Hot on the heels of last week’s unveiling of the BMW 5-Series Long Wheelbase is the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class L, which like its Teutonic rival, will be sold exclusively in the Chinese market. The stretched E-Class has now made its world debut at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show.
With a length of 197 inches and a wheelbase of 119 inches, the new model for China has gained an extra 5.5 inches. As a result, in the rear of the five-seater vehicle passengers can enjoy an extra legroom compared with the regular wheelbase E-Class. Another added touch of comfort are the electric adjustment for the rear seats.
Unique features include the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system, Rear Seat Safety package with belt force limiters on the outer seats and rear side airbags, as well as ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection. A luggage compartment volume of 19.1 cubic-feet and a compact turning circle of 36.9 feet also represent class-leading values for this segment.
Two engines are on offer, a 204 horsepower unit and a 245 horsepower one, both with six-cylinders. Additional engine variants are expected to become available at a later date.
First sales will start in the Chinese market this June.
[Mercedes-Benz]
