Mercedes Classe E 270 Cdi test

Intro: EXCLUSIVE, BUT NOT THE PRICE!

It took 48 months and 2 billion euros from Mercedes to develop its new Class E; proof of the importance the constructor is putting on the new model. This investment seem logical when regarding the numbers: the Class E has 1 300 000 copies sold since its introduction in 1995. The Class E has a 24% share of the market in its segment. Despite everything, Mercedes has not introduced any thing revolutionary and this without a doubt is the most distracting. At a moment when the automobile industry is transforming rapidly, the class E seems outdated. On this point, the battle between the three German constructors allows the customer to find more original, also more technical, but also less expensive at BMW and Audi.

Esthetique: IN OPTON, OR NOTHING

To reintroduce this model, Mercedes hasn't done anything revolutionary. The Class E has the rounded headlights, already the signature of the make. Its lines are refined and the radiator grille has been redesigned in the manner of the Class C. The result is this sedan is 4 820mm long and 1 450 mm high, re-affirms a certain idea of elegance, discreet and well liked, in step with the Mercedes cliental. The largest modifications are hidden from view. Using lightweight aluminium and steel sheet metal, has allowed for a 40kg reduction in weight. In the interior, the sensation of luxury dominates, a discreet luxury where the technology is omnipresent. But this ambiance comes at a cost. In fact, Mercedes' politic for option is drastic. An example: a cup holder in the new Class E will set you back 40 euros.

Motorization: ONE OF THE BEST DIESELS IN THE CATEGORY

The model tested came equipped with a five cylinder, turbo diesel common rail 2.7L, one of the best in the category. Coupled with a five speed automatic transmission, developing 400Nm of torque, available very early, at 1 800 rpm, privileged with a large driving smoothness. The motor supports the 1 600 kg without compromising performance and consummation.

On the road: NOTHING TO DECLARE

Difficult to find faults in the Class E. Despite that, its weight becomes its own worst enemy when leaving the highway for the twisty bits. In the tight turns, the weight distribution of the car results in a lack of vivacity and it suffers to re-establish stability. It's one of the rare moments where the Class E finds its limitations. Equipped with ESP, the Class E disposes equally but in option a pneumatic suspension named Airmatic that regulates a bit of the problem without erasing it completely.
The sound damping, the smoothness of the motor accompanied by the automatic transmission creates a sensation of comfort that brings naturally a ride without forcing the rhythm; we can imagine the type of customer for this type of car. The electro hydraulic system SBC that assists in braking is a gift handed down from the roadster SL where it is standard. It has an exceptional response that very much helps in the case of emergency braking.