New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Launched in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, 25 November 2009 – Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class to the media today. This 9th generation of the E-Class is as classy as ever, and looks really good. However good looks aren’t its only attributes, as the new E-class comes with many improvements over the outgoing model, already a very excellent vehicle.
Features such as ATTENTION ASSIST – a system that observes the driver behaviour for the first 30 minutes of driving, and then sounds an alert if the driving behaviour changes, and gently suggests a pause for a coffee or a break. High Beam Assist automatically dips the lights when it senses oncoming vehicles, and a Park Guidance System is part of the standard package. In addition, Pre-Safe system tightens up belts and braces the car for impact by winding up the glass windows to prevent arms and bodies flying out, and objects getting into the car in the event of a crash.
A more rigid body shell enhances driving dynamics, and this is supplemented by a newly developed suspension control system that stiffens up or relaxes the suspension according to road input.
Mercedes-Benz also claims a 17 percent improvement in fuel efficiency through the use of direct injection technology, and replacement of the supercharger with turbochargers in the smaller capacity models. The V6 engines are retained. In addition, the designers have adopted an ECO Steering system that only operates when the steering wheel is off centre. On straights, the power steering pump is shut off, saving fuel and energy.
In terms of looks, the Mercedes-Benz DNA is unmistakable, but the introduction of new lines and design cues give the new E-Class model a more handsome look that is elegant and appealing. Wind tunnel development gives the new E-Class a drag coefficient of only 0.25, making it one of the most aerodynamic series production cars in the world. In terms of size, some clever readjustments in dimensions make it slightly wider and longer, but the interior space improvements are significantly more.
At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also introduced the CLK version of the E-Class, presenting a sleek 2-door coupe for those who seek something different from the rest.
The new E-Class will be available for viewing at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus’s in a couple of days, and the current availability will be the locally assembled E300, priced at RM455, 888. The E200, expected to be the bread and butter line for the E-Class, will be introduced later. The E250 Coupe is priced at RM485, 888. All prices are on-the-road without insurance.
