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Overlook worldwide recession and the automotive market place is primed for the launch of Mercedes’ new E-class. BMW’s 5-series feels old and outdated (it’ll be replaced in less than 12 months time) while Audi’s A6, despite (or perhaps because of) a minor facelift late last year, doesn’t feel particularly new either.

So it’s an open net for Mercedes then, but has the new E-class got the skills to slot home the winner? All the ingredients look good – the C-class shows Merc is back on form and the new E-class promises more of what the current car does well (cavernous interior space, a smooth ride and lots of safety gear), while also chasing down the 5-series for driver involvement and the A6 for its fit and finish. Read on for our full first drive to see whether the new Mercedes E-class delivers.
What’s this CGI nonsense on the new Mercedes E-class all about?

Not computer generated imagery, that’s for sure. CGI is Merc-speak for the direct-injection system on its petrol engines. And alongside the CGI technology, all E-classes are BlueEfficiency-equipped, the Swabians' term for its eco-friendly tweaks that include low rolling resistance tyres, active aerodynamics and energy-saving control of the fuel-pump, alternator and air conditioning system.

It’s just a pity that on the road the 3.5-litre V6 doesn’t feel as punchy as the figures of 288bhp and 269lb ft would suggest. Why? Because you really need to rev this six-cylinder above 4500rpm to get the best out of it, but in doing so you enter a realm of noise that you wouldn’t normally associate with a Mercedes.

But this engine’s saviour is the standard (of course) seven-speed automatic. It doesn’t slur or jolt at low speeds and full-bore upshifts are almost imperceptible – it’s a brilliant gearbox. And it helps the E350 CGI turn in 33.2mpg and 199g/km


Full Story: CAR MAGAZINE - First Drives: Mercedes E350 CGI


M

Another good review. More disappointing comments about the V6.

After so much painstaking attention being paid to refinement and aerodynamics etc. they really should have done more with the V6 to shut it up.

From the tons of interior pics we've seen so far, I am 100% positive that the E-Class interior looks better in darker colours.

Yep, the V6 seems to be the weak link.


M

33.9 mpg. Whoa!! That is impressive mileage. I could barely squeeze out 27 in the best conditions on the current 350.

Interior is absolutely gorgeous in that color scheme.

The articles suggests that ALL E's are fitted with the 'BlueEfficiency' measures, which is pretty generous on MB's part. But I wonder how the low rolling resistance tires impact on the cars sporty pretentions. Are they less grippy? Any idea anyone?

My favourite Mercedes. Just a bit disappointing to hear about the engine, but the engine department was never their forte.

Its seems that Mercedes' abilities with engines are just like their cars, skewed towards the large and big. No complaints out of their V8s and V12s, but their 4 and 6-cylinder engines are usually found wanting a lot of times. Now their old I6 was another story. This V6 thing is still kinda new for Mercedes with only 2 different designs in 12+ years.

M

I bet the new turbo fours will be superb. Now we just have to wait for the next generation V6's.

I'm sorry but i find this V6 bashing from the press is nonsense,try to compare that engine to the one in the new XF and u'll see the difference.

The only thing that engine lacks is just more power to match the competition other than that nothing to be done.

And what's wrong with the "old" 4 Kompressor units? they are just superb,great fuel consumption while pushing more power and torque than the competition?

PS,stunning color combo