It’s no exaggeration to say that the W213 Mercedes E-Class is one of the marque's most important models. In Malaysia, the E-Class is an ever-popular model for executives and towkays alike. The W213-generation E-Class was a hit from its launch in 2016, but a refresh is always welcome. We detail the extensive updates that the 2021 model receives.

Exterior

Just as its competitors get sharper and better, so does the W213 E-Class. So, what can we expect the 2021 model to feature?  Most obvious is the extensive exterior redesign, with new reprofiled bumpers front and rear, a new set of head and tail lamps, and a more muscular and dynamic stance. An AMG-Line package will be offered as well, giving it even more aggression.

Interior

On the inside, Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) returns in its latest iteration, in conjunction with the now-familiar dual-LCD cockpit layout (2 x 10.25” screens). All the instrument cluster and media controls can now be controlled by capacitive Touch Control buttons. A new-generation steering wheel completes the model update inside.

Complementing that is a new technology called ENERGIZING seat kinetics. What it does is basically improving its occupants’ wellbeing by optimising seat posture, music, lighting and seat-massage programs. The ultimate aim is to reduce stress levels of driver and passengers, especially on long-haul trips.

What about the powertrain?

Powering the 2021 W213 E-Class will be a new 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, codenamed M254. This new engine utilises a 48V mild hybrid (with an integrated starter generator, ISG) system to push out up to 272 PS. The M254 will most likely see duty in the E200, E250, and E300 or E350.

There’s also a 3.0-litre, six-cylinder (M256) in the line-up, utilising the same ISG technology as the M254. It’s capable of 367 PS and 500 Nm in the E450. 

A plug-in hybrid model is also available in the form of the E300e. Whilst it is using an 'older' M274 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine, the E300e nonetheless puts out an impressive combined output of 320 PS and 700 Nm. Adding to that, it has an electric-only range of 59 km (NEDC cycle). All variants are hooked to a 9-speed torque converter transmission.

Will we get the full-fat AMGs?

Speaking of AMGs, it is quite likely for the Malaysian market to see the AMG E63. Traditionally, the AMG models will come much later than the mainstream models. Nonetheless, it’s just nice to see Mercedes showcasing its full-blooded AMG models on our shores.

Anything else I should know?

In keeping with the E-Class being a technological showcase, there is a suite of next-generation driving assistance systems, such as;

• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with route-based speed adjustment
• Active Stop-and-Go Assist
• Active Steering Assist
• Active Brake Assist
• Active Blind Spot Assist
• Parking Package in conjunction with 360° camera: newly expanded side view and automatic parking not only in parallel and end-on parking spaces, but also on marked areas.​​​​​​

When will the 2021 E-Class be launched?

We have already caught a glimpse of the 2021 W213 E-Class earlier this month. A good guesstimate would be the second half of 2021.

Will the E-Class be locally assembled?

High volume models of the W213 E-Class such as the E200, E250 and E350 will almost certainly be locally-assembled in Pekan. What do you think of the incoming 2021 W213 E-Class? Would you put your money down on this or the upcoming facelifted G30 BMW 5-Series?