A Mercedes-Benz packed with smarts

Mercedes-Benz is planning new models bristling with technology such as night vision and pedestrian-detection systems, writes motoring editor ALASTAIR SLOANE

The all-new E-Class Mercedes-Benz heads a plan by the German carmaker to produce a raft of new models and engines over the next six years chock-a-block with new technology.

Vehicles already signed off by the Mercedes-Benz board for launch before 2007 are a facelifted S-Class with four-wheel-drive, an SLR coupe developed with Formula One partner McLaren, an M-Class with air suspension and two wheelbase options, an all-new S-Class with electronic night vision and a new C-Class coupe.

Future engines include a twin-turbo V12, 3.5-litre V6, five-cylinder turbo-diesel, a supercharged 3-litre V6, and new 2.6- and 3-litre direct-injection diesels. Technology extends to pedestrian-detection radar systems linked to brakes and electronic steering.

The new E-Class will go on sale in New Zealand towards the end of the year, with a ground-breaking electronic braking system taken from the SL roadster as standard equipment.

The Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde model range will come initially with 2.6- and 3.2-litre six-cylinder engines and a 5-litre V8. Diesel engines and the TE wagon and high-performance AMG sedan will be available later. The top-line 5-litre V8 will be equipped with Airmatic air suspension as standard. The system, which electronically alters both damper and spring rates to match road conditions, is expected to be optional on other E-Class models.

Mercedes-Benz calls its new fly-by-wire braking system Sensotronic Brake Control. It sends braking commands to a computer which monitors grip and suspension loads to determine optimum braking pressures at each wheel. Hydraulics take over if the electronic gizmo fails. The system will be first seen in New Zealand when the SL arrives in July.

As expected, the new E-Class incorporates styling cues from the flagship S-Class and entry-level C-Class range. But it retains the look of the mid-range model's twin headlights.

The car shares the outgoing model's 4818mm length but has a 21mm longer wheelbase and is marginally taller for more interior room.

The shape is sleeker than the outgoing model, too - the CD drag factor of 0.26 puts the new E-Class at the top of the aerodynamic class, same as the C-Class.

At 1570kg, the car is 20kg lighter than the previous model, thanks to the use of aluminium in the front and rear ends, bonnet, front wings, boot lid and much of the suspension.

Mercedes-Benz says the ride and handling of the E-Class set new standards, thanks partly to the updated front four-link suspension, the rear multi-link arrangement and the retuned rack-and-pinion steering.

Said chairman Jurgen Hubbert: "No other model reflects the basic values of our brand as clearly as the new E-Class - safety, comfort, innovative engineering and individuality."

New technology includes solar panels in the optional panoramic glass roof which power fans to cool the cabin when the car is parked in the sun.

Inside, there are "dynamic multi-contour" seats, in which air chambers inflate to provide the best lateral support.

The same "intelligent" seats weigh occupants and tell the safety centre how much airbags have to inflate in a crash. A light person gets a lighter airbag load; a heavy one gets the full noise. This system has been in use among top-end carmakers for some time.

Thermotronic air-conditioning system allows four front and rear occupants to each set the temperature of their choice. This information can be stored in the car's ignition key, along with seat and outside and inside mirror positions.

The Comand system, Mercedes-Benz' control centre, will allow driver and passengers to browse the internet and send and receive e-mails and text messages. Voice-operation extends to the satellite-navigation system, in appropriate markets.

Helping to make things safer for the driver is Distronic, the cruise-control system which keeps the E-Class at a predetermined distance from the car in front. Distronic was first seen in the S-Class.

Other safety devices include front, side and head airbags and a rollover sensor. This applies the brakes and cuts engine revs once it detects the careless driver is a second or two away from turning the car on its ear.