Is this the sleekest Mercedes-Benz yet?
The covers have come off the wagon – or Estate in Benz speak – version of the new-generation E-Class two months after the reveal of the sedan.
While wagons are no longer the family staple they once were, a model like the E-Class Estate could lure buyers out of similarly sized SUVs like Merc’s own GLE, or the BMW X5 and Audi Q7.
That’s if it is even coming to Australia. And the sad news is – it’s not.
While Mercedes-Benz Australia will offer the sixth-generation sedan here from quarter one next year, the wagon is a non-starter due to very low take-up in what is an already niche segment – large executive cars.
The new wagon has expanded in size from its already sizeable proportions.It is also not super surprising considering Mercedes only offered the slightly jacked-up All-Terrain version of the outgoing E-Class Estate in Australia – some of which were used as police vehicles.
Aside from the updated design – an evolution of the current-gen model that’s been on sale since mid-2016 – the new wagon has expanded in size from its already sizeable proportions. It’s 28mm wider and has a 22mm longer wheelbase making for more rear leg and knee room.
While Mercedes-Benz Australia will offer the sixth-generation sedan here from quarter one next year, the wagon is a non-starter due to very low take-up in what is an already niche segment.Luggage space ranges from 615 litres with all seats in place to 1830L with the rear row folded, while the plug-in hybrid version can swallow 460–1675L. The new E-Class wagon is not offered with an optional third row.
Inside, the ‘MBUX’ multimedia system and screens dominate both sides of the dash, and it features ambient lighting with multiple colour options.
Luggage space ranges from 615 litres with all seats in place to 1830L with the rear row folded.Users can even sync up their Apple iPhones and Watches with the ‘Digital Vehicle Key’ that enables them to unlock the E-Class with their devices.
If that’s not enough, third-party apps like Tik Tok and the Angry Birds game can be added to the vast multimedia set-up.
Inside, the ‘MBUX’ multimedia system and screens dominate both sides of the dash.As well as a plug-in hybrid powertrain offering more than 100km of electric-only range, the E-Class Estate will be available in Europe with a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 150kW/320Nm in the E200, and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel in the E220d with 145kW/440Nm.
Keyword: Sexiest Benz yet? The 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon could be the model to keep you out of a BMW X5 or Lexus RX - but will it come to Australia?