Shanghai Auto Show: Mercedes-Benz unveils long-wheelbase version of E-Class sedan

By Nick Jaynes April 23, 2013

Mercedes-Benz E-Klasse — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The rest of the global auto market saw the debut of an updated Mercedes-Benz E-Class just a few months ago. Now, it’s time for the Chinese version.

Along with updated interior and exterior design elements, including redesigned headlights and front and rear fascias; the Chinese long-wheelbase E-Class is 14cm longer than the version offered in the rest of the world.

Interestingly, the Chinese E-Class is the first of the breed ever to be offered with two different, optional front ends. The “Sedan” model features “the classic, three-dimensional saloon radiator grille in three-louver look with the Mercedes star on the bonnet,” according to Mercedes-Benz. The “Sport Sedan” model comes with “the sporty front end featuring a centrally positioned star to create a distinctive, emphatically dynamic look.”

Additionally, should buyers step up to the E 400 L, Mercedes adds some AMG appointments, including AMG front and rear aprons, new AMG side skirts, and AMG wheels.

With a longer wheelbase and upgraded exterior packages, we assumed the optional interior technology would also receive a boost. We were wrong. Mercedes does offer PARKTRONIC and COMAND DVD along with a 360-degree camera for parking assistance and an ECO start/stop system that turns the engine off at stoplights.

The vast majority of tech in the E-Class L, however, is found in the form of safety. Mercedes has loaded the car with autonomous safety systems, geared at limiting in-city accidents involving both cars and pedestrians.

Standard on the E 400 L is the Brake Assist system called BAS PLUS that can detect crossing traffic and pedestrians and can boost braking force to bring the vehicle to a quicker stop. Additionally, the E-Class can be fitted with PRE-SAFE, which is a system than can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking at speeds up to 31mph.

Hopefully, Chinese pedestrians will benefit from the additional safety tech as much as the proud new E-Class L owners.

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