Mercedes Finally Officially Reveals the New E-Class

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

Mercedes-Benz did all it could to keep the 2017 E-Class under wraps, but it was still leaked ahead of its debut. Instead of giving in and releasing all of the E-Class’ details as soon as the leak happened, Mercedes stuck to its guns and released all of the details today.

As you can see, the E-Class has undergone a pretty significant overhaul. The midsize sedan takes on a sportier look than ever before, thanks to its coupe-like roofline, long hood and broad shoulders, all while retaining its elegance. When compared to its predecessor, the 2017 E-Class is 1.7 inches longer and rides atop a 2.6-inch-longer wheelbase.

The interior also received a full redesign for this new model year, and I am on the fence as to what I think about it. The oddest parts are the horizontal lines in the trim that look a tad tacky and the large glass casing that houses the analog gauges and the 12.3-inch navigation screen. While I appreciate the attempt at being unique, this large hunk of glass covering half the dash looks odd.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

Not all of the new E-Class’ cabin is bad. Its new center stack looks cleaner than ever, and the new touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel are a nice touch. The 64 colors in its LED ambient lighting system is also a nice touch.

When the E-Class initially hits showrooms, it will be available only in the E300 model. This version of the sedan will come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This peppy four-pot will mate to a nine-speed automatic transmission as standard. According to Mercedes, there will be additional models available at a later date.

In the class the E-Class is in, it needs to deliver both a sporty ride and comfort. It delivers this via two Direct Control suspension settings: Comfort and Sport. There is also an optional Air Body Control suspension – a multi-chamber air suspension – that allows the driver to choose from Comfort, Eco, Sport, or Sport+ modes. This allows for even finer tuning for driving enthusiasts.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

On top of the new body, interior, and powertrain are some new available features. These include Remote Parking Pilot for those who prefer not to park their own car, Car-to-X communication for added safety, and PRE-SAFE impulse side, which moves occupants away from the side of the car when an impact is imminent.

The 2017 E-Class will hit showrooms in the summer of 2016. We’ll have more details on the other versions of this midsize sedan as they become available.