for the interior's dimensional concept. The new E-Class boasts almost identical spatial dimensions.
Boot capacity grows by 20 litres
The load volume of the new E-Class has increased. By positioning the fuel tank below the rear seats (from its previous position above the rear axle) and using the spare wheel well as an additional luggage box, the capacity of the boot when measured using the VDA method has increased by 20 litres to 540 litres. Australian delivered E-Class saloons will be fitted with a full size spare. The boot has also grown in length and now measures 1140 millimetres, as measured along the boot floor, an increase of 235 millimetres.
For the first time, the E-Class is available with optional folding rear seats. This allows flexible extension of the boot to suit the load being carried, and produces an almost completely level load area measuring 1740 millimetres in length, which can be further extended to 1865 millimetres by completely removing the rear seats. By opting for the fold-down backrest for the front-passenger seat, the maximum loading length of the new E-Class can be extended once again to an impressive 2900 millimetres.
Dashboard: high-quality materials and workmanship
The attractive and precision-designed dashboard featured in the new E-Class is a model of traditional Mercedes quality, looks and feel. It has a modular construction, consisting of one upper and several lower sections. A trim strip of fine wood separates the upper and lower halves. The precision edges and cornering, which are such a strong element in the dashboard's exterior design, are the end product of a sophisticated manufacturing process, which Mercedes-Benz has further enhanced: a spray coating is applied by robot to a backing section made from glass-fibre reinforced plastic. This coating is made from a polyurethane plastic which feels soft and pleasant to the touch, and which can be precision shaped to different, pre-defined thicknesses during the manufacturing process. Its soft, pleasant feel is achieved by the use of foam backing. A further benefit of this process is the resulting even surface, devoid of any irritating joints or seams. The leather-type grain lends emphasis to the dashboard's overall high-quality appearance. For the first time at Mercedes-Benz, the same high-quality materials have also been used in the manufacture of the lower section of the dashboard and for the centre console.
Magnesium cross member forms a sturdy foundation
A newly developed cross member made of magnesium forms a strong anchor for the dashboard and its components. The car radio, automatic climate control, instrument cluster and steering column are all attached to the same solid structure, which both minimises vibrations and is crucial in achieving the low noise levels inside the new E-Class. The dashboard itself has a "soundproof" design and is completely insulated at the front, meaning that no disturbing engine compartment noise can penetrate through to the passenger compartment.
Centre console switches flip up by means of an electric motor
The centre console comes with a special feature that is only to be found on the new E-Class: a flip-up switch panel. At the touch of a button, the panel of switches moves smoothly upwards, powered by a mini electric motor, allowing occupants to access the CD changer located behind it. About 30 seconds after it was opened or after a button was last pressed on the CD changer, the panel automatically pivots back down into the closed position. However, if the car radio's cassette deck is open, the pivoting switch panel cannot be moved, so as to prevent a collision with a cassette.
The chrome look is repeated at various points throughout the interior to highlight the exclusive, high-quality design. The chrome strip on the transmission tunnel trim, which neatly frames the shift or selector lever and the adjacent buttons for operating AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control), DISTRONIC, PARKTRONIC and the optional auxiliary heating, as well as the fine chrome gills on the ashtray and spectacles compartment are particularly eye-catching examples of this.
The centrepiece of the transmission tunnel trim though has to be the soft, broad armrest, which conceals a two-section stowage compartment. The upper section conceals the car phone cradle; the lower compartment is connected up to the automatic climate control and can be kept ventilated if desired.
In the new E-Class, which is factory-fitted with a car phone kit, the lid of the armrest also consists of two sections which fold up to the sides at the push of a button. Gently nudging the phone brings it upwards to be within easy reach of the occupants. Engineers at Mercedes developed a special die-cast magnesium casing for this phone compartment, whose sturdy, high-quality design is most noticeable when the two sections of the lid open and close. The interior of the compartment is lined with the same soft, velvety, fibre-based material used for the glove compartment.
Instrument cluster: information in plain English
The instrument cluster in the new E-Class is a further example of the harmonious interaction between driver and vehicle, demonstrating as it does exemplary ergonomics and maximum operating safety. Three clearly laid out circular instruments lie within the driver's primary field of vision, with easy-to-read dials which deliver information on road speed (centre), rev speed (right) and time (left). Additional information is provided by a centrally positioned display in the middle of the speedometer. Should a malfunction of any kind occur, plain-text information appears here, together with concrete instructions on what to do. Two bar-graph displays are located towards the outer edges of the instrument cluster indicating the fuel level (left) and coolant temperature (right).
Drivers can use the illuminated buttons on the multifunction steering wheel (heated as an option) to control a wide variety of functions and to call up additional information on the instrument cluster's central display.
Interior lighting: soft nightlight illumination
To make sure that passengers feel just as comfortable after dark when riding in the new E-Class as they do during the day, Mercedes engineers have devised a sophisticated lighting concept for the interior. In addition to indirect illumination of all switches and controls, this concept also features a nightlight, which provides a pleasant level of lighting during the journey in the ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE models. The lamp units used encircle the front and rear overhead control panels. The light diode integrated into the interior rear-view mirror is also a component of the nightlight concept and is directed towards the centre console. The diffused light in the front can be dimmed to one of six different settings using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the central display in the instrument cluster. The nightlight at the rear can be dimmed using the two buttons in the overhead control panel.
On models fitted with a panoramic sliding sunroof, Mercedes engineers have used the central rib between the two glass panels for attaching two nightlight lamp units for the rear. New also are the ambient lighting units in the exterior mirror housings of the ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE models, which allow passengers to get into and leave the vehicle safely in the dark. This function is activated whenever the vehicle is unlocked via the remote control; the lights then stay on for a maximum of 40 seconds.
Locking system: unlock and start vehicle using KEYLESS-GO
In addition to the established ELCODE locking system featuring infra-red radio remote control for the immobiliser and central locking functions, the E-Class is now available for the first time with the added convenience of KEYLESS-GO, the electronic door opener, as an option. With KEYLESS-GO drivers no longer have to search for the car key to unlock the car, they just have to keep it in their shirt, trouser or jacket pocket and the vehicle opens as soon as they take hold of the door handle or press the handle on the boot lid.
When this happens, the electronic key receives signals transmitted by inductive antennae positioned in the doors, in the centre console, beneath the parcel shelf and inside the rear bumper. In response, the key transmits radio waves containing an identification code, which is then checked by an electronic control module on board the new E-Class. If this code matches the stored value, the driver can get into the vehicle or open the boot immediately
Tilting/sliding sunroof: light, air and motoring pleasure aplenty
The electrically operated tilting/sliding glass sunroof featured in the predecessor model is also optionally available for the new E-Class (standard on the E 500). Even more light and air reaches the interior via the newly developed panoramic sliding sunroof (optional). And no wonder, for it has twice the surface area of a conventional tilting/sliding roof. The panorama effect is provided by an almost continuous glass surface extending from the windscreen to the rear screen. At the touch of a button the front section of the roof glides slowly to the rear, while a glass vane pops up at the front to act as an air deflector. The 18-percent light transmission of the green-tinted safety glass provides effective protection for the vehicle's occupants from the sun's UV ultraviolet rays. Measurements carried out by Mercedes engineers revealed that 100 percent of UV-B and UV-C light was filtered out, while the proportion of UV-A light in the interior was a mere 2.2 percent. Full sun protection is available in the form of a two-section, electrically operated roller blind on the inside of both glass sections: by pressing a button, one of the roller blinds automatically extends forwards, and the other one backwards.
