Chinese car buyers are fans of long-wheelbase executive sedans with ample rear legroom and the latest to join the club is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class with the “L” moniker, which appeared in a set of photos before its imminent debut.
The new model is a stretched version of the new generation of the E-Class that premiered last month in Europe. Setting aside the badging, the front, and rear ends are identical to the standard model. What is different is the profile, with the E-Class L featuring longer rear doors, and Maybach-style side windows separated by much thicker C-pillars. The luxurious and tech-filled interior is most likely carried over from the standard E-Class, albeit with more space for the rear passengers.
The new generation of the E-Class is actually a significantly upgraded version of its predecessor which explains the similarities in the proportions despite the slightly larger footprint. Similarly, the chrome-infused greenhouse of the new E-Class L looks nearly identical to the outgoing long-wheelbase model that was originally introduced in 2016 and got facelifted in 2020.
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The documents from China’s Ministry of Industry and Technology Information reveal that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class L is 5,092 mm long (200.4 inches), 1,493 mm wide (58.8 inches), and 1,880 mm tall (74 inches), with a wheelbase of 3,094 mm (121.8 inches). If those are accurate, then the model is 143 mm (5.6 inches) longer than the standard E-Class. Despite the generous footprint, the E-Class L is still shorter than the current S-Class flagship, avoiding an unnecessary internal rivalry.
The China-spec Mercedes-Benz E-Class L will be initially available with two powertrain options. Both come fitted with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine but the E270L produces 201 hp (150kW / 204 PS), while the E300L makes 255 hp (190kW / 258 PS). We also know the top speeds of the models, which are 233 km/h (145 mph) and 245 km/h (152 mph) respectively.
The official debut of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class L will likely take place in China sometime in the next few months. Just like its predecessor, the new model will be locally produced by Beijing Benz, a joint venture between BAIC and Mercedes.
