Skip advert
Advertisement

New 2023 Mercedes E-Class arrives to take on BMW 5 Series

The all-new Mercedes E-Class has grown in size and every version is now electrified

The sixth-generation Mercedes E-Class has arrived, and some significant improvements have been made to the long-running executive saloon car, which will rival the new BMW 5 Series.

Every powertrain available in the new E-Class is electrified, following the example set by the facelifted GLE SUV. However, unlike the forthcoming 5 Series, there’s no all-electric version; that alternative is provided by the similarly sized EQE model.

When it comes to design, the new E-Class is an evolutionary step over its predecessor. It incorporates styling elements from the S-Class and EQE models – especially the new-look grille (which can be backlit as an option) and gloss-black surround. Slimmer LED headlights and tail-lights – the latter featuring a three-pointed star signature – also feature.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The latest E-Class has grown in every direction, resulting in more room inside, according to Mercedes. The boot capacity remains 540 litres for combustion-engined models and 370 litres for PHEV cars.

A drag coefficient of 0.23Cd should help boost efficiency, and for a further lift, the car’s wheels (ranging from 17 to 21 inches, depending on spec) are aerodynamically optimised. The latest E-Class also features flush-fitting door handles and an active radiator grille, which can close to reduce drag when cooling requirements are reduced.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Cementing the E-Class’s image as a luxury-focused choice in the executive segment, a lot of the new car’s tech is inspired by the larger S-Class. The big news is the E-Class’s optional ‘Superscreen’ dash. It’s essentially a smaller version of the Hyperscreen seen in the EQS and S-Class, and is powered by the latest MBUX infotainment. The design is similar, with a large central screen and two panels either side for each front occupant.

Safety systems include active blind-spot and brake assist, while the E-Class is now available with automated valet parking.

When it comes to powertrains, the new E-Class is offered with mild-hybrid or plug-in power, with all models receiving a nine-speed automatic transmission. Mild hybrids start with the 201bhp E 200, which uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that’s boosted by a 23bhp electric motor.

Diesel power comes in the form of the 194bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder E 220 d mild hybrid, which is claimed will return 58.9mpg. This can be had with either rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC four-wheel drive.

Plug-in versions of the E-Class can travel up to 73 miles on electricity, courtesy of a 25.4kWh battery and an electric motor, backed up by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The E 300 e offers a total power output of 312bhp, or there’s 381bhp in the E 400 e. An E 300 de diesel PHEV will join the line-up at a later date.

Despite the longer wheelbase of the new E-Class, the turning circle is smaller than the outgoing model’s 11.6 metres. The optional Technology package includes rear-axle steering that can add 4.5 degrees of angle, reducing the turning circle to 10.8 metres. Airmatic air suspension with adjustable dampers is also included.

Pricing for the new E-Class has yet to be confirmed, but expect the saloon to start from around £50,000 when it goes on sale later this year. The E-Class Estate will also return, while the UK line-up will be offered exclusively in AMG Line trim.

Click here for our list of the best executive cars on sale...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Senior news reporter

A keen petrol-head, Alastair Crooks has a degree in journalism and worked as a car salesman for a variety of manufacturers before joining Auto Express in Spring 2019 as a Content Editor. Now, as our senior news reporter, his daily duties involve tracking down the latest news and writing reviews.

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Kia EV3 review
Kia EV3 - main image

Kia EV3 review

The stylish Kia EV3 compact electric SUV offers a long range, a practical boot, and good passenger comfort
In-depth reviews
30 May 2025
Smart #5 review
Smart #5 Brabus - front

Smart #5 review

The Tesla Model Y may need to sleep with one headlight open because of Smart’s audacious, supremely spacious and tech-centric SUV
In-depth reviews
23 May 2025
Best executive cars to buy 2025
Best executive cars - May 2025

Best executive cars to buy 2025

These executive cars add a real touch of class to every journey
Best cars & vans
19 May 2025
New Ferrari Roma Spider 2025 review: fast, elegant and fun
Ferrari Roma Spider - front

New Ferrari Roma Spider 2025 review: fast, elegant and fun

The drop-top Ferrari Roma Spider is a big leap forward from its predecessors
Road tests
14 May 2025

Most Popular

2026 Land Rover Defender updates look subtle, but they fix one huge annoyance for owners
Land Rover Defender MY26 updates - front

2026 Land Rover Defender updates look subtle, but they fix one huge annoyance for owners

Land Rover has introduced new, larger white-painted steel wheels for models with big brakes, fixing one massive irritation with the previous generatio…
News
30 May 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hit the road in style with the electric BMW i4 for only £344 a month
BMW i4 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Hit the road in style with the electric BMW i4 for only £344 a month

It may be a little overlooked these days, but the i4 is still a fine electric saloon. It’s our Deal of the Day for 30 May
News
30 May 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month
Kia EV6 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month

Our Deal of the Day for 31 May is an extremely attractive price for this extremely capable electric family car
News
31 May 2025