All models in the range have sports-themed AMG-inspired body styling, including 19-inch AMG 10-spoke alloy wheels as standard. The new models have undergone a style update and now have contoured headlights, a new radiator grille and front bumper. The E 300 presents like jewellery and moves through the air like a beautiful private jet. It's as comfortable and lovely to drive as well – Mercedes-Benz' agility control suspension and passive selective dampening system give the car plush stability, even over some of Sydney's most pothole-heavy roads.
The heart of the E-Class presents alongside fashion and culture's current obsession with "intelligent-luxe". Our car was equipped with the Innovation Package, which brought a new range of gesture-based and intuitive functions. From a little light that sits above the passenger seat and detects when the driver reaches across (say when you're getting something out of the glove box or your handbag) to the Siri/ Alexa-like MBUX AI voice assistant that is highly advanced when it comes to controls, the E-Class has so many pleasant technologies (and a few party tricks to impress passengers) that make life on the road more comfortable and safer.
Even with the 12.3-inch digital touchscreen, a swipe-and-tap controller and, for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz, "hands-on detection" embedded in the steering wheel means you can control so much more in the car from the cockpit, without the danger of distraction. Our car's Vision Package also brought added safety of an Augmented Reality head-up display. This new advancement overlays navigational data directly at eye level, making inner-city navigating a dream.
The cherry on top of the tech is that all E-Class models have Active Parking Assist, a 360° camera, wireless phone charging and ambient interior lighting with 64 colours. Our E 300 had privacy glass, keyless entry, hands-free access to the boot and LED high-performance headlights with Adaptive High-Beam Assist.
In terms of safety, it's hard to go past Mercedes-Benz' unbeatable Driving Assistance Package Plus, which is standard in the E-Class. It includes the semi-autonomous Active Distance Assist and Active Stop-and-Go Assist. Plus, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic detection, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Evasive Steering Assist and Route-Based Speed Adaptation. Like its toasty seat warmers, once you experience this level of comfort, it's hard to go back. Don't say we didn't warn you.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pricing (MRLP) ranges from $96,900 to $250,400, at Mercedes-Benz.
