The Mercedes-Benz E-Class gets a major facelift
There are very few nameplates that hold as much heritage and recognition as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Its first-generation models made their way to the market back in 1993 and have since dominated the sedan segment. Of course, times are changing, and sedans are slowly losing their demand. Despite the odds, Mercedes-Benz does believe that their facelifted E-Class will have all the right tools to keep this niche market alive. The latest E-Class will be available in Sedan, Coupé, and Cabriolet models and we recently spent a brief time with the entire range at the local media launch.
In terms of model specifications, the sedan range will be offered in E200, E220d, and Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC+ models. The E200 gets a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 145kW of power and 320 Nm of torque. The diesel variant, the E220d gets a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that produces a respectable 143kW of power and 400Nm of torque. At the top of the range, Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ will get a monstrous 4.0-litre V8 Biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers, which will deliver 450 kW of power and a maximum torque of 850 Nm. It completes its 0- 100 km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds, the E63s is simply brutal.
The coupe and Cabriolet range will get offered in E200, E300, and E53 4MATIC+ models. The humble E200 and E300 models both get powered by 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine but will offer different outputs. The E200 will deliver 145kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-100 time of 7.5 seconds. The E300 which features the engine will deliver a quicker 190kW of power and 370 Nm of power, its sprint time from 0-100 sits at 6.4 seconds. The top of the range E53 4MATIC+ models will both be offered in an electrified 3.0-litre 6-cylinder in-line engine and will produce a whopping 320kW of power and a peak torque of 520 Nm. It capable of dashing from 0-100km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
The front section of E-Class Sedan has become more of its own in terms of appearance. Many have criticized its previous generations for looking eerily like its C-Class sibling. The front gets featured with two chrome louvres and vertical high-gloss black struts providing a sporty and elegant appearance. The Sedan’s rear further benefits from a new bumper, split tail lamps, and a new boot lid. In terms of design modifications to the front sections of the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet, its headlamps will be flatter and more redefined. The ‘A-shape’ design of the new diamond radiator grille adds a sporty touch to its appearance. South African models will come featured in the AMG line as standard for all Coupe and Cabriolet models.
The cabin of all E-Class models will come equipped with a completely new steering wheel with touch controls and two large display screens as standard. The latest state-of-the-art MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system will come standard across the range. The MBUX system will include the all-popular ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control and will house a number of features. A new feature called Urban Guard will come featured on the E-Class and will offer all-round surveillance of the parked vehicle. This includes functions like warnings for collision damage warning, tow-away protection, and anti-theft.
The E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet models will come with five Dynamic Select drive programs - Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. While sedan model gets up to six ranging from - Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and RACE (standard in the S version). Those who can get behind the latest Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ will benefit further from Drift Mode. When Drift Mode is activated, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ changes from all-wheel drive vehicle to rear-wheel drive vehicle.
Pricing
Sedan
E200 R920 000
E220d R984 000
E63 S 4MATIC+ R2 423 000
Coupe
E200 R1 036 000
E300 R1 131 000
E53 4MATIC+ R1 618 000
Cabriolet
E200 R1 164 000
E300 R1 268 000
E53 4MATIC+ R1 756 000
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Celebrates 140 Years with an Epic Glob and the Mercedes-Benz Gla.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cost in South Africa?
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz E-Class range starts from around R950,000 for the base E200 sedan, while the diesel E220d will set you back approximately R1,100,000, and the flagship Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC+ commands a hefty R2,800,000 for all that twin-turbo V8 madness.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class worth buying in 2024?
The E-Class remains one of the best luxury sedans you can buy if you want that perfect blend of comfort, performance, and prestige, plus the facelift brings updated tech and styling that keeps it competitive against the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.
Q: Which Mercedes-Benz E-Class engine should I choose?
The E220d diesel is the sweet spot for most buyers, delivering 143kW and excellent fuel economy for long-distance cruising, while the E200 petrol works well for city driving, and the E63 S is pure overkill unless you need 450kW of German fury.
Q: How reliable is the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Mercedes has sorted out most of the electrical gremlins from earlier generations, and the new E-Class comes with a comprehensive 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan, making it more reliable than previous models but still requiring proper dealer servicing.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The E-Class goes head-to-head with the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Jaguar XF, and Volvo S90, but none quite match Mercedes' combination of luxury, ride quality, and that unmistakable three-pointed star prestige factor.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the facelifted Mercedes-Benz E-Class is absolutely worth buying if you're after the best luxury sedan under R1,200,000 in South Africa. The E220d at around R1,100,000 delivers the perfect balance of performance, fuel economy, and that unmistakable Mercedes luxury that makes every drive feel special. Sure, sedans might be losing ground to SUVs, but the E-Class proves there's still magic in a well-executed three-box design with 143kW of smooth diesel power and interior quality that puts most competitors to shame. Just avoid the E63 S unless you've got R2,800,000 burning a hole in your pocket and a serious need for 450kW of twin-turbo madness.
