By Kim Tae-jong
Mercedes-Benz has recently introduced the new E350 BlueEFFICIENCY here, a flagship model in its E-Class range, which offers better fuel efficiency and driving convenience.
BlueEFFICIENCY is a term coined by the silver arrow brand to encompass various steps that improve overall fuel efficiency and also reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The new E350 surely deserves the term as it is upgraded with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that employs Stratified-Charged Gasoline Injection (CGI). The system helps the engine outperform the fuel economy of its conventionally-injected counterpart by up to 10 percent.
It has various safety and convenient features such as an Attention Assist system, which can detect when drivers start to become drowsy and prompt them to take a break before an accident occurs.
The Direct Control suspension is one of the major features allowing drivers to enjoy a higher degree of long-distance comfort provided by the new E350. The shock absorbers adapt to the current driving conditions, reducing the damping forces automatically when driving normally with low shock-absorber impulses and increasing the forces up to the maximum as required when cornering at speed or performing evasive maneuvers.
Its Adaptive Highbeam Assist also optimizes headlamp lighting while driving at night. Unlike traditional systems that simply switch between dipped and main beams, the new system is completely adaptive, adjusting light in accordance with the prevailing traffic situation.
Another impressive feature is the Adaptive Brake Light safety function, in which the brake lights flash instead of just lighting up continuously during an emergency stop.
Drivers will also find other equipment levels are of improved quality. The sound system is beefed up, parking sensors are standard and so are cornering lights.
The E350 comes with big 18-inch wheels.
But officials of Mercedes-Benz say drivers can choose other models in its top-selling E-Class range.
“Over several generations the E-Class estate has been acknowledged as the best in the business. Drivers will be able to chose from a greater variety with our introduction of some 10 new models in the E-class range,” an official said.
In fact, the E-Class consists of 10 lineup models in various engine and body configurations, including the E200 and E300.
Since the first introduction of the E-class, over 30,000 vehicles have been sold here and 600,000 around the world, according to Mercedes-Benz.