The Mercedes-Benz E-Class range of sedans was introduced here in its current generation in 2016. Updates to the range were introduced in November 2019.
Why an E-Class? There are many Mercedes-Benz fans who are of the opinion that is possibly the finest product of all in the Merc line-up today. It has exceptional ride quality to rival that of the larger and more-expensive S-Class, and it has great presence too.
The range
The current E-Class sedan range can be categorised by the three different engine offerings. In the entry-model E200 the engine is a 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit producing 145 kW and 320 Nm of torque.
Performance is brisk rather than electrifying, but the 0-100 km/h time of 7,5 seconds and top speed of 240 km/h are hardly tardy! Claimed fuel consumption is 6,5 litres/100 km, and the price for the entry-level 200 is R874 600.
Next up is the 220d, priced at R935 200. The power output in this turbo-diesel is very similar to the petrol model at 143 kW, while torque is up at 400 Nm. 0-100 km/h is slightly faster at 7,3 seconds, while top speed is also 240 km/h. Claimed consumption is
The top engine model in the sedan range is the 350d, costing R1 180 880. This has an impressive 2,9-litre straight-six turbocharged diesel engine, with 210 kW and 600 Nm on tap. 0-100 km/h is 5,7 seconds, top speed if 250 km/h and claimed fuel consumption is 5,4 litres/100 km.
Trim levels
There are four trim levels that can be ordered for the E-Class. These are standad, Exclusive, Avantgarde and AMG-Line.
Alternative E-Class body styles
The E-Class is well-known as being a staple of the Merc sedan line-up. However, the E-Class is also available in two-door coupe form and as a two-door cabriolet.
Accessorising your Mercedes-Benz E-Class
When buying a new Merc E-Class you will no doubt be enticed by the sales person into opting for one of the more expensive trim packages. There is also a lengthy options list that you can peruse. Bear in mind that all many of these options can have a huge impact on the price of an E-Class.
Quite apart from the listed options and various trim packages, Mercedes-Benz also offers a comprehensive range of accessories that can be retro-fitted to an E-Class. These fall under various categories, and all of them are designed to enhance the ownership experience. The important bit about adding Mercedes-approved accessories is that they will be designed to harmonise with the style of the car, and won’t affect any warranties.
You can also add accessories to a pre-owned E-Class
The nice thing about Mercedes-Benz’s wide range of accessories is that enables you to retro-fit these items. These are particularly suitable to the base-model trim variants in the range. It may interest you that the E-Class range has been around since the late 1970s, and pre-owned models are very popular on the used car market because of the high-level of ride quality, engineering and body shell rigidity and durability. Also, these Mercs tend to age well as they have generally been bought by conservative owners who tend to adhere to servicing schedules. AutoTrader currently lists some 300 New and Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class models for sale.
Our Top 5 E-Class Sedan accessories
1. AMG 5-Twin Spoke Wheels
It’s logical to start here because a set of personalised wheels is the most common upgrade made by motorists regardless of where they live or what car they own. In the case of the wheels we have selected here, these would be most suitable for adding a sporty touch to the entry-level 200 model. The more expensive models tend to have fancier wheels as part of the deal. This AMG Twin-Spoke wheel is quite eye-catching and comes in 19-inch diameter. The front wheels are 8J by 19 while the rears are 9J by 19. An ideal time to fit special wheels would be when replacement tyres are due.
2. Spoilers
Mercedes-Benz offers two very discreet spoilers as an accessory add-on. Both the roof spoiler and the boot spoiler are made of high quality polyurethane and come in primer ready for a paint match to your car. They are attached by high quality double-sided tap, so no drilling is required, and thus their fitment doesn’t have to be added into the vehicle documentation.
3. Aluminium roof bars
We are big fans of adding a quality roof rack on an E-Class, as they add a sense of “implied adventure” to the vehicle. Mercedes says these are of a very aerodynamic design with optimised wind noise levels. They are crash tested and lockable, being designed to fit the roof of the E-Class. Obviously these are ideal for transporting bicycles and luggage boxes, these accessories also being available from Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
4. All-weather floor mats
We highly recommend the fitting of these rugged all-weather floor mats. Such mats have been a staple on the Merc accessory menu for decades, and one of AutoTrader’s staff members drive’s a 35-year-old Benz with these all-weather mats fitted. Both the mats and the floor carpets beneath still look brand new!
5. Tablet mount for rear passengers
This is a very clever holder, attached to the rear of the front seat backrest and adjustable through 360 degrees for horizontal or vertical use. They are suitable for Apple and Samsung tablets. However, you need to check with your dealer if your car has been pre-fitted with a special Entertainment and Convenience compatibility package, to be able to use this.
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