The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a Big Leap Forward
Giancarlo Perlas February 3, 2016
Sensual, innovative, and spacious with better performance, these are just a few words that can be used to describe the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. When the car was unveiled at the Detroit motor show last month, it certainly grabbed every auto enthusiast’s attention because its maker really pushed their limits further with the product.
According to the interview of Autocar with Drummond Jacoy, the car’s designer, the new model is a leap forward for the three-pointed star brand. In his words, the auto is a “quantum leap” for them because its space and efficiency saw significant improvements compared to its predecessor. He also considers the vehicle to be intelligent as it is equipped with better human-machine interface to the driver assistance systems.
Jacoy revealed that the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was designed with enhanced proportions in mind. He said the car’s wheelbase has been stretched, but the overhangs have been shortened to give the sedan a coupe-like shape.
When the source asked what will come after the E-Class sedan, Jacoy answered that Mercedes will retain its usual product strategy. That means the Estate version will follow by the end of the year. He hinted, however, that they have other things planned for the segment.
Another question asked by the interviewer centered on the importance of the hybrid model of the range. Jacoy pointed out that the E350e with electric driving system will appeal to people who are in need of a more efficient business car as well as those who are looking for an environmentally-friendly alternative.
Lastly, the source raised the question about the dangers of the “Russian doll” method followed by German car makers in the development of their products. The designer responded that the matter has been discussed at a board level.
Jacoy explained that they have decided to continue the tradition of adopting the features of the S-Class and C-Class for the mid-level E-Class in order to establish their relationship as a family of luxury cars under Mercedes. He cleared out though that each member within their family of cars has their own unique traits that differentiate them from each other.
