MNM Issue 3 vol 3 | Page 28

GLOBAL SPINS

MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS

torque, compared with the outgoing E250’ s 204 horsepower and 310Nm. Acceleration times of 0 to 100km / h are equal for the E200 but for the E250, it has improved from 7.7 seconds to 7.4 seconds.
The 2.0-litre engine will be paired with a seven-speed 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission with direct select paddle shifters.
MBM said that it will be taking orders for the new E Class from April onwards, and that the expected price for the new E200 and E250 will be RM380,000 and RM420,000 respectively.
Driving The New E250
There are many noticeable changes in the new E250. Obviously it looks much sportier and youthful with the exterior design updates. The cabin is much more pleasant to the eye and feels plusher now.
In fact, we feel that the level of luxury and comfort offered is not that far behind what is offered in the current S-Class.
In terms of performance, the new E250 is a livelier car, thanks to the new and more powerful engine. Throttle response seems to
be better, and there is more torque as well. Fuel economy is also better now, standing at 5.8 litres per 100km, making it the best in class.
Since the model we drove was an Elegance variant, the Direct Control suspension with selective damping system was configured more towards comfort, making it rather soft. However, Mercedes-Benz said that the Avantgarde line’ s Direct Control suspension is positioned 15mm lower, making it a much more exciting car around bends.
Thanks to the new electromechanical Direct-Steer system, steering responds better now as well, improving the E 250’ s agility. It feels heavier and much more firm as well.
As far as driving dynamics is concerned, the new E 250 is without doubt a fun car to drive. Mercedes-Benz has done a brilliant job in making this car sportier without compromising on the level of luxury and comfort offered.
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