2017 Mercedes Benz E200

Photos: Rahin Sadman Islam

A long bonnet, well-defined shoulder lines, swooping buttress and chiseled snout – typical cues of the new Mercedes Benz design language. The marque introduced the smaller C-Class and the larger S-Class earlier and is now completing the range with the drop dead gorgeous 10th generation E-Class. The attention to detail of this executive saloon WILL blow your mind.

The interior will grab your attention immediately. Step inside the car and the optional 25-inch widescreen cockpit display will take you into the future. 

There are three display options for you to play around with - the "Progressive" mode will give you a very retro-modern feel while driving the Benz. The Burmester speakers will transport you to an 19th century Italian opera house, while the intricate perforated detailing in the aluminum door-locks will mesmerize you. Turn on the 23 speaker sound system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and you will be tantalized with electrifying aural clarity, and a host of connectivity options means you'll be connected to all your devices. The UI especially, has a smoothness and ease of use that you'll be hard-pressed to find in other cars in this price range.

The interior is wrapped in Nappa leather with modern wood garnishing and brushed aluminum highlights. Mercedes sure knows how to play with your senses. A choice of 64 colours from the optional Ambient Lighting to choose from will set you the most unique ambience inside the vehicle. You can gaze at the moon and starlit sky too, thanks to the panoramic roof. The personalized fragrance from the optional Air Balance package is a must-have.

There is no proper gear select lever where you would expect it to be, but a gloss black finish Dynamic Select controller with a touch panel that allows you to seamlessly toggle between the various driving modes, electronics and creature comforts the E-Class has to offer. I could play with it all day long.

If you think it's fast, it's not. The E200 has 184 HP from its 2-litre 4-pot turbo motor, but the impressive 260 lb-ft of torque will pin you to the seats if the throttle is dabbed at any engine speed. Mercedes upgraded their 7-speed transmission to 9-speeds, making sure the shifts are butter smooth under power while saving you pennies in fuel money. With the Sport mode on and right foot held down, there is a welling up of power, especially as the RPM at each shifts are held for a split second more. Do not expect a distinct boost feel, as Mercedes believes in comfort and quietness for the non-AMG models. It's the Sport plus mode where you can have some proper fun on a relatively free Dhaka weekend, taking the controls and paddle shifting to your destination.

Knowing the average Mercedes E-Class owner of the city, you are most likely to sit back and browse your iPad while the chauffer buzzes through the mad traffic, trying to maneuver away from the surrounding traffic that drives the 360-degree sensors up the wall. The suspension is the right balance between soft and firm – none of the boat sway feel of SUVs yet you can sail over potholes or small speed bumps.

VERDICT

The E-Class comes in various models and trims. We took the AMG pack out with five spoke 19-inch wheels and aggressive exterior treatment thanks to the AMG pack, luxury spec interior with extra options. With all the different models in their expansive range of colour shades in their inventory, we recommend you to pay a visit to the Mercedes showroom. You will certainly not be disappointed with the E-Class. The E-Class comes in various models and trims. We took the AMG pack out with five spoke 19-inch wheels and aggressive exterior treatment thanks to the AMG pack, luxury spec interior with extra options. With all the different models in their expansive range of colour shades in their inventory, we recommend you to pay a visit to the Mercedes showroom. You will certainly not be disappointed with the E-Class. 

SPECS

Engine: 2 litre turbo 4 cylinder (184 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque).

Transmission: 9G-TRONIC auto.

Brakes: Ventilated discs front, ABS, Brake Assist.

Interior: Nappa leather, panoramic roof, Air Balance, Burmester 3D surround audio, wide-screen cockpit, "Command Online" infotainment system, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, internet connectivity, Bluetooth, wireless charging, LED mood lighting with variable colours, parking package with 360 degree cameras (as tested). 

Exterior: AMG pack bumpers, grille, wheels (as tested).  

For pricing, equipment level and specification details, contact Rancon Motors Ltd.