Driver Assistance Systems Aiming for Fully Autonomous Driving

The new Mercedes-Benz "E-Class" is driving towards the future of autonomous driving.E-ClassThe 10th generation model, counting from the "170V" in 1947 which belonged to the same segment, began running on Japanese roads in July 2016. Its most significant feature is the integration of cutting-edge safety and driver assistance technologies, designed to lead to fully autonomous driving. But that's not all. Driving the new E 200 Avantgarde (Sport) offers a remarkably refined driving experience.

The new E-Class offers four engine variations, including different power outputs. The first to be released was the new "E 200 Avantgarde." It pairs a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine producing a maximum output of 135 kW (184 hp) with a 9-speed automatic transmission in a rear-wheel-drive configuration. While this is the most basic model in the lineup, the variations are abundant. The "E 200 Avantgarde Sport," with its slightly firmer suspension and sporty character, and the "E 200 4MATIC Avantgarde" equipped with a full-time 4WD system, are also available. The model I tested was the E 200 Avantgarde Sport (7.27 million yen).

The handling excellence is a fine tradition of Mercedes.

The engine runs smoothly and powerfully, with a supple ride.

The E 200 Avantgarde Sport features MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, an advanced Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, drilled ventilated discs on the front brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels, and the AMG styling package comprising a front spoiler and side and rear skirts. The deeper-looking air dam shape also distinguishes it from the E 200 Avantgarde. It can be described as a specification that further emphasizes the sporty aspects of the E-Class's diverse character.

With a wheelbase extended by 65mm compared to the previous model, the body measures an imposing 4,930mm in length. However, thanks to revised proportions, including the relationship between the cabin and body, and the body and tires, along with sculpted surfaces, it presents a surprisingly taut impression. The styling evokes a powerful sense of solidity, similar to the "S-Class" and the "C-Class".

The driving experience was truly superb.

A Four-Cylinder Engine That Rivals Six-Cylinders

The excellence of the Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde lies, quite simply, in its possession of the distinct charm that is uniquely Mercedes. Its handling, with carefully controlled changes in behavior, and its reassuring drive, powered by a broad torque band without abrupt peaks, are testaments to this. The character common to most Mercedes vehicles is always impressive, and the new E-Class upholds this fine tradition.

The 2-liter unit, which begins generating its maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1,200 rpm, impresses with its low-end power. Mid-range acceleration is also strong, providing a powerful surge when accelerating from around 2,000 rpm. The engine is quiet and smooth, revving freely to higher RPMs with minimal vibration. It feels exceptionally luxurious. While four-cylinder engines are sometimes said to be inferior to inline-six engines due to vibration, this meticulously engineered unit is by no means lacking. The new E-Class once again impressed me with the quality of recent four-cylinder Mercedes engines.

The wheelbase is a substantial 2940mm.

The Avantgarde is equipped with intelligent "MULTIBEAM LED HEADLIGHTS" that prevent glare from road reflections with 84 LEDs and avoid dazzling other vehicles when using high beams.

Straight-line stability on the highway is exceptional. The connection between the steering and suspension is seamless; even on rutted roads, there is no interference. You can drive with complete confidence, hands at the 9 and 15 positions. The "AGILITY CONTROL" suspension, a hydraulic variable damping system, provides a supple ride during normal driving and instantly increases damping force during hard cornering, optimizing the suspension settings according to driving conditions. This system likely contributes significantly.

Although the E 200 Avantgarde Sport is equipped with paddle shifters, the 9-speed gearbox effectively utilizes the torque band, resulting in outstanding mid-range acceleration. Furthermore, selecting Sport mode (or Sport Plus mode) via "DYNAMIC SELECT" allows you to experience the performance expected of the "Sport" designation, even when left in D range.

The E200 Avantgarde Sport comes standard with 19-inch rim diameter tires.

The seats, which the interior design manager from Mercedes-Benz headquarters, who visited Japan, proudly described as "enabling three-dimensional stitching," feature a sculpted bucket-type design with parallel stitching following complex curves. While offering excellent support and a firm cushion, they are unlikely to cause discomfort. The exceptionally quiet cabin, with wind noise and road noise kept to a minimum, is truly comfortable.

The rear legroom is also generous, making it a stately limousine that fully utilizes its nearly three-meter wheelbase. The trunk capacity is advertised at 540 liters. In reality, it is deep enough to accommodate multiple golf bags with ease. Those who are drawn to this car likely enjoy golf, so it caters well to that need.

As expected from a car aiming for full autonomy, the new technologies, such as the automatic lane change system, were astonishing.

The Astonishing "Active Lane Change Assist"

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class was unveiled in Japan in July 2016 at the Akasaka Guest House. At the time, a demonstration of hands-free following-distance control on roads without lane markings was showcased. I recall the local subsidiary, Mercedes-Benz Japan, proudly proclaiming the introduction of "numerous world-first innovative technologies that significantly enhance comfort and safety."

While I will refrain from listing all the equipment in this test drive review, I will describe the features based on my actual experience. I was particularly impressed by the "DISTRONIC PLUS" with "Active Distance Assist," which offers automatic stopping and starting, and the enhanced "Steering Pilot." The time you can keep your hands off the steering wheel has been significantly extended, and the car smoothly navigates curves even on faint lane markings.

Equipped with "Active Lane Change Assist" that enables automatic lane changes at speeds between 80 km/h and 180 km/h.

Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel spokes allow infotainment system operation with a thumb swipe.

"Active Lane Change Assist" is a system that allows the car to automatically change lanes to the right or left simply by operating the turn signal lever while keeping your hands off the steering wheel. This is possible because the system constantly monitors surrounding vehicles, including those behind. When there is sufficient space, the car automatically moves to the next lane, which is truly astonishing. The system does not engage in situations where a lane change would be difficult without some effort. Conversely, it will change lanes even on yellow lines. At present, the philosophy of driver assistance systems prioritizes safety for occupants while ultimately placing responsibility on the driver.

Sculpted bucket seats

Thanks to the long wheelbase, rear seat space is quite generous.

Part of the driver assistance system, the new equipment includes two 12.3-inch TFT large displays. The display in front of the driver shows a virtual speedometer and tachometer, as well as vehicle surroundings and warnings. The adjacent monitor displays information such as the navigation map in a large format and infotainment details. It was fascinating to see how two crucial systems—the assistance system using vehicle surroundings information like distance to the preceding car, and connectivity via the internet—have been integrated in a new form.

The new E-Class also features Touch Control, allowing full operation of the infotainment system by swiping with your thumb on the steering wheel. While it may require some getting used to, it represents an interesting new direction for automotive controls. The new E-Class embodies the multifaceted nature of automobiles today. It seems well worth experiencing.

Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde Sport
メルセデス・ベンツ E 200 アバンギャルド スポーツ
Body Size | Length 4,950 x Width 1,850 x Height 1,455 mm
Wheelbase | 2,940 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,600 / 1,590 mm
Weight | 1,700 kg
Engine | 1,991 cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbocharged
Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 92.0 mm
Maximum Output | 135 kW (184 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 300 Nm (30.6 kgm) / 1,200 - 4,000 rpm
Transmission | 9-speed AT
Drivetrain | FR
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear | 245/40R19 / 275/35R19
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.4 meters
Minimum Ground Clearance | 130 mm
Trunk Capacity | 540 liters
Steering | Right
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 14.7 km/ℓ
Price | 7.27 million yen