2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The design of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class impresses with its hallmark Mercedes saloon proportions. The elongated bonnet coupled with a coupé-esque roof flowing into a sensual, broad-shouldered tail end creates an exciting silhouette. Short overhangs, long wheelbase and large wheels emphasise the athletic character of the vehicle. The distance from the front wheel arch to the door opening, which is a measure of comfort, is exceptionally large in the case of the new E-Class, thus confirming its unique position.

The taut well-defined flanks display a fresh, stylish and dynamic interpretation of the feature line, which develops from the headlamps and extends over the whole vehicle length. A sculptural reverse curve in the lower region of the doors and in the bumper visually resumes the feature line while ensuring a stylistic tension. Low, stretched-looking side windows, surrounded by high-grade discontinuous aluminium trim around the window outline also contribute to the muscularly stretched vehicle body, which appears to be visually more compact than it actually is. The E-Class thus systematically embodies the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of “sensual purity”.

Front with prestige look

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class clearly shows a muscular front end that boasts a different look for each design and equipment line. The base version features the classic Mercedes radiator grille with the star on the bonnet, as does the EXCLUSIVE line – albeit in a different fashion. The AVANTGARDE and AMG Line models are identifiable by the sports radiator grille with a large Mercedes star as its centrepiece. Each of the radiator grille variants lends the E-Class a distinct character.

Distinctive headlamps

The intelligence of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is reflected also in the headlamps. A characteristic element is the double eyebrow of the reinterpreted daytime running lamps. The face of the vehicle is shaped by distinctive headlamps with a clear-lens design.

The basic version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes with H7 headlamps. Static High Performance headlamps and MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are optionally available. They give the saloon a majestically focused look while featuring an unmistakable design, also by day, with double torch and high-quality modelled details.

A striking feature is the integration of the brand-typical daytime running lamp design in the High Performance and MULTIBEAM LED headlamps. Following the inner contour, it gives a distinctive note to the direction indicators, Coming Home lights, side lights and daytime running lamps. The result is that, in both their night and day design, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class models are uniquely identifiable, standing apart from other vehicles at the visual level.

All the headlamp functions are grouped under a lens of clear polycarbonate with scratch-resistant coating. Like various other design elements, the housing is in black, giving an impression of both quality and depth.

Sporty rear end with stardust

Single-piece tail lights featuring a two-bar design framed by the vehicle body clearly identify the Mercedes-Benz E-Class as a new member of the Mercedes saloon family. Similarly to the front end, the tail lights are equally tautly drawn. The torch design of the tail lights emphasises – also in the night design – not only the characteristic form of the tail lights, but also makes for improved safety.

Optionally available rear lights provide an additional highlight reminiscent of stardust, the Milky Way or the glow of a jet engine. This “stardust” effect is created by an innovative reflector technology with a specially designed surface structure for the tail light and ensures a brilliant appearance. The optionally available rear light uses all-LED technology.

The newly designed rear lights are also brilliant in terms of safety. For example, the light intensity of the brake lamp – and also the direction indicators – varies between daytime and night-time within the legally permissible limits (multi-level functionality).

A black insert in the rear bumper gives the rear end a lighter and therefore sportier look. All equipment lines come with a two-part rear bumper and visible stainless steel tailpipe trims integrated into the bumper (except Basic line).

Interior: Next Level Interior Design

With its emotional design idiom on the one side and intelligent interior architecture as well as highly advanced control and display elements on the other, the interior of the new E-Class ideally embodies the synthesis of the two opposite poles of emotion and intelligence.

The eye-catcher in the comfort-oriented, luxurious interior of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is two displays each with a 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) screen diagonal and a resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels. These merge visually to form a wide-screen cockpit, thus acting as a central element to emphasise the horizontal bias of the interior design of the new E-Class. As the instrument cluster, this wide-screen cockpit contains a large display with virtual instruments in the direct field of vision of the driver as well as a central display above the centre console. A common glass cover results in a modern flat-screen look. The driver can choose between three different styles to select their preferred screen design for the wide-screen instrument cluster: “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive”.

The wide-screen instrument cluster is optionally available with COMAND online. Instead, the entry-level model of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class combines two tube-type round dials and a 17.8 cm colour display cluster (1000 x 600-pixel resolution) with a central display with a 21.3 cm screen diagonal (960 x 540-pixel resolution). The round dials, instrument cluster and central display are installed in a single frame with a high-gloss piano-lacquer look.

The driver can adapt the content of the central display to suit their personal preferences. With the exception of the navigation map (which always fills the complete display area), the central display of COMAND online is divided into a main area for informative graphics and animations (2/3 on the right side of the display) and a supplementary area (1/3 on the left side of the display).

The display can be backlit at night with multicolour ambience lighting – which then makes the wide-screen cockpit appear to float in space.

Touch Control: finger swipes

In a further innovation, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the first ever car to integrate touch controls in the spokes of the multifunction steering wheel. Like the surface of a smartphone, the two buttons are touch-sensitive and therefore respond precisely to horizontal and vertical finger swipes. This enables the driver to control every function of the infotainment system in a simple, logical and ergonomically perfect manner in a minimum of space without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. Having selected the desired function with a swipe, the driver presses the appropriate touch controls to trigger the function. Another four buttons in each switch panel are provided with the familiar functions, such as for volume control and telephone control.

A further input option, familiar from the C-Class, is offered by the Touchpad on the centre console. This, too, allows all functions to be controlled by single or multi-finger gestures (multitouch). The Touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting. The system reads out characters detected by handwritten input so that the driver need not avert their gaze from what is happening on the road. A handrest detection feature makes for added operating safety while helping to prevent incorrect inputs. Three touch-sensitive buttons are arranged behind the Touchpad and can be used to operate key functions quickly and directly (back function, switch to favourites menu, audio quick menu).

In addition, the driver can use the COMAND Controller and LINGUATRONIC voice control to control the infotainment system. They can choose at any time which input method they prefer.

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class can also be controlled by direct buttons, such as for controlling the air-conditioning system or – in another first – for simple activation/deactivation of certain driving assistance systems.

In designing the control and display elements, the aim was not only to logically group the vehicle’s controls and display functions in terms of form and content, but also to upgrade and emphasise them.

New control experience

The various control possibilities are coupled with an all-new control and display concept. The goal was to closely combine intuitive use with a functionally meaningful and also attractive design. The result is that passengers in the E-Class can enjoy a new control experience with high-resolution visualisations and animations. The developers have focused on the use of newly implemented presentation and display techniques to make it easier – i.e. more intuitive – for the driver to register and experience information. For example, animated displays are used to show the mode of action of assistance systems, or of DYNAMIC SELECT. The likewise animated ECO display in the instrument cluster helps the driver to adopt an economical driving style in an easily understandable manner.

