Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB launched in India for a starting price of ₹78.5 lakh

Mercedes has unveiled the sixth-generation E-Class in India, marking the second generation of the Long Wheelbase (LWB) version in the country. Prices start at ₹78.5 lahks for the E 200 petrol, the E 220d diesel is tagged at ₹81.5 lahks, while the top-tier E 450 4Matic comes in at ₹92.5 lakh. Deliveries for the E 200 are set to kick off this week, with the E 220d arriving around Diwali and the E 450 following in November. 

The new E-Class has grown compared to its predecessor—standing 13mm taller, 14mm longer, and sporting a 15mm longer wheelbase. Up front, it flaunts a chrome grille with a 3D logo and a pattern of smaller three-pointed stars, all framed by a black panel. On the sides, it’s got S-Class-inspired flush door handles and rides on stylish 18-inch wheels. At the rear, the updated LED tail-lamps feature a chic tri-arrow design, while generous chrome accents add a touch of elegance to both the front and rear bumpers.

Inside, the E-Class sports Mercedes' Superscreen layout, which includes a 14.4-inch central display, a 12.3-inch passenger screen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Additional luxuries include a 730W Burmester 4D surround sound system with 17 speakers and 4 exciters and an optional Chauffeur package for extra comfort. 

The E-Class's long wheelbase rear seat is a standout feature. Passengers in the back can recline their seats up to 36 degrees, enjoy extendable thigh support, plush comfort neck pillows, and sun blinds for the quarter glass. There are also electrically operated blinds, all controllable through the infotainment system. 

When it comes to safety, the new E-Class LWB features standard Level 2 ADAS. Notably, it's the first and only Mercedes-Benz made in India to feature a front centre airbag, bringing the total to 8 airbags. Mercedes has also made the Active Brake Assist system standard, with the added convenience of letting users customise its settings, which will stay in place even after restarting the vehicle.

The E-Class is assembled at Mercedes-Benz's Chakan facility in Maharashtra, and the brand emphasises its "Made in India, for India" approach. This long-wheelbase E-Class has been specially adapted for Indian road conditions, featuring India-specific suspension and locally sourced components like glass. 

The real excitement under the hood is with the range-topping E 450, which packs a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 381hp and 500Nm of torque. Mercedes claims it can sprint from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds. The new E-Class also offers two 2.0-litre four-cylinder options– a 204hp turbo-petrol (E 200) and a 197hp diesel (E 220d). All three engines come with a 48V mild-hybrid system that adds an extra 23hp and 205Nm, paired with a 9-speed torque converter automatic.