My FH5 Log: Euro Trash

Would you look at that? The European Automotive update of Forza Horizon 5 is constantly littered with European junk cars out from the junkyard and into the ever-growing FH5 car roster. The cesspool of junk cars keeps on growing.

First up is the Lancia Fulvia from the Hot Season Playlist. Powered by a 1.3L V4 engine, it's the car that made Lancia win its first World Rally Championship. Not bad for a front-wheel-drive coupe that costs more than the Jaguar E-Type when it was new.

Next up is the Citroen DS 23 from the Storm Season Playlist. This is the iconic hatchback that first introduced Citroen's signature hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension system which uses liquid hydraulic and gas-pressured suspension instead of springs, giving it a comfy ride on all kinds of road surfaces. It was the first to use disc brakes.

Fresh from the Dry Season Playlist is the Series 4 Lotus Esprit, the last V8-powered Lotus ever made and one of the last production cars with pop-up headlights.

The Hot Season Playlist featured a double bill of German garbage; the Volkswagen Double Cab Pick-up and the Mercedes-Benz 500 E. The Doka is basically the pickup variant of the Volkswagen Type 2 minibus while the 500 E is the V8-powered variant of the W124 E-Class made from a Porsche factory.

Let's give the quintuplet of European garbage a good dirty driving, and showcase just how good these rusty beaters from the Old Continent were. Roll the tapes.

These rusty beaters proved their point but as it turned out, they were nothing compared to the worst European toxic waste of the pack; the AMG Hammer Wagon from the European Automotive DLC Pack.

The AMG Hammer Wagon is a one-off W214 wagon built for a client from the USA. Started out in life as a diesel-powered W214 wagon until the original owner commissioned AMG to convert it into a super wagon, armed with a 6.0L V8 engine producing 375hp of power while mated to a 4-speed AT. It even comes with a locking differential to help the rear axle endure the punishment from the V8 engine, among others.

Want to see how the AMG Hammer Wagon roars? You're in luck because let's get the tape rolling.

The latest batch of toxic waste dump proves that the cesspool of rusty beaters never stops growing, giving Gen Z players uncontrollable anxiety, complaining about why the Forza producers keep dumping junk cars in such a wonderful racing game.

Are we seeing more junk cars in the next FH5 series update next week? Yes, there will be junk cars next week so brace yourselves for more rusty beaters ruining your FH5 experience.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 signals the evolution of the E-Class lineage and with dramatic changes inside and out, it's no doubt becoming the most advanced E-Class ever made.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Starting at 61,999 Euros plus additional costs, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 is the most advanced E-Class ever made thanks to the dramatic improvements inside and out, making it capable of tackling the demands of the new normal.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

Just like the previous version, the W214 E-Class is offered in three different body styles such as the sedan, the estate, and the outdoor-oriented All-Terrain with slightly increased ground clearance. Whichever E-Class you're on, you will still be greeted by the new design that looks like it's been borrowed from its sedan relatives, the C-Class and the S-Class. Not bad for a middle child of the family tree. Although it's hard to distinguish between the three, the sizing makes it easy to differentiate it from its relatives because, as I said, this is the middle child of the Mercedes sedan range and it deserves extreme attention to detail at first contact.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class interior

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate interior

Unlike its C-Class and S-Class brothers, the new interior prefers the dashboard layout inspired by the Mercedes-EQ range and with the rather controversial Superscreen equipped, it now behaves just like its EQ relatives because with two touchscreens on the dashboard, it's the ideal time-waster for those who love to play around the car's insides. Care for some Netflix and chill while stuck in traffic, I presume?

While the added Superscreen is deemed too flashy for speedo boys behind the wheel, the passenger side is classic E-Class comfort, and with the added Energizing Comfort wellness program, Energizing Coach program, and Thermotronic climate control with Digital Vent Control, the out-on-a-limo feeling truly hits the W214's sweet spot.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The W214 E-Class, depending on which body style you're on, offers a wide range of petrol (E200), diesel (E220d), and PHEV configurations (E300e and E400e). All are mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox.

