2017 Mercedes E-Class release date: automatic driving refinements make this one to watch

MBUSA

It is said that the new 2017 E-Class lineup of Mercedes-Benz will redefine motoring when it appears in showrooms later this year.

In its first test drive of the new car, AutoBlog reports that one of the most noted features – and maybe its best-selling point – is how Mercedes-Benz opted to fine-tune its automatic driving options. While it is true that the 2017 E-Class model is not the first self-drive car released, it has upgraded some of the automatic driving features that make the new edition a class of its own.

For example, the 2017 E-Class's new tech features the Drive Pilot as part of the Driver Assistance package, the self-drive mechanism of the car. The new feature comes with enough sensors and options that the self-drive feature not only manages to stay driving on a clear path, but can also automatically steer. In addition, the 2017 E-Class has a change-lane assist option embedded on the self-drive feature, and drivers can change lanes both ways without manually steering.

This new tech is part of Mercedes Benz's philosophy of making its new lineups both "hot and cool." Speaking to Robb Report, chief designer Gorden Wagener stated, "Hot, meaning, it makes you want to fall in love. And cool, meaning it has the latest technology."

The industry observer also underscores that Mercedes-Benz outdid itself once again, as the 2017 E-Class features many upgrades in its interior and under-the-hood specs. The new lineup boasts of different configurations and options to cater to a wider range of enthusiasts.

Later in the year, the most likely variant that will roll out on different showrooms is the entry-level E300, a 2.0 turbocharged 4-cylinder version that comes in RWD and 4Matic AWD. Meanwhile, the top-tier Mercedes-AMG E43 is expected to come out by early 2017.