From July of this year Mercedes-Benz is also offering diesel-powered models in the current E-Class range in conjunction with 4MATIC. Both the Saloon and Estate versions of the new E 280 CDI 4MATIC with 140 kW/190 hp and the E 320 CDI 4MATIC with 165 kW/224 hp, featuring a six-cylinder engine in each case, are available to customers with this permanent all-wheel-drive system. Ex-factory prices range from 46,168 to 51,736 euro. This means that Mercedes-Benz has the largest and most attractive model range in this market segment, comprising a total of 27 engine and bodywork variants.

The combination of 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive and these leading-edge V6 CDI engines sets new standards in terms of safety, traction, pulling power and economy. For instance, the new E 320 CDI 4MATIC (Saloon) accelerates from nought to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 244 km/h, yet burns only 7.9 to 8.1 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption). The ex-factory price is 48,894 euro for the Saloon and 51,736 euro for the Estate. The E 280 CDI 4MATIC Saloon gets by on just 7.8 to 8.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined figure) and manages the sprint from nought to 100 km/in 8.2 seconds; its top speed is 234 km/h. The ex-factory price of the E 280 CDI 4MATIC Saloon is 46,168 euro, while the Saloon costs 49,010 euro.

Beneath the bonnets of the two 4MATIC models is the newly developed 6-cylinder CDI engine with common-rail fuel injection, which is distinguished by its exemplary torque characteristics. With the E 320 CDI 4MATIC, an impressive maximum torque of 510 Newton metres is on tap from 1600 rpm. A diesel particulate filter, a stereo radio and a five-speed transmission are all standard equipment on the new all-wheel-drive diesels.