Solar cells provide energy for ventilation blower
In conjunction with the panoramic sliding sunroof, Mercedes-Benz is offering another first in the form of an automatic, solar-powered interior ventilation unit. A total of three panels, each lined with eight silicon solar cells, which are located beneath the glass of the wind-deflecting louver at the front and behind the fixed glass section, convert the sun's rays into electrical energy. This energy is sufficient to power the automatic climate control's ventilation blower. No switches are necessary – once the engine has been switched off, the ventilation blower switches itself on automatically whenever the sunlight is intense enough for the solar cells to deliver the necessary power. The effects of this interior ventilation facility can be clearly felt: at ambient temperatures between 20 and 35 degrees Celsius, the blower is capable of cooling down both the interior at head height as well as any interior components which have become heated up by around 10° Celsius.
Automatic climate control: high-tech as standard
Climate comfort on board the new E-Class is optimised by a powerful system that makes up part of the standard specification of all model variants: THERMATIC. The automatic climate control is impressive to look at too thanks to the attractively styled control panel harmonically integrated into the upper section of the dashboard.
Compared to the previous model, engineers at Mercedes have boosted the heating and cooling output of THERMATIC by around five percent, as well as making ventilation of the interior more effective, with reduced draught and noise. This translates, for example, into a much shorter system warm-up time following a cold start. Mercedes-Benz has replaced the electric hot-water heater booster for the interior previously fitted to CDI models with a newly developed PTC (PTC = Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating system. This comes on automatically, depending on the ambient temperature.
As with all new air conditioning units from Mercedes-Benz, the THERMATIC system fitted in the new E-Class operates based on a number of sensors, which register data on interior temperature (2 sensors), ambient temperature as well as humidity. Combined with the continuously variable refrigerant compressor, the humidity monitor's dew-point sensor permits adaptive and therefore economical automatic climate control. The continuously variable control is carried out by a solenoid valve which adjusts the swept volume of the air conditioning compressor.
THERMOTRONIC controls the passenger compartment climate in four zones
The ultimate in climate comfort can be attained by opting for the new THERMOTRONIC four-zone climate control. "Four zones" means that the micro-computer is capable of computing and regulating the temperature individually for driver and front passenger as well as for the passengers on the outer rear seats. Each occupant can set their own ideal temperature. The system also registers the degree of sunlight and automatically adjusts temperature and airflow settings accordingly to ensure that the set values are kept at a constant level for each of the four seats. Passengers in the rear have their own control panel for setting a desired temperature and adjusting the airflow. It is to be found at the rear of the transmission tunnel and also features two digital temperature displays, allowing settings to be made individually for the left and right sides.
A sensor monitors penetration by the sun's rays at all seats
Air distribution for the four-zone automatic climate control necessitates the use of twelve electric motors in total and a powerful micro-computer which processes a multitude of sensor data. As well as readings for interior, ambient and coolant temperature, this data also comprises the position of the side windows and sunroof. Measuring the amount of sunlight being radiated into the vehicle is just as crucial. This reading is monitored by a four-quadrant solar sensor on the bonnet, which then regulates the airflow and temperature for each of the four seats depending on the angle of incidence of the sun's rays.
Humidity and pollutant levels in the ambient air are monitored by a multifunction sensor. Should nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide levels in the air exceed a certain threshold, the four-zone THERMOTRONIC automatically switches over to air recirculation mode.
Seats: customised comfort
Generous amounts of space, perfect ergonomics, state-of-the-art assist systems, ultimate climate comfort – the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class has everything motorists could wish for on long journeys. Physical well-being is high on the agenda too with redeveloped seats and a wide range of options for customised seating comfort.
The front seats come with electrical height and seat backrest adjustment as standard. The fore/aft position, angle of the seat cushion and height of the head restraint can be set manually unless the Mercedes customer opts for fully electric seat adjustment, where all adjustments are made by means of electric motors and the individual steering wheel, exterior mirror and seat settings are stored by the memory function. The suspension-type base of the front seats consists of two aluminium shells, which have a pivot mounting at the front to allow the angle to be adjusted and are supported by two small coil springs at the rear. The seat shells therefore swing on the metal frame, thereby boosting the suspension and damping effect of the foam seat cushions inside the aluminium shells. Broad sections of rubberised hair matting are to be found within the steel frame of the backrest, which combine with foam cushioning to offer a high level of seating comfort. Manually adjustable lumbar supports also feature as standard.
Seat contours automatically adapt to the driving situation
The multicontour seat familiar from the predecessor model continues to be available as an item of optional equipment for the new E-Class. It is fitted with a number of air cushions which allow individual adjustment of the backrest and seat contours. Mercedes-Benz has also devised a number of further technical innovations available as options for drivers seeking even more individuality when it comes to seating comfort. This line-up of technological wizardry is headed by the revolutionary dynamic multicontour seat, which is being premiered in the E-Class. This seat is based on the familiar multicontour system, and is fitted with air cushions – one on the front seat cushion, two in the lumbar region and one in each of the backrest side cushions – which inflate or deflate automatically to adjust to the current driving situation.
This electro-pneumatic control is performed by a micro-computer inside the seat, which is capable of processing data such as steering angle, lateral acceleration and road speed in an instant in order to vary the inflated pressure and volume of the air cushions accordingly. In a left-hand bend, for example, the system automatically inflates the air cushions on the right-hand side of the backrest to a higher pressure to give the occupant more lateral support. In addition to the above, this item of optional equipment also features a massage function, which clearly helps to relieve strain on the back muscles as well as boosting the metabolism of the intervertebral discs: pressing the "Pulse" button causes the two air cushions at the bottom of the lumbar region to oscillate. This is done by pumping air into them and then releasing it again according to a precisely programmed sequence, which constantly switches between a medium and a high air-pressure setting. This "back massage", referred to by experts as dynamic lumbar support, lasts five minutes and can be repeated as desired.
Fans to ventilate the seat surface
Active seat ventilation continues to be offered as an option for models with leather upholstery. Inside each of the front seats there are five mini fans which draw up cool air from the footwell, from where it passes through special plastic ducting and permeable fabric to flow evenly from the perforated seat upholstery. Seats which have been warmed up by direct sunlight therefore cool down quickly, allowing passengers in the new E-Class to keep their cool too. The airflow can be adjusted to one of three speeds.
Electronics: assist systems for greater comfort out on the road
The state-of-the-art micro-electronics make the driver's job easier by offering greater safety and convenience. One of the most effective assist systems currently available can now be fitted as an optional extra in the E-Class too: DISTRONIC autonomous intelligent cruise control, which has already firmly proven its merit in the S-Class, CL-Class and SL-Class models.
