Mercedes-Benz

It peeped out from behind the covers during the Detroit Auto Show’s press days, but the all-new E-Class is officially here at Geneva. And it’s the first time we’ve really had a chance to examine its controversial looks in the flesh.

 

So what’s the verdict? Well, Mercedes has certainly tried everything to give the E-Class a distinctive and more dynamic new look. And after the initial shock, we can honestly say there’s much to admire in the new model, even if the back end does look rather Lexus-like – bizarre, given the Japanese firm has traditionally tried to mimic Mercedes’ looks.

 

The coupe version of the E-Class is also making its debut here, and it too looks very sleek and appealing. It’s also, according to Mercedes, the most aerodynamic production car in the world and proves you don’t need dumpy Toyota Prius looks to have fuel-saving low-drag bodywork. Mercedes deserves a prize for this alone.

 

BlueEfficiency is a phrase used all over the Mercedes stand, not just in relation to the new E-Class models. A new range of direct-injection gas-powered engines – including the new 250 CGI – is being rolled out, together with improved versions of the existing diesel V6 and the amazing new 250 CDI 4-cylinder diesel.

 

Safety technology also features highly. The E-Class and its Coupe derivative introduce plenty of advanced systems to keep you on the straight and narrow. Of these, the new Attention Assist is the most interesting; the system monitors your driving to make sure you’re not nodding off. Clever stuff.