The new look also comes with a novel, clearer menu structure that makes functions easier to select and which, in many cases, leads efficiently to the desired outcome in a manner appropriate to the situation. Ergonomics and intuitiveness of use were the key criteria for the developers.

With user experience and connectivity ever more in the spotlight, Mercedes-Benz has set up two new centres to address the digital future: “Digital Graphic & Corporate Design” and “User Interaction”. These centres are closely networked for designing the control and display concepts, i.e. the user interface, for current and future vehicles. This is because, alongside a workplace and private environment, the vehicle interior is increasingly becoming a “third place”, a living area in which passengers can enjoy contemporary luxury. With the new department, Daimler is responding to the global trend of “Digital & Connected Life” and thus the rapid advance of digitalisation in all areas of life.

Focus on information from the Head-up Display

A Head-up Display is a new feature in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. As in a jet fighter, it projects important information directly into the driver’s field of vision on the windscreen, ensuring that there is less distraction from the road ahead. The system provides information on speed, speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from DISTRONIC.

The driver can adjust the height of the virtual image so that it can be easily viewed. On vehicles with seat memory function this feature stores the individual settings. A range of display content can also be enabled or disabled, and the brightness of the display adjusted individually.

Interior as expression of emotion and intelligence

The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class combines the elegance of the luxury class with the modern sportiness of the C-Class. The design idiom of the new executive saloon is characterised by an interplay of strong solid bodies with sculptural surfaces and an avant-garde clarity and extensiveness of control and display zones. This gives rise to an entirely distinctive, contrast-rich Mercedes-Benz design language that optimally reflects the design philosophy of sensual purity.

The horizontal, low-lying trim part of the instrument panel with its elegantly sweeping form and flowing lines creates a visual sense of space. The wrap-around of the wave motion into the door linings provides a continuation of the horizontal emphasis on width with timeless sweeping forms. This is typical of the design of Mercedes-Benz saloons from the C-Class to the S-Class. Four circular air vents as in the S-Class make it additionally clear that the new E-Class is closely focused on the luxury segment.

Above the low-lying trim part is a formally coherent and separate solid body, which is forceful and sporty in appearance, as if the upper part of the instrument panel is floating in space. Free-standing yet successfully integrated, the wide-screen display stands in front of the upper part of the instrument panel. Ultra-flat and smoothly glazed across its entire area, the high-resolution screen is of a uniquely superior quality of manufacture. It lends the interior an avant-garde quality that forms a contrast between the design of state-of-the-art consumer electronics and the classically elegant automotive design of the passenger compartment. With its emotional design idiom on the one side and intelligent interior architecture as well as highly advanced control and display elements on the other, the interior of the new E-Class perfectly embodies the synthesis of the two opposite poles of emotion and intelligence.

Depending on the transmission variant, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes with two differently designed centre consoles. Models with automatic transmission have a straight-through centre console, with a dynamically rising, high connection to the cockpit, by a control panel in a “Black Panel” glass look. Other controls, such as in the doors, also feature the “Black Panel” look. Conversely, models with manual transmission are provided with a centre console in the form of two separate trim parts.

Intelligent material design

Modern and high-grade materials define the both sporty and elegant style of the interior. They include open-pore woods, wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood and a novel metal fabric. The use of authentic materials is also continued in the leather-covered doors and the beltline for selected lines. Another Mercedes hallmark clearly in evidence is the high-quality look and feel created through meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Just as carefully composed is the material and colour concept with various shades of brown, including new attractive colour combinations such as nut brown/macchiato and saddle brown/macchiato.

Lighting atmosphere with 64 colours

The interior lighting makes exclusive use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. The same applies to the optionally available enhanced ambience lighting. With 64 colours, it offers a host of possibilities for personalisation. It adds touches of light, for example, to the trim parts, central display, front stowage facility on the centre console, handle recesses, door pockets, front and rear footwells, overhead console, mirror triangle and tweeters (if the vehicle is equipped with the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system).

Seat design: first class

A further highlight of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is its seats, which create an ergonomic, sculptural impression with their torso form, uniting Mercedes-Benz’s typical suitability for long journeys with a sporty look. The seats are differently designed depending on the line:

• Even the basic fabric version emphasises the luxurious ambience of the new E-Class.
• The sporty bias and adapted contours of the seats for the AVANTGARDE line, the centre sections of which are transversely stitched, put the accent on sportiness with good lateral support and back-ventilation (optional).
• The newly developed seat for the AMG Line impresses with a backrest with sporty side bolsters and a wide shoulder section for added lateral support.
• The EXCLUSIVE line comes with longitudinally stitched centre sections, colour-matched to the overall seat sculpture in fabric/leather combination or nappa leather.

Also available is a diamond-patterned designo seat in the centre section with perforations similar to the S-Class seat and the enhanced lateral support of the sports seat.

Furthermore, the following additional options, among others, are available for the seats:

• Seat Comfort package with electro-pneumatic 4-way lumbar support, manual seat cushion depth adjustment by around 60 millimetres for individual adjustment of the thigh support as well as electric seat angle adjustment. The Seat Comfort package meets the criteria of the German association Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.
• Fully electric seat with Memory package with novel electric seat cushion depth adjustment offering an adjustment travel of 60 mm as a one-part cushion without gap. The package also includes 4-way lumbar support and electronic head restraint adjustment. The controls for seat adjustment, heating and seat ventilation are integrated in the door panel.
• Climatised seats for driver/front passenger with reversing seat ventilation for the front seats; electrically heated seats are also part of the seat ventilation package.
• Active Multicontour Seat package for the front seats. This includes the following functions: Energizing Massage, dynamic seat, multicontour backrest and – new – the active cushion. The scope of functions also includes fast seat heating Plus and a 6-way comfort head restraint that allows the occupant to adjust the side bolsters in order to provide the head with comfortable lateral support.

The functions of the Active Multicontour Seat package in detail:

• Multicontour backrest: allows infinitely variable adjustment of the side bolsters for individual adaptation of the contour of the backrest.
• Dynamic seat: offers additional lateral support when cornering by inflating the side bolsters of the backrest on the outside of the curve.
• Massage functions: have been extended for maximum comfort.

The massage functions include:

• Active Workout backrest and Active Workout cushion – these two new functions call on the driver/front passenger to actively participate by pressing back, thereby helping to strengthen the supporting muscles.
• Hot Relaxing Massage shoulder – treats the occupant to an intensive massage with additional heat, similar to a massage with the application of hot stones. Individual air chambers massage the parts of the shoulder and back in different sequence and intensity.
• Activating Massage and Mobilizing Massage – activate/stimulate tired areas of the back.
• Wave massage – makes a wave-like transition through the backrest into the cushion and, in various intensities and speeds, offers a completely new massage experience for back and bottom.

