June arrival for new Mercedes E-Class

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that its new E-Class range will be launched in Ireland in June. The new car is significantly different in appearance from the current model. It has a new modern, wedge-shaped profile along with its distinctive V-shaped face with a new twin-lens headlight design. Front daytime running lights set below the bumper line add a sporting touch. With the new model, long-distance comfort has been improved even further by the use of new body-shell technology that increases rigidity by up to 30 per cent. The seating has also been improved. The car has a new suspension that is fitted with shock absorbers which automatically adjust to driving conditions. Standard safety features include the new Attention Assist system. This is a drowsiness detection system that uses feedback from over 70 sensors to monitor behaviour and alert the driver when the need to take a break becomes evident. Other features include lights that dim automatically to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic, proximity control, parking guidance and reversing camera, improved pedestrian protection plus the full array of driver and passenger airbags. With a drag coefficient of only 0.25, the German manufacturer claims the car is the world"s most aerodynamically efficient luxury saloon. All models consume less fuel, with consumption down by up to 20 per cent over the current model. Emission levels on all models have also been cut to keep the cars within strict Euro V guidelines. Twelve models make up the new E-Class range for the Irish market. This will include six diesels and six petrols, of which eight have BlueEfficiency credentials. Diesel units are the E 200 CDI, E 220 CDI, E 250 CDI and E 350 CDI - all with Blue Efficiency - E 350 Blue Tec and E 350 CDI 4Matic. Petrol units are the E 200 CGI, E 250 CGI, E 350 CGI, all with Blue Efficiency, E 350 4Matic, E 500 and E 500 4Matic. The first of the new models to arrive in Ireland will be the E 220 CDI. Following in September will be the E 200 CDI - the first E-Class to have a 200 CDI engine - the E 250 CDI and the E 200 Kompressor. All new E-Class models come in a choice of three design and equipment lines that include higher-spec Elegance and Avantgarde versions. Though final figures have yet to be agreed, Mercedes has confirmed that the new E-Class will be 'aggressively priced" when matched against its rivals.