In fact, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is officially the most economical luxury car in the world, and the terrific thing is that it is available right here in South Africa -“ here and now.
We’ve spent time behind the wheel of this delectable new automotive offering and it’s truly a delight to drive. Significantly, it feels just like a normal car. There are two noticeable differences: it’s eerily quiet at times and it appears to have a distinct disdain for diesel. In fact, it sips a mere 4,2 litres of diesel per 100 km -“ a truly incredible feat for a vehicle of this size (it would be considered remarkable even in most small cars). That’s a whopping 28% reduction over the equivalent E 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel model (which is hardly a thirsty creature).
And the quietness? Well that is, of course, thanks to the hybrid’s powerplant -“ the car has a four-cylinder diesel engine, which generates 150 kW of power and an impressive 500 Nm of torque. But that diesel motor works with a 20 kW electric motor. And, when you fire up the engine, it’s the electric motor that kicks to life -“ it’s as noisy and dramatic as switching on a light bulb. The electric motor continues working for speeds of up to 35 km/h and a range of one kilometre, which means that the car is dead silent as you leave home. (Incidentally, take care for pedestrians; they don’t hear you coming.)
The planet-saving hybrid is but one model in the new E-Class range, which also comes with more conventional combustion engines and in sedan, estate, coupé and cabriolet guise.
Text: Charleen Clarke