Further innovations in comparison with the previous model are the heatable armrests for the driver’s door and the centre console as Heat Comfort package.

The rear bench seat in the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon comes with the option of a three-piece backrest. It comes with a 40% – 20% – 40% split and is therefore more versatile than in the previous model series with 60% – 40%. A further innovation is the through-loading feature by folding forward the entire middle 20% portion of the rear backrest. The centre armrest in the 20% portion of the rear backrest houses a stowage box as well as two hinged drinks holders.

In addition, a tablet holder is optionally available for the rear passengers. This holder is accommodated in a shaft on the back of the driver’s backrest above the map pocket. It serves to accommodate the holder and supply the devices with power.

Stowage concept for more interior space

A sophisticated stowage concept with extensive stowage options contributes to carefree travelling. The stowage volume in the standard specification has increased from 26.3 litres for the predecessor to now 27.7 litres (manual transmission) or 34.8 litres (automatic transmission).

Aerodynamics: Reduced resistance

Outstanding fuel consumption figures require great aerodynamic properties. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class has the lowest drag coefficient in its segment. At the same time, the aerodynamics engineers have minimised the wind noise, thereby making the E-Class the quietest saloon in the executive class.

From a speed of about 70 km/h, the aerodynamic drag exceeds the sum total of all other driving resistance factors. Therefore, reducing the drag also helps to lower the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The metric for aerodynamics is the Cd value. Lowering it by 0.01 means one gram of CO2 per km less in the driving cycle (NEDC), while, in terms of average real consumption, it means two grams. Progress on the aerodynamic front has an even more significant effect at higher speeds – especially when driving on motorways. A Cd jump from 0.25 to 0.23 produces a fuel saving of around 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres at a constant 130 km/h.

Mercedes-Benz is setting the pace in the field of aerodynamics and delivers cars with the best drag coefficients (Cd values) in almost all vehicle classes. The new E-Class also follows this tradition: the saloon achieves a drag coefficient of from Cd = 0.23, which makes it the benchmark in the executive class.

Although the frontal area (A) of relevance for drag has risen in the new E-Class from the 2.31 square metres of the previous model series to around 2.33 square metres on account of the increased exterior dimensions, this is more than made up for by the reduced drag coefficient. The drag area (Cd x A) is 0.54 m2, which means that it has been reduced by almost seven percent in comparison with the previous model.

To achieve this goal, the aerodynamics engineers have performed intensive detail work during computer-based airflow simulations and optimisations in the wind tunnel and, based on the results, implemented a series of effective measures.

For example, in addition to the AIRPANEL air control system familiar from the C‑Class (opens and closes the radiator grille while driving by means of adjustable louvres depending on the required cooling), there is, for the first time, a second shutter in the front apron in the air inlet below the number plate. This considerably improves the overall performance of the system.

Further detail measures include:

• aerodynamic design of front and rear aprons
• wheel spoilers at front and rear
• sealing between wheel arches and engine compartment
• new exterior mirrors with mirror base
• extended peripheral sealing of the headlamps with a tight connection to the radiator grille
• aero lip in the bonnet/front bumper joint
• improved sealing of the radiator section and flow properties to make efficient use of the available cooling air
• integral design of the spoiler lip at the rear, taking account of the boot lid and tail light geometry
• optimised underbody panelling concept with larger covers in the area of the front engine compartment
• aerodynamically optimised wheels and tyres

Best-in-class aeroacoustics

A special focus of the aeroacoustics development work was to minimise the wind noise. For example, door/window seals were carried over from the S-Class in order to reduce the high-frequency components of the wind noise. Effective noise insulation also plays a major role in the extraordinarily quiet interior. Optionally available laminated safety glass in the Acoustic Comfort package can lower the wind noise even further.

The result is in terms of wind noise, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class occupies the top position in its segment and is thus the most comfortable long-distance executive saloon. On the wind noise front, it even surpasses many premium luxury-class saloons. This allows effortless in-vehicle entertainment, listening to music, telephoning, use of LINGUATRONIC, including at high speeds.

Powertrain: New engine generation: redefining efficiency

Powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, all equipped with the ECO start/stop function and complying with Euro 6 emissions standard, provide for lively performance and great fun at the wheel – including a newly developed four-cylinder diesel engine.

Initially, the E 200 d models of the new E-Class will be available with an all-new four-cylinder diesel engine, while the E 200 will be powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine and the E 350 d by a six-cylinder diesel.

Further model variants will later be added to the range. These will include the E 350 e. This PLUG-IN HYBRID impresses with its dynamism and efficiency, allowing around 30 kilometres of all-electric and therefore locally emission-free driving. Its four-cylinder petrol engine, in conjunction with a powerful electric motor, gives it a total system output of 210 kW (286 hp) with a system torque of 550 Nm. With this set-up, the E 350 e achieves the performance of a sports car yet consumes less fuel than a small, compact-class car.

Further newcomers will be the E 300 rated at 180 kW (245 hp) with a torque of 370 newton metres as well as the E 400 4MATIC, whose six-cylinder petrol engine will deliver 245 kW (333 hp) with a torque of 480 newton metres.

Further variants will later complete the engine range, including the new four-cylinder diesel unit developing 110 kW (150 hp). The range of petrol engines will comprise four-cylinder versions with outputs ranging from 135 to 180 kW (183 to 245 hp) plus a six-cylinder variant developing 245 kW (333 hp).

All engines for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class are equipped with the ECO start/stop function. The petrol engines meet the requirements of the EU 6 emissions standard, while the new OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine is already configured with future RDE limits in mind.

All-new four-cylinder diesel engine

The new four-cylinder diesel unit marks the birth of a new Mercedes-Benz engine family and opens up new dimensions in efficiency. Despite having a lower displacement than its predecessor, reduced to just under two litres, and weighing around 16 percent less, the new diesel powerplant has an output of 143 kW/ 194 hp, precisely 18 kW more than the previous engine, and, when installed in the E 220 d, delivers an NEDC combined consumption of 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres, which equates to CO2 emissions of 102 grams per kilometre – a figure that until now only significantly smaller vehicles have been able to deliver. On top of all this, the engine is also more compact than its predecessor.

These advantages have a noticeable effect. The lower weight and extra output give more agility and enhanced driving pleasure; its compact dimensions mean that the engine can be used in a range of different powertrain configurations, as well as for all-wheel-drive and hybrid vehicles.

