Mercedes introduces ‘made-in-India’ long-wheelbase E-Class

Mercedes introduces ‘made-in-India’ long-wheelbase E-Class

India is the only country to get right-hand drive LWB sedan

Mercedes makes a lot of cars in India. In fact, their Chakan, Pune plant is the only one in the world that makes Mercedes SUVs and sedans side-by-side. More recently, they’ve launched the all-new E-Class in the country; following the C- and S-class to be refreshed and brought in line with the new design language.

In what we believe is a clever move, Mercedes has launched the long wheelbase model in India, in line with what most E-Class owners use their cars for: to be driven around in. The E-Class comprises 34% of all Mercedes cars sold in India to date, so it makes sense for the German manufacturer to tailor the package for their specific clientele. The release stresses the E 350 d model, which uses a 3-litre V6 generating 258hp and 620Nm of torque. The 2-litre E 200 petrol will also be available generating 184hp and 300Nm, though India’s preference for diesel is likely to make it less attractive.

In line with the rear-seat focus, the LWB E-Class comes with “Air Body Control” — Mercedes’ adaptive suspension system, a chauffeur package, a rear seat that reclines 37 degrees and ambient lighting with 64 colour options. The 9G-TRONIC transmission should also make the going quite smooth.

Other features include the now-obligatory LED headlights and tail lamps, Mercedes’ favourite Burmester sound system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control, memory function for front and rear seats (E 350 D), 17" alloys and a world-first touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel. But none of the features compare to the prodigious 134mm of extra legroom for rear passengers. Mercedes has has used almost all the 140mm of extended wheelbase for the comfort of the sahab/sahiba sitting at the back.

Mercedes is also claiming the lowest cost of ownership in the luxury car segment — among its peers — based on an India Blue Book report. The company offers a two-year maintenance package starting at ₹64,700 for the petrol and ₹94,400 for the diesel. If you’re familiar with what a typical European car costs to maintain, you’ll find these numbers to be more than acceptable.

The new long wheelbase E-Class is available now at ₹56.15 lakh for the E 200, and ₹69.47 lakh for the E 350 d (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

Prices (ex-showroom, Mumbai)

Mercedes-Benz E 200: ₹56.15 lakh
Mercedes-Benz E 350 d: ₹69.47 lakh