Mercedes-Benz has made its latest plug-in hybrid model available to order in the UK. The new E 300 de starts from £47,700 in the UK for a saloon model in SE trim.
The E 300 de is a rare diesel plug-in hybrid – most electrically assisted models use petrol engines instead – and utilises a combination of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel with 191bhp and an electric motor with 121bhp. The combined system total is 302bhp, along with an impressive 700Nm of torque.
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Mercedes-Benz claims an official fuel economy figure of 166.2mpg, with CO2 emissions of 41g/km qualifying it as an ultra-low emissions vehicle. The saloon can run for 34 miles on electric power alone, while the heavier estate manages 32 miles. The 13.5kWh battery can be recharged in under two hours from a fast-charger.
Performance is impressive for a large, heavy vehicle – 0-60mph takes just 5.7 seconds (5.8 for the Estate) while top speed is an electronically limited 155mph.
The 300 de is available in two trims, as with most of the E-Class range – SE and AMG Line. All cars feature a widescreen cockpit, mating a digital dial pack with large infotainment screen, active parking assist, electrically adjustable and heated seats, keyless go and blind-spot monitoring, plus 18-inch alloy wheels.
AMG Line is the sportier option, and brings an AMG body kit plus a different wheel design, ash wood interior trim, Artico artificial leather upholstery and privacy glass.
See Available E-Class deals
Various options packages bring goodies such as a Burmester sound system, a panoramic sunroof, gloss black chrome trim, air suspension, Nappa leather upholstery and a semi-autonomous Driving Assistance package.
The new E 300 de starts from £47,700 in the UK for a saloon model – nearly £10,000 over the entry-level E 220 d. Estate models command a £2,000 premium. Order books are open now.
