2017 Mercedes-Benz E350e and E43 bulk-up E-Class range

MERCEDES-BENZ has bookended it’s 2017 E-Class line-up in terms of powerplant options with the introduction of the E350e Plug-in Hybrid, and the new range-topping Mercedes-AMG E43 4MATIC.

The E350e sedan is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine, in conjunction with a powerful electric motor that punch out 210 kW and up to 550 Nm of torque. These are mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission which helps take it to 0-100kmh in just 6.2 seconds, at least a second faster than all E200/220 variants.

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It sips petrol like a child does medicine, just 2.4L/100kms and has an all-electric range of 30kms for total frugality.

Priced at $131,600, about the same as the flagship E400, the E350e also comes with air suspension, panoramic glass sunroof and a pre-entry climate control system as standard.

At the other end of the scale, the AMG E43 4Matic borrows the E400’s 3.0-litre V6 engine but ups power by 25kW to 295kw thanks to a pair of larger turbochargers and a retuned engine computer.

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Peak torque of 520 Nm is available right from 2500rpm, generating performance on par with smaller sports cars with a 0-100km time of just 4.6secs. It naturally drinks the hybrid under the table, though the E43’s 8.3L/100km factory claim is pretty respectable considering its performance.

Priced at $159,900, the E43 4Matic has all the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class features plus Nappa Leather upholstery, AIR-BALANCE package and AMG 4Matic all-wheel drive system, sports exhaust system and sports braking system.

The wolf’s clothing, which includes AMG body styling and 20-inch AMG wheels, is kept modest to balance performance and refinement.

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“Our new E-Class has raised the industry benchmark when it comes to new technologies, and these outstanding new variants are no exception”, said Horst von Sanden, CEO and Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars Australia/Pacific.

“Following the successful introduction of both our plug-in hybrid and AMG 43 models, we can’t wait to offer this technology and performance in the all-new E-Class early next year.”

The new E350e and E43 are now available to order with the first arrivals scheduled for February 2017.

PRICING

Mercedes-Benz E350e sedan - $131,600
Mercedes-AMG E43 4Matic - $159,900