rieger

Actually can't believe that they are using plastic for the dash. Other manufacturers are using leather and not just any leather double stitched leather on the dash. I think I saw it in the Cadillac CTS of all places and that car is half the price of an E-Class. Some other cars have the double stitched leather also but can't recall and MB should be going this route because it really makes a huge difference in luxury.
Also don't like the way the hood line is on the side like the C-Class. The front quarter panel would flow much nicer without that hood line separation.
The main bonus will definitely the added reliability of the 2010 E-class since they got rid of Schrempf the quality of the cars and testing of the cars before launch has much improved as seen by the new S and C class have much less problems than with the previous S, C, and E.

rkao

You're right...the taillight of the W212 seems a variation on the theme of the taillight on the W210. I think the key difference seems to be the W210 taillight looks more, for the lack of a better word, masculine.

The proportions of the taillight on the W212 seems smaller relative to the entire rear of the car than on the W210, could that be the difference?

K-A

I hate the hood line being on the side of the cars too rieger, I mean what's the point of that? At first it was different (BMW did it first right?) now everyone does it, pretty sloppy styling IMO. Really ruins the flowing look from the side..

pmb600

I was about to type "It's because of the new crash standards in Europe" but then why doesn't BMW or Audi have that.

pmb600

I agree that the dash plastics need to be spruced up, stitching would be ideal. But keep in mind that the CTS doesn't have a leather covered dash, it's just a simulation that has stiches. I do like it though, and even if it is fake it is definately something MB should adopt.

rieger

Funny thing is I think the GL has the stitching on the dash and on the centre stack and it looks great! I find it kind of funny and stupid that MB has not chosen to incorporate it into their luxury sedans but into their SUV. If they have incorporated into the E-class then it is not as nice as the GL because it does not continue down on the center stack like the GL does.
The bright side is that the exterior and interior still looks better than the 5 series. I mean when I sat in the 5 series I had no clue whatsoever that I was in a luxury car. A Civic interior used better plastics for god sakes. I can't wait to see what the new % will look like and to see what kind of materials they will use in it since they have been severly trashed by the press and the public for the cheap plastic.
When I first sat in the w211 I fell in love with the interior first. With the swoopy lines it looked very appealing and modern. The w221 just like others have said the design is a step back IMO even though they may have used quality materials. Someone who has the time and know how try to paste side by side pictures of the w211 and w221 front side and rear profiles along with an interior dash shot and lets see which one looks better. This should be interesting and set up a poll. Then do another poll once the new w221 comes out and see what the results are.

K-A

You mean the hood separation on the side? Interesting, how does that affect Ratings? I think Audi and BMW do have it actually, before M-B did even?

Otto

Of course, everyone knows GS copied (followed) E in exterior design.
(however, E gives up its traditional round shape headlights this time.)

I tried to get a picture of rear lights of Luxus ES 2000 model.

wusty

http://seriouswheels.com/cars/2010/t...nz-E-Class.htm

Click above to see all the pictures you'll need to of the new E

Otto

Got it

ES


E


Of course, E rear lights looks much better than ES' ones.

MAN1

I like it, plain and simple. All those who are making decisions without looking at this machine in person or driving it are just loosers. I think the products made by Mercedes Benz are much much more than just looks.

Dema

No, people are trying to have a good reason to stay with current design. I agree that they are just loosers.

MAN1

Thats another good point Dema!
People calling the interior cheap is something my brain just cant seem to process. Looks stunning, tasteful, upscale & expensive!

K-A

Or we truly don't like it and we'll just opt to buy another vehicle after/if we're done with the current design

BTW, I think the rear looks a bit like the Genesis, but has a more solid appearance, while not having as sculpted and dynamic a look. I think it actually resembles a Sonata's rear .

Dema

I have a similar opinion about rear end, however front looks good. See at pic from brochure:

Stuttgart-UT

i like the new taillights more than the biiiiiig old ones...

milkpowder

The front end is absolutely gorgeous. Big and bold. It screams elegance and power, at the same time Now they really dropped the ball with the back end. It's a bit too conservative. Centre dash looks horrible in certain pictures, especially those with direct flash. Not exactly flattering photography. The liberal use of plastics and hard angles/lines doesn't help. Under better, more skilful lighting the interior is transformed into something much more beautiful as seen in the official photos.

K-A

I'm eager to see how it plays out in person. The bright flash pics show possibly the cheap, rough plastic of the C-Class, yet the pro pics look absolutely strong, refined and plush, even considering I'm not personally a fan of the clunky, boxy design. What I love about the W211's interior amongst other things, is the materials are soft to the touch, smooth and easy to dust off.

I was noticing that picture of the E sitting behind the W221 S, and noticed how much more square and sharp-edged the E is than the S, the S has a mix of the strong trendy bulky look, with some of M-B's signature sleekness.

The front does look like something straight out of Gotham City though in that picture Dema posted, definitely a cool factor, but I have my reservations over how timeless this design will be....

K-A

BTW, does anyone else think the 212 looks alot more than 1/4 inch wider than the E-Class judging by that side-by-side picture? I remember reading it's like 1/4 or 1/2 inch wider or something, but considering that's such a small amount, the picture seems to say otherwise....

milkpowder

I agree. It will look infinitely better in real steel. Gleaming plastic from liberal, indiscriminate use of flash doesn't exactly conjure up images of plush luxury In person, the lighting will be much softer and forgiving of the numerous angles/planes that MB has chosen to use.

Here's an analogy, after which I shall say no more about lighting. Take your point and shoot, set it on auto and take a self portrait from a foot away. How flattering do you think you look?:p I bet you look better in the mirror and certainly better under the warm glow of a sunset. Now imagine having a portrait taken in studio conditions complete with softboxes, diffuser umbrellas, reflectors, warming filters, etc... Then the photo is edited: dust removed, imperfections cloned away, colours tinkered with. 'Nuff said.

Dema

It is wider about 1 1/2" so it is noticable on the picture, however longer just less than 1".

MAN1

I think it looks like a car! It has 4 tires like all the rest on the road, has a hood and a boot. What is this, why is Mercedes copying everyone else! Shame on them.

This is how i am absorbing all the comments coming out even though we know that looking at something in 3D, in person is always much more dramatic! Im pretty sure most of you will change your mind pretty soon.

LIONHEAD

Not sure if this has been posted but here's the video from the Detriot Auto Show on the new E: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9i150zyrzv8

MWMWM3

I seriously don't know about the rear but the front looks alright. Like others mentioned, the rear does resemble a Hyundai somewhat....

E55 KEV

ok, wheres the 2010 E-Class rear middle seat?