Mercedes-Benz has introduced the sixth-generation E-Class (V214) in India, with prices beginning at Rs 78.5 lakh for the E 200 petrol variant. The E 220d diesel is priced at Rs 81.5 lakh, while the top-tier E 450 4Matic comes in at Rs 92.5 lakh. Deliveries for the E 200 will commence this week, with the E 220d following around Diwali, and the E 450 set for mid-November. India remains the sole right-hand-drive market for the long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the E-Class, now in its second generation here. Production of this new model has already begun at Mercedes-Benz’s Chakan facility.
Pricing and Competitors
The new E-Class LWB is priced Rs 2.5 lakh higher than its predecessor and significantly outpaces the BMW 5 Series, its closest competitor, which starts at Rs 72.9 lakh. Notably, BMW offers only one LWB model in this segment with a petrol engine in the top-spec M Sport variant.
Engine Options and Performance
The headline-grabbing feature of the E-Class range is the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine in the E 450, delivering 381hp and 500Nm of torque. It boasts a 0-100kph acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds. Additionally, two 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines are available: a 204hp turbo-petrol (E 200) and a 197hp diesel (E 220d). All engines feature a 48V mild-hybrid system that adds 23hp and 205Nm, paired with a 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The E 450 also includes the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, a feature exclusive to this variant.
Exterior Design Updates
In terms of design, the new E-Class is 13mm taller and 14mm longer than the previous model, with a 15mm longer wheelbase. It adopts a striking front-end style inspired by Mercedes’ electric EQ range, featuring a prominent chrome grille with a 3D logo and a gloss-black surround. Other exterior highlights include S-Class-style flush door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, and LED tail-lights with a distinct tri-arrow pattern. Chrome detailing is tastefully applied to the front and rear bumpers, as well as the sides.
Interior and Features
The interior of the E-Class LWB is designed with rear-seat comfort in mind. Passengers in the back benefit from seats that recline up to 36 degrees, along with extendable thigh support, neck pillows, and electrically operated sun blinds. The cabin also features Mercedes’ new Superscreen layout, combining a 14.4-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch passenger display, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
For audiophiles, the car comes equipped with a 730W Burmester 4D surround sound system with 17 speakers and four exciters. An optional Chauffeur Package adds further luxury for rear passengers. Safety features include eight airbags, including a front-center airbag, Level 2 ADAS, and Active Brake Assist, which can now retain the driver’s settings rather than reverting to default.
India-Specific Enhancements
Mercedes has tailored several aspects of the E-Class for Indian buyers, such as placing the spare wheel under the boot floor and using locally sourced side and quarter glasses. The steel spring suspension has also been specially tuned to enhance rear-seat comfort and handle Indian road conditions, following extensive testing in international markets like Spain and Germany.
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