It’s been just about a month since Mercedes-Benz launched the new-gen E-Class in India, and as standard, the luxury sedan came equipped with the ‘Superscreen’ setup that comprises a 12.3-inch free-standing digital instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen.
However, Mercedes now seems to have slightly rejigged the variant and equipment configuration, as their website currently lists two different infotainment systems for the Avantgarde and AMG Line trims.
- Avantgarde trim gets a regular 14.4-inch infotainment unit
- AMG Line with Superscreen available on top-spec E 450 4Matic
- Prices yet to be officially updated
Mercedes-Benz E-Class equipment reshuffle
It’s the E 200 and E 220d variants that come in the entry-level Avantgarde spec, while the range-topping E 450 4Matic is available in the AMG Line trim. Prior to this update, the two trims were largely differentiated on the cosmetic front with different looking bumpers and wheels.
Now, Mercedes seems to have dropped the Superscreen setup from the Avantgarde trim, continuining with just the 14.4-inch central infotainment system. This has also necessitated a new dashboard for the E 200 and E 220d variants. In place of the passenger screen, the dashboard now gets a wooden finish, although it is likely that the additionally screen could be added back as an optional extra. An AMG-spec steering wheel and different upholstery options are a few other interior differences setting the Avantgarde and the AMG Line trim apart.
The passenger screen is definitely a modern and a techy feature, but the large centre screen is where most of the functionality is packed. So, for buyers of the E-Class who are primarily chauffeur-driven, the standard-fit passenger screen wasn't likely to be of much value. This is also likely to bring about a price revision for the Avantgarde variants, although Mercedes is yet to officially update the same.
Without the Superscreen, Mercedes has the opportunity to price the E-Class more competitively against the new BMW 5-Series LWB which is priced at Rs 72.90 lakh. Prices for the E-Class currently range between Rs 78.5 lakh and Rs 92.5 lakh, although that gap of Rs 5.60 lakh in their starting price is likely to narrow down.
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