Mercedes used the Beijing Auto Show as a stage to debut its new, Chinese-market E-Class L. Built locally by Beijing Benz Automotive Co.,Ltd (BBAC), the E-Class L is nothing more than a stretched E-Class.
Other than that, what do you need to know? Not much, actually. The car's length, wheelbase, and rear legroom have increase by 14 cm (5.5 inches) and the front seats can be controlled from the back (so don't let jerks sit in the back...).
The ground clearance has also grown and the car features Merc's Agility Control suspension system. Those are the key bits.
Safety features include Mercedes' PRE-SAFE technology, a sleep alert system, and other various safety features.
The trunk carries 540 liters and 2 engines are available at launch: the 260 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY making 150 kW / 204 hp and the E300 producing 180 kW / 245 hp. Oh, and it's got the smallest turning circle in its class.
For a breakdown of the three trim levels offered at launch, you know where to scroll.
"The [E 260 CGI] ELEGANCE version already comes, among other things, with bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive ILS (Intelligent Light System), electric sliding sunroof, automatic air conditioning and COMAND DVD system.
Additional highlights of the E 260 CGI AVANTGARDE version includeselectric panoramic sliding sunroof, COMANDAPS with DVD changer, THERMATIC air conditioning system, heated rear seats and residual heat system. The E 300 Avantgarde also features a Rear Seat Entertainment System (two large 20.3 cm screens in the backs of the front seat head restraints), KEYLESS-GO electronic drive authorisation system and remote boot closing."
By Phil Alex
