Fifth generation E-Class launched at Rs 56.16 lakh

Mercedes-Benz has launched the fifth generation E-Class today in both petrol and diesel variants. Priced aggressively, The E200 costs Rs 56.16 lakh while the E350d costs Rs 69.47 lakh. The E-Class is an extremely important model for Mercedes-Benz as it contributes to over 30 per cent of the total sales for the German carmaker.

India will be getting only the extended wheelbase variant that can be had with the choices of both, a 4-cylinder petrol and a V6 diesel unit. The 2-litre petrol unit on the E200 makes 181bhp and 300Nm while the 3-litre Diesel engine makes 255bhp and a whopping 620Nm of torque. Both the engines are mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. The 0-100kmph figures are decent too with the petrol clocking it in 8.5 seconds while the diesel is almost quicker by 2 seconds at 6.6 seconds.

The E-Class comes packed with features such as touch-based controls on the steering wheel, reclining rear seats (up to 37 degree) with memory feature, Burmester 13-speaker stereo system integrated with a 12.3-inch infotainment system (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard), panoramic sunroof and parking assist with a 360 degree camera view.

The LWB E-Class is sold only in India in the right hand drive format. Developed specifically for the Indian market, it is the first car ever to be locally produced by Mercedes-Benz. With the next generation BMW 5 Series launching soon on our shores and the Audi A6 expected coming next year, it will be treat to watch how the story shapes up for the luxury car segment from here.