New Mercedes E-class Estate unveiled

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new E-class Estate, which is scheduled to go on sale in international markets.

Following the C-class Estate’s styling approach, the E-class Estate features a significantly less angular, more flowing look than its predecessor. The front end of the car is identical to that of the E-class Saloon, while there’s greater tapering towards the rear with the tailgate slightly angled. The car is fitted with aluminium roof rails. As with its sedan sibling, there are two separate grille treatments depending on the trim.

The interior of the E-class Estate mirrors that of the latest E-class Saloon, with an optional dual- screen instrument and infotainment system dominating the dashboard. Luggage capacity is at 670 litres with the rear seats up and 1,820 litres with the rear seats folded away, that's 130 litres lesser than the luggage capacity offered by its predecessor. An electric lever in luggage area can be used to automatically fold the rear seat backrests down, although even with the backrests folded, the forward part of the luggage compartment floor is not completely flat.

The car also gets an electric-powered cargo blind and Mercedes’ Easy Pack tailgate with electro-mechanical operation for one-touch opening as standard. There is also an optional remote opening feature that allows hands-free access as part of an improved Keyless Go function. It uses a sensor to allow the tailgate to be opened by motioning your foot under the centre of the rear bumper.

As with the old E-Class Estate, the new model features rear air suspension as standard. It provides automatic self-levelling, allowing a payload of up to 745kg and a towing capacity of up 2,100kg depending on the model. Mercedes-Benz has reworked the tow ball coupling for its latest load hauler, providing it with standard electric control.

At launch, The E-class Estate will be available in international markets with the option of a 2.0-litre 220d diesel engine producing 194hp, and a 3.0-litre V6 350d diesel engine that produces 258hp. The car will rival the new Audi A6 Avant and BMW 5-series. A turbocharged V6 AMG 43 is expected to follow later. The carmaker has also confirmed a seven-seat version of the E-class Estate.