Mercedes officially unveils its new E-Class, a model that is so important for a stellar firm that, despite the passing years, retains a certain aura of evolving with the times and without any real quirks.

E-Class is probably the very essence of Mercedes, the car that most symbolizes the brand’s conservatism. With this new generation, unsurprisingly, the E-Class spins like it’s on rails while trying not to step on the toes of its electric cousin, the EQE.

Mercedes E-Class (2023): change not to change

The evolution of the Mercedes E-Class goes through the design without touching the proportions, which remain quite classic. Even the differences in size compared to the previous model are minimal: only 2 cm less in length (4.92 meters), 6 cm more in width (1.91 meters) and 1.47 m in height (-1 cm).

The wheelbase is now 2.93 meters, which is about 22 mm more than the previous generation. This small increase obviously leads to more capacity on boardeven if the real revolution in the cabin – as we will see – concerns equipment and technology.

As for the appearance, the front end has become more modern thanks to the new design of the LED headlights, which are integrated with the radiator grille. For once, we can’t blame Mercedes for launching a copycat at this level, as it differentiates itself from the C-Class and S-Class quite well.

On the sides, there is a rather prominent and elegant power line, with alloy wheels up to 21 inches for the sportiest version. Behind it is more consensual. The light signature is quite funny and resembles the star of the brand logo.

Mercedes E-Class (2023): interior for everyone

However, inside it is a small revolution compared to the previous model with the introduction of the Mercedes Superscreen. The central screen is housed in a single element that extends continuously to the right door, also includes, as an option, a second screen located in front of the front passenger. On the other hand, digital instruments will be displayed on a third screen located above the steering column. Below the central touchscreen is a series of buttons to facilitate access to certain functions.

Another important innovation will be the presence of a single processor for managing the infotainment system, which centralizes commands for faster execution. It is also a solution to minimize the use of semiconductors, that famous part that many manufacturers today lack due to worldwide shortages. The steering wheel also changes and adopts the style of the most modern Mercedes, with split horizontal branches and the placement of several labels.

Mercedes also includes a new Burmester 4D audio system with additional Dolby Atmos technology. Ultra-high-quality sound, which is complemented by a system of active outdoor lighting that changes to the beat of the music.

The infotainment system has been significantly improved, with 5G connectivity, “Hey Mercedes” voice prompts and artificial intelligence capable of autonomously learning the driver’s preferences, from seating position to infotainment settings.

Looking at the top of the dashboard, we see a small camera. It will be used not only for the fatigue monitoring system, but also for filming the driver during video conferences. This system works only when the car is stationary.

The MBUX system also includes part of video games. This will allow you to play Angry Birds, with other games planned later. On the other hand, if you can’t do without the Internet and social networks, the Vivaldi browser and the TikTok app will also be available from the launch of the car. Thanks to the remote update, other programs should appear.

Finally, Mercedes is also introducing the Zync system, an entertainment software developed specifically for cars, with various integrated streaming services. Worried that it might distract the driver? It’s okay, because the passenger’s screen, if it broadcasts distracting content, “filters” the images and won’t make them visible to the driver.

Mercedes E-Class (2023): engines

In terms of the engine, Mercedes E-Class works exclusively on electrified units. There are two micro-hybrid engines with a 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinder from 204 hp and 320 Nm and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel from 197 hp and 440 Nm. The diesel version may also get an all-wheel drive version.

The versions that should interest customers the most are obviously the plug-in hybrids. Mercedes offers two versions. There will be a 300e E-Class with combined power 312 hp and 550 Nm of torqueand E-Class 400e p 380 hp and 600 Nm.

The Stuttgart-based firm has not announced hybrid diesel versions, but the brand has told us that a 300 version should be announced in the coming months. Not surprisingly, it should be based on what is already known on the GLC, with 335 hp. and 750 Nm and more than 100 km of all-electric range.

In addition, the regenerative braking function has been improved and now has a maximum regenerative power of 100 kW, the system automatically controls its intensity according to the movement. Of course, the driver can control the system with the paddles on the steering wheel and even enjoy “one pedal” driving.

Mercedes E-Class (2023): expected arrival at the beginning of the academic year

In terms of driver assistance technologies, Mercedes has clearly done everything possible: the AirMatic suspension with adaptive shock absorbers, a 2 cm drop to improve aerodynamics from 120 km/h, rear wheel rotation up to 4.5° or the Attention Assist system with a 3D camera. placed on the instrument panel, which is able to analyze the driver’s face and detect any signs of a stroke…

Prices for the Mercedes E-Class will be announced next July. At the moment, Mercedes has not announced a station wagon version, but there will be one. It will be presented next June.

The first deliveries to France will take place in September next year. Mercedes-AMG versions are also planned, but we’ll have to wait until next year before we can reveal them.