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I know there are others like me who much prefer the classic MB grille and hood star to the star in grille look. IMO it looks soooo much better. Since it's not an option (for now at least) to get this in the US, as it it in other places it'll be a project. I've not got a w214 yet but as I'm finding myself in the camp of going E to E so thought I'd open this thread for the project. If the grille will swap out by itself that would be great but it could be like the w213 that needed the bumper swapped too.
Yes, I completely agree that the luxury/executive model grille looks much better. Not that the sport grille looks bad, but the luxury grill just seems to be more the E-Class style to me. When I ordered mine, I pressed the dealership on this and they could not get it with the alternate grill. The sales rep doesn't think it can be swapped due to the lights and sensors in the grill. I think it can be done but will wait and see what happens over the next year or two. I will absolutely get the hood star though. I had a 2012 E350 sport that had the hood star and luxury grill and loved that look.
Originally Posted by jimh6
@300SE1993 has mentioned doing it (I nominate you to be the guinea pig
The sales rep doesn't think it can be swapped due to the lights and sensors in the grill.
There would definitely be sensor some parts to swap out but I've gotta think it's not a big deal. I'd think the distronic sensor being the costly one if so equipped. Not sure though
There would definitely be sensor some parts to swap out but I've gotta think it's not a big deal. I'd think the distronic sensor being the costly one if so equipped. Not sure though
I would think that the sensors are not part of the grille as that would complicate the manufacturing process. My guess is that these sensors snap into specific spots on the grille. This would make it easier to replace a damaged sensor or the grille.
I have not gotten much more information about it. I have several dealerships looking into it, but since they are getting such small allocations, the grille doesn't seem to be a priority discussion for them. I had one dealer tell me the only way would likely be an after market grill and that could impact warranty, etc. I have another dealer who said he is checking with his parts team but likely the grill wouldn't be available in the US for several months (the implication is trust us - get the car and then worry about the grill later). He also said MBUSA wouldn't allow them to order European parts. I asked what if someone in Europe had a MB and was relocated to the US - that means they couldn't never get their car repaired? His only answer was it wouldn't be immediate. I would think it's the exact same bumper/front end as the European model which should make the grill swap out easier. I continue to call dealerships but honestly the general response is less than enthusiastic when I say I am calling about the new E. I think they are getting a much quicker return on SUVs (especially in the South where I live). It's very odd experience from when I bought my last MB in 2020.
The car is simply too new to have any modifications done after delivery that are known about today. If the lack of luxury grille is a deal breaker then the best bet is to wait to see if it's offered on later years or when there is a known after delivery upgrade path. For me, I'm good with the sport grille but will likely change to the luxury grill at some point if possible.
06-03-2024, 10:29 AM
@ROTN do you have more info from your call to MB in Atlanta?
