ONE of the most popular vehicles to own that’s able to properly portray a high-powered executive is, without any doubt, a Mercedes-Benz saloon.
While many may assume that any model will do from the German carmaker that calls Stuttgart home, only the discerning executive views the E Class as the golden apple of their eye.
Whether the E Class is static or in motion, its combination of poise and opulence is often regarded as perpetual to make it a worthy representation of an executive’s title, successes and accomplishments.
With an asking price of RM326,943 (on-the-road without insurance) for the E 200 Avantgarde and RM375,432 for the more potent E 300 AMG Line, the locally assembled and newly facelifted fifth-generation E Class (W213) brings with it key accoutrements that will suit executives and the like.
Starting with the newly-designed full-LED headlights with daytime running lights, integrated signals and adaptive Highbeam Assist system, long-lasting durability has been paired with reliability in illuminating poorly lit areas.
For a dash of visual athletism, the E 200 now has a newly-designed front hood that comes with a pair of “power domes” as well as sporty lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels (E 300 - 19-inch).
Additionally, the suspension provides ample amounts of compliance to accommodate constant changes in road surfaces and yet is able to keep the ride stable during spirited drives.
Inside, the overall opulence stands resolute by combining a driver-centric design with a neo-classical theme that stems from its previous four predecessors.
Translated, this is where plush comfort meets high levels of practicality and ergonomics for a well-insulated cabin against noise, vibrations and harshness.
Accenting the cabin is the cool feel of satin-finished aluminium that’s contrasted against the heart-warming feel of black open-pore ash wood reserved for the centre console while naturally soft Nappa leather engulfs the multifunction steering wheel.
Plush comfort is omnipresent at the front and rear of the cabin by way of the 10-way powered front seats with three memory functions.
At the rear of the cabin, passengers will enjoy plenty of space along with sunshades that will help keep the glare at bay while access to two Type-C charging ports (two more at the front) keep gadgets and smartphones topped up with power.
The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is housed within one of the two 12.3-inch widescreen displays while the other dedicates itself to being a digital instrument cluster for the driver.
Both screens provide crisp details and vibrant colours to attain high amounts of visibility and legibility.
At the heart of the E Class, the 2.0-litre (1,991cc) turbocharged M274 engine is able to twist out a highly respectable 197PS and 320Nm of torque for the E 200.
For those who opted for the E 300, the same powerplant will punch out a more potent 258PS and 370Nm.
Managing power delivery to the rear wheels is a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters that will help to keep the drive buttery smooth and the engine frugal on fuel.
The E 200 can swiftly sprint from 0 to 100kph in 7.4 seconds (E 300 in 6.2 seconds) before reaching a top speed of 240kph (E 300 at 250kph).
Keeping safety in mind, the E Class has capable brakes that adds a generous amount of confidence while at speed as do the standard inclusions of advanced safety equipment in the form of Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Adaptive Brake Lights and Pre-Safe system among others in helping to alert drivers to unseen potential dangers by preventing or mitigating a collision.
Aside from the usual four-year unlimited mileage warranty that accompanies all Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Malaysia, Cycle & Carriage Mutiara Damansara Autohaus also provides an Extended Limited Warranty Programme for customers.
In addition, the 3S (sales, service and spare parts) centre also provides a workaround for those strapped for time with its Drop & Go service and Cycle & Carriage Door-To-Door Service (30km-limit) before adding peace of mind with its Emergency Car Maintenance and Care service - manned by its Service 24hr Roadside Assistance task force.
The 3S centre’s dedicated Star Assistants will be more than willing to welcome customers to its 40,181sq ft facility that showcases the latest Mercedes-Benz Brand Identity and up to 12 vehicles on its showroom floor.
Last but not least, the centre’s Vehicle Handover rooms are available upon request to hold special occasions.
Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde
Engine: 1,991cc, 4-cylinder, turbocharged
Maximum power: 197hp from 5,500 to 6,100rpm
Maximum torque: 320Nm from 1,650 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Acceleration (0-100kph): 7.4 seconds
Top speed: 240kph
Fuel consumption: 6.9–6.5 l/100km
Features: Airbags, Agility Control suspension, Dynamic Select, LED High Performance headlamps, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Electrically folding and adjustable exterior mirrors, centre console in black open-pored ash wood, multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather, electric sunblind for rear window, reverse camera, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Adaptive Brake Lights, Keyless-Go, Pre-Safe system, Multimedia System Communications module (LTE) for the use of Mercedes me connect services, Mercedes-Benz emergency call system, MBUX multimedia system, Widescreen cockpit, Touchpad without controller, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports in rear with charging function, runflat tyres, tyre pressure monitoring system, 18-inch 5-twin spoke light-alloy wheels
Price: RM326,943 (on-the-road without insurance)
