Just the one engine variant is available (E200), though you can have your refreshed E-Class in three trim levels, from Avantgarde, Exclusive and the range-topping AMG Line
There’s a really good reason why the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been such a segment stalwart since its introduction in 1993 (though its lineage under a different naming convention stretches back to the late ’40s). And that reason is segment-leading comfort, practicality and of course, as a fantastic value proposition.
The new E-Class, fresh from a mid-life update is no different. The changes are largely cosmetic, restricted to a new front and rear bumper design, along with revised headlight and taillight clusters with LED bulbs as standard that Mercedes-Benz says lends the mid-sized executive saloon a more “emotive design”.
While it may not look too different from its pre-facelift predecessor, the E-Class nevertheless has it where it counts. Specifically, in its raft of equipment upgrades. It rolls in with the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system and comes with a pair of 12.3-inch screens (forming the instrument cluster and main infotainment display) housed in a monolithic, freestanding frame as standard.
Also standard is the inclusion of a number of safety and assistance systems, most notable of them being a surround-view camera for parking or manoeuvring in tight spots and a parking assistant function.
Other optionally available items include a driver assistance package that comprises adaptive cruise control and steering assist, plus ventilated front seats.
Just the one engine choice is available for the moment, the E200. Hooked up to a nine-speed automatic gearbox, the two-litre turbocharged mill produces 197 hp/320 Nm, getting it from zero to 100 km/hr in 7.5 seconds. Not scorching by any stretch of the imagination, but more than adequate for most needs.
While there’s only one engine to choose from, the facelifted E-Class does at least come in three differing trim levels – Avantgarde, Exclusive and AMG Line, in ascending order of cost, from S$276,888, S$285,888 and S$295,888 respectively. Prices are inclusive of COE, but exclude any of the aforementioned optional extras.
Key upgrades from the Avantgarde to Exclusive trim level include Nappa leather upholstery, a dashboard wrapped in Artico synthetic leather and walnut wood trim; on top of that, the AMG Line trim includes a sporty bodykit, lowered suspension and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The arrival of the updated doesn’t come a moment too soon, since arch-rivals BMW has also just released its updated 5 Series. Priced from S$257,888, it might seem the 520i has a huge edge in terms of price, though as the base variant, the experience should be a significantly pared-back one over the S$275,888 Luxury variant a step above.
While it’s still too early to say which one will end up the winner in the two-horse race that is the mid-sized executive saloon segment here, one thing’s for certain – the new E-Class and 5 Series will most certainly bolster each manufacturer’s respective sales numbers in 2021.
