Mercedes: A matter of class

THE time is ripe for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class to step forth, but before it arrives, Bruneians who have thought about getting behind the wheel of a three-pointed star may opt for the outgoing model.

Why would anyone want to consider the outgoing E-Class when the new one is just around the corner? Here's why: Mercedes-Benz is looking to leverage on its recent successes, mainly attributable to the high build quality of its latest models. The improved build quality is best represented in the C-Class, with car industry experts around the world citing the C-Class as more of a miniature S-Class in terms of build quality.

What many forget is that the long process began with the E-Class, and the outgoing models in Brunei are the last of that range. This means that whatever flaws present at the outset have been ironed out. Even in their most basic models, Mercedes-Benz cars stand out in terms of luxury, and these outgoing models offer exceptional value.

Many people have disregarded the E-Class 200K as a poor man's executive automobile, but with the Avant Garde styling package, the car finally has the looks to match its edge. Although the 200K is not intended to be a performance special, it can do the job when in a rush, but its forte is carrying its passengers comfortably.

The E250 and E280, each powered by a V6 engine, offer more of the same. Variable-valve timing on these two models ensures that torque is available at low engine speeds, making overtaking easy. Just find the appropriate time, and the engine picks up the pace smoothly. Combined with nicely weighted steering wheel, the E-Class continues to impress. My previous Mercedes driving experience left me feeling like the E-Class was geared more for comfort, not speed. This time round, however, it cannot be faulted for being so, and this latest drive highlighting that the car is fairly accomplished in taking long sweeping corners at speed.

But it's in sophistication where the E-class excels. For cars that can carry five passengers comfortably, the common misconception is that the driver is not engaged in the drive. In this case the driver has a choice: be involved or simply relax in comfort. The seven-speed G-tronic gearbox is also a treat. The gearing delivers silky smooth power, with efficiency not burdened by flat-footed performance. Step down on the accelerator and the car kicks down several gears and picks up speed spritely. Coast on the motorway and the E-Class is in its element.

Mercedes-Benz has always been good at hiding the true size of its cars to the driver. The E-Class, like any Mercedes, handles quite well and is agile for an executive saloon. The turning circle is tight to ensure that city driving and navigating parking lots are not a problem.

One thing about the outgoing E-Class that only a few of the other cars can boast is a mobile phone system that actually works. The last time I checked, the Mercedes-Benz versions were not up to scratch. Whatever they did to the current system, though, I hope they keep doing it. A phone call to a colleague in the office was fuss-free, with no need to repeat myself or raise my voice.

The ergonomics are top notch, too. Whether you are small-bodied, long-bodied of more-than-full-bodied, there is a comfortable seating position, and the "seat memory" ensures that finding the optimum is at the push of a button.

As for the driving experience, a sense of occasion never wears out, from when you first open the door and see the finer points of detail in the door handles, to the dashboard and wooden trim, to the scent of the leather throughout the cabin as you get settle into your seat.

All these finesses are not new, but they to be in the next model as standard; the benchmark has been set and Mercedes-Benz is already lining up their next release.

As for the outgoing models, Jati Transport Sdn Bhd in Brunei is clearing the outgoing E200 for $88,000, the E250 with AMG exterior trim for $99,999, and the E280 with AMG exterior trim for $116,000. Exceptional value.

The Brunei Times