ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS

The new E-Class betters what it's always been good at being an office on wheels

- Kurt Morris

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the longest-running nameplate in the Indian automotive industry.

Launched first in 1995, with the arrival of the W124 E-Class, it has always been a part of the Mercedes-Benz India lineup ever since.

Despite the rampant invasion by SUVS in the premium car segment, the E-Class hasn't been dethroned.

It remains popular, and a solid reason behind that is the brand's firm faith in the model. Not just that, the E-Class appeals to a wide variety of buyers: from business magnates to young buyers who understand the importance of heritage and legacy but don't want to give up on modernity. It's safe to say that Mercedes-Benz has been extremely successful in keeping the car relevant.

Now the conundrum arises, especially with the E-Class being such an accomplished product, how can Mercedes-Benz improve it any further? Let's also not forget that having shifted to a longwheelbase-only model range for India, there's not much space left to improve. Right? Well, MercedesBenz India thinks otherwise. The newly launched V214 E-Class is here to quash all your apprehension, with an intent to prove that Merc has yet again brought out a winner.

Something that not only looks great and drives well, but also feels every bit as special as its badge suggests.

We take it out for a quick first drive to see if the E still has what it takes to be the Mercedes-Benz of choice.

We must begin with the design because that's where everyone forms their first opinion. It's a nice mix of elegance, familiarity, and some bold touches, the new E-Class's design. Mercedes-Benz designers have ensured (yet again) that the stretched wheelbase doesn't look disproportionate. If anything, it makes the E-Class look quite good from the side. The front embraces modernity with new LED headlamps and a larger, more imposing grille. In true Mercedes-Benz fashion, none of this detracts from the overall charm.