Mercedes introduces E-Class diesel plug-in hybrid

- Diesel hybrid to be available in both sedan and estate bodystyle 

- Powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine with 194bhp and 400Nm of torque 

- Electric propulsion comes via a hybrid module with 122bhp of electric power and 440 Nm of torque

Mercedes has just introduced diesel plug-in hybrid versions of the latest-generation E-Class, with prices starting at £47,700 (Rs 45.42 lakhs) for the sedan and £49,700 (Rs 47.32 lakhs) for the estate.

The new E 300 de offers a combination of diesel’s long-distance efficiency and frugality with the emissions-free running of electricity. It is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine which produces 194bhp and 400Nm of torque and a hybrid module with 122bhp of electric power and 440 Nm of torque (combined system output is 700Nm). It can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 5.9 seconds (6.0 seconds for the estate) and has a top speed of 250kmph.

The E 300 de has a fully electric range of 55km. It has a battery capacity of 13.5 kWh and can be charged from 10 to 100 per cent in under two hours with a 7.4 kW charger. The entry-level SE features blind spot assist; widescreen cockpit; four USB ports; touchpad with controller; illuminated door sills; spilt-folding rear seats; parking package including Active Parking Assist with front and rear parking sensors; Seat Comfort package including four-way lumbar support; ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours; 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and keyless go. 

The AMG Line trim adds 18-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels; black open-pore ash wood trim with Artico Dinamica leather upholstery and an AMG steering wheel with touch control buttons.