The engine is also already designed to meet future legislation on emissions (RDE – Real Driving Emissions). In future, exhaust gas aftertreatment systems will not only have to meet the prescribed emission limits on the test stand, but also under a wide range of real-life conditions. The WLTP cycle (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure), which is scheduled to supersede the NEDC measuring cycle in future, was another focus of attention during the development phase. Over and above this, the design of Mercedes-Benz’s new diesel engine offers potential for further development in terms of both output range and integration of further technology modules, for example in order to take advantage of the opportunities presented by further advances in electronics.

Further development of tried-and-tested 6-cylinder diesel engine

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class carries over from the previous model series the 6-cylinder diesel engine with 190 kW output and 620 Nm torque. However, the charge-air cooling has been changed to an air/water system. This contributes to increased agility.

The petrol engines: powerful, fast and clean

The BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class combine spontaneous response and high output with efficiency and low emissions. Third-generation direct injection with spray-guided combustion. The system pressure is up to 200 bar, the pressure being variably optimised according to the engine’s mapping. Piezo injectors enable optimal mixture formation with up to five injections per power stroke.

The third-generation direct injection is supplemented by rapid multi-spark ignition (MSI). The MSI system enables up to four sparks to be discharged in succession within one millisecond, creating a plasma with a larger spatial expansion than conventional ignition.

The rapid multi-spark ignition can be controlled to vary both the timing of the sparks and the combustion period to suit the relevant operating point. This provides scope for optimising the centre of combustion and improved residual gas compatibility. This in turn reduces fuel consumption. The result of this is excellent utilisation of the fuel with minimum emissions.

Nine-speed automatic transmission for more comfort and efficiency

In addition to a 6-speed manual transmission for the four-cylinder petrol engines, Mercedes-Benz offers the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission as standard for all E-Class models. Its broad ratio spread (9.15) for gears one to nine allows an overall reduction in engine speed ‒ a key factor behind the high level of energy efficiency and ride comfort. Shortened shift and response times ensure optimum immediacy combined with outstanding ease of shifting. This is linked to the transmission’s high efficiency, which is a noticeable advantage in terms of fuel consumption.

4MATIC all-wheel drive

For the first time, the E 200, too, will be available with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. It improves traction and driving stability, especially under difficult road conditions. As ever, the combination of the ESP® driving dynamics control system with the 4ETS electronic traction system makes regular differential locks superfluous. This saves weight and noticeably improves handling safety as well as ride comfort.

Suspension: Sporty comfort

The suspension on the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers agile driving pleasure on twisting roads as well as an extremely high level of ride comfort. Unique in its segment is the optionally available AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension.

The saloon comes with steel suspension as standard. Three suspensions are available in conjunction with this:

• comfort suspension with DIRECT CONTROL and selective damping system
• comfortable Avantgarde suspension likewise with DIRECT CONTROL and selective damping system as well as a sportier character, lowered by 15 millimetres
• sporty suspension with continuous, electronically controlled Dynamic Body Control damping adjustment, lowered by 15 millimetres, which replaces the classic sports suspension. The driver can select the damping character between Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus.

No compromises AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension

Alternatively, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class can be equipped with multi-chamber air suspension all round – the only car in its segment to offer this option. Advantages of this system: three chambers of different size in the spring struts of the rear axle and two in the spring struts of the front axle make it possible to control, in three stages, how stiffly the suspension reacts. As, moreover, neither the air spring struts on the front axle nor the free-standing air spring on the rear axle need be responsible for wheel control or, therefore, absorb transverse forces, the passengers can enjoy a soft basic springing that irons out transverse joints in the road, asphalt repairs and other bumps. At higher speeds, they have the safe feeling of high driving stability. A harder spring rate, for example when cornering and braking, effectively reduces rolling movements.

Furthermore, the highly sensitive and fast-responding AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension features all-round self-levelling for excellent ride comfort even with the vehicle loaded. It controls the ride height automatically depending on the speed and reduces fuel consumption on the motorway, for example, by lowering the vehicle. When driving on rough roads or access roads, the ground clearance can also be increased at the push of a button using the ride height adjustment switch.

The multi-chamber air suspension is supplemented by continuous, electronically controlled Dynamic Body Control adaptive damping on the front and rear axles. The damping at each individual wheel is adjusted fully automatically to suit the current driving situation and the condition of the road – such as in the case of evasive manoeuvres or on rough tracks. The system therefore delivers good road roar and tyre vibration characteristics, excellent ride comfort, and outstanding driving dynamics.

What’s more, a DYNAMIC SELECT switch in the cockpit enables the driver to select from four AIR BODY CONTROL modes: “Comfort”, “ECO”, “Sport” and “Sport +”. The additional “Individual” option allows drivers to configure their vehicle to suit their own preferences.

Independent multilink suspension at front and rear

The agile handling is due in large part to the 4-link front axle, which releases the spring strut from wheel control duties. In addition, the four-link principle offers favourable axle kinematics. For example, it allows an improved camber change for higher cornering forces. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. Since the kingpin inclination axis is also close to the wheel centre, this provides for large longitudinal force leverage and keeps the scrub radius small, thus minimising sensitivity to vibrations caused by tyre unbalance and fluctuations in braking force.

As components of the new front axle are made of aluminium, they weigh about two kilograms less than a corresponding steel design. This reduction in weight supports a sensitive response and contributes to the efficiency of the new E-Class.

An optimised multi-link independent rear suspension with 5 links ensures excellent wheel control qualities and supreme straight-line stability. The rear axle carrier and the spring control arms are made of forged aluminium. A large rear axle bearing contributes to improved isolation of vibrations and thus to the good NVH characteristics and ride quality.

Sporty steering feel

All models of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class family are equipped as standard with a sporty, electromechanical Direct-Steer system. It combines speed-sensitive power assistance for the speed-sensitive steering with a steering ratio that varies according to the given steering angle. The power assistance for the rack-and-pinion steering gear is controlled on demand.

Advantages of the electromechanical Direct-Steer system:

• improved agility thanks to more direct steering response
• comfortable handling and high level of steering comfort at all speeds
• savings potential, since energy is required only for steering
• enables the use of assistance systems, such as Active Park Assist

STEER CONTROL provides steering prompts in dangerous situations

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes standard-equipped with the STEER CONTROL steering assistance function. It can help the driver to stabilise the vehicle in difficult handling situations. To this end, the electronics determine in which direction the driver has to steer to defuse a critical situation, and introduces a corresponding steering torque into the steering that the driver feels clearly. In this way STEER CONTROL provides the driver with prompts in which direction to steer in order to stabilise the vehicle. If the vehicle oversteers, the steering wheel provides the driver with the prompt for correct countersteering until the vehicle is safely back on course.

