The new Mercedes delivers

It is possible to drive an E-Class which can deliver up to 53.3mph and there are more than 20 new or further technical developments from Mercedes-Benz for this latest generation E-Class, including trailblazing innovations for safe driving that are available from no other manufacturer in this combination.

For example, the standard Attention Assist, optional Adaptive High Beam Assist and automatic emergency braking, which is activated when there is acute danger of a collision.

Long-distance comfort of the E-Class is improved even further in the new saloon; there is intelligent body shell technology with up to 30 per cent greater rigidity, further improved seats and a newly developed suspension whose shock absorbers automatically adjust to the current driving situation.

The optional airmatic suspension now works together with an electronic damping system.

BlueEFFICIENCY is standard on all UK E-Class models except the V8s and is largely responsible for an average fuel consumption improvement of 3 mpg.

Engineers from every development department have worked together to optimise numerous assemblies and components, to save fuel by means of reduced weight, a new shape, improved functioning or efficient energy management.

Other BlueEFFICIENCY measures include newly developed tyres with up to 17 per cent lower rolling resistance, need-related and therefore energy-saving control of the alternator, fuel pump, air conditioning compressor and power steering, and the ECO start/stop function which switches the engine of the new E 200 CGI off when idling.

Displays in the speedometer inform the driver how much fuel is being consumed and when they should change to the next higher gear in the interests of an economical and environmentally conscious driving style. Back in 1995 the E-Class was the first Mercedes to appear with the highly acclaimed twin-headlamp face, a symbolic design feature that still characterises the identity of the E-Class. The designers have now reinterpreted these four eyes as rectangles, with a direct reference to the interesting geometrical shapes found in cubism. They have the effect of precious gems that have been precisely set into the wings.

In the same way, the radiator grille with its three-dimensional chromed surround, dynamic arrow-shape and more upright position underlines the status of the new E-Class.

The body styling is now more masculine, yet there is still the classic Mercedes look; this is what customers demand, a Mercedes must look like a Mercedes.

My test car was in Sport trim and featured AMG body styling that includes bumpers and side skirts, 18-inch light-alloy AMG wheels, lowered sports suspension, and perforated disc brakes with the Mercedes logo.

Inside, there are sport seats with enhanced lateral support, contrasting decorative seams in the seats and armrests, a four-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddles (auto only) and a black roof lining.

Diesel is a pillar of Mercedes cars and with the new E-Class the most powerful engine offered is the six-cylinder E 350 CDI with an output of 231bhp and it can reward you with 40.9 mpg on the combined cycle, a 2 mpg improvement over the previous E 320 CDI.

Yes, the new E-Class is further proof the quality that Mercedes-Benz offers and of course there are numerous options available.