SINGAPORE – Panic or confidence can move markets but it appears one car has the ability to raise COE premiums single-handedly.
The recent launch of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is said to have been behind last week’s spike, both because of actual orders placed and in terms of pre-emptive bids by competitors.
The car itself seems relatively tame in comparison to its reputation. Although it looks like a mere face-lift, it is billed as the new E-Class because of the extensive mid-life upgrade.
New engines and assistance systems have been shoehorned into this executive sedan, one of the three-pointed star’s most important models.
The most perceptible change is to the front end, which has been transformed to look more like the rest of the current Mercedes range. LED headlamps are standard and there is the option of a classic front grille with the Elegance package or a sportier alternative in Avantgarde trim.
But it is the major makeover under the sheet metal which is impressive. The Mercedes-Benz E250, for example, gets a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, replacing the previous 1.8 turbo.
With 350 Nm, it has 40 Nm more torque than the old unit but with better fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
The rationale is simple, according to Merc engineers. The increase in capacity allowed for a longer stroke to produce higher torque earlier. With the improvement, the E-Class moves off from stationary more briskly, thus enabling the gear ratios to be taller to enhance fuel economy.
Any additional benefits to driving performance would be icing on the cake.
Stepping on the gas pedal, the beefier torque is helpful in making the E250 accelerate a bit more enthusiastically.
Review: Mercedes-Benz E250
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