Mercedes E-Class long wheelbase glides into Beijing Motor Show

Mercedes’ sales in China have hit an all-time high, and now the company will be widening its appeal with the introduction of a long-wheelbase E-Class. The new model will sit above the standard car in terms of luxury, but without the massive price tag and increased bulk of an S-Class.

The long-wheelbase model adds 140mm of extra length over the standard E-Class, most of which has gone straight to the rear compartment where passengers are able to enjoy an extra 134mm of legroom. This has the added effect of pushing the seats back, leaving a larger clearance for entry and exit when the doors are open.

• Beijing Motor Show - preview

At first glance, the long-wheelbase E-Class is almost indistinguishable from the standard model, but look closer and you’ll notice an extra window carefully incorporated into the C-pillar, plus an extended roofline for increased headroom in the rear.  The rest is pure E-Class, from the high-performance LED headlights back to the swooping rear panels. While UK models have abandoned the traditional upright grille with Mercedes bonnet ornament, for the Chinese market, both this and the more sporting grille will be available as options.

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Of course, inside is where the long-wheelbase Mercedes E-Class truly differs. All rear seats come with a folding rear armrest fitted with cupholders and a USB port, but it can be upgraded to provide wireless phone charging and a touchscreen to control the COMAND infotainment system. For the true executive experience, there’s the option to replace the rear bench with two individual seats split by a central console fitted with a temperature control.

The long-wheelbase E-Class benefits from the same massive line-up of technology as the standard car, including two 12-inch screens in the front to display driver information and infotainment via the COMAND media system. LED’s are abundant, and the interior ambient lighting offers 64 colours. Safety’s not been forgotten either, with active city braking, attention assist, and a degree of autonomy with the option to move the car into and out of tight parking spots using a smartphone app.

The long-wheelbase Mercedes E-Class is currently only destined for the Chinese market, and will go on display at the Beijing Motor Show.

Would you buy a long-wheelbase Mercedes E-Class if it came to the UK? Let us know in the comments below...