Mercedes has released full prices and specifications for the E300 Bluetec Hybrid saloon and estate. Due on sale in November, the diesel-electric hybrid will start at £39,645 for the four-door and £41,435 for the estate.
Standard kit will consist of leather seats, satnav, LED daytime running lights and 17-inch alloy wheels, although 16-inch items can be specified to achieve the lowest CO2 levels at no extra cost.
Mercedes claims that the E300 Bluetec Hybrid is the most efficient
E-class to date and is powered by a 204hp 2.1-litre diesel engine and a 20kw electric motor. In cleanest saloon guise, it emits 109g/km and returns 65.7mpg and is good for 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and will hit 150mph.
The E300’s only true premium rival is BMW‘s Active Hybrid 5, which is powered by a 350hp 3.0-litre petrol engine/electric motor combo but is far less efficient and costs £46,675.
Closer rivals in terms of technology are the Peugeot 508 Hybrid4 and the Citroen DS5 Hybrid4, both of which are diesel hybrids and cost less than the Mercedes but offer similar frugality.
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