'Made in India' Mercedes-Benz E-Class L launched; prices start at Rs 56.15 lakh

Mercedes-Benz at an event today announced its all-new E-Class sedan in India. As a first, the new E-Class sedan will also be manufactured in India which also makes it the first made-in India vehicle from Mercedes-Benz. Called the E-Class L, the new model packs in extra space with prices starting from Rs 56.15 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai).  The ‘L’ in the model name stands for long wheelbase. With that said, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class L measures 5,063 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, 1,494 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 3,079 mm. What you get with the one and only L model is 205mm more space than the outgoing model. But just space is not what Mercedes is giving its customers. The mode features different driving modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual) where the Individual driving mode allows for customisation. Using the new mode, customers can set ‘individual’ preferences for engine response, suspension stiffness (or softness) and even the gear change response as well.  The E-Class L also offers ‘Air Body Control’ for better riding comfort .  Inside, there is a 12.3-inch infotainment system that supports Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Completing the entertainment package is a 13-piece Burmester surround sound audio system.  At the event Roland Folger, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented that India is more of a chaffeur driven market, so it made sense to introduce the new E-Class with a longer wheelbase. The sedan will be available in two variants, E 200 and E 350 d. There’s a 2.0-litre petrol engine that develops 181bhp and 300Nm and a 3.0-litre V6 diesel burner that develops 255bhp and 620Nm. You won’t be shifting gear in these behemoths because a 9-speed automatic comes standard. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class L comes with ABS, EBD and other safety features including 7 airbags. The vehicle rides on 17-inch, 10 spoke alloy wheels. The E 200 is priced at Rs 56.15 lakh while the E 350 d starts at Rs 69.47 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Mumbai).