The Estate version of the latest E-Class will be launched early next year, joining the Saloon and Coupé derivatives. And estate-car buyers who revel in the latest automotive technology will no doubt be heading straight for their nearest Mercedes dealer, when they remind themselves of the many innovative features of the E-Class series. From drowsiness detection to automatic emergency braking and the ‘active bonnet’, the E-Class boasts technical treats which no other car in its class can offer.

Other highlights include the ‘quickfold’ rear seats, which can be folded down from the load compartment – a very practical touch – and a luggage capacity of up to 1950 litres. Then there’s the automatically opening and closing EASY-PACK tailgate and folding load compartment floor, to increase the usable height of the luggage space. Meanwhile, the optional folding bench seat for the load compartment is a unique feature in this vehicle segment.

Nine airbags as standard, plus a host of driver assistance systems, confirm that safety is a priority for the E-Class Estate, while the comfort of adaptive damping and self-levelling rear suspension is also standard for the model.

Design-wise, Mercedes-Benz points to the ‘interplay between concave and taut surfaces’ to impress onlookers with a vehicle that appears ‘athletic and practical’, but also ‘serene and safe’. The distinctive two-part LED tail-lights are a strong identifier for the E-Class family, while the overall styling makes no secret of the E-Class Estate’s size – it is the largest estate car in the premium segment.

A choice of six petrol and diesel engines at launch, topped by a 5461cc 388HP V8, will be joined by a further two power units soon afterwards – with the introduction of the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and E 63 AMG Estate. In the UK, three trim lines will be available, SE, Avantgarde and Sport. UK pricing and specifications are still to be confirmed.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Mercedes-Benz