The Mercedes-benz Baureihe 213, internally designated as the W213 series, marks a significant chapter in the evolution of the esteemed Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Launched in April 2016, this upper middle-class vehicle succeeded the W212 E-Class, inheriting the prestigious E-Class mantle while introducing a wave of advanced technology and sophisticated design. Initially available as a sedan (W213), the range soon expanded to include the versatile T-model (S213), establishing the Baureihe 213 as a cornerstone of the Mercedes-Benz lineup and a benchmark in its vehicle segment.
Mercedes-Benz W213 E-Class Sedan Front View
Design Evolution of the W213
The design language of the Mercedes-Benz W213 series represents a contemporary interpretation of Mercedes-Benz aesthetics, drawing harmonious parallels with the C-Class, GLA, and the luxurious S-Class Coupé. A comprehensive redesign touched both the front and rear lighting elements. Notably, the rear lights exclusively adopted LED technology, incorporating a three-level brightness adjustment to optimize visibility across varying traffic and ambient light conditions. Prospective owners were presented with a choice of two distinct grille styles: the classic, elegant louvred grille adorned with the iconic hood-mounted star, or a more assertive, sporty front grille featuring one or two prominent cross louvres and the centrally positioned Mercedes star. Inside the cabin, the W213 offered an optional high-resolution widescreen cockpit display, spanning 15 cm in height and 70 cm in width, creating a visually immersive experience. Furthermore, for the first time in the E-Class lineage, a head-up display became available, projecting crucial driving information directly into the driver’s line of sight. Touch-sensitive controls on the multifunction steering wheel further refined the user interface and in-car interaction.
Technological Advancements and Assistance Systems
The Mercedes-Benz Baureihe 213 made substantial strides towards the future of autonomous driving, integrating a suite of cutting-edge assistance systems, many of which were initially pioneered in the flagship S-Class. These innovations underscored Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to enhancing both driver convenience and vehicle safety within the W213. Key technological highlights included:
- Intelligent Drive: An advanced lane keeping system designed to provide gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle within its lane.
- Steering Pilot: A semi-autonomous steering system capable of assisting the driver with steering in certain driving situations.
- Active Brake Assist and Evasive Steering Assist: Collision mitigation systems designed to warn the driver of potential collisions and provide braking assistance or steering support to avoid or lessen the severity of impacts.
- Car-to-X Communication: Technology enabling the vehicle to exchange information with other Car-to-X enabled vehicles and infrastructure, providing early warnings of hazards and traffic conditions.
- Smartphone-App Remote Parking Pilot: A feature allowing for convenient remote parking of the vehicle using a smartphone application.
- Smartphone-App Digital Car Key: Enabling the use of a smartphone as a digital key to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle.
- Adaptive LED Headlights: Intelligent headlight systems that automatically adjust beam patterns to optimize illumination without dazzling other drivers.
Expanding the Baureihe 213 Family: Variants and Body Styles
Mercedes-Benz broadened the appeal of the Baureihe 213 by introducing a diverse range of body styles and variants. In addition to the foundational sedan and T-model (estate) versions, the lineup expanded to cater to varied customer preferences and needs. The All-Terrain variant of the T-model debuted in March 2017, injecting off-road capability and rugged styling into the E-Class family. The Coupé C238 and Cabriolet A238, launched as independent models within the series 238 starting in spring and summer 2017 respectively, further enriched the Mercedes-Benz Baureihe 213 offerings, providing both sporty two-door and open-top driving experiences within the E-Class spectrum.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz Baureihe 213 (W213) successfully advanced the E-Class legacy, delivering a vehicle that is both technologically sophisticated and aesthetically refined. Through its array of body styles, pioneering assistance systems, and contemporary design, the W213 solidified its position as a leading model in the upper middle-class automotive segment, and a vital component of the Mercedes-Benz portfolio.
