Mercedes sedan E400 e in the glance test: The new star of the technology sky

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Mercedes is relying on a lot of technology and digitalization for the sixth generation of the E-Class (214 series). They are available only as a sedan or station wagon. The convertible and coupé will be replaced by the new CLE, positioned between the C and E classes. We’re testing the E400 e 4Matic sedan, a plug-in hybrid with a two-litre petrol engine and e-module.

before trip

With the new E-Class, we are also testing the digital extras of the “Mercedes me” vehicle. To do this, the “Mercedes me” application on your mobile phone is connected to the vehicle. For example, we can pre-heat the car from the couch or have it drive itself out of a tight parking space at the push of a button. The dash cam can also be used to take photos of the road and passengers. However, you need a USB storage medium for this.

But let’s turn our attention back to the car. Our E400 e looks elegant. However, the number of stars on the radiator grille and taillights seems a bit exaggerated and kitsch to us. Inside, as we know from the EQ models, the large screen area attracts our attention. It also includes a combined instrument panel, center display and even an optional passenger display (additional cost: 1,723 francs).

on the street

It starts with a fully charged 19.5 kWh (net) battery, which is initially all-electric. According to the manufacturer, the range is 102 kilometers. We quickly realize that the E-Class cannot do this in the current freezing temperatures. However, we can commute largely using electricity for our daily journeys. When we switch to sport mode or drive with a flat battery, the four-cylinder gasoline engine announces itself loudly. This alone produces 252 hp (185 kW) and 400 Nm, and combined with the electric motor housed in the nine-speed automatic transmission produces a whopping 381 hp (280 kW) and 650 Nm.

that was good

The E-Class gets good marks for its chassis: neither too soft nor too stiff; Just as it should be for an E-Class. Driving assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control or steering assist work perfectly. There is enough space inside for the driver and passengers. Despite four-wheel drive and a battery, Christmas shopping also fits in the 370-litre boot. The similar BMW 5 Series with 4×4 and plug-in drive offers 150 liters more space in the boot, but is also around eleven centimeters longer than the 4.95 meter long E-Class.

he was bad

Our test car costs 115,173 francs. It’s quite steep. But it’s nothing new for German premium manufacturers to ask their customers to pay too much. The driver’s performance is impressive on paper (0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds). But in practice everything looks less spectacular with the support of electric horses. What bothered us a little was that the automatic transmission did not always select the correct gear when the battery was discharged. The interaction between drive and transmission works much safer with E-Power support. The plastic center console does not bother us much because it has a solid structure. But we ask ourselves whether the typical E-Class customer expects wood here.

what remains

Technically, the E-Class impresses us with its infotainment system, chassis and all-wheel drive system. The driving range is a bit confusing: The new E-Class sedan is available with eight different drive options, from pure combustion engine to diesel-powered plug-in hybrid. In addition, a full eight-wheel drive model is also available for the T station wagon model. These also include three “all-terrain versions” with off-road appearance. What about electricity? There is no Class E. Alternatively, EQE is also available, offering six different drivers. This leaves those interested in the E-Class in a difficult position of choice. Our tested plug-in hybrids will be primarily chosen by people who often plan longer journeys without annoying charging stops and who also want to use primarily electric vehicles in everyday life.

Source: Blick