Motoring News

2022 MERCEDES-BENZ E 350 EQ CABRIOLET

Published

2 years ago

21 October 2022

JeffG

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2022 MERCEDES-BENZ E 350 EQ CABRIOLET

By ALISTAIR KENNEDY

The mid-sized E 350 Merc convertible combines sheer driving fun with long-range grand touring capacity.

Mercedes-Benz has updated its E 350 sedan, coupe and convertible models with mild hybrid technology adding extra power, smoother engine response and lower fuel consumption.

Five variants are available: E 200, E 350 and AMG E53 with the coupe body plus E 350 and AMG E 53 convertibles. We’ve just spent a thoroughly enjoyable week behind the wheel and under the roof – only when we had to – of the E 350 Cabrio.

STYLING

The E-Class is the mid-sized model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range. The current Benz family styling has been adopted with a diamond patterned infill to the grille and the traditional three-pointed start in the centre. Headlights are Multibeam units with 84 individually controllable LEDs with adaptive high beam.

The wheels on the E 350 are 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys.

The optional Night Package adds some attractive exterior design elements.

Although most current convertibles come with solid roofs Mercedes has catered for the motoring purists by sticking with a traditional fabric roof.

There’s a wide range of body colour choices, nine of them standard or no-cost option colours available as well as two cost options. The standout to our eyes, and most who saw it, was the rich burgundy Rubellite Red in our test car.

Four fabric soft tops are available, we had the matching dark red.

INTERIOR

Obviously, as a two-door, access to the rear seats is through the front doors, unless you’re young and agile enough to jump over when the top is down. Once seated there’s decent legroom although the passenger sitting behind the driver may occasionally need to compromise.

To cater for rear seat occupants the front doors are wide and need to be opened cautiously in tight parking spaces.

All Mercedes E 350 variants have leather upholstery with a choice of five different colour combinations.

ENGINE / TRANSMISSION

All three E350 variants come with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine generating 220kW of power and 400Nm of torque with a nine-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels.

The EQ Boost system uses a 48-volt integrated electric motor to add up to 10 kW and 150 Nm for short periods. Additionally, the system utilises high-efficiency energy recuperation to supply power to the battery, making it possible to drive without the combustion engine. M-B describes this as “sailing”.

The E 350 sedan and coupe variants do the zero to 100 km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds with the convertible only marginally slower at 6.1 seconds.

SAFETY

Standard safety features across the E-Class coupe and cabriolet range include nine airbags, enhanced ABS brakes; electronic stability control program; acceleration skid control; active bonnet; tyre pressure warning; run-flat safety tyres; traffic sign assist; and a 360-degree camera.

Attention Assist uses a sensor and detailed algorithm to detect fatigued driving behaviour.

Driving Assistance Package Plus adds active distance assist; autonomous emergency braking; brake assist with cross-traffic function; lane keeping and lane assist; stop-and-go assist; blind spot monitoring; evasive steering assist and route-based speed adaptation.

Pre-Safe Plus helps prevent, or reduce the effect, or rear collisions crashes. If the car’s rear radar detects a potential rear-end collision, it rapidly flashes the rear hazard warning lights to alert the driver.

Specific features in the E-Class convertibles include with head air bags in the doors and specifically-designed roll-over protection.

A head-up display is available with the Vision Package option.

INFOTAINMENT

The Benz E250 uses the latest version of the company’s MBUX widescreen multimedia system.

Information is displayed on two 12.3-inch high-resolution digital screens. In front of the driver is the digital instrument cluster with the central touchscreen providing access to the usual range of features including smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Bluetooth phone and audio; wireless smartphone charging; and embedded NTG6 satellite navigation.

Our test car had the optional Burmester premium sound system.

There’s also remote interactivity with other vehicle functions through the Mercedes ‘me Connect’ app.

DRIVING

At start up the central information screen displays the following warning, no doubt at the behest of the M-B legal team, ”Do not let the system distract you from the traffic situation”. While this clearly applies to every new car nowadays it’s even more relevant to the E-Class because there’s so much to learn before hitting the road.

There’s also a plethora of tiny controls on the chunky Nappa leather AMG steering wheel feels great

We couldn’t have picked better weather for our test and did a couple of open-air runs along our favourite route on the Central Coast hinterland. Opening and closing the roof takes around 15 seconds and can be done at speeds up to 30 km/h.