A digital signal processor (DSP) with a cycle frequency of 40 megahertz instantaneously processes the signals relayed by a radar sensor in the radiator grille, which monitors what's going on in front of the E-Class for a distance of up to 150 metres. The three-degree aperture of the sensor's three transmission and reception units allows them to scan the full width of a three-lane motorway at a point roughly 100 metres in front of the vehicle. If the Saloon draws too close to a vehicle in front, DISTRONIC will automatically reduce the throttle or, if necessary, activate the brake in order to maintain the desired proximity.
Ultrasound technology makes light work of parking
At manoeuvring speeds of up to 16 km/h a different assist system warns the driver when things become a little tight at the front or rear of the E-Class: PARKTRONIC, which uses the same principle as sonar. A total of ten sensors along the front and rear bumpers transmit ultrasound signals which are bounced back by other vehicles or obstacles. Based on the time elapsing between signal transmission and reception, the micro-computer is able to compute the distance to the object concerned and relay this information to the driver in the form of a visual and/or acoustic signal.
Voice control for navigation system too
The LINGUATRONIC voice control system developed by Mercedes-Benz for the car phone and car radio (optional extra) is also able to control the navigation system in the new E-Class for the first time. The system is activated by flicking a lever on the steering column. After that, a few words from the driver are enough to activate automatic station search or store on the car radio, to skip to the next track of the CD being played or to programme the navigation system with the desired destination.
This technology is another crucial contribution to increased road safety from Mercedes-Benz, as motorists no longer have to let go of the steering wheel or take their eyes off the road to operate the car phone or audio systems.
Audio systems: top entertainment and perfect communications
Mercedes-Benz has designed a range of cutting-edge, high-tech audio equipment for the new E-Class, which do far more than just receive radio stations and play music cassettes or CDs. They also double as command centres for a host of other functions, such as telephone, navigation and e-mail. This opens up whole new dimensions in in-car entertainment, communications and information. Distinguishing features of all car radios include speed-dependent volume control, an integral telephone keypad and convenient operation using the multifunction steering wheel. The range in full:
* The new E-Class Saloons roll off the assembly lines fitted with the Audio 20 CC car radio as standard. This unit includes a radio receiver for FM, MW, LW and SW wavebands, plus a cassette player. A CD changer is standard in E 240 and E 270 CDI models.
The innovative COMAND APS control and display system, available as an option for the new E-Class from the fourth quarter of 2002 (standard in the E 320 and E 500), is now even more powerful. Its specification includes a large 6.5" colour display, a DVD player, plus the full array of mobile communications functions when combined with a car phone or a mobile phone. These include: SMS (write, edit, send), WAP and e-mail. The DVD player can play both audio CDs as well as video DVDs, allowing passengers to watch the latest films on the colour monitor, although not when the vehicle is moving. COMAND APS continues to include a navigation computer with a second (integral) DVD player. Maximum output of the COMAND amplifier is 4 x 25 watts; a dual FM tuner combined with antenna diversity ensures crystal clear radio reception. A TV receiver located in the boot (available as an optional extra from the first quarter of 2003) can also be linked in to COMAND APS. TV reception is possible up to a road speed of approx. eight km/h.
Digital sound system produces magnificent surround sound for all passengers
Perfectly crisp hi-fi sound is produced by a total of ten speakers fitted in the new E-Class as standard: four lower mid-range speakers in the doors, two tweeters in the mirror triangles, two tweeters in the rear doors, one base subwoofer in the parcel shelf, plus a centre-fill speaker in the centre of the dashboard.
As an option, Mercedes-Benz can equip the new Saloon with a multi-channel sound system from Harman-Kardon, which is perfectly harmonised with the acoustic conditions inside the E-Class and which compensates for ambient driving noise when controlling the sound. Every conventional stereo signal from the car radio, the CD player or the cassette player is converted by the system into surround sound with seven output channels, offering audio perfection for passengers, regardless of where they are sitting. The surround effect is produced by two extra speakers on the parcel shelf.
Chassis: Progress as standard
* Air suspension with simultaneous adjustment of spring rate and damping
* SBC electrohydraulic brake system as standard
* Improved safety in emergency situations or when braking on bends
* New four-link front axle and multi-link independent-suspension rear axle in aluminium
When it comes to ride quality, you can expect more from a saloon with a Mercedes star than "just" outstanding comfort; the vehicle's active safety and dynamic handling also have to meet similarly high standards.
The E-Class has always met these expectations, but with the new model series the Mercedes engineers aimed to deliver further advancements and have surpassed the high standards of the previous model in all areas of the chassis. The results are remarkable, above all in terms of directional stability, steering precision, agility, ride stability, braking stability, suspension comfort and tyre vibration. Groundbreaking innovations have played a significant role here, clearly distinguishing the Mercedes Saloon not only from the previous E-Class but, above all, from other cars in this market segment. The electronically controlled brake system, Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), and the air suspension system, AIRMATIC DC, are two of the technical milestones which feature on the chassis of the new E-Class.
AIRMATIC DC is a development of the air suspension system featured on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class since the end of 1998. It is standard equipment for the new E 500 and available as an option for the other models of the new E-Class. The suffix "DC" stands for "Dual Control" and emphasises the new dual function of the system, which now, for the first time, controls springing and damping using cutting-edge microelectronics:
* For the damping Mercedes-Benz uses the familiar Adaptive Damping System (ADS II), which constantly regulates the force of the shock absorbers according to needs, taking into account the state of the road surface, the style of driving and the loading of the Saloon.
* Special rubber bellows in the spring struts are responsible for the springing. Inside them is compressed air, which ensures softer -- and hence more comfortable -- suspension of the wheels and body. Under normal driving conditions, the pressure in the E-Class's AIRMATIC DC system is between seven and nine bar.
A new feature of this system is the opportunity to control the air volume actively while on the move. When cornering at speed, for example, or where other dynamic handling requirements are high, AIRMATIC DC briefly deactivates a proportion of the air volume, ensuring a harder spring rate. The effect is to reduce pitch and roll, which has a positive influence on the ride stability and cornering stability of the Saloon. Under normal driving conditions, on the other hand, the entire air volume remains active so that maximum comfort is achieved with softer basic suspension.
In other words: the new AIRMATIC DC system offers sports suspension and comfort suspension in one. By adjusting the springing and damping according to the given situation, this system solves the familiar conflict between perfect comfort and high dynamic handling when it comes to suspension tuning -- and hence meets the most diverse of customer wishes.
Springing and damping adapt to the current driving situation
The rapid activation or deactivation of the 'comfort' air volume and the automatic adaptation of the force of the shock absorbers is controlled by a microcomputer on the basis of various sensor signals which supply information on, for example, the steering and yaw angle of the body, forward and lateral acceleration of the vehicle, the level of the body and the driving style.
