By Allyson 
When it comes to premium luxury sedans, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is an iconic name in the Indian market. For 2024, Mercedes has introduced significant updates, making this car even more appealing to its loyal customer base. Having spent a day driving the new E-Class, here’s my comprehensive review of this refreshed luxury sedan.
Exterior Design: Elegance Meets Presence
The 2024 E-Class is designed to turn heads with its sleek lines and bold presence. India is the only market where a right-hand-drive long-wheelbase version of the E-Class is sold, giving it a unique appeal. The long wheelbase model, now even longer than its predecessor, significantly enhances its road presence. The car also stands taller than before, further boosting its visual impact.
Key Design Elements
One of the first elements that catches your eye is the gloss black finish surrounding the grille, extending into the headlamp assembly. This design stands out, especially in lighter-colored variants of the E-Class. The model I drove featured an all-new color that looks premium but could easily turn into a dust magnet, particularly in dusty conditions like Delhi.
The grille is adorned with several three-pointed stars, with one large star taking center stage. The headlamp units feature a double-barrel look, reminiscent of older Mercedes-Benz models. The bulbous design might take some time to get used to, but by the end of the day, I found it quite appealing.
Side and Rear Profiles
Moving to the side, the long bonnet and 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels contribute to the car’s balanced proportions. Unlike the BMW 5 Series, where the wheels sometimes appear undersized, the wheels on the E-Class are well-proportioned, giving the car a refined and stylish look.
One distinctive element is the Maybach-inspired rear quarter panel and the flush door handles, adding to the premium feel. The side chrome strip running along the car’s length enhances its stately appearance.
At the rear, the new tail lamp design with stars embedded within the lights really stands out. When you brake, the stars themselves don’t light up, but they still create a distinctive visual appeal. There’s a chrome strip running across the rear bumper, though, on the test model, it didn’t line up perfectly. Once you notice it, it’s hard to ignore. Overall, the E-Class strikes a perfect balance between luxury and road presence.
Interior: A Showcase of Comfort and Technology
The interior is where the new E-Class truly shines, offering some of the most advanced features in its class. Mercedes calls the dashboard design a “Super Screen,” which includes three screens seamlessly integrated into a single glass panel. Unlike the flagship S-Class, the instrument cluster is not fully integrated, but this setup still looks incredibly premium.
The Super Screen Experience
The driver’s digital instrument cluster is crisp, with excellent graphics and customization options. The large central OLED infotainment screen comes with haptic feedback, providing a high-quality user experience. For the first time, even the passenger gets their own screen, which allows them to control navigation, media, and more.
One interesting feature is that you can adjust the AC vents through the screen, although you still have the option to adjust them manually. Another quirky feature is the inclusion of a selfie camera on the dashboard. While you can’t use it while driving, it’s meant for those moments when you need to hop on a Zoom call or take a quick picture from the comfort of your car.
Comfort and Customization
The cabin is built with high-quality materials, offering plush seating options and color choices that enhance the sense of space. Bright colors are smartly placed, avoiding areas prone to dirt, such as the center console.
The rear seats, often a highlight for E-Class owners, offer electrically adjustable settings and blinds for both windows and the rear quarter glass panel. The rear passengers can also recline their seats for maximum comfort. You even have a button to move the front passenger seat forward to create more legroom in the back. The two-part panoramic sunroof further enhances the sense of space and light inside the cabin.
Driving Experience: Smooth, Refined, and Relaxed
Now, let’s talk about how the E-Class performs on the road. The range starts with the E200, the variant I drove, which is powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 204 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. It is paired with Mercedes’ trusted 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels.
The E450 and E220d variants offer more power, but even the base E200 feels smooth and refined. Mercedes claims a 0 to 100 km/h time of 7.2 seconds, and a top speed of 240 km/h, which is more than enough for most buyers in this segment.
Hybrid System and Handling
The 2024 E-Class features a 48V mild hybrid system, adding an extra 25 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque when needed. This system kicks in around 2,000 RPM, providing a noticeable boost in power.
Though it’s not a driver’s car in the same way the BMW 5 Series is, the E-Class offers a reactive chassis that handles lane changes with ease and confidence. However, the car truly excels as a luxury cruiser rather than a performance machine. The cabin remains isolated from the bumps and potholes of the road, delivering a serene ride quality that Mercedes is known for.
Practical Features and Missing Elements
The E-Class is packed with practical features, including large door pockets, USB-C ports, and ample storage spaces throughout the cabin. The Burmester sound system offers an immersive audio experience, with a unique 4D surround sound feature that sends bass vibrations through the seats for a more engaging listening experience.
However, there are some missing features. The front passenger seat doesn’t get memory functions, and neither of the front seats are ventilated—an omission that feels like a missed opportunity, especially in this price range.
Table: Key Specifications of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder |
| Power | 204 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 9G-Tronic Automatic |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 240 km/h |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mild Hybrid System | 48V |
| Wheelbase | Extended (long wheelbase model) |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹78.1 lakh |
| Sound System | Burmester 4D Surround Sound |
FAQs About the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- What are the engine options for the new E-Class? The E-Class comes in three variants: the E200 with a 2.0L petrol engine, the E220d with a diesel engine, and the range-topping E450.
- What is the price range of the 2024 E-Class? The E200 starts at ₹78.1 lakh ex-showroom, with higher variants costing more.
- Does the new E-Class offer a hybrid system? Yes, the E-Class features a 48V mild hybrid system that adds extra power and torque.
- Are the seats ventilated? Unfortunately, the front seats in the E200 variant are not ventilated.
- How does the E-Class compare to the BMW 5 Series? The E-Class focuses more on comfort and luxury, whereas the BMW 5 Series offers a more performance-oriented experience.
- Is the E-Class suitable for long drives? Absolutely. The E-Class excels in providing a smooth and comfortable ride, especially for rear-seat passengers.
- What kind of infotainment system does the E-Class have? The E-Class comes with a large OLED infotainment screen, a digital driver’s cluster, and a passenger screen, all integrated into a single glass panel.
Final Thoughts: Still the Segment Leader
To sum up, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class builds on its strengths by offering a luxurious cabin, refined driving experience, and premium features. It continues to set the standard in the luxury sedan segment, especially for those who prioritize comfort and rear-seat experience over sportiness. Though there are a few missing features, the overall package makes the E-Class a compelling choice for buyers in this segment.