Fade-resistant brakes for short stopping distances

The braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs meets high standards in terms of stopping distance, response, fade resistance, directional stability and service life of the brake pads. Single or 4-piston sliding callipers on the front and rear axles with brake discs whose size is dependent on the engine provide for rapid deceleration. The E-Class comes as standard with ADAPTIVE BRAKE. It offers among other things

• Hill-Start Assist which prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards on hills and thus facilitates starting off
• a HOLD function which keeps the vehicle immobile without having to continuously press the brake pedal
• a brake-drying function which regularly wipes the moisture from the brake discs to make full braking power available at all times
• the priming function, which brings the brake pads into light contact with the disc if the driver suddenly releases the accelerator, and can thus shorten the stopping distance during subsequent braking.

Electric parking brake with Comfort Go

An electric parking brake is provided as standard. Pressing the control beneath the rotary light switch engages the electric parking brake; pulling releases it. The driver can also use the automatic release function Comfort Go. It automatically releases the parking brake when driving off.

Additional functions of the brakes on the new E-Class:

• ESP® Dynamic Cornering Assist offers improved safety in critical cornering conditions. If the ESP® sensors detect an understeering tendency, the system performs specific braking intervention on the side of the vehicle which is on the inside of the bend. This gives rise to gentle rotary movement of the vehicle around the vertical axis.
• The adaptive brake lights can warn vehicles following behind of heavy braking and shorten their reaction time.

Body: Lighter and stiffer

Less weight, excellent stiffness for superb handling coupled with optimum noise and vibration characteristics as well as high crash safety – the bodyshell of the new E-Class provides an innovative base which also facilitates new fuel consumption benchmark figures.

Thanks to intelligent lightweight construction, the body is some 70 kilograms lighter than a conventional steel body. To achieve this, sheet steel and die-cast aluminium are used as materials for most of the bodyshell. The front wings, bonnet, boot lid, and large sections of the front and rear ends are made of sheet or cast aluminium. For example, to increase the local introduction stiffness, the damper brackets at the front are no longer of the usual sheet steel, but of cast aluminium. It was possible to integrate and merge in a single pressure die-cast part several parts that are made up of several steel components in conventional designs. In addition, there was a significant increase in the proportion of ultra-high-strength steel compared with the previous model. This lightweight design reduces fuel consumption and makes for perceptibly sporty and agile vehicle handling.

Other design details include larger cross-sections as well as precisely calculated stabilising beads in the floor and bulkhead. High-strength adhesives are used extensively to firmly bond the parts, which, in turn, helps increase the stiffness of the bodyshell.

Body and bodyshell set a new benchmark in terms of overall vehicle stiffness. As a result, the ambitious goals for driving dynamics and noise level have been exceeded.

Safety takes precedence

The body has been designed for high crash safety. The saloon not only meets all current national and international laws, but also all rating requirements as well as the more stringent internal Mercedes-Benz safety requirements, which are based on what actually happens in real-life accidents.

A high-strength safety passenger compartment forms the core of this concept. It consists primarily of high-strength and ultra-high-strength sheet steel and panels with graduated wall thicknesses designed to withstand specific local stresses. Many segments consist of hot-formed steels, which become very hard as a result of this production process.

The high-strength passenger cell is surrounded by specifically calculated deformation zones which have been extensively field-tested. Thanks to optimised dissipation paths and a combination of aluminium die-cast parts and ultra-high-strength materials, this set-up achieves outstanding crash test results (e.g. Euro NCAP and U.S. NCAP) and guarantees high occupant safety.

An important contribution to pedestrian safety is the active bonnet in the new E-Class. The technical basis is a comprehensive sensor system in conjunction with intelligent algorithms in the airbag control unit, which decides when to trigger. After the pyrotechnical actuators have fired, the bonnet lifts by a noticeable amount at the hinge in fractions of a second to create additional space between the bonnet and the components in the engine compartment.

State-of-the-art headlamps

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes as standard with standard halogen headlamps. These incorporate an energy-saving LED daytime running lamp.

Alternatively, a static LED High Performance headlamp as well as an innovative MULTIBEAM LED headlamp system with Intelligent Light System and adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus are available.

Next-generation driving assistance systems

Mercedes-Benz’s new assistance and safety systems enhance safety, comfort and driver assistance to new levels. Active Brake Assist is fitted as standard. It is able to warn the driver of impending collisions, provide optimum support with emergency braking and if necessary also autonomously apply the brakes. In addition to slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles, it can also detect pedestrians crossing the danger zone ahead of the vehicle. Likewise included as standard are ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, and Crosswind Assist, which can assist the driver by substantially reducing the effects of strong crosswinds to prevent the vehicle from drifting too far off track.

Highlights of the optional Driving Assistance package that make the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the most intelligent saloon in its class include:

• DRIVE PILOT: this system represents Mercedes-Benz’s next step along the road to autonomous driving. As Distance Pilot DISTRONIC, it is not only able on all types of road to keep the car the correct distance behind vehicles in front automatically, it can also follow them at a speed of up to 210 km/h for the first time. This can make life easier for the driver, who no longer needs to operate the brake or accelerator pedal during normal driving and also receives plenty of steering assistance from the Steering Pilot – even on moderate bends. Another unique feature at speeds up to 130 km/h is the fact that, like in a swarm, the system can continue to actively help with the steering by taking account of surrounding vehicles and parallel structures, even if the lane markings are unclear or non-existent, like at road works. The system therefore makes driving much easier, especially in traffic jams or heavy congestion. Another feature that helps to relieve the workload on the driver in such situations is the extended restart function, which allows automatic starting of the vehicle within 30 seconds following a stop initiated by the Distance Pilot DISTRONIC on motorways or similar roads. As the latest generation of the front radar is heated, this additionally increases the availability of Distance Pilot DISTRONIC, especially in wintry conditions.
• Further innovation designed to relieve stress: in combination with COMAND Online, the selectable Speed Limit Pilot subfunction can autonomously adjust the vehicle’s speed via Distance Pilot DISTRONIC in response to camera-detected speed limits, including gantries and signs at roadworks, or speed limits logged in the navigation system, e.g. 50 km/h in built-up areas or 100 km/h on country roads.
• Impressive DRIVE PILOT innovations include an Active Lane-change Assistant. This radar and camera-based assistance system assists the driver when changing lanes on motorway-like multi-lane roads and can steer the vehicle into the lane selected by the driver – when overtaking, for example. Once the driver has indicated to turn for at least two seconds, the Active Lane-change Assistant assists with steering into the adjacent lane if it detects that the lane is unoccupied. Integrated into DRIVE PILOT, Active Emergency Stop Assist can brake the vehicle to a standstill in its lane if it detects that the driver is permanently no longer taking control while on the move. If there is no steering wheel movement over a longer period when the Steering Pilot is activated, the system gives the driver a visual and audible prompt to place his/her hands on the wheel. If, after being repeatedly warned, the driver does not react by steering, accelerating, braking or pressing a Touch Control button, the vehicle safely decelerates to a standstill in the lane and warns the following traffic by means of the hazard warning lights.
• Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function: compared with the standard version, it offers extended speed thresholds with regard to vehicles and pedestrians. Furthermore, it can detect crossing traffic at junctions and, if the driver fails to respond, apply the brakes autonomously. For the first time, it can also detect hazardous situations at the tail end of traffic jams where there is no room to manoeuvre and initiate autonomous braking far sooner in such situations. Consequently, it is possible to completely avoid accidents at speeds up to 100 km/h or substantially reduce the severity of accidents at speeds above this level.
• Evasive Steering Assist: this likewise new system ideally complements the pedestrian detection function of Active Brake Assist. If the driver deliberately or instinctively initiates an evasive manoeuvre in a hazardous situation, this function can add precisely calculated steering torque to support the movement of the steering wheel. This helps the driver to avoid the pedestrian in a controlled manner while subsequently facilitating the straightening-up of the vehicle to allow the situation to be negotiated safely.
• Advanced assistance systems: the intelligent assistance systems in the new Driver Assistance package also include proven systems that have been further developed in terms of their mode of operation and the sensors they use. Active Lane Keeping Assist can help stop the driver from unintentionally changing lane, this being done by corrective one-sided application of the brakes in the case of solid or broken lane markings and risk of collision, e.g. with oncoming traffic or fast overtaking vehicles. Active Blind Spot Assist can now also warn of the risk of a lateral collision in typical urban traffic at low speeds and, in addition, as before, correctively intervene at the last moment to prevent a collision at speeds above 30 km/h and activate the PRE-SAFE® belt tensioners. PRE-SAFE® PLUS can protect against collisions with following traffic and their impacts on the occupants by warning the vehicle behind, activating the PRE-SAFE® belt tensioners and, if stationary, by applying the brakes to stop the vehicle from being shunted. In addition, the functionality of Traffic Sign Assist has been extended to include, for example, a warning of people in the vicinity of zebra crossings and an extended wrong-way warning function.

Furthermore, the range of new features in the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class includes:

• Remote Parking Pilot: for this first time, this system allows the vehicle to be moved into and out of garages and parking spaces remotely using a smartphone app, enabling the occupants to get into and out of the car easily, even if space is very tight.
• Car-to-X communication: in 2013, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to introduce widespread car-to-car networking in the form of a retrofit solution. This is now followed by the logical next step as the world’s first fully integrated Car-to-X solution goes into series production. The mobile phone-supported exchange of information with other vehicles further ahead on the road, for example, can effectively allow the driver to “see around corners” or “through obstacles” well in advance. This means that the driver receives an earlier warning than previously in the event of imminent danger, such as a broken down vehicle at the edge of the road or also in the event of heavy rain or black ice on the road ahead. In this case the new E-Class simultaneously acts as a receiver and a transmitter, since warning messages are conveyed automatically by evaluating vehicle statuses or manually by the driver into the Mercedes Cloud. The Car-to-X warning messages are shown directly on the navigation map. Some warnings are also communicated to the driver by voice output, which is particularly useful where the road layout is unclear.
• PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side: this system is part of the Driving Assistance package PLUS. If a lateral collision has been detected and is imminent, it can move the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone in a sideways direction by way of precaution. To do this, the system inflates an air chamber in the side bolster of the front seat backrest nearest the side of the imminent impact in a fraction of a second, thus increasing the distance between occupant and door and, at the same time, reducing the forces acting on them.
• PRE-SAFE® Sound: this system is based on a human reflex in the inner ear, called the stapedius reflex. PRE-SAFE® Sound emits a short interference signal through the vehicle’s sound system if the risk of a collision is detected. This signal can trigger the natural reflex and thus prepare the occupants’ ears for the expected sound of the accident, in order to reduce the stress on the occupants.
• High-resolution MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, each with 84 individually controlled high-performance LEDs, automatically illuminate the road with a hitherto unsurpassed, precision-controlled distribution of exceptionally bright light – without dazzling other road users. That’s because this grid allows the light distribution of the left and right headlamps to be controlled separately and adapted to the changing situation on the road quickly and dynamically. All functions of the Intelligent Light System in low-beam and high-beam mode can furthermore be depicted purely digitally and without mechanical actuators for the first time, including, as a world first, a purely electronically implemented active light function.
• Digital Vehicle Key: this drive authorisation system uses Near Field Communication (HFC) technology and allows the driver’s smartphone to be used as a vehicle key.

Remote Parking Pilot: Parking – no problem

To make parking easier, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is optionally available with three variants of Parking Assist: Parking Pilot – optionally with 360o camera – as well as the new Remote Parking Pilot.

The Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC Parking Assist and reversing camera makes it easier to find and choose a parking space and also to enter or leave parallel or end-on parking spaces. Both forwards and backwards into end-on parking spaces. It manoeuvres the vehicle automatically into the selected parking space and can steer and brake if an obstacle is detected. If the vehicle is equipped with automatic transmission, the speed is controlled automatically and gear changes are also automatic.

If Parking Pilot is not used for parking or leaving a parking space, PARKTRONIC will monitor the front and rear areas as well as, if possible, the sides of the vehicle. If it detects a risk of collision, it warns the driver.

If Blind Spot Assist is installed, and if crossing traffic is detected behind the vehicle, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert is capable of giving a warning or automatically initiating braking and providing the driver with an audible warning.

With Parking Pilot with 360° camera, all-round vision is made possible by the reversing cameras and three other additional cameras. Observation of the areas to the side and directly in front of the vehicle thus helps during parking and manoeuvring.

The information from Parking Pilot and the cameras is graphically presented in full HD on the display in the vehicle.

Remotely controlled parking by smartphone app

Entering or leaving a tight parking space or parking in the garage can be an ordeal. Such situations are made easier by Mercedes-Benz with a newly available system that makes it possible for the first time to enter or exit a parking space from outside the vehicle: Remote Parking Pilot is enabled by smartphone over a Bluetooth® connection. The app specifically developed for this purpose by Mercedes-Benz can be subscribed to at the relevant app store and activated via the Mercedes me portal.

Also beneficial for people with restricted mobility, the Remote Parking Pilot allows the vehicle to be remotely manoeuvred into a position that makes it easier to get into or out of the car. Parents also benefit, as they no longer need to leave young children waiting near the parking spot or at the side of the road while they manoeuvre out of a tight parking space. With the Remote Parking Pilot, the family can wait safely until the vehicle is in a position that allows them to get in or out safely.