The control unit compares this up-to-the-minute data with stored set points and starts a programmed arithmetical process (algorithm) which determines both the optimum characteristic of the adaptive shock absorbers and the control of the air volume. The computer commands are then implemented in various ways:
* Springing: with a dynamic driving style, control valves in the spring struts separate off the proportion of the air volume which determines comfort, which is directly integrated in the spring struts at the front axle. At the rear axle the additional air reservoirs are attached separately, for reasons of space, to the front cross member of the subframe and connected to the spring struts by fabric hoses.
* Damping: selectable solenoid valves in the shock absorbers allow the rebound and compression damping to be altered to suit the situation so that movement of the body is significantly reduced. The "skyhook" algorithm regulates the damping forces at each wheel in such a manner that the forces resulting from the wheel movement which act on the body are reduced. Thanks to the precise regulation for each individual wheel, for example, both front wheels can be dampened harder on braking than the rear wheels in order to prevent the bodywork from diving. Depending on the control command, the valves can set one of four characteristics in an extremely short time of less than 0.05 seconds:
* Stage 1: improved road roar and tyre vibration characteristics with less movement of the body and lower acceleration values as a result of soft compression and rebound stage.
* Stage 2: skyhook mode -- soft rebound setting and, at the same time, hard compression stage.
* Stage 3: skyhook mode -- soft compression setting and, at the same time, hard rebound damping.
* Stage 4: hard rebound and compression setting to reduce the effects of wheel load variations on dynamic cornering.
Where there are small movements of the body, the new E-Class uses ADS stage 1. If the speed of movement on the part of the body exceeds a certain level, the system switches to the skyhook algorithm and, with the aid of its rapid solenoid valves, permanently switches back and forth between the second and third damping stages to compensate for pitch and roll of the body. In addition, the driver can influence the switching thresholds between the four ADS stages and the spring rate by pressing a button on the chassis switch in the centre console – in three stages, from comfortable to sporty.
Further performance features of the new air suspension system include automatic all-round self-levelling suspension. This ensures that, even with a heavy load, the same spring travel is always available. Furthermore, while the vehicle is on the move this system works in a speed-sensitive manner and automatically lowers the body by 15 millimetres at both axles from a speed of 140 km/h in order to reduce drag and enhance ride stability. Below a speed of 70 km/h the body is raised to the normal level again.
Front axle: four-link system with a host of advantages
Improved road roar and tyre vibration characteristics, safe handling up to the critical limits, sporty agility and precise directional stability -- these dynamic driving plus points of the new E-Class are due not only to the innovative AIRMATIC DC but also in considerable part to advances in axle technology.
At the front axle the Mercedes engineers have replaced the double wishbone system of the previous model with a sophisticated four-link system which allows further improvements in terms of wheel location, steering precision and comfort.
Two separate links (torque strut and spring link) take over the tasks of the lower wishbone and allow even better axle kinematics and even more precise location of the wheels. Vibrations as a result of tyre imbalance or fluctuations in the braking force can be compensated for more effectively in this way than with the rigid lower link level at the front axle found on the previous model. The lower spring link and the torque struts share responsibility for wheel location with triangular control arms in the upper area of the front axle. The two link levels are connected to one another by steering knuckles. The fourth component, which gives the four-link axle its name, comprises the track rods.
The safety specialists at the Mercedes Technology Centre also provided an important reason for opting for the four-link system: in a head-on collision it offers greater deformation in the area of the lower link level. Because the individual axle components demonstrate a better deformation capability than the conventional triangular control arms, the kinetic energy in a collision can be absorbed more effectively.
The steel-sprung model versions of the new E-Class are fitted at the front axle with coil springs, single-tube shock absorbers and a torsion bar stabiliser. The Mercedes engineers have increased the size of the rubber mounts for the springing and damping elements, creating even further reductions in road roar and tyre vibration compared to the previous model.
Steering: variable-ratio rack-and-pinion system
On the new E-Class the gearing of the rack-and-pinion steering is situated in front of the centre of the wheel and therefore in a position which, on bends, supports the easily controlled, understeering effects of the Mercedes Saloon. The power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering has a variable ratio which operates slightly more indirectly in the central area than in the outer positions. As an extra feature Mercedes-Benz offers speed-sensitive power steering which continuously reduces the steering torque below 100 km/h according to the speed of the vehicle. This is made possible by an electronically controlled valve: the lower the speed, the greater the amount of power assistance. Hence parking requires only half the steering force needed on the motorway, where the speed-sensitive power steering ensures excellent road contact. The E 320 and E 500 models are fitted with this feature as standard.
The electric steering wheel heating is new at Mercedes-Benz. It is offered as an optional extra which noticeably enhances ride comfort in winter, making the grip on the steering wheel more pleasant. The heating is activated by pressing a button on the steering column and it warms the rim of the steering wheel with an output of around 100 watts very quickly. After around seven minutes the system automatically reduces the heating output and switches itself off fully where the interior temperature is high.
The figures: the most important chassis data for the new E-Class
The wheelbase of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class has increased in comparison to the previous model by 21 millimetres to 2854 millimetres. This not only benefits ride comfort, but also improves axle load distribution by around six percent (for example on the E 240). This gives the new Saloon higher traction at the rear axle. The track width has increased by 35 millimetres at the front and 34 millimetres at the rear.
New E-Class
Previous model
Wheelbase mm
2854
2833
Front track mm
1577
1542
Rear track mm
1570
1536
Turning circle m
11.4
11.3
Wheel size*
7.5J x 16
7J x 15
Tyre size*
225/55 R 16
205/65 R 15
*for example for the E 240 CLASSIC
The steering column in the new E-Class is adjustable for height and reach as standard. If the driver pulls back on a handle below the steering column, the steering wheel can be moved upwards by 25 millimetres, forwards by 25 millimetres or backwards by 35 millimetres. As an option these adjustments can be performed by electric motors. These also move the steering column to a convenient position for getting in and out of the vehicle when the driver removes the electronic ignition key -- an action which gives the electronics the signal that the driver wishes to exit the car.
Rear axle: multi-link independent-suspension rear axle and subframe in aluminium
The basic design of the rear axle of the new E-Class is unchanged. For good reason: the multi-link independent suspension technology, proven in practice at Mercedes-Benz since 1983, is still unsurpassed. In the opinion of the engineers in Sindelfingen, it offers the best properties when it comes to wheel location, comfort and ride safety -- and still has great potential for the future.
This is demonstrated by the various advances which have been made on the new E-Class, centring on targeted modifications of the axle geometry and on the use of cutting-edge materials. Specifically, in order to further boost the high dynamic driving qualities of the multi-link independent-suspension axle the guiding strut was placed in a new position. It is now situated behind the centre of the wheel and this position supports the safe, understeering effect of the Saloon even better than the previous installation position in front of the centre of the wheel.
Aluminium replaces the previous material steel: if the E-Class leaves the assembly line with the AIRMATIC DC air suspension, all five rear axle links are made of forged aluminium, which allows a weight saving of over 30 percent. On the steel-sprung models, Mercedes-Benz has four of the five links made of aluminium -- only the spring link is made of sheet steel. The rear axle carrier is a new development which is characterised by more compact dimensions and - thanks to the use of aluminium - reduced weight.
