New 2020 Mercedes-Benz is more than just a facelift – new M254 engine, lighter 9G-Tronic, new infotainment, new steering

The current W213 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class finally gets a much needed update. Although it is still a fairly new model (launched in 2017), the E-Class is one of the weaker links in Mercedes-Benz’s model line-up and conversely, it’s the one model where archrival BMW 5 Series has a clear lead over it.

The new updated model will address many of the previous car’s weakness.

The previous car was criticized for its bland design that’s lacking in its own identity, looking too much like a C-Class. The new model gets new headlights and tail lights, as well as a new grille. 

The entry Avantgarde trim’s front bumper and grille have been significantly changed.

Under the bonnet is a new M254 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous car’s M264 engine.

The new engine uses a 48V mild hybrid electrical network, by virtue of an integrated starter-motor generator (ISG). The engine alone makes 272 PS, with the ISG adding another 20 PS of boost.

There’s also a new 3.0-litre six-cylinder M256, also with ISG. Details will be announced closer to the new E-Class’ market launch date but in the S450, the same engine makes 367 PS and 500 Nm.

Both engines are paired to a new 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission, now updated to integrate better with the ISG, with reduced size and weight, thanks to better placement of power electronics and the electronic motor, which has reduced the number of cables required.

Inside, the infotainment, steering wheel, dashboard and seats are new.

The adaptive driver’s seat (availability depending on individual market’s options) now automatically adjusts when the driver enters his/her height into the media display/Mercedes me app.

The infotainment display now comes in two options, again its availability is dependent on decision of distributors in the individual markets, both options feature twin screens – 2x10.25-inch (bonded) and a 2x12.3-inch.

Like all recent Mercedes-Benz cars, it also comes with MBUX.

The steering wheel is also new, and is available in two material options - all-leather and wood-leather.

The steering wheel’s rim now feature capacitive sensors which senses the presence of the driver’s hands.

As before, the E-Class has semi-autonomous driving capability, utilizing adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance to keep the car in its lane but the law requires the driver to still remain in control, thus the system will warn/disengage if the driver doesn’t hold the steering wheel for more than 15 seconds.

Previously, the steering detects the slightest torque from the driver’s hands to determine if the driver is still in control. The new capacitive sensors on the steering wheel rim replaces that.  

Further details will be announced closer to its market launch date, which in Europe, will be the middle of 2020. Closer to home, we don’t expect the new E-Class to be here until 2021.

The current E200, E300, and E350 are locally-assembled at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s vehicle assembly facility in Pekan. As such, there will be some gaps between the new E-Class market launch in Europe versus its introduction in locally-assembled form here. Plus, priority typically go to left-hand drive markets. Except for the UK, other right-hand drive markets will typically have a slightly longer wait.