The cheapest version, the E200 Avantgarde Advanced, features a 2.0L turbo engine with mild hybrid, producing 204PS of power and 320Nm of torque with a fuel economy of 6.4L/100km. The most powerful version for the time being is the E400e with the 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system, where the said engine is bolted to an electric motor and a 25.4kWh lithium battery, capable of producing 381PS of total power output, 650Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.3 seconds, and an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

To make the E-Class W214 capable of driving like every E-Class should, it has a front four-arm suspension, rear five-link suspension, and Agility Control steel-sprung for MHEV vehicles, but to get the most out of it, it comes with the available Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ continuously variable damping and rear-axle steering setup. Such setup will bring dynamism to the all-new E-Class and looks like high-rollers can't wait to get their hands on it.

Because this is the E-Class for the new normal, the W214 features a wide range of ADAS such as Active Distance Assist, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package with reverse camera, Speed Limit Assist, Attention Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, and the available Driving Assistance Plus with Active Steering Assist that vibrates the steering wheel when lane markings are no longer clearly visible and Active Steering Assist is no longer available.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 is the most advanced E-Class to date thanks to its dramatic improvements inside and out. It really is the E-Class for the new normal and like it or not, it's prepared for almost everything life throws at it.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My FH5 Log: A German super saloon and a vintage racer

Having fought my way through the FH5 Series 2 Wet Season Playlist, I got my hands on two exclusive vehicles such as the W213 Mercedes-AMG E63 and the ancient Maserati 8CTF race car. Let's get to know my new prized possessions.

The W213 Mercedes-AMG E63 sets the standards of fast executive-class super saloons as the rear-wheel-drive layout of the past has been ditched in favor of its AMG-tweaked 4MATIC+ four-wheel-drive system with a special Drift Mode feature that allows this sedan to oversteer like a rear-wheel-drive car. It is powered by the same 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine as the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car but in the S version, it produces up to 612PS of power and 850Nm of torque. With the nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT, it does 0-100kph in 3,4 seconds and it is electronically limited to 250kph or with an additional extra, the limit can be raised up to 50kph more, resulting in 300kph.

The 8CTF is Maserati's attempt to take on the likes of the Germans on the Grand Prix scene of the thirties. Taking advantage of Adolfo Orsi's acquisition of Maserati, the 8CTF is derived from the team's voiturette chassis while powered by a 2991cc eight-cylinder in-line engine with double overhead camshafts and twin Roots-type superchargers. It is capable of hitting 131.2mph of top speed during its maiden campaign at Tripoli with Count Felice Trossi behind the wheel. Despite its unsuccessful run, the 8CTF dominated Indianapolis and Pikes Peak in the late '30s.

Now that I had my word on these two new beauties, let's give them a quick run just to see what's like to be with these machines. Roll the tapes.

Enjoy your new ride!

Forza Horizon 4: The new breed of super saloons

The Mercedes-AMG E63 signals the new breed of super saloons where the glorious FR layout of the past has been ditched in favor of four-wheel drive but still offers the same rear-wheel-drive feel with a special device planted to it. Sacrilege by some, the new E63 sets the new benchmark for executive-sized fast saloons, something that the latest BMW M5 followed suit.



Having won this car from the Series 21 Horizon Winter Playlist, let's get to know more about the Mercedes-E63 AMG W213.



Following where the previous model left off, the new Mercedes-AMG E63 sets the standards of fast executive-class super saloons as for the latest model, the rear-wheel-drive layout of the past has been ditched in favor of its AMG-tweaked 4MATIC+ four-wheel-drive system with a special Drift Mode feature that allows this sedan to oversteer like a rear-wheel-drive car. The new model is powered by the same 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine as the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car but in the S version, it produces up to 612PS of power and 850Nm of torque. With the nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT, it does 0-100kph in 3,4 seconds and it is electronically limited to 250kph or with an additional extra, the limit can be raised up to 50kph more, resulting in 300kph.



Although it feels more mature to drive than the M5, the E63 sure is as quick as any German super-saloon should and still enjoy some serious super-saloon stuff even with a four-wheel-drive standard. You can really spend lots of time getting hooked to its dynamics like a man possessed and still get out unscathed. I'm starting to understand why Mercedes opted to make the W213 E63 a four-wheel drive only super-saloon and how the current BMW M5 stole the E63's recipe for success but forget about it because it's time to see which of the German 4WD super saloons is the king.