On the model versions with steel suspension Mercedes-Benz uses coil springs and gas-pressure shock absorbers at the rear axle. Torsion bar stabilisers are also part of the standard equipment here. In the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line, the body is 15 millimetres lower at the front and rear. Sports suspension with stiffer springing and damping is available as an option for all steel-sprung models of the new E-Class.
Sensotronic Brake Control: large-scale production premiere of the high-tech brake
In the electrohydraulic brake system, Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new E-Class with a milestone in automotive technology -- as standard. No other major series-produced car offers this forward-looking technology. SBC, which celebrated its series-production premiere just a few months ago on the SL-Class sports car, represents a first sortie into the world of trailblazing "by-wire" systems, which no longer transmit the driver's commands mechanically or hydraulically but electronically -- by wire.
The driver's brake command is transmitted electronically to a powerful micro-computer, which simultaneously processes data on the current ride status from a variety of sensors and uses this to calculate and meter the ideal brake pressure for each wheel. This occurs in fractions of a second – and, thanks to the high-pressure accumulator, more quickly and precisely than with a conventional brake system. The vacuum brake booster used to date is no longer required with this system, and the brake pedal and master brake cylinder become a single "operating mechanism" which is hydraulically decoupled from the rest of the system by valves and serves only to record the brake request.
The heart of the new brake is a hydraulic unit below the bonnet, which, in addition to the electronic control unit, also combines the wheel pressure modulator, the accumulator and the electric pump:
Microprocessor In addition to the data on the operation of the brake pedal, sensor signals relating to other electronic assistance systems are collected here: ABS supplies information on the speed of the wheels, ESP® provides data from its steering angle, rotational speed and lateral acceleration sensors and the electronic management systems for the engine and transmission transmit the relevant engine or engine braking effect and the current driving stage via a high-speed data line. These calculations result in high-speed brake commands which ensure the highest degree of deceleration and ride stability for each particular driving situation. SBC calculates the braking force for each wheel individually.
High-pressure
accumulator
The high-pressure accumulator contains the brake fluid which flows into the system at a pressure of 140 to 160 bar. The SBC computer regulates this pressure and also controls the electric pump connected to the accumulator. This ensures short response times and a rapid build-up of pressure.
Hydraulic unit This SBC component essentially consists of the four wheel pressure modulators. They meter the brake pressure according to requirements and pass it to the brakes. The specifications of the microcomputer are implemented in this manner and each wheel is individually braked in such a way as to ensure ride stability and the greatest possible deceleration. Four pressure sensors in the wheel pressure modulators and one pressure sensor each for the hydraulic accumulator and for the brake commands monitor the processes.
SBC offers significantly enhanced ride safety in emergency situations
The most important characteristics of the Sensotronic Brake Control include the extremely high dynamism with which pressure is accumulated and the precise observation of driver and vehicle behaviour using sophisticated sensors. With these features, the innovative system offers a significant plus in terms of ride safety. Examples:
* On emergency braking SBC recognises a quick switch by the driver from the accelerator to the brake pedal as an indication of an emergency situation and reacts automatically. With the aid of the high-pressure accumulator, the system increases the pressure in the brake cables at lightning speed and applies the pads to the brake discs, which can then act immediately with full force when the driver steps on the brake pedal. As a result of Brake Assist, which also triggers earlier, and the ABS control, which operates closer to optimum wheel slip during braking, the stopping distance from a speed of 120 km/h is shortened by around three percent.
* Where there is a risk of skidding SBC collaborates with the new E-Class's Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), which keeps the vehicle safely on track using specific brake impulses at individual wheels and/or by reducing the engine torque. Here too SBC makes full use of the advantages of higher dynamism and precision: as a result of even more rapid and even more finely metered brake impulses from the high-pressure accumulator, ESP® can stabilise a swerving vehicle early and, at the same time comfortably. This also reduces the steering effort required on the part of the driver, who, thanks to support from SBC and ESP®, now has less difficulty in keeping the car on course.
* In the wet Sensotronic Brake Control ensures, with regular, short brake impulses, that the film of water on the brake discs is wiped off so that SBC can always operate with full effectiveness. This automatic brake drying function is activated at intervals when the windscreen wiper has been operating for a specified time. The driver will not feel the finely modulated brake impulses.
* When braking on bends SBC offers more safety than a conventional braking system. Depending on the ride situation, the variable brake force distribution proves particularly advantageous in actively influencing self-steering of the vehicle. While conventional brake systems always meter the brake pressure at the wheels on the inside and on the outside of the bend in the same ratio, SBC offers the opportunity to apportion the brake force according to the situation. The system automatically increases the brake pressure at the wheels on the outside of the bend, because they can also transmit more brake force as a result of the higher wheel contact forces. At the same time, the brake force at the wheels on the inside of the bend is reduced to benefit the lateral traction forces which are important for directional stability. The result is more stable braking with optimum deceleration.
The new Softstop function improves brake comfort in stop-and-go traffic
The so-called Softstop function is a further comfort feature in the new brake system. This enables the vehicle to come to a stop particularly smoothly without jolting, which is highly appreciated in stop-and-go traffic with frequent traffic lights. Sensitive pressure control makes this possible, as SBC reduces the brake servo action shortly before stopping, thereby preventing the characteristic jolt. The Softstop function is always active – the system only gives priority to rapid deceleration during emergency braking or slow manoeuvring.
In addition to the forward-looking electrohydraulic high-pressure brake, Senso-tronic Brake Control (SBC), and the new air suspension system, AIRMATIC DC, the new E-Class is also, of course, fitted with all other ride safety systems which form part of the standard equipment for Mercedes cars. These are important components of the integral Mercedes safety concept and actively help to prevent traffic accidents: Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), acceleration skid control (ASR), anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Brake Assist (BAS).
Brake system: larger brake discs for even greater safety
The new E-Class has large-format, internally ventilated brake discs at the front wheels. These measure either 295 or 330 millimetres in diameter, depending on the model – in other words, they are up to seven millimetres larger than on the previous model. At the rear axle Mercedes-Benz uses solid disc brakes with a diameter of 300 millimetres. This makes them up to twelve millimetres bigger than on the previous model. On the E 500 the rear brake discs are also internally ventilated. For the first time the front and rear callipers are made of aluminium.
Wheels and tyres: light-alloy as standard
The basic E-Class will be fitted in future with light-alloy wheels and 16" tyres. The standard tyre size depends on the model -- for the E 240, E 320 and E 270 CDI it is 225/55 R 16. The V8 E 500 Saloon has 245/45 R 17 tyres. An electronic control system to monitor the air pressure in the tyres is available as an option. This was previously only available for the E 55 AMG in the E-Class.
