New Mercedes E-Class is a tour-de-force

My new E 220 D Exclusive Plus Saloon test car was finished in elegant Graphite Grey metallic paintwork, with contrasting Macchiato Beige Leather upholstery (optional extra).

Key standard Exclusive Plus specification includes LED high-performance headlights, multifunction steering wheel in Wood/Nappa leather, Parking Package with 360-degree camera, pedestrian protection, Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), automatic climate control, wireless charging, MBCONNECT extended connectivity Plus, and much more.

The refined and torquey 2.0-litre diesel engine is well suited to the smooth and responsive nine-speed automatic transmission, resulting in effortless progress on every journey. The engine is boosted by a variable-geometry turbocharger, and is assisted by a 48V mild-hybrid system which takes load off the engine and helps smooth its power delivery.

A 23bhp electric motor is located between the engine and the gearbox to act as a starter-generator, and this set-up also provides an additional 205Nm of torque on demand. This is in addition to the 197bhp and 440Nm of torque produced by the 1,993cc 4-cylinder internal combustion engine.

As a result, the car can complete a 0-100km/h sprint in just 7.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 238km/h (where permitted). The four-link front suspension is complemented by a five-link set up at the rear, and this provides occupants with a calm and serene ride quality.

The dampers are frequency-selective, and they firm up with low-frequency inputs, such as body roll, and they soften off with high-frequency inputs on rougher road surfaces. The car handles with terrific enthusiasm, and the quick steering is impressive when manoeuvring in and out of tight parking spaces.

A well-judged variable steering ratio provides drivers with a remarkable turning circle of just 11.6-metres, allowing for just 2.2 turns lock to lock. The E 220 D Saloon is a truly excellent car to drive and, with fuel consumption as low as 4.8l/100km on a WLTP combined driving cycle, it should prove itself to be easy on the pocket too. An emission figure of 129g/km results in annual road tax of just €200.

Verdict and Price

The new Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Saloon is a hugely capable, and highly desirable, executive car that provides occupants with outstanding refinement and comfort, irrespective of the journey undertaken. Buyers are sure to be impressed by the good choice of powertrain and trim options in the new E-Class, along with a host of individual optional extras and packs for ultimate personalisation.

Pricing for the E 220 D Saloon start at €81,185 in Avantgarde Plus trim, with my test car specification priced from €84,495 (excluding delivery, and optional extras fitted).