Further details of the new Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain model have been revealed, ahead of its UK launch next Spring.
With greater ground clearance, large wheels and 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard, the All-Terrain takes in routes where conventional estates have to give up. Featuring flared arches with black covers and an ‘SUV’ like radiator grille for an off-road look, it will be launched in E 220 d 4MATIC (143 kW/194 hp) trim with the newly developed four-cylinder diesel engine, although this model is not to be sold in the UK, which is due to get the forthcoming six-cylinder version. Both models will come with the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission as standard.
The All-Terrain features DYNAMIC SELECT as standard, which enables five transmission modes to be selected with different engine, transmission, ESP and steering characteristics. A special model-specific feature is the All-Terrain transmission mode, which offers settings for off-road driving and was derived from the GLE. The suspension configuration and large wheels with higher sidewalls further increase ride comfort on rough roads, says Mercedes, compared with the E-Class.
When selecting the All-Terrain transmission mode, the chassis raises - in conjunction with the standard-fit AIR BODY CONTROL - by +20 mm, and at speeds of up to 22mph. The thresholds for ESP, active yaw control and acceleration skid control (ASR) are adjusted accordingly. The All-Terrain transmission mode has a special indicator on the vehicle display showing steering angle, vehicle level (position of the air suspension), the angle of slope and inclination, as well as the accelerator/brake position and a compass.
The new model features all of the luggage space solutions of the E-Class Estate, for example with the cargo position of the rear seat backrests, it’s now possible to position them at an approximately 10-degree steeper angle, creating an additional 30 litres of cargo volume. This makes a total of 670 litres – while still allowing full use of the five seats. The rear seat backrest can also be folded in a 40:20:40 split as standard, opening up plenty of configurations between transport capacity and seats.
Market launch for the Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain is set for the Spring of 2017. Only one version – the E 350 d – is expected to be offered in the UK, says Mercedes, priced at around the £50,000 mark.