We escaped from Sydney’s urban jungle, including its numerous tunnels, with the roof closed and found the interior to be quite well insulated. Once the top was folded, we were able to activate the Aircap auto draught-stop and air scarf neck-level heating systems to reduce the effect of the outside elements. Although we didn’t need it, seat heating is available.

Fuel consumption is excellent, listed at 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle. We averaged 8.2 L/100 km overall, managing just 6.4 L/100 km during our two rural grand touring cruises.

SUMMING UP

With so many SUVs on the road, all providing differing degrees of sensible and practical motoring it was an absolute delight to enjoy a really enjoyable driving experience with the Mercedes-Benz E 350 Cabriolet.

There’s sufficient interior space to almost qualify as a family vehicle although most of the time should be spent out on the open road. It’s high comfort levels, smooth and powerful engine and excellent fuel economy make it an ideal long-distance grand tourer.

RATINGS:

Looks: 9/10

Performance: 9/10

Safety: 9/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

E 350 Sedan: $129,591

E 350 Coupe: $132,543

E 350 Cabriolet: $146,344

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Mercedes-Benz E 350 2.0-litre turbo-petrol Hybrid two-door cabriolet)

ENGINE:

Capacity: 1.991 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders in line

Maximum Power: 220 kW @ 5500 rpm

Maximum Torque: 400 Nm @ 1800 rpm

Fuel Type: Premium unleaded / electric

Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.8 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 177 g/km

DRIVELINE: Nine-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 4841 mm

Wheelbase: 2873 mm

Width: 1860 mm

Height: 1420 mm

Turning Circle: Not supplied

Kerb Mass: 1906 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 66 litres

BRAKES:

Front: Ventilated disc

Rear: Ventilated disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:

Five years / unlimited kilometres

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Local News

2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

Published

2 weeks ago

25 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

By Jeff Gibbs

The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.

Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.

Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.

Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.

2025 Smart #5 Interior

The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.

Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.

Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.

The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.

With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.

For more motoring news, click here.

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Local News

Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

Published

3 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

By Jeff Gibbs

The Polestar 4 is the latest addition to Polestar’s growing lineup of electric vehicles, positioned as a dynamic all-electric SUV coupé that combines cutting-edge design, high performance, and advanced technology. Sitting between the Polestar 2 and the luxury Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to push boundaries with its futuristic aesthetics and sustainable innovations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Polestar 4 embodies a sleek, coupe-like profile with a focus on aerodynamics and a minimalist design philosophy. In a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Polestar 4 embraces a lower, more streamlined shape with smooth lines, frameless windows, and a bold front end devoid of a traditional grille, highlighting its fully electric nature.

One of the most striking features of the Polestar 4 is its rear-windowless design, which replaces the traditional rear window with a digital rearview camera, enhancing both the car’s futuristic look and its aerodynamic efficiency.

Performance and Powertrain

The Polestar 4 is expected to offer dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, delivering a strong combination of power and efficiency. While specific power outputs are yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that the Polestar 4 will offer a significant amount of power, rivalling other high-performance electric SUVs in its class.

With a long-range battery pack, the Polestar 4 is expected to provide an impressive range, making it suitable for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Fast-charging capabilities will also feature, allowing for quick top-ups on long drives.

Interior and Technology

Polestar has equipped the 4 with a high-tech, eco-friendly interior that emphasises sustainability. The cabin will feature recycled and vegan materials, aligning with the brand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Polestar’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design ensures a clean, sophisticated interior with intuitive controls and ample space.

A large infotainment screen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, will dominate the dashboard, offering seamless integration with apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services. Polestar’s digital experience will also be enhanced with over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing for continuous improvements to software features post-purchase.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Polestar vehicles are known for their focus on safety, and the Polestar 4 will likely feature the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This could include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance technologies. The inclusion of autonomous driving features, similar to the Polestar 3, is also anticipated, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.

Sustainability Focus

In keeping with Polestar’s sustainability goals, the Polestar 4 will prioritise eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its carbon emissions and increasing the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle’s construction.

Market and Availability

The Polestar 4 is expected to launch in 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after in key global markets, including Europe, the U.S., and China. Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of price and size, the Polestar 4 aims to appeal to customers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented electric SUV without compromising on sustainability or luxury.

As Polestar continues to expand its portfolio, the new model represents a significant step in the brand’s vision of redefining the electric vehicle market with innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cars.

For more motoring news, click here.

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

Published

3 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.

The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.

Performance Highlights:

The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.

2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior

The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.

The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.

On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.

With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.

For more motoring news, click here.

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