MotorWeek's Patrick Lucas was first on the scene driving the new Mercedes-Benz E300 in Carmel Valley, California.

 

 

Despite being larger dimensionally than the outgoing E-Class, the 2017 model weighs 154 pounds less, thanks to use of aluminum, high strength and ultra high strength steel throughout the body.  Power comes from Mercedes 2.0 liter turbo 4 cylinder, and goes through a 9 speed automatic.  Like the recent C-Class coupe we drove, it makes 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. of torque.

 

The E-Class has always been the Mercedes-Benz platform for debuting new safety and convenience technologies before they spread throughout the brand.  The 2017 E-Class improves on their Drive Pilot suite, as well as debuting Evasive Steering Assist, which adds boost to steering in evasive, panic steering moments. Also PRE-SAFE Impulse Side impact debuts, which can detect an impending side impact, and moves the driver more toward the center of the vehicle by inflating an air bladder in the seat.

 

 

A large 12.3 inch infotainment screen is standard, and a 12.3 inch gauge cluster screen is optional, which creates a near seamless-looking display along the dash.

 

 

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed a Mercedes-AMG E43 and a Mercedes-Benz E400 Wagon are coming later.  For more info on the E300, follow MotorWeek on YouTube.