The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB: Luxury and comfort redefined
The long-wheelbase E-Class has been unveiled in China and while the six-cylinder pot may not make it here, we have our fingers crossed for the Superscreen
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the sixth generation of the E-Class Long Wheelbase (LWB) in China, with plans to bring it to the Indian market in late 2024. The latest iteration of the E-Class, with the internal codename V214, takes luxury and comfort to new heights, catering to the demands of discerning customers, who appreciate not only performance but also the finer details of a premium driving experience. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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With dimensions measuring 5,092 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width and 1,493 mm in height, this luxury sedan exudes a commanding presence on the road. The reason this is called the long wheelbase variant is because of the obvious increase to, well, its wheelbase. Measuring 3,094 mm, the wheelbase is 15 mm longer than the E-Class currently available in India. The new 2023 E-Class standard wheelbase variant was unveiled earlier this year and should make it to India, too. The exterior design of the E-Class LWB stays fairly identical to the standard wheelbase variant, maintaining the sedan's current styling cues. However, the most noticeable distinction lies in the extended rear door. The quarter glass panel which, in the standard wheelbase variant, is integrated into the door, has been positioned on the C-pillar in the LWB. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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The interior of the LWB mirrors that of the standard E-Class with its blend of luxury and practicality. However, it's the variations and features that set the LWB version apart, at least in the China-spec sedan. The LWB E-Class comes in various configurations, with feature lists catering to different preferences. One notable feature is the availability of power-reclining rear seats with an ottoman function in select variants. This feature allows passengers to unwind in style, offering a level of relaxation typically found in higher-tier vehicles and luxury vans. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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Considering most E-Class owners in India are chauffeur-driven, Mercedes seems to still be contemplating the addition of the "Superscreen" option in the India-spec E-Class. In China, the Superscreen is standard on some of the higher variants. This setup comprises three integrated screens. The first is a 12.2-inch digital console, facing the driver, serving as the command centre for vehicle information and control. The second, a 14.4-inch infotainment unit, takes centre stage and offers a multitude of entertainment and connectivity options. The third screen is dedicated to the passenger, who wishes to control the car’s infotainment needs while the driver is busy. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
The attention to detail in the 2024 E-Class LWB doesn't stop at the screens and seating. The rear headrests come equipped with a neck heating function, which in most parts of India may seem a bit unnecessary. A "Boss" button allows the rear seat passenger to slide and fold the front passenger seat, creating additional room if required, adding to the flexibility and convenience of the vehicle. Moreover, the rear centre armrest is outfitted with a wireless charging pad capable of accommodating two phones, ensuring that passengers stay powered and connected on the go. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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When it comes to powertrains, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB offers a range of options to cater to different preferences and markets. In China, the LWB version is available with a six-cylinder petrol engine lineup. However, for the Indian market, specific details about powertrain options are yet to be confirmed. It's expected that the Indian model will continue to offer both petrol and diesel engine choices, but from the current-gen E-Class with minor updates. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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For context, the current-gen E-Class’s 2-litre petrol engine is a 4-cylinder turbocharged unit that produces 197 hp of maximum power and 320 Nm of peak torque. There are two variants of the diesel engine. The first is a 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 194 hp and 400 Nm. The 3-litre 6-cylinder turbocharged heart is available in the 350d AMG line variant. This churns out 286 hp of maximum power and 600 Nm of peak torque. As far as transmission goes, all three powertrains make use of the same 9-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. One thing to note is that while the standard E-Class gets performance variants from AMG, namely the E 53 and E 63, the LWB doesn’t get these. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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While the E-Class has been tailored to meet the norms for most international markets, India is the only country in which this specific variant of the E-Class LWB is available. Where other markets, including China, make use of the LWB in a left-hand-drive form factor, the E-Class is available in the right-hand-drive variant only in India. The E-Class LWB in our country is also primarily tailored to meet the expectations of chauffeur-driven customers. The extended wheelbase not only offers a more generous rear seat area but also provides additional knee and legroom, ensuring that passengers enjoy a luxurious and spacious interior. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
The design variations, including the distinctive rear door, contribute to a distinctive visual identity, setting the LWB version apart from its standard wheelbase counterpart. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with air suspension and a rear-wheel steering system capable of turning the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees. These features enhance the experience and contribute to the overall comfort and handling of the vehicle, making it a compelling choice for Indian buyers. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
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Pricing is a crucial consideration for any luxury vehicle, and the 2024 E-Class LWB is expected to be positioned as a premium offering in the Indian market. With the standard E-Class priced between Rs 75 lakh to Rs 88 lakh in India, it's anticipated that the LWB variant will command a premium, likely exceeding the Rs 1 crore mark. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
Stanford Masters Journalist who writes on automobiles