With that, the F90 BMW M5 has been rejoined to settle this personal debate once and for all in the streets of Edinburgh.




I remember a certain Top Gear episode where Harris drives the E63 while Business Stig drives the M5 and in the end, the AMG is the winner. Now that we're in the city center, let's see if the AMG still beats the M5 by setting a fast time through the Edinburgh city sprint. Let's roll the tape.

After a quick sprint in the heart of the city, here are the results;

F90 M5 - 2:49.837
E63 W213 - 2:49.403



To the winner, the spoils. With the three-horsepower gap between them, it's no wonder the E63 managed to claw through the tail-happy F90 M5 by a narrow margin and nicks it with a scratch, not a slash. Judging by the close result, the Benz really grabs it by the nose faster than the BMW and looks like Mercedes is still king in making super saloons even at this brave new age where four-wheel drive is the norm.

The more your know.

Forza Horizon 4: Gifts from Top Gear

The recent Forza Horizon 4 update introduces us to a brand new Horizon Story I'm sure most are interested to play it, whether they like it or not. It's the Top Gear Horizon Special and with voiceover by Top Gear presenter Chris Harris, players will take on challenging stuff to win prizes from this new Horizon Story.







The Top Gear Horizon Special features a series of unpredictable, challenging, chapters to clear, leading up to the climax where players will drive a truck carrying a special surprise at the back to the target destination. Perform outstanding results and they can win prizes such as The Stig's costume, the "I Am The Stig" shirt, and the cars lined up from the Top Gear Horizon Special.



This is the Track-tor, a V8-powered tractor Matt LeBlanc made from a certain episode of Top Gear and with its 87.2mph top speed, it was verified by Guinness World Record as the world's fastest tractor. It took two years to build it, did you know.



Next on the list is the "Project E-AT", a current-generation Mercedes-Benz E350d All-Terrain lightly modified by the Top Gear Magazine staff for their trip to the very eastern edge of Estonia on the Russian border or tracking bears, whatever the TG magazine staff said.

And now, the special surprise...



A first in Forza; a six-wheeler in the form of a previous-generation Mercedes G-Class. It's called the Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6, a 5.5L V8 BiTurbo-powered, six-wheeled, monstrosity only the privileged few can conquer the ends of the earth with its signature 6x6 technology, independent and neutral chassis, portal axles, five differential locks, 7G-TRONIC gearbox, and more. What more can you ask from this colossal Graz titan?

Anyway, now that I got my hands on these three prize cars obtained for performing outstanding results on the Top Gear Horizon Special (just nail three stars on all chapters, okay?), let's give these three Stig-approved machines a quick drive to see what they're made of.







The "I Am The Stig" shirt, The Stig's costume, and three new prize vehicles are yours to keep after nailing all three stars per chapter on the Top Gear Horizon Special and if you got them all, what's your favorite so far? Most say you love the G63 6X6, others like the Track-tor, but a few like me like the Project E-AT. Still, these three are really awesome to drive and they are Stig-approved for your Stig-ness.

Enjoy!

Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe and Cabriolet (C238)

The previous-generation E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet were all lovely weekend would-be grand tourers fit enough to drive on the country club to play golf or to a Michelin-starred restaurant to spend a date but the lack of the AMG variant really means that they're less fun to drive as the sedan and wagon equivalent where they both have hard-boiled AMG variants at play. Realizing this is a fatal mistake, today's E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet have been given the AMG treatment they've longly deserved, except for one thing.

2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe

2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet

Instead of giving it a V8 like every AMG 63 range or the basic 6-cylinder from the AMG 43 range, they've been given some mild-hybrid science to the 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder turbo engine and as a result, the Mercedes-AMG 53 range is born and the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet were the firsts to don it.

