Mercedes-Benz debuts facelifted E-Class range at Detroit
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its comprehensively updated E-Class family at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, introducing new styling, engines and technology across saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet models.
Mercedes-Benz used the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to give the global premiere of its facelifted E-Class range, unveiling updated saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet models. The refreshed E-Class arrives with new styling, a revised engine line-up and a suite of advanced safety features, as Mercedes-Benz targets its largest single market with a more competitive offering.
Major design changes and new front-end
The facelifted E-Class introduces a completely reworked front section, most visibly in the new headlight design. All functional elements, main beam, indicators and daytime running lights, are now housed behind a single lens. Buyers can choose between two distinct grille treatments: the traditional three-louvre look with a bonnet-mounted star, or a sportier single-bar grille with a large central star, previously reserved for AMG and Sport models. The updated look is applied across all four body styles.
Engine range and efficiency improvements
Mercedes-Benz has revised the E-Class engine line-up to improve both performance and efficiency. The petrol range now includes BlueDIRECT four-cylinder units with spray-guided direct injection, aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Outputs for petrol engines span from 184 hp to 408 hp, while diesel options range from 136 hp to 265 hp. Almost all diesel variants achieve the European efficiency class ‘A’, with the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID reaching the top ‘A+’ rating. The hybrid model combines a four-cylinder diesel with an electric motor for further gains in economy.
Advanced driver assistance and safety features
The updated E-Class debuts a range of electronic driver aids, many drawn from the forthcoming S-Class. Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive brings together systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist, which can intervene with braking to keep the car in its lane, and other functions intended to reduce the risk of accidents. In total, the E-Class offers up to 11 new or improved assistance systems, including collision prevention and adaptive cruise control. These upgrades reinforce Mercedes-Benz’s focus on safety and technology leadership in the executive segment.
US market focus and model availability
The United States remains Mercedes-Benz’s largest single market for the E-Class, and the comprehensively updated range reflects the brand’s commitment to maintaining its position. All four body styles, saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet, will be offered, giving buyers a broad choice. The new models are expected to reach showrooms later in 2013, with full pricing and detailed market specifications to follow closer to launch.
For more on the E-Class and its competitors, see2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift caught undisguised ahead of Detroit debut.
