Toughened-up version of the newly unveiled E-Class Estate is earmarked for an unmasking later this year to take the fight to Audi.
Fresh off unveil of the new Mercedes-Benz W213 E-Class Estate comes the news that there could be a jacked-up, cladded-up, and all-wheel drive version of it very deep into development is due to make its entrance at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October.
After its French debut, the tougher E-Class Estate All Terrain is reported to be on sale somewhere in early 2017, according to Autocar UK. It’s obvious that Mercedes-Benz has its crosshairs aimed straight at fellow German manufacturer Audi and their A6 Allroad, which would leave just BMW without a similar model – although it’s arguably that they’d be tempted into the mix. Perhaps only after their new 5 Series is introduced.
We’ll have to wait until the Paris Motor Show draws closer for some credible information to surface, a leaked testing photo or two, or maybe even a teaser from Mercedes-Benz themselves. Until then, we can speculate upon the design of the vehicle.
We’re expecting the regular ruggedised treatment, similar to the one Audi gave their A6 Avant. Dark cladding surrounding the lower perimeter of the car are in order, as well as extra underbody protection, larger front and rear bumpers, thicker tyres, skid plates – things of that nature.
The E-Class All Terrain will also reportedly feature standard air suspension with variable ride height adjustment, a system that’s an evolution of Mercedes-Benz’s already accomplished Air Body Control system.
There’s no reason to suspect that Mercedes should add another engine to the new E-Class range for the All Terrain so presumably most of the engines (save for the AMG E43’s) will mirror the regular E-Class sedan and Estate.
But with so many SUV offerings already leaving buyers looking for an off-road capable Mercedes spoiled, it’s a little unclear at this stage just where the E-Class All Terrain fits in and whether its mere presence in the line-up will cannibalise their SUV or crossover sales.
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