What's the news?
Mercedes-Benz will launch its new E 300 BlueTec Hybrid on the Irish market in the next few weeks. The diesel-electric drivetrain promises fuel consumption of 4.2 litres per 100km - or nearly 70mpg. Prices are expected to be 10% more than the E 250, which would put it at about €52,250.
Exterior
No mention is made of any visual changes compared with the standard E-Class - other than the 'hybrid' badge of course. The Hybrid is available in both saloon and estate body styles.
Interior
As far as we know there are no differences within the interior of the hybrid model either, as there is no loss of passenger space. The dials have a few hybrid-specific readouts.
Mechanicals
Power comes from a 2.2-litre diesel engine, developing 206hp. Between the engine and seven-speed automatic gearbox is a 27hp electric motor. The electric motor can drive the car on its own or provide extra power for acceleration. Under braking it acts as an alternator to charge the lithium-ion batteries.
Anything else?
Carbon dioxide emissions are 109g/km, which means the E 300 BlueTec Hybrid will cost €160 a year to tax. Mercedes claims the price differential between the Hybrid and the E 250 CDI will be easily offset by the lower running costs of the hybrid model.