Normally, I would like to talk more about what these two look like apart from looking like the same as their normal equivalents with some AMG treatments inside and out but life is short so let's focus more on the powertrain in question. The E53 range is powered by a new 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost electric auxiliary compressor.. That's right, there is now a mild-hybrid AMG in the stable and while this is not a Prius in tuxedo, they're still AMGs at heart and they produce a modest 457PS of power and 520Nm of torque. That's V8 power in a very small six-cylinder engine and that's miniaturization done right for the boys from AMG and also, when mated with a SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G-Tronic, it does 0-100kph in four and a half seconds and top speed normally limited to 250kph. An optional extra will have the limit raised to 270kph so that's 911 stuff in a mild and tangy AMG grand tourers fit for weekends at the nightclub or at the track. Fuel efficiency combined is around less than nine liters per 100 km so that's quite impressive for a straight-six AMGs.

Speaking of mild and tangy, both the E53 Coupe and Cabriolet are armed with 4MATIC+ which promises to be the best of both worlds. It can be transitioned to either all four wheels or to the back with its fully variable torque distribution and as a result, a moderately enjoyable car to drive if you are fully understand with all of the other stuff such as the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ Suspension and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT that fits with your driving style. That is a pretty nice car to take it on the road and track but tread carefully because at some cases, that 4MATIC+ system might just lose its touch and as a result, some arm-breaking understeer you can't get away from. Talk abut being too much grip.

So, should you buy it? The Coupe will cost you 81,592 Euros while the Cabriolet costs 87,066 Euros so they are somewhat expensive to own but the pricing isn't the least of the problems here because to sum things up, these variants don't live up to their fire-breathing fantasies the E63 variants posses and although the mild and menacing character shows that it can be somewhat grippy and somewhat melodramatic but at least it was a start and it's more than enough to give the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet the AMG treatment they deserve. If they need more, they won't hesitate to ask AMG to pump them up with some more stimulants. These E53 variants have a long way to go.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (C213) vs AMG E63 (S213) Estate

Not too long ago, Mercedes-Benz brought us the above average E-Class Coupe which shares the same features as the saloon version but with less doors for that grand touring feeling a bachelor would want to feel, although not as exciting as it seems, and with the new Cabriolet version, looks like there's a similar feeling you're going to experience in the open-top version of the two-door version of the E-Class.

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Like the coupe version, the all-new E-Class Cabriolet from Mercedes-Benz is all about cruising in a different approach for those who want to savor the moment when it comes to their weekend drives and because it offers the same choice of engines as the coupe version as well as the 9G-TRONIC gearbox, especially the the more powerful 3.0L V6 biturbo engine equipped with ECO Start/Stop on the E400, there's no telling how do you live with the open-top variant that is crisper to drive as the coupe version, even though it weighs more due to stiffer bodyshell structures for health and safety.

With the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension, the E-Class Cabriolet can accommodate just about everything while driving such as raising the body when going over speed humps or lowering it if you are feeling ballsy through the corners. Whichever way you're going, you'd be sure that the Cabriolet isn't the most fun car to drive but the most civilized way of having a relaxing getaway from the city.

As a convertible, the E-Class Cabriolet features exclusive features such as the available AIRCAP electric draught-stop system, the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, a specially-developed climate control, and a MAGIC VISION CONTROL that works well on the Cabriolet even when cruising on the rainy weather. All is nice but while it features the same safety tech as most of the E-Class variants, feels like the Cabriolet wants to do the talking for the driver for the time being and that sounds a bit average, especially when you look at the price tag that the Cabriolet starts at 54,228 Euros.

Yes, that car maybe nice to drive on the open roads but it can be somewhat average for the car enthusiast in you and because it's getting cold outside, cars like these would be pointless to take it out for a drive so instead of taking this cabriolet on the road in case the weather's gone windy, rainy, or chilly, perhaps you should go for one of these...

2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 Estate

This is the new Mercedes-AMG E63 Estate and with prices start at 112,907 Euros, it can be as pricey as supercars but this isn't a supercar, it's a balls-out station wagon that offers the same thrills as the saloon but with some added boot space for some stuff you bought in a middle of Boxing Day.

It maybe made for Boxing Day shopping but since this is the AMG, you can expect the same 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine where in the S version produces 612PS of power and 850Nm of torque while mated to a nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It maybe limited to 250kph but for an additional cost, the limit can be raised to 290kph, which is ten less than the saloon version. I wonder why...

