Dynamic Cargo Carrier: 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon
The all-new 2017 Mercedes-Benz E400 Wagon will be the only German luxury wagon available in its segment. Innovative engineering and a compelling conception of space make it the most intelligent wagon that Mercedes-Benz has ever built. In spite of a much sportier roof line, headroom and elbow room as well as cargo volume are best in class. Additionally, the new E400 Wagon will offer a third row folding bench seat as standard equipment.
Available as one well-equipped 4MATIC all-wheel-drive model at launch in Luxury and Sport trim levels, power for the E-Class wagon is generated by a 3.0L biturbo V6 prime mover. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.
The new E-Class Wagon appears modern, confidently stylish and dynamic, and looks like the E-Class Sedan through to the B-pillar. From the long hood, a silhouette emerges that flows across the long roof with its sporty curve into the powerful rear of the wagon with its steeply tapering rear window. Short overhangs, a long wheelbase and large wheels make for dynamic proportions. In conjunction with the high beltline, the low, stretched side windows make the vehicle seem longer. Flowing into the greenhouse, the sidewall's positively exaggerated lines extend powerfully towards the rear. Completing the exterior form, the rear has broad shoulders over the rear wheel arches for a sensual look. A roof spoiler with a third brake light (LED) defines how high the broad, functional tailgate can open.
The look of the powerful front will vary depending on the chosen design and equipment line. The Luxury model features the classic Mercedes radiator grille with the star on the hood, and the Sport model can be recognized by the central star on the sports radiator grille. Each variant of radiator grille gives the E-Class a distinctive character, be that elegant or sporty.
Control hardware for the E-Class wagon is a four-wheel independent multi-link arrangement front and rear with coil springs, pressurized gas shocks (single tube front, double tube rear), torsion bars and selectable damping (front). In addition, a self-levelling rear air suspension continues to be equipped as standard. This ensures that the Wagon remains level, even when fully loaded with cargo or when towing. With AIR BODY CONTROL, all-round air suspension is available as an option.
Inside the passenger cabin, the instrument panel can be adorned with two optional wide, high-resolution displays, each with a 12.3-inch screen. Located under a shared glass cover, they merge to form a widescreen cockpit. The driver may configure the fully digital display to show the information and views that are relevant for them. There are three different styles to choose from: "Classic," "Sport" and "Progressive." Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel allow the instrument cluster and multimedia system to be controlled at the swipe of a finger and have made their debut in the new E-Class. Further controls are provided in the form of a touchpad with controller in the center console, which can also recognize handwriting, plus the voice- operated control system. There are also direct-access buttons for controlling the air conditioning and for convenient activation and deactivation of certain driving assistance systems.
High-quality materials define the interior style. They include natural grain wood, and wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood. The use of authentic materials is continued in the optionally leather-covered doors and the beltline.
The E-Class Wagon's load compartment is one of the biggest in the segment globally. The rear seat backrest folds down in a 40:20:40 split as standard, opening up plenty of potential configurations between transport capacity and seats. To release the backrests, there are electric switches located in the load compartment and to the right and left next to the backrests. The EASY-PACK tailgate provided as part of the standard equipment can be opened and closed very easily at the touch of a button for comfortable loading and unloading. Operation is electromechanical. To prevent the tailgate making contact with the garage roof, for example, it can be halted in any position.
Dimensions & Specifications
Wheelbase: 115.7; overall length: 194.2; width:72.9; height: 58.1
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 3.0L biturbo V6 – 329 hp at 5250-6000 rpm and 354 lbs-ft of torque at 1600-4000 rpm
Transmission: nine-speed automatic
Cargo capacity: 35.0 cubic feet (seats up)
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, dual front/rear head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, four-wheel electronic traction system, active brake assist, electronic stability program, ESP dynamic cornering assist, Car-to-X Communication, ATTENTION ASSIST, LED daytime running lights, LED headlamps/taillamps, crosswind assist, PRE-SAFE, PRE-SAFE SOUND, SmartKey with KEYLESS-START, rain-sensing windshield wipers, COMAND navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, mbrace CONNECT, HomeLink garage door opener, ActiveLane-change Assist, anti-theft alarm, and adaptive braking technology.
Optional safety equipment includes PRE-SAFE Impulse Side, Steering Pilot, Evasive Steering Assist, Distance Pilot DISTRONIC,parking pilot, rearview camera, blind spot assist, rear cross traffic alert, PRE-SAFE Plus, head-up display, congestion emergency braking, active emergency stop assist, KEYLESS-GO, speed limit pilot, surround view system, active blind spot assist, active lane keeeping assist, active lane change assist, active brake assist with cross traffic function, adaptive high beam assist, and LED intelligent light system.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E400 4MATIC wagon starts from $62,300. Destination charges add $925.