Engines and transmissions: Powerful partners
* Premiere for second-generation CDI engine
* Diesel engine with up to six percent more power and torque
* New top of the range V8 engine: E 500
* Fuel consumption reduced by up to 0.9 litres per 100 km in V6 models
* Automatic transmission with modified torque converter lockup
Every current aspect of engine technology had to be scrutinised when it came to selecting and modifying the engines for the new E-Class: fuel consumption, comfort, dynamism, torque characteristics, exhaust emissions. And the Mercedes engineers have made significant advances in each of these areas.
There will initially be a choice of four engines for the E-Class: three petrol versions – with six or eight cylinders and outputs ranging from 130 kW to 225 kW – and one CDI power plant, with five cylinders and an output of 130 kW. Mercedes-Benz will be further extending the line-up at a later date.
CDI engine: more output, more torque, lower consumption
Mercedes-Benz is unveiling the second generation of leading-edge common-rail diesel engine in the new E-Class. This engine first appeared in the Stuttgart manufacturer's passenger cars in 1997. Numerous aspects of the five-cylinder power plant has been modified: the engineers have newly developed some 80 components to fulfil ambitious development aims with respect to torque, power output, fuel consumption, emission characteristics, comfort and reliability.
Bottom-end pulling power and flexibility in the CDI Saloon has been substantially improved by increasing the maximum firing pressure from 145 to 155 bar and by optimising the in-cylinder gas cycle.
Like the V8 diesel engine in the S-Class, the five-cylinder power plant is now fitted with a VNT turbocharger with electrically adjustable guide vanes. This technology enables even more dynamic and precise supercharging than the previous vacuum-controlled system . The guide vanes are adjusted in line with a map stored in the electronic engine management unit. This ensures optimum VNT turbocharger opera- tion, whatever the situation on the road. The effect of this is a faster build-up of the charge pressure at low revs, and therefore substan- tially more pulling power.
The exemplary torque characteristics of the new E 270 CDI with five-speed automatic transmission clearly illustrate the impact of these measures: 205 Newton metres are available at just 1000 rpm, while the five-cylinder engine sends 350 Newton metres to the crankshaft from a mere 1400 rpm. This is equivalent to more than 82 percent of the maximum torque of 425 Newton metres.
Metered high-pressure pump reduces consumption by up to 0.4 litres
The common-rail system has a high-pressure pump that ensures even more precise and efficient metering, thus substantially reducing the specific fuel consumption of the diesel engines. Based on the NEDC cycle, the new model's fuel consumption per 100 kilometres is 0.4 litres less than that of its predecessor.
Another important feature of the second-generation common-rail engine is the newly developed seven-hole injector nozzle which replaces the previously used six-hole nozzle. The new injector enables a 20-percent reduction in the size of the nozzle hole diameter. Not to mention a 14-percent cut in the fuel flow rate which is now just 380 cubic centimetres every 30 seconds. As a result, the fuel is even more finely dispersed in the combustion chambers and carburetion is improved. Particulates now account for a much lower percentage of the CDI engine’s exhaust flow. However, the greater flow restriction – due to the smaller nozzle holes – prolongs the injection period, which has a particularly adverse effect when power delivery is high. This is why the Mercedes engineers have increased the injection pressure from the previous level of 1350 bar to 1600 bar, thus shortening the injection period.
Double pilot injection ensures even lower noise
The leading-edge common-rail technology also gave the Stuttgart engineers the opportunity to make further progress in the field of low-noise operation. The key here was pilot injection: one special feature of Mercedes-Benz CDI engine is the two-phase fuel injection system which the engineers use to neutralise the higher noise generated in direct-injection engines, as opposed to their indirect-injection counterparts. Just a few milliseconds before actual fuel injection takes place, a small amount of diesel is injected into the cylinders. This diesel then ignites, thus preheating the combustion chambers. This provides a better basis for the subsequent main-injection phase, since fuel ignition is faster in the preheated cylinders. Therefore, pressure and temperature no longer rise as abruptly as is the case in engines without pilot injection. This has a favourable effect on combustion noise.
Double pilot injection enabled the Mercedes engineers to perfect this principle in the second-generation CDI engine. The powerful solenoid armature in the new 1600-bar injectors allows considerably shorter intervals between pilot injection and main injection. This now means that a small pilot quantity flows into the combustion chambers twice in quick succession – within a millisecond -- so as to ensure even better pre-heating. The difference is audible: combustion noise has been dramatically reduced once more.
Petrol engines: dynamism from six or eight cylinders
Initially Mercedes-Benz is equipping the new E-Class petrol models with the tried-and-tested, high-torque V6 and V8 engines. These are among the world's most sophisticated power plants in this particular displacement class. The V-engines boast a host of classic Mercedes innovations that ensure low fuel consumption, low exhaust emissions and exemplary torque characteristics: Three valves per cylinder to optimise the in-cylinder gas cycle and combustion as well as to ensure faster heating of the catalytic converter after a cold start; phased dual ignition for precise and effective combustion; cylinder liners made of aluminium and silicon to reduce engine friction; state-of-the-art lightweight construction based on aluminium and die cast magnesium, to reduce engine weight; switchable intake module, to increase bottom-end torque and optimise power characteristics.
The new top-of-the-range E-Class – the E 500 – is equipped with the V8 engine from the S-Class. This means the new saloon can call upon impressive power reserves for rapid acceleration – from standstill and in any gear – and for fast motorway driving. The E 500 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds, thus delivering performance on a par with a sports car. In terms of acceleration, the E 500 is 0.5 seconds quicker than the former top-of-the-range V8 E-Class (E 430). Equally exemplary is the eight-cylinder model's flexi- bility across the entire engine speed range. There are 428 Newton metres on tap from just 2240 rpm. This equates to 93 percent of the maximum torque of 460 Newton metres, which the engine provides from 2700 rpm and maintains until 4000 rpm.
Adaptive drive system automatically recognises individual driving styles
A newly developed system which recognises individual driving styles, before adapting the drive characteristics of the petrol engines accordingly, further adds to the scintillating, dynamic driving experience. If the driver frequently depresses the accelerator hard, thereby repeatedly requiring hard acceleration from the vehicle, the engine computer recognises a brisk, sporty style of driving and reacts by adjusting the characteristic curve of the accelerator, and therefore the opening characteristics of the throttle flap. At 120 km/h in third gear, for example, the E 500 achieves an effective acceleration of more than 80 percent with the pedal at only half of its maximum travel – if the style of driving is more comfort-oriented this acceleration potential is only reached at 75 percent of the pedal travel.
Output boosted by five kW in the new E 240
The V6 engines in the new E-Class have either 2.6-litre or 3.2-litre displacement, delivering 130 kW and 165 kW respectively. This means that the E 240 develops 5 kW more than the preceding model, making the Saloon even more agile and torquey. The new E 240 completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, making it 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessor. The V6 engine is capable of providing some 75 percent of its torque from just 1500 rpm and of developing 95 percent of its maximum torque at between just 3000 and 4000 rpm. Maximum torque – 240 Newton metres – arrives at 4500 rpm. In other words, the power plant beneath the bonnet of the E 240 provides high power reserves over a wide engine speed range, making it ideal for agile driving. Fuel consumption comes in at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the five-speed automatic version and 10.7 in the manual transmission version (NEDC combined consumption), giving the new E-Class an advantage of up to 0.6 litres over the preceding series.
