Mercedes-Benz have revealed local pricing for the more ruggedised variant of their new W213 E-Class. It’s new territory for the Merc brand - joining the bandwagon of higher-riding, more off-road capable, all-wheel drive luxury estate.
“The new model combines a striking look in SUV style with the intelligent space concept of the estate. This is coupled with lots of innovative safety features and the multi-award-winning E-Class interior.” says Ola Källenius, Member of the Daimler management board responsible for Research and Development of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
Due in showrooms by June, the wagon-only E-Class All-Terrain will go up against the Volvo V90 Cross Country and Audi A6 Allroad with a starting price of $109,900 before on-road costs are factored in. It’ll come in only one variant and powertrain option, unchanged from its European launch spec in late 2016, as an E 220 d.
A 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel propels it with 143kW and 400Nm of motive force delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission to all corners via Mercedes’ 4Matic system. Paired with its increased ride height of 29mm, attributable to the higher profile tyres and the ‘normal’ height of its standard air suspension. If the situation calls for it, the E-Class All-Terrain can rise by a further 20mm provided vehicle speed doesn’t exceed 35km/h.
The exterior features all the beefed up accoutrements expected for this type of car, Mercedes-Benz seems rather pleased about how the twin-louvre grille makes the car look. There are also wheel arch cladding that surround a set 20-inch alloys, roof rails, a new two-tone front and rear bumper, more pronounced side sills with the same protective material treatment, as well as a chunkier front grille design and a pair of hidden tail pipes.
Inside, the All-Terrain receives the Avantgarde trim line featuring lots of leather and wood as well as some piano black accents thrown in for good measure. It all looks very classy, aided by the E-Class’ stunning widescreen dashboard display that pulls double duty as a infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster.
Other standard features include the Driver Assistance Package Plus, Keyless-Go with hands-free access, start-stop, and LED Multibeam headlamps.
For more on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
