2016 Mercedes E-Class W213: Base Model Dash Revealed
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the interior of the 2016 E-Class W213, highlighting a new dashboard layout for the base model and a range of display options.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the interior of the 2016 E-Class (W213), offering an early glimpse at the dashboard layout for the base model before the car’s full debut at the Detroit motor show in January 2016. The new E-Class aims to set itself apart with a blend of classic Mercedes design cues and updated technology, particularly in its approach to dashboard displays and interior trim options.
First Look at the 2016 E-Class Base Model Dashboard
Dashboard Display Setups Across the Range
Mercedes is introducing three distinct dashboard display setups for the new E-Class, catering to a variety of buyer preferences. The base model is equipped with classic twin analogue dials for the instrument cluster, flanking a 17.8cm (1,000 x 600 pixel) central digital display. This setup provides essential driving information in a format familiar to long-time Mercedes owners, while also incorporating a touch of modernity through the digital centre screen.
In the centre of the dash, a 21.3cm (960 x 540 pixel) infotainment screen is standard, handling audio, vehicle settings, and optional navigation functions. This approach keeps the base interior straightforward and uncluttered, appealing to those who prioritise simplicity and ease of use over cutting-edge digital features.
For buyers seeking more advanced technology, Mercedes offers a 12.3-inch widescreen central display as an option, which can be paired with the classic analogue dials. At the top of the range, the E-Class features two 12.3-inch high-resolution screens integrated under a single glass panel. This creates a fully digital cockpit, with customisable layouts and display styles such as Classic, Sport, and Progressive, providing a more immersive and futuristic driving experience.
| Specification | Instrument Cluster | Central Display | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Twin analogue dials + 17.8cm display | 21.3cm infotainment screen | Traditional look, optional navigation |
| Mid-range (option) | Twin analogue dials + 17.8cm display | 12.3-inch widescreen display | Larger central screen, enhanced features |
| Top spec | Dual 12.3-inch digital screens | Dual 12.3-inch screens (single glass panel) | Fully digital, customisable layouts |
Interior Lines, Seat Options, and Materials
The interior of the new E-Class is designed to sit stylistically between the smaller C-Class and the flagship S-Class. Mercedes is offering several trim lines to suit different tastes and budgets: standard, Avantgarde, Exclusive, AMG Line, and a designo option. Each trim brings its own seat designs and material choices. For instance, the Avantgarde and AMG Line feature sportier seat bolsters and finishes, while the Exclusive and designo trims focus on luxury, with higher-grade materials and more elegant detailing.
One notable feature available across the range is the optional Active Multicontour Seat package. Borrowed and refined from the S-Class, this package includes advanced massage functions and seat ventilation, ensuring comfort on long journeys. This highlights Mercedes’ focus on both luxury and technology, even in the E-Class segment.
- Standard: Classic twin-tube dials, 17.8cm central display
- Option: 12.3-inch widescreen central display with classic dials
- Top spec: Dual 12.3-inch digital screens under single glass panel
What the New Dash Means for Buyers
Buyers of the entry-level E-Class will notice a clear improvement in screen size and resolution compared to the previous generation, even though the fully digital instrument panel is reserved for higher trims or as an option. The base dash layout is designed for those who appreciate the familiarity and clarity of traditional analogue instruments, while still benefiting from a modern infotainment interface. This modular approach allows Mercedes to appeal to both tech-focused buyers and those who prefer a more classic look, making the E-Class accessible to a wider audience.
The flexibility in dashboard and interior options means buyers can tailor the E-Class to their preferences, whether they prioritise technology, comfort, or a blend of both. As Mercedes continues to update its model range, the E-Class remains a key model, offering a preview of the brand’s evolving interior design language and technology strategy.