Fuel consumption of the E 320 reduced by 0.9 litres per 100 km
For those who desire even more driving pleasure, the 3.2-litre engine in the new E-Class delivers a maximum torque of 315 Newton metres, available between 3000 and 4500 rpm, enabling the E 320 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds and from 60 to 120 km/h in a mere 8.6 seconds. Furthermore, with a fuel consumption of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption), the new E 320 is also one of the most economical saloons in its power category. This represents a fuel saving of 0.9 litres per 100 kilometres, when compared with the preceding model.
Mercedes-Benz has developed a sophisticated emission control system to satisfy the strict requirements of the European EU-4 and American ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicles) emissions standards. It predominantly consists of air-gap-insulated manifold lines, firewall and underfloor catalytic converters and four oxygen sensors. In the V6 engines, the exhaust gas flows through air-gap-insulated manifold lines to the twin-pipe manifold outlet. This outlet connects to two firewall catalytic converters. The twin-pipe design of the exhaust system continues until a few centimetres behind the underfloor catalytic converters.
The figures: the most important engine and performance data
The petrol engines have outputs ranging from 130 kW to 225 kW. The new Saloons consume 0.9 litres less fuel per 100 kilometres than the predecessor models. The output of the diesel engine has risen by 5 kW compared with the predecessor model, while maximum torque has been improved by up to six percent. At the same time, fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 0.4 litres per 100 km (NEDC).
E 240
E 320
E 500
E 270 CDI
Cylinders/valves per cyl.
V6/3
V6/3
V8/3
R5/4
Displacement cc
2597
3199
4966
2685
Power output .... kW
130
165
225
130
Max. torque Nm
at rpm
240
4500
315
3000- 4500
460
2700- 4000
400
1800-
2600
Consumption* l/100 km
11/7.4
11/6.6
12.5/7.6
10/5.4
0- 100 km/h s
8.9
7.7
6.1
9.0
Top speed km/h
210**
210**
250**
210**
Automatic transmission: now with torque converter lockup in first gear
The tried-and-tested five-speed automatic transmission – with electronic control, two shift programs and torque converter lockup clutch – is fitted as standard in all E-Class models. The Touchshift system provides superlative operating comfort for more performance-minded motorists, changing gear in accordance with the driver's individual wishes. The Mercedes engineers have extended the operating time during which the torque converter lockup clutch is engaged, both to further improve vehicle agility when moving off and to reduce fuel consumption. Torque converter lockup is now possible in any gear – even first gear – whereas, before, it could only be engaged in third, fourth and fifth. Torque converter lockup reduces the slip that usually occurs between the pump and the turbine wheel, thereby improving mechanical efficiency and enhancing fuel economy.
Mercedes-Benz E 240
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 6/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 2597
Bore x stroke mm 89.9 x 68.2
Rated output kW/hp 130/177 at 5700 rpm
Rated torque Nm 240 at 4500 rpm
Max. engine speed rpm 6300
Compression ratio 10.5 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor controlled fuel injection with hot film airflow sensor (HFM)
Power transfer
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Ratios 1st 3.95
2nd 2.42
3rd 1.49
4th 1.00
5th 0.83
Rev 3.15
Final 1.93
Suspension
Front axle Four-link suspension, McPherson struts, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle Multi-link independent suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system Electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control, front disc brakes internally ventilated, solid rear disc brakes, drum parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering Power-assisted rack-and-pinion, steering damper
Wheels 7.5 J x 16 ET42
Tyres 225/55 R 16 95V
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2854
Track front/rear mm 1577/1570
Overall length mm 4818
Overall width mm 1822
Overall height mm 1452
Turning circle m 11.4
Boot capacity max.* l 540
Kerb weight acc. to EC kg 1570
Payload kg 535
Gross vehicle weight kg 2105
Tank capacity/reserve l 65/9
Performance, fuel consumption 5-speed automatic
Acceleration 0-100 km/h sec 9.1
Max. speed km/h 210
Fuel consumption AS2877 l/100 km 11.0/7.4
*acc. to VDA measuring method
Mercedes-Benz E 320
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 6/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 3199
Bore x stroke mm 89.9 x 84.0
Rated output kW/hp 165/224 at 5600 rpm
Rated torque Nm 315 at 3000-4800 rpm
Max. engine speed rpm 6300
Compression ratio 10.0 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor controlled fuel injection with hot film airflow sensor (HFM)
Power transfer
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Ratios 1st 3.95
2nd 2.42
3rd 1.49
4th 1.00
5th 0.83
Rev 3.15
Final 1.93
Suspension
Front axle Four-link suspension, McPherson struts, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle Multi-link independent suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system Electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control, front disc brakes internally ventilated, solid rear disc brakes, drum parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering Power-assisted rack-and-pinion, steering damper
Wheels 7.5 J x 16 ET42
Tyres 225/55 R 16 95W
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2854
Track front/rear mm 1559/1552
Overall length mm 4818
Overall width mm 1822
Overall height mm 1452
Turning circle m 11.4
Boot capacity max.* l 540
Kerb weight acc. to EC kg 1645
Payload kg 525
Gross vehicle weight kg 2170
Tank capacity/reserve l 80/9
Performance, fuel consumption 5-speed automatic
Acceleration 0-100 km/h sec 7.7
Max. speed km/h 210
Fuel consumption AS2877 l/100 km 11.0/6.6
*acc. to VDA measuring method
Mercedes-Benz E 500
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 8/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 4966
Bore x stroke mm 97.0 x 84.0
Rated output kW/hp 225/306 at 5600 rpm
Rated torque Nm 460 at 2700-4250 rpm
Max. engine speed rpm 6300
Compression ratio 10.0 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor controlled fuel injection with hot film airflow sensor (HFM)
Power transfer
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Ratios 1st 3.60
2nd 2.19
3rd 1.41
4th 1.00
5th 0.83
Rev 3.17
Final 2.82
Suspension
Front axle Four-link suspension, fully supporting air suspension system with AIRMATIC DC level control, anti-dive
Rear axle Multi-link independent suspension, fully supporting air suspension system with AIRMATIC DC level control, anti-squat and anti-dive
Braking system Electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control, front disc brakes internally ventilated, solid rear disc brakes, drum parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering Power-assisted rack-and-pinion, steering damper
Wheels 8 J x 17 ET38
Tyres 245/45 R 17 95W
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2854
Track front/rear mm 1567/1560
Overall length mm 4818
Overall width mm 1822
Overall height mm 1430
Turning circle m 11.4
Boot capacity max.* l 530
Kerb weight acc. to EC kg 1725
Payload kg 525
Gross vehicle weight kg 2250
Tank capacity/reserve l 80/9
Performance, fuel consumption 5-speed automatic
Acceleration 0-100 km/h sec 6.1
Max. speed km/h 250
Fuel consumption AS2877 l/100 km 12.5/7.6
*acc. to VDA measuring method
Mercedes-Benz E 270 CDI
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 5/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 2685
Bore x stroke mm 88.0 x 88.3
Rated output kW/hp 130/177 at 4200 rpm
Rated torque Nm 425 Nm at 2000 rpm
Max. engine speed rpm 4750
Compression ratio 18.0 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor controlled fuel injection with hot film airflow sensor (HFM)
Power transfer
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Ratios 1st 3.60
2nd 2.19
3rd 1.41
4th 1.00
5th 0.83
Rev 3.17
Final 2.65
Suspension
Front axle Four-link suspension, McPherson struts, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle Multi-link independent suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system Electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control, front disc brakes internally ventilated, solid rear disc brakes, drum parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering Power-assisted rack-and-pinion, steering damper
Wheels 7.5 J x 16 ET42
Tyres 225/55 R 16 95V
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2854
Track front/rear mm 1559/1552
Overall length mm 4818
Overall width mm 1822
Overall height mm 1452
Turning circle m 11.4
Boot capacity max.* l 540
Kerb weight acc. to EC kg 1665
Payload kg 535
Gross vehicle weight kg 2200
Tank capacity/reserve l 65/9
Performance, fuel consumption 5-speed automatic
Acceleration 0-100 km/h sec 9.2
Max. speed km/h 210
Fuel consumption AS2877 l/100 km 10.0/5.4
*acc. to VDA measuring method
Standard Equipment E-Class
E240 and E270 CDI –"Classic" Package
Comfort
* Active Service System (ASSYST PLUS – displays distance to next service based on the car’s operating data)
* Air Conditioning with electrostatic dust and pollen filter. 100% CFC free. Individual temperature control for driver and passenger. REST mode can warm cabin with residual heat when engine is off.
