The 11th generation ‘E-Class’ has been enhanced with cutting-edge digital convenience features. Driving the evolved E-Class, we traveled 65km from Seoul Square, the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz Korea, to Paju on the 1st.
The E-Class, which first debuted in 1948 with its first-generation model, has established itself as an essential pillar in the Mercedes lineup through 10 evolutionary phases. In the domestic market, the 10th generation model, launched in 2016, recorded cumulative sales of 200,000 units, making the E-Class the world’s best-selling model.
The iconic triangular emblem of Mercedes sits on a massive grille that embodies the brand’s dynamic yet elegant charm. This dynamism and elegance are mirrored in the rear lamps, which also feature the star emblem, making it easy to recognize a Mercedes from hundreds of meters away even on the darkest nights.
With dimensions of 4,955 × 1,880 × 1,475mm, the E-Class has grown slightly compared to the 10th generation model (4,940 × 1,860 × 1,475mm). The wheelbase has also increased by 20mm, from 2,940mm to 2,960mm. Passengers in the second row will have ample space with a fist’s width of room in front of their knees and two fists worth of space above their heads. The center tunnel in the second row is fairly high, rising up to the wrists. Even sitting in the center of the second row, passengers might touch the ceiling with their hair, but it does not cause any discomfort in neck position.
The first internal combustion engine with a Super Screen has been integrated. A 14.4-inch center display and a 12.3-inch passenger display are seamlessly connected, offering passengers a panoramic view of the digital interface. The Super Screen features the 3rd generation MBUX infotainment system, which serves as a precursor to the MB.OS version, focusing on digitization and personalization, providing daily schedule briefings to the driver.
While waiting at a signal, the vehicle’s surroundings are displayed via camera on the navigation system, guiding the intended direction with augmented reality on the navigation and heads-up display. Even drivers who are directionally challenged will find it hard to stray off course with this augmented reality navigation.
Focusing on the convenience of domestic customers, music content platforms such as Flo and Melon, as well as video content through YouTube and Wavve have been integrated. Additionally, the Zoom application is installed, allowing for video conferencing within the car. This makes the vehicle not just a means of transportation but a combined content mobility space where one can enjoy work and leisure.
A camera embedded in the dashboard tracks the driver’s eye movements. If the driver looks towards the passenger watching a video, the passenger display automatically dims, ensuring that the driver is not distracted.
But that’s not all. Mercedes and T-map Mobility have partnered to integrate T-map Auto starting from the 11th generation E-Class. Now, navigation can be accessed directly through the integrated T-map system without the hassle of connecting Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Additionally, the E-Class card key function is integrated into the Apple Wallet app, allowing users to open and close the car’s doors using their iPhone or Apple Watch. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of forgetting your smart key on the way to work and having to go back home.
The steering wheel rotates 2.1 turns lock-to-lock. The steering response retains the distinctive luxury of Mercedes. It’s slightly firm yet smooth, giving you a sense of pride as if it’s saying, “Did you see that?”
Powered by a 258 horsepower / 5,800 rpm, 40.8 kg.m / 2,000~3,200 rpm, 2-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it performs smoothly in urban conditions filled with noise. Inside, however, all is quiet; it feels like a serene walk in a tranquil forest rather than driving through a bustling city.
At 100 km/h, the engine speed reads 1,500 rpm in 8th gear and 4,700 rpm in 3rd gear. There’s a serene quietness without any noise from the road.
The test vehicle, the E300 4MATIC AMG Line, is equipped with agility suspension. The agility suspension raises the vehicle height by 15mm during high-speed driving, making it optimized for dynamic driving experiences.
Pushing it hard, the suspension firms up, showcasing performance optimized for high-speed driving. At high speed, the wind noise is minimal, barely a tickle in the ears, while the E-Class’s double-glazed windows offer optimal sound insulation.
The driving assistance system, Driving Assistant Package Plus has been added. The active distance assist DISTRONIC, an adaptive cruise control, maintains a safe distance between vehicles and allows for a relaxed drive. Even in sudden traffic or stop situations, it gradually comes to a stop, showcasing its comforting generosity to passengers.
The integrated 360-degree camera is not only useful for navigating tight parking spaces but also detects lane markings on sharp curves, helping maintain the vehicle right in the center of the lane. Furthermore, the active brake assist feature reacts to obstacles on the road at speeds below 100 km/h, ensuring preparedness for any potential accidents.
The new 11th generation E-Class moves beyond the concept of a mere transportation vehicle, allowing passengers to enjoy a variety of content without boredom during their journey while enhancing safety features to prepare for any potential accidents. Mercedes has always been a step ahead of competitors in prioritizing the passenger experience, and this vehicle continues to showcase that commitment. One can only wonder how the next 12th generation E-Class will evolve based on what the 11th generation presents.
The test vehicle is the E300 4MATIC AMG Line, priced at 93.9 million won.
Written by Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr
