The first of the imposing Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate models is now on sale in Australia.
'Benz has launched the petrol V6-powered E350 estate with a recommended retail price of $138,100. That's 2.4 per cent less than the superseded model but the German importer says it has $8,400 worth of extra standard equipment.
Magnificently styled like its sedan siblings, the new E-Class estate has many handy features. For starters the tailgate (and luggage cover) open automatically by either the ignition key or rear handle, and the 60:40 split rear seat folds flat via a pull-cable in the luggage compartment without the need to adjust the seat cushions or head restraints (wagon buyers will appreciate that engineering advance).
Mercedes says the E-class' load capacity of 1950 litres is the best in class.
As usual, safety takes a leap forward with nine airbags and the standard ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system. Mercedes' DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and PRE-SAFEBrake are available as options.
The modified McPherson strut/multi-link suspension system includes adaptive damping and air suspension with self-leveling at the rear.
Benz' 3.5-litre V6 has been a long-term favourite and in its latest guise delivers 200kW/350Nm while returning 9.9l/100kms fuel consumption.
While the E-Class Estate is the largest wagon in the premium segment, styling of this latest model with its black B- and C-Pillars and steeply raked D-Pillar makes it appear more compact and sporty…just as you'd expect from Mercedes-Benz.
With the new E-Class sedans and Estates now on sale, you can expect to see the final member of the lineup - the stunning cabriolet - in Australian Mercedes-Benz showrooms from April.