* Alloy Wheels – 16 inch, 6-hole design.
* AM/FM radio/single cassette with 10 speakers and integrated phone dialling keypad – aerial integrated into rear window
* Armrests front (with air conditioned storage compartment and rear ventilation) and rear (with slide-out cupholders)
* CD Changer – six stack
* Comfort fit seat belts on front seats
* Driver adaptive 5-speed automatic transmission with touch shift feature.
* Electronic cruise control and variable speed limiter (Speedtronic)
* Engine "touch-start" function
* nternal lighting in footwells, door openers and rear vision mirror
* Front seats with electric height and backrest adjustment and mechanical lumbar adjustment
* Genuine wood trim – Calyptus Linea (centre console, doors and dashboard)
* Headrests adjustable up/down and fore/aft front and rear. Rear headrests electrically foldable from the front, for improved rear vision when rear seats are unoccupied
* Heated rear window
* Heated side mirrors electrically adjustable, with integrated direction indicators
* Interior lighting front and rear, switches on when car is unlocked. Boot lighting and rear facing open door illuminating lights.
* Leather TWIN upholstery. Combination genuine leather and leatherette.
* Mobile phone pre-installation for Nokia 6210 * - includes hands free system. Phone to be sourced separately. ( * Nokia 6310 suitable only from July produced vehicles)
* Multi-function steering wheel (controls for audio, trip odometer vehicle settings, telephone (if fitted), navigation (if fitted))
* Outside temperature gauge
* Power-assisted steering with safety steering column
* Power windows with one-touch open/close function (front & rear). Remote opening and closing with car key.
* Remote boot lid release from passenger compartment or car key.
* Remote central locking system with interior switch and crash sensor for automatic opening. Rolling code signal protects from transmitter cloning
* Storage compartment underneath front seats
* Tinted safety glass all around with integrated windscreen band filter
Safety
* Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
* Brake Assist (BAS – automatic brake boosting in emergency situations can shorten braking distance by up to 45%)
* Brake pad wear indicator
* Child proof locks on rear doors
* Darkness activated headlights
* Electronic Stability Program (ESP – prevents wheel slippage when accelerating and swerve of vehicle on slippery surfaces by automatic braking of individual wheels)
* Engine immobiliser with electronic drive authorisation system (ELCODE)
* Front, side and window airbags. Front airbags with 2-stage release, inflation dependent on accident severity and occupant weight.
* Halogen front fog lamps, rear fog lamp
* Load anchor points in boot
* Seat belts with emergency pre-tensioner and belt force limiter for front and outer rear seats (front seats with 2-stage belt force limiter).
* Seat occupancy sensor (prevents front passenger airbags and emergency pre-tensioner from deploying if seat is unoccupied)
* Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC tm)
* Speed dependant, infinitely variable rain sensing windscreen wipers with tip function
E 320
As per E240 and E270 CDI including additional:
* 16 - inch alloy wheels, 13 - hole design
* COMAND system incorporating navigation and DVD Player (Navigation DVD included). Available from Jan 03 all other vehicles to be retrofitted by dealership when released.
* Elegance package
* ull leather upholstery
* Memory seat package (3 memory positions for power front seats, steering wheel and side mirrors. Passenger side mirror adjusts to enhance curb parking view when reverse gear is selected)
* Metallic paint
* Parameter steering (speed dependant)
E500
As per E320 including additional:
* 17-inch alloy wheels, 13-hole design, with wide tyres.
* Dual automatic climate control with activated charcoal filters for eliminating odours, solar sensor and rest mode. Additional ventilation outlets in B-Pillars.
* Glass electric sunroof with lifter
* Airmatic DC (dual control semi active air suspension)
E55 AMG As per E500 including additional:
* AMG 18 inch alloy wheels with wide tyres
* AMG braking system
* AMG door sill panels
* AMG instrumentation
* AMG sports steering wheel with integrated gearshift buttons
* AMG enhanced Airmatic DC sport suspension
* AMG styling package (includes front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron)
* AMG exhaust with twin chrome exhaust pipes
* AMG Sport front seats – incl multi-contour backrest an seat heating
* Bi-Xenon highlights for outstanding brightness and wider range with cleaning system (high pressure jets) and dynamic adjustment to compensate for heavy loads
* Nappa leather upholstery
* Black birds eye maple wood trim
"Elegance" Package
* 16 inch alloy wheels – 13 hole design (17 inch on E500 / 18 inch on E55 AMG)
* Anti-dazzle rear view mirror
* Burl walnut interior trim with chrome highlights
* Extending and bi-folding sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors.
* "Elegance" interior and exterior trimmings
* Exit lamps in doors (ground illumination
* Leather-bound steering wheel and gear shift lever
"Avantgarde" Package
* 16 inch alloy wheels– 5 Spoke Design (17 inch on E500 / 18 inch on E55 AMG)
* Anti-dazzle rear view mirror
* "Avantgarde" interior and exterior trimmings
* Black birds-eye maple interior trim with chrome highlights
* Exit lamps in doors (ground illumination)
* High pressure headlight washing system
* Extending and bi-folding sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors.
* Leather / Cloth combination upholstery ( Full leather upholstery – E320 and E500 )
* Leather-bound steering wheel and gear shift lever
* Lowered sports suspensio
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