As with the conventionally powered E-Class range, the two plug-in hybrids benefit from a styling update that came midway through 2020. Notable features are the new-look grille and new shape LED headlights, while other exterior changes include new bumpers front and rear, as well as wider taillights. The new-look interior is dominated by a large widescreen infotainment display and digital instrumentation.
TECHNOLOGY
Mercedes-Benz offers E-Class plug-in hybrid efficiency with a choice of petrol or diesel engines. The E 300 e has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine allied to an electric motor for a combined 320 metric horsepower and 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds. The 2.0-litre E 300 de produces slightly less power (306hp) and acceleration is marginally slower at 5.9 seconds, but both are impressively swift and powerful reaching up to 80mph on EV power alone, handy if your commute includes motorways. The E 300 de turns the tables when it comes to official CO2 emissions – 33g/km for diesel, compared with 37g/km for the petrol E 300 e. It will therefore be more economical on long journeys once the battery power runs out; official WLTP figures include EV-only running so are quoted as 235.4 mpg for the E 300 de and 176.6mpg for the E 300 e. As always with plug-in hybrids, real-world economy depends on journey length and whether you always top up the battery.
SAFETY
All E-Class models come with Active Brake Assist, Adaptive Braking, Blind Spot Assist, Attention Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and the Pre-Safe anticipatory safety system. The optional Driving Assistance package includes Pre-Safe Plus, along with Active Assist Distance Distronic, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Steering Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, and route-based speed adjustment.
FEATURES
Both the E 300 e and E 300 de ranges start with the AMG Line (the lesser Sport trim isn’t available with plug-in hybrid power). Standard equipment includes AMG body styling, the MBUX infotainment system with twin 12.3-inch glass screens and Multibeam LED intelligent headlights. The AMG Line Premium package adds AMG 19-inch alloy wheels as well as Keyless-Go keyless lock and unlocking, 360° camera and MBUX augmented reality navigation. The range-topping AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus, includes 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, Burmester surround sound system, Memory package and the Energizing Comfort package to keep you relaxed and alert on long journeys.
