The long-wheelbase version of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is set to launch in India around the festive season of 2024. Recently unveiled in China, where it is exclusively produced, the right-hand drive (Indian version) will come with significant changes tailored to suit the preferences of Indian luxury car buyers. The focus will be on offering diesel engines, enhancing rear seat comfort, and introducing features and options designed to satisfy the preferences of Indian owners, who often sit in the rear.
Key Features of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Long Wheelbase (E-Class LWB) for the Indian Market:
Design:
The design of the new E-Class is an evolution of the previous model. Notable elements include the long ‘Maybach’ rear doors without a rear quarter glass, a taller and flatter bonnet with a distinctive clamshell shape, and a lower grille with a wider bezel. The car is wider and built on a longer wheelbase, providing more interior space.
Cabin:
The interior combines elements from the S-Class and EQS. It features a Superscreen, consisting of a 14.4-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch passenger screen, and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Indian versions may have a simpler setup, as most E-Class owners in India are chauffeur-driven and occupy the rear seats.
Interior Comfort:
The new E-Class offers more elbow room and legroom, and the rear seats can recline to 36 degrees. The seats are designed for enhanced comfort, featuring extendable thigh supports. A Burmester 4D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos provides high-quality in-car audio.
Boot Space:
The boot space, without the spare tire, is 540 liters.
Engine Options:
The new E-Class is expected to offer both diesel and petrol engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. The petrol engine, with an electric motor power increase, is likely to produce around 204hp, while the diesel engine may generate 200hp and 440Nm of torque. The E 350d replacement could feature a four-cylinder 265hp diesel or a six-cylinder 450d with 367hp and 750Nm of torque.
Price Range:
Prices for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB are expected to start at a premium of approximately Rs 5-6 lakhs over the current model. Prices may range from around Rs 82 lakhs to Rs 95 lakhs, with top-end models potentially crossing the Rs 1 crore mark.
Despite strong SUV trends in the market, Mercedes anticipates the E-Class, primarily chauffeur-driven, to remain one of their bestsellers.
