2024 Mercedes E-Class LWB is available in three variants for the Indian market
2024 Mercedes E-Class LWB launched in India with a starting price of Rs. 78.50 lakhs (all prices, ex-showroom) for the E 200 petrol variant. This is the sixth-generation E-Class (V214) in India. The new lineup also includes the E 220d diesel, priced at Rs. 81.5 lakhs and the top-tier E 450 4Matic, available at Rs. 92.5 lakhs.
This latest E-Class long-wheelbase (LWB) model marks a premium offering from the German automaker and is the second-generation LWB version specifically for the Indian market. Local assembly has commenced recently at Mercedes-Benz’s Chakan plant, with deliveries set to start soon.
Pricing and Competition
The new E-Class LWB comes at a starting price that’s Rs. 2.5 lakhs more than its predecessor and Rs. 5.6 lakhs higher than its closest competitor, the BMW 5 Series LWB, which is priced at Rs. 72.9 lakhs. While both models are long-wheelbase variants, the BMW 5 Series is offered in a single, top-spec M Sport variant with a petrol engine, making the E-Class the pricier option in this segment.
Powertrains and Performance
Under the hood, Mercedes offers three engine options for the new E-Class. The flagship E 450 4Matic comes equipped with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 381 HP and 500 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 4.5 seconds. In addition, the lineup includes a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine in the E 200, producing 204 HP and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel in the E 220d, delivering 197 HP.
All three engines are paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system that provides an extra 23 HP and 205 Nm. Power is transmitted via a 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission, with the E 450 4Matic being the only variant to feature Mercedes’ all-wheel-drive system.
Design and Exterior Features
The latest-generation E-Class has grown in size compared to its predecessor. It is 13 mm taller, 14 mm longer and boasts a 15 mm longer wheelbase. The design draws inspiration from Mercedes’ EQ models, with a prominent chrome grille featuring the brand’s iconic 3D logo and smaller three-pointed stars. Other exterior highlights include flush door handles, new 18-inch alloy wheels, and LED tail lamps with a distinctive tri-arrow pattern.
Mercedes has also incorporated India-specific design elements, such as a spare wheel stored under the boot floor and locally manufactured side and quarter glass.
Interior and Comfort Features
The E-Class LWB continues to prioritize rear-seat comfort, offering seats that recline up to 36 degrees, extendable thigh support and comfort neck pillows. Rear passengers can enjoy electrically operated sun blinds for the side windows and control them via the car’s infotainment system. Mercedes’ Superscreen setup dominates the dashboard, with a 14.4-inch central display, a 12.3-inch passenger screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel.
The sedan also comes equipped with a 730W Burmester 4D surround sound system featuring 17 speakers and four exciters, further enhancing the luxury experience. An optional Chauffeur package adds extra comfort and convenience for rear passengers.
Safety and Technology
In terms of safety, the new E-Class LWB includes eight airbags, including a front centre airbag – a first for any made-in-India Mercedes-Benz. Active Brake Assist is now a standard feature and can be customised based on the driver’s preferences.
Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) further enhance safety and the steel spring suspension with selective damping has been specially tuned for Indian roads to offer a smoother ride for rear-seat passengers. Mercedes also tested the India-specific E-Class LWB in Spain and Germany for crash safety and emissions.
