The new plug-in hybrid version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has gone on sale, with prices starting at £47,700.
Unusually for a plug-in hybrid, the E 300 de uses a diesel engine, rather than a petrol unit, combined with an electric motor. Mercedes-Benz has offered this combination for the last six years on the E-Class.
The frugal new model is available as either a saloon or estate. Both are powered by the same 2.0-litre diesel engine used in the E 220 d, producing 194hp and 400Nm of torque. This is linked to a 122hp electric hybrid module, which emits just 41g/km of CO2 and can deliver 166.2mpg on the combined cycle.
Mercedes claims that the E 300 de can go from 0-60mph in just 5.7 seconds (5.8 seconds for the estate), before hitting a top speed of 155mph.
Both are capable of running on electric power alone. The saloon can travel up to 34 miles, while the estate has an all-electric range of 32 miles. The pair can be charged from 10 to 100 per cent in under two hours when using a 7.4kW charger.
Even entry-level SE models get a wide variety of standard equipment, with blind spot assist, active park assist with front and rear parking sensors plus 18-inch alloy wheels included as part of the car’s price.
AMG Line vehicles get a full sports body kit with 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, as well as upgraded interior upholstery and an AMG steering wheel.
A Premium Package, available for an additional £2,395, adds Mercedes’ full online infotainment service, as well as wireless phone charging and a full parking assistance suite, which includes a 360-degree camera.
The Mercedes E 300 de is available to order now, and first deliveries are expected in spring 2019.
