Mercedes E 300 de: a diesel with a ZERO label

The Mercedes E 300 de uses plug-in hybrid technology with a diesel engine to achieve an average consumption from 1.7 l/100 km. It carries the DGT’s ZERO label and goes on sale from 66,400 euros.

Mercedes-Benz continues to expand its new range of plug-in hybrids, featuring third-generation technology. Joining the recently launched S-Class S 560 e is now the Mercedes E 300 de. It has just gone on sale in saloon and estate body styles. In mid-2019, the Mercedes C 300 de will arrive.

A peculiarity of the E 300 de and C 300 de is that they are plug-in hybrids with diesel engines, something that is not very common. The 2-litre 4-cylinder produces 194 CV, with a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The electric motor, meanwhile, delivers 90 kW (122 CV) of power, with 440 Nm of torque.

Overall, the hybrid powertrain can transmit a maximum output of 225 kW (306 CV) and a maximum torque of 700 Nm to the rear wheels. It does so through a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

Sporty performance, up to 54 km in EV mode

The performance of the Mercedes E 300 de matches its maximum output. It can reach a top speed of 250 km/h, and it drops below 6 seconds in the 0-100 km/h sprint from a standing start.

However, the homologated consumption is remarkably low given its power and performance, thanks to plug-in hybrid technology. The E 300 de has a homologated combined fuel consumption of 1.7 l/100 km, and an electricity consumption of 18.7 kWh/100 km. These figures are still provisional under WLTP, calculated in relation to the NEDC cycle.

Very little in any case, thanks to the possibilities this technology offers. The battery now has a capacity of 12.5 kWh, double that of the previous generation. Using a Wallbox, the 7.4 kW on-board charger allows a full recharge in under 2 hours. From a conventional domestic plug, about five hours are needed.

With a fully charged battery, the Mercedes E 300 de can cover up to 54 km in electric mode. Its maximum operating speed in this mode is around 130 km/h. There are up to five driving programmes, including an ECO mode with an assistant that advises the driver on achieving maximum efficiency. It works predictively, offering recommendations for managing accelerator pressure in light of traffic or the terrain’s topography.

The price of the Mercedes E 300 de saloon is 66,400 euros, and 69,050 euros for the E 300 de Estate.