The highlight, at least for me, is the new engine. I say “new” because the “OM 654 DE20” 1,950-cc unit has made way for the evolved “OM 654M” with a new crankshaft that increases stroke length by two millimetres and, thus, increases unitary cylinder capacity from 487 cc to 498 cc, and takes the total displacement to 1,993 cc. This is accompanied by more power and torque, up three hp and 40 Nm over the previous “220 d” spec, with a total of 197 hp and 440 Nm going to the rear wheels.
This diesel powertrain also has the 48-volt mild-hybrid system that uses a 17-kW electric motor between the engine and a 9G-Tronic auto ’box that helps with an additional—and instantaneous—23 hp and 200 Nm. The fact that the engine torque peaks from just 1,600 rpm and stays flat, rather, fat until 2,800 rpm means that although it’s a typically relaxed diesel with gradual revs, it has a strong low end that gives it the urgency and immediacy, not to mention refinement, of a larger and more powerful engine. It is also incredibly tractable and efficient; qualities of a well-tuned diesel engine with no sudden turbo-boost rush.
I stuck it in the “E” drive mode—“Eco”, not “E-Class”—and saw 12 km/l in a mix of urban driving and the more open countryside, where it is capable of stretching a litre of diesel to over 20 km/l. With nine gears, it has the liberty to shift up or down—two gears at a time, depending on what the situation calls for; managing that right pedal is everything. That’s another reason to have a trained chauffeur, right?
Since that came up, another feature I missed in this five-metre-plus car is the rear-wheel steering. It would be a welcome addition. Thankfully, the 360° camera with dual guidelines is just as clear and useful as it was a decade ago, with a crisp, quick, and flicker-free feed. However, that’s not to take anything away from its ride quality. At 1,740 kilograms, the Mercedes E 220 d L is suspended well. Double wishbone front and multi-link rear with pliant spring rates and excellent compression and rebound damping characteristics make for an incredibly comfortable ride as well as excellent handling. It soaks up bumps and undulations, and thuds caused by the many potholes are barely audible, let alone evidently felt. It is almost as fun to drive as it is to be in the back seat; I prefer the former. The E can cross cities, even countries, with ease and, with a 66-litre tank, cover over 800 kilometres in one tankful when range is needed or even when good quality fuel is not to be found. It’s a good car. Although it’s not a driver’s car per se, it’s a car to be chauffeured in.
Let’s be clear. When someone has staff to open the door for them, take their coat, shut their door for them, and then manoeuvre the car into a tight parking spot of a crowded hotel or other venue, it’s easy to see how this E-Class makes perfect sense. At some millionaire, nay, billionaire’s pocket change over Rs 80 lakh, this is one of the most stylish statements one can make when being chauffeur-driven. It’s about making an entrance. It’s about flaunting the badge, the style, the length. It’s about that limo-like experience, being cocooned in a luxurious back seat, with a wafting ride. It’s got all the boxes ticked. Bestseller indeed.
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
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