Still, even though it's a tad slower than the saloon, this is as enjoyable as the Ford Focus RS because 4MATIC+ four-wheel drive system with the fully variable torque distribution that makes it behave like two cars; either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive when needed most. Along with the three-chamber air suspension system, rear differential lock, AMG Sport speed-sensitive steering, and the AMG high-performance braking system, this all-weather AMG estate handles like a double-edged sword. It may not be perfect as it feels but all that AMG action pays off to create a super wagon that can outlast a parent-teacher conference or two.

As said, the E-Class Cabriolet is not an exciting car to drive but fit enough to relax a city dweller on a long drive but if you are brave enough to take on everything, you would go for the E63 Estate and with all that power and dynamics, this sounds like a hearty challenge brave enough for you to take on.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C213) and All-Terrain

It's the weekend, you're a regular E-Class man, you want to go out but knowing that the normal saloon or estate is a bit too vanilla to you or the full-blown AMG model cramps your style. Well, there are two possibilities you might come across; it's either you are single or you're a dad doing stuff from your sweetie like picking up stuff from the store and taking kids to a practice. Don't worry because Mercedes-Benz offers these kinds of E-Class for a certain kind of E-Class person who's not into either a saloon, estate, or an AMG.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe interior

Let's start for the bachelors first because for these kind of persons, this is the E-Class they'll be going with; the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe. Starting at 46,493 Euros plus tax and delivery, the new E-Class Coupe offers the same tech and features as the saloon version but with less doors and a much sleeker posture to stand itself out from the rest of the E-Class lineup. 

Under the hood lies a wide range of engine choices just like the one from the saloon version such as a 2.0L petrol, 2.0L diesel, and the more powerful 3.0L V6 biturbo engine equipped with ECO Start/Stop on the E400, producing 333PS of power and 480Nm of torque, shooting this one to a 0-100kph time of 5.3 seconds and limited to 250kph. All of these engines are mated to a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.

To make it handle like a sports car, the new E-Class Coupe has a lowered suspension with selective damping so it can behave either like a luxury car in terms of comfort or a sports car in terms of agility. While it was basically an improvement compared to the previous E-Class Coupe, you can still feel its regularity from within and while this is basically a sports car fit for bachelors and bachelorettes, it doesn't feel the enjoyment as expected on the legendary CLK-Class, the E-Class Coupe's predecessor.

It may not be as thrilling as it hoped for but this E-Class Coupe isn't about being a fun-to-drive sports car, this is all about being smooth on the weekend drives and it doesn't need to go fast to see how much of a Mercedes this car is because it's all about the posh parties, the reservations at the fancy restaurant, a trip to the opera house, or whatever fancy you're going right now for the weekends. The new E-Class Coupe is all about mixing business and leisure for those who are all talk, all go, and it's a showcase of what this car can do when you're still a bachelor or a bachelorette.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

Now for the moms and dads alike; here is the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain, a clear example of why wagons can get easily radicalized into crossovers.

To help differentiate it from the normal E-Class Estate, the All-Terrain features a twin-louvre grille, black wheel arch covers, raised suspension, and pretty much everything about it, and the only engine offered for now is a 2.0L diesel engine with 194PS of power and mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox as standard. There will be a six-cylinder diesel engine coming soon but for now, the first-ever E-Class All-Terrain features DYNAMIC SELECT with five transmission modes with a special All-Terrain mode which offers settings for off-road driving and couple that with its 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, you got yourself a go-getter that can get around any weather and any road condition, whether you're in a frozen lakebed or in the Australian Outback for some wrangling. Nothing like trying to make your mamas proud, huh?

While on the subject for being a mom or dad's car, the All-Terrain's real beauty is the spacious interior and with the rear seats present, it has 670 litres of boot space. Not only it is a very accommodating sports utility wagon but also a very spacious one for those who are planning to buy some camping gear on a nearby sports shop (or a thrift store in case they have one).

Price? The All-Terrain starts at 58,102 Euros, that's more than the Estate it was based upon and slightly more than its Audi A6 allroad quattro rival had. It maybe costly to own than either of these two but no matter the pricing, the E-Class All-Terrain is all about making memories families and travel bugs alike. Benefitting from the same stuff from today's E-Class, the All-Terrain feels like everyday's a great day, unless Murphy's Law chewed through the leash like wolves.

