The refinement levels are definitely up a notch and then some. The peak torque thunders strong as the digital needle approaches 2,000 rpm. It will go from 40 to 80 km/h in less than four seconds, making highway overtaking manoeuvres a breeze. Yet, inside, there’s the sense of unruffled calm. It can corner too; the steel suspension with smart dampers making every undulation an unimportant side-show freak, sometimes with cut scenes. Again, this is more of a back-seat car. It’s stretched out so you can travel while doing just the same. The reclining seats and generous knee-room, with those heavenly soft head-rest pillows make every trip, long or short, immensely comfortable.
Then there’s the other half of the equation: cost. First, acquisition. The E 220 d L is available from Rs 57.14 lakh (ex-showroom). Second, running. The new engine is extremely frugal, delivering 12 km/l in the city and 18 on the highway. That’s good for an overall 13.5 km/l 3:1 city to highway. Factor in the 66-litre tank and that’s a range of 900 km ― on one tank! Third, maintenance. The new service packages from Mercedes-Benz India start from just over Rs 76,000, and an ‘Advanced Assurance’ programme, from just over Rs 75,000, can offer an extended warranty for up to six years.
Needless to say, it’s a sensible car. It puts the ‘E’ in elegant and takes forward the class as well. It’s everything a modern executive luxury car should be, and, lest we forget, it carries one of the most revered badges, too. Mercedes have delivered.