To use this convenience-enhancing system, the driver and their smartphone must be within around three metres of the vehicle. Operation is via a smartphone app (Android, iOS) available for download from the various app stores. The driver must unlock the vehicle before it is moved out of the parking space. He or she can then establish a connection with their already authorised smartphone and fetch the vehicle out of the parking space. Prior to parking, the driver selects one of the relevant parking scenarios – such as parallel or perpendicular parking, left or right, forward or reverse.

The vehicle can then be moved by remote control. The parking scenario is enacted automatically – including steering, braking and direction changes – as long as the driver provides a continuous confirmation gesture on the smartphone. The driver monitors the process from outside the vehicle and still has complete responsibility for their vehicle during the entire parking process.

In addition to the parking scenarios, there is an Exploration mode, which allows the vehicle to be manoeuvred up to fifteen metres forward or backward, avoiding and not touching any detected obstacles as it moves – when driving into a garage, for example.

The Remote Parking Pilot can only operate in conjunction with Parking Pilot PARKTRONIC’s ultrasonic sensors. The system newly developed by Mercedes-Benz is available in conjunction with the optional extras Parking Pilot with 360° camera, KEYLESS GO, which monitors the distance between driver and vehicle, and automatic transmission.

Passive safety: Safe with intelligent systems

True to Mercedes-Benz tradition, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class sets standards in terms of passive safety, too. For example, the PRE-SAFE® protection concept has now been upgraded into all-round monitoring.

Mercedes-Benz has for years been protecting car occupants with its PRE-SAFE® concept in a host of accident situations. The concept includes various measures to move the occupants into the best possible position prior to an imminent impact. Based on findings from its own accident research, Mercedes-Benz has continuously developed this system further and is now incorporating innovations to upgrade it into an all-round monitoring system. For this purpose, the new E-class is equipped for the first time with the new subsystem PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. Together with the familiar PRE-SAFE® protection concepts for frontal and rear collisions, it allows a kind of virtual crumple zone that extends all around the vehicle – PRE-SAFE® 360°.

As only a limited crumple zone is available in the case of a side impact, even before the crash, PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side can move the affected driver or front passenger as far as possible away from the acute danger zone as soon as the system detects that a side collision is immediately imminent. For this purpose, air chambers in the side bolsters of the front seat backrest are inflated in fractions of a second. This impulse can move the occupant to the side, away from the acute danger area and towards the centre of the vehicle, thus increasing the distance between occupant and door. At the same time, the impulse is imparted moderately to the occupant, lessening the forces acting on them during the side impact. This can reduce the forces to which the occupant’s rib cage is subjected during a side collision.

The system is optionally available for the first row of seats as part of the Driving Assistance package Plus.

PRE-SAFE® Sound – protecting the ears against the noise of a crash

With its new PRE-SAFE® Sound, Mercedes-Benz is for the first time making use of a natural reflex to prepare the occupants’ ears for the loud noise normally associated with an accident. The system is based on the fact that the so-called stapedius muscle in our ears reacts to loud noises by contracting in a reflex action. The contraction of this tiny muscle briefly changes the link between the eardrum and the inner ear, providing greater protection against high sound pressures.

Mercedes-Benz uses this natural reflex as biomechanical ear protection for PRE‑SAFE® Sound. This is because an accident can cause noise to which some people have a sensitive reaction. PRE-SAFE® Sound therefore emits a short noise signal through the vehicle’s sound system if the risk of a collision is detected. This signal can trigger the stapedius reflex, which prepares the ears for the noise. And thus lessens the risk of hearing discomfort or damage.

Even more intervention scenarios

So far, the PRE-SAFE® system has reacted as soon as it detects an imminent collision or other hazard – such as because of a shock reaction on the part of the driver, e.g. emergency braking or critical steering wheel movements. Or because of unusual vehicle behaviour, such as over/understeer or substantial intervention by assistance systems. For added safety, the system now reacts to even more intervention scenarios. These include a detected fast switch by the driver from accelerator to brake pedal (shock reaction), critical steering wheel movements, now also at low speeds, a clearly autonomous course correction by Crosswind Assist and a detected, immediately imminent side collision.

Beltbag – clever cross between belt and airbag

Three-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioners and belt force limiters are installed for driver, front passenger and passengers on the outer rear seats. The centre seat of the second row is equipped with a standard 3-point belt system. For the first time, beltbags are optionally available for the outer rear passengers in the E-Class. The beltbag is a combination of seat belt and airbag components – an inflatable seat belt that is capable of widening its belt strap and thus further reducing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. It is used in exactly the same way as a conventional seat belt. In the event of a serious frontal collision, a gas generator on the belt’s end fitting inflates the belt strap to over twice its normal width. This enlarges the belt strap area in the upper body region so that the force is distributed more widely than is the case with a conventional belt.

In addition, a host of airbags provides occupant protection in an accident. These include:

• driver and front passenger airbags
• kneebag for the driver to protect the knees and stabilise the upper body, which positively influences occupant movement in an accident.
• a windowbag in the roof area between A, B and C-pillars for the head area of driver, front passenger and passengers in the outer rear seats
• combined thorax/pelvis sidebags for driver and front passenger, which are able to provide additional protection in the event of a side impact, as well as optionally available sidebags for the outer rear seats

Systematic pedestrian protection

The following measures are implemented for pedestrian protection:

• Active Brake Assist warns if pedestrians are detected in the danger area by the multi-purpose stereo camera and, if necessary, initiates autonomous braking if the driver fails to react to the warning from the system.
• Specific flexibility in the frontal region as well as an active bonnet, which can be raised by 80 mm when an impact is detected, thus creating additional deformation space during an impact.

In the event of an accident

After an accident has occurred, various measures dependent on accident type and severity can mitigate the consequences and make fast rescue possible. These include:

• automatic activation of hazard warning lights
• emergency shut-off of engine and fuel pump
• emergency door unlocking
• emergency call
• disconnection of the 12 V starter cable
• high-voltage switch-off
• emergency switch-off of the air conditioning system
• emergency interior lighting
• ventilation by slightly lowering the front windows by a few centimetres
• exit assistance for the driver by lowering the steering column

Mercedes-Benz emergency call for fastest possible assistance

The E-Class is equipped with Mercedes-Benz emergency call. An emergency call can be made automatically or manually. It is automatically activated as soon as an accident of a certain severity is detected and restraint systems have been triggered. The position data of the vehicle, the chassis number, Mercedes-Benz contact coding, an indicator for automatic or manual triggering, time stamp, language setting of the vehicle and estimated number of occupants are sent to the Mercedes-Benz emergency call centre, which then establishes a voice connection with the vehicle. If there is no response, it immediately alerts the nearest rescue service.

Guidelines for Rescue Services with important information for rescuers

To enable rescuers to work quickly and safely, Mercedes-Benz provides a rescue card for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class in various languages that can be downloaded free of charge. The new E-Class is also equipped with QR code stickers – a small but effective measure with which Mercedes-Benz makes rescuing accident victims faster and safer.

The QR code can be read with smartphones and tablet computers and sends a rescue card for the vehicle model to the display of the rescuers. This card contains all the information needed to rescue casualties quickly.

Infotainment: Very well entertained and connected

An all-new infotainment generation is making its debut in the E-Class equipped with COMAND Online. One of many highlights is the wireless integration of smartphones.

Mercedes-Benz is ushering in a new era of digitalisation and networking in the new E-Class. This includes effortless integration of the smartphone into the vehicle’s infotainment system by means of capacitive aerial coupling and wireless charging. This means that mobile phones can be charged wirelessly and at the same time connected to the vehicle’s exterior aerial. This dispenses with the need to find a plug and connect a cable. Simply place the device on the charging pad at the front of the centre console to connect the smartphone by Near Field Communication (NFC) with the multimedia system. The inductive charging pad has the dimensions 153 x 90 millimetres and is suitable for mobile devices that support the Qi standard. There is another advantage: using Near Field Communication, the customer’s smartphone becomes the digital vehicle key with which the car can be locked and unlocked as well as started.

The wireless charging system functions with all mobile devices which support or can be upgraded to support the Qi standard. The charging pad is integrated into the quick stowage tray at the front of the centre console. A connection is established between head unit and mobile phone via Near Field Communication (NFC) by touching the “NFC” logo. Phone calls can then be made via the Bluetooth® hands-free system.

Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto

If the vehicle is equipped with COMAND Online, it is possible to use Apple’s smartphone-based infotainment system CarPlay® as well as Google’s Android Auto™. If a corresponding smartphone is connected by USB, the customer can, if desired, switch to the CarPlay® or Android Auto interface.

Internet and diverse data sources even in the basic version

In addition to COMAND Online, the Audio 20 USB/GPS infotainment systems are available. Like COMAND Online, they come with a Bluetooth® hands-free system and also have internet capability with a Bluetooth®-capable mobile phone with mobile phone card and data option. This allows internet surfing without restriction when the vehicle is stationary. With COMAND Online, the Mercedes-Benz apps can also be used while driving.

Audio and video playback is possible from various sources with all three variants. For example via Bluetooth® or USB stick. COMAND Online also offers integrated hotspot functionality. It allows passengers in all seats to connect different WiFi-capable devices, such as laptop or tablet computers, to the internet.

Modern-style navigation

The Audio 20 GPS offers entry-level navigation on an SD card. It can be optionally supplemented with the Garmin® MAP PILOT navigation system.

COMAND Online with its own fast 3D hard-drive navigation, topographical map display, photo-realistic 3D buildings and 3D map rotations makes for a special sensory experience. The system presents its content interactively and its features include an animated compass.

Up to the minute: Live Traffic Information

Whereas the familiar Live Traffic Information was previously reserved for COMAND Online, the new E-Class offers this function with the Audio 20 GPS with GARMIN MAP PILOT SYSTEM. Live Traffic Information allows the reception of up-to-the-minute and accurate traffic information, which is updated by the system every two minutes on the GARMIN MAP PILOT SYSTEM or COMAND Online. Taking the current vehicle location into account when requesting traffic information also ensures that the enquiring vehicles receive all the traffic information of relevance to them. The received traffic information is based on so-called “Floating Car Data” ‒ the key technology for precise acquisition of traffic data.

3D sound with concert hall experience

The Frontbass system in the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class delivers a special listening experience as standard. It uses the space in the cross-member and side member of the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers.

The standard audio system has an output of 4 x 25 watts and seven speakers. The Burmester® surround sound system is optionally available for superior listening pleasure. It drives 14 speakers with a 9‑channel DSP amplifier and a total system power of 640 watts. All the speakers are additionally optimised for performance with the premium sound system.

Alternatively, audiophiles can opt for the new Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system. This treats the occupants to a listening experience reminiscent of the acoustics in a concert hall, for this second-generation sound system additionally uses four roof speakers – two in the front and two in the rear area of the roof. The effect: reflections, which come off the ceiling in a concert hall, are incorporated in the same authentic manner into the sound design of the E-Class. By contrast, other 3D sound systems dispense with roof speakers and use appropriate algorithms to simulate a 3D sound.

Apart from 3D Surround, four other preset sound modes can be selected to suit every taste and audio source:

• Pure: audiophile sound reproduction with no additional effects, for unadulterated musical enjoyment
• Live: appealing, dynamic sound background akin to live music
• Easy listening: milder sound background for relaxed listening over longer periods
• Surround: virtual surround sound
• 3D Surround: three-dimensional listening experience provided by the roof speakers

The technical specification of the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system employs 23 high-end speakers with diaphragms of glass-fibre fabric for high level stability, low weight and higher power. Specially developed for their task, the roof speakers are extremely small and flat and radiate sound in all directions. The speaker package includes a 25-litre bass box with its own 400 W amplifier in the boot, two woofer/mid-range speakers in the front doors as well as seven mid-range speakers and ring radiator tweeters of aluminium for precise sound resolution. The tweeters in the front mirror triangle not only fulfil their sound function, but are also design objects: when the sound system is turned on, they revolve out from the mirror triangle into the optimal radiation position. The ambience lighting also transforms them into a visual highlight. Two amplifiers with a total power of 1450 W drive all the speakers individually via separate channels and active crossovers.

A combination of digital and analogue amplifiers contributes to the special listening experience. The analogue technology ensures a warm, round and full sound, while the digital technology uses a separate power supply to produce high peaks in order to enable a high dynamic between the quietest and loudest tones.

As in the S-Class, the sound can be optimally adjusted for every seat position using the so-called VIP setting.

Connected to the car via internet

Under the name “Mercedes me connect “, Mercedes-Benz offers an extensive package of free standard services via a communications module integrated into the vehicle. This module also makes it possible to use the fee-based Remote Online services. The range of services is being expanded continuously.

The free standard services include automatic emergency call (eCall), Accident Recovery, Breakdown Management and Maintenance Management.

The optional Remote Online services allow the driver to connect to their vehicle from anywhere and at any time, to access vehicle information and to remotely activate a variety of functions. The range of functions includes vehicle locating, remote door locking/unlocking and programming of the auxiliary heating. This works both with the Mercedes me app (available for iOS and Android) and via the Mercedes me portal.

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