And there you have it, if you are single or you're a dad doing stuff from your sweetie but you're an E-Class kind of person knowing that the normal saloon or estate is a bit too vanilla to you or the full-blown AMG model cramps your style, these new variants are for you.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-AMG E63 (W213)

This is definitely the right time for Mercedes-AMG to unleash the fury of the most potent E-Class yet as the all-new Mercedes-AMG E63 goes into all-out war with its 4MATIC+ four-wheel drive system optimized for this mad saloon as well as the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine that gets even more interesting later on. Let's examine what's what about this mad E-Class and why you can expect to get envious over this.

2017 Mercedes-AMG E63

2017 Mercedes-AMG E63

At first glance, it looks more like your basic W213 Mercedes E-Class but because this is the AMG E63 we're talking about, it's got some basic AMG cosmetic treatment to ensure the madness within inside and out, making it an all-out executive saloon fit enough for a certain mob elite to wield their power over others.

Wielding the power of the new E63 is the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine, which is as small as the previous 5.5L V8 BiTurbo engine it replaces but when you get to the more interesting S model, the power output is 612PS and 850Nm of torque, more than what the old E63's V8 produces and sounds like more of a major plot twist for an action thriller flick. With the nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT, it does 0-100kph in 3,4 seconds and it is electronically limited to 250kph or with an additional extra, the limit can be raised up to 50kph more, resulting to 300kph (187mph) of top speed. Sounds fast but it's not quick enough to beat the king of super saloons, the Dodge Charger Hellcat.

Let's not forget that unlike the one I said earlier, the new E63 comes with four-wheel drive but if you need a quick recap about the old E63 S 4MATIC a few years ago, this thing feels like you're struggling to follow through the right lines and it feels like getting a small hard ball dropped to your sensitive foot and you can feel the pain from within. You get the point but the issue has been resolved because the new 4MATIC+ four-wheel drive system offers improved handling capabilities and the addition of the cool new Drift Mode which works like the new Ford Focus RS as well. Both axles are now fully variable so torque distribution is seamless, allowing it to behave either as a rear-wheel drive or a four-wheel drive at any conditions and above all, you can't get enough making donuts on an open space without all the grippy fuss from the past.

With the new 4MATIC+, three-chamber air suspension system, rear differential lock, AMG Sport speed-sensitive steering, and the AMG high-performance braking system, not to mention the reinforced bodywork, the new Mercedes-AMG E63 truly comes out alive in the track like a touring car in suits and ties. It can be as thrilling as True Lies but can be as subtle as Mrs. Doubtfire when taken on the normal road and because this is like the new E-Class, all that safety mumbo-jumbo is included, especially the grouchy DRIVE PILOT semi-autonomous driving system that feels like this car's in charge, not you. Oh, please...

The new Mercedes-AMG E63 starts at 109,837 Euros plus delivery and tax and while this is as expensive as any other high-performance German saloons in its heydays, rest assured that it's going to inspire a whole new competition of high-performance AWD German sports saloons. The days of having a high-performance German executive saloon is now gone and now, a new competition has risen, thanks to the new Mercedes-AMG E63. Let's wait until BMW responds with the new M5 very soon, complete with the new V8 Turbo and AWD like the one as seen on the new E63. This can get very interesting.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-AMG E43 4MATIC (W213)

2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 4MATIC Estate

2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 4MATIC

Car enthusiasts can't hardly wait to get their hands on AMG versions of the latest W213 E-Class but hold it right there. Before you can get your hands on the more powerful E63 AMG, which now comes with the similar 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine as seen on the more powerful AMG GT R, you need to get to know about the AMG version of the new E-Class in the form of the first-ever E43 4MATIC.

Since the SLC43, AMG threw a curve to the world by introducing the 43 moniker, which is a sacrilegious part of their all-out war to ensure that all AMG models are turbocharged, which is a positive and negative thing for the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz. The truth is those cars bearing the 43 moniker are consider to be half-blown AMGs, an entry point for performance car enthusiasts to enter the world of AMG without the hassle of risking their tootie-booties on the road and track. The new E43 is considered as Stage 1 of an AMG-powered E-Class before the more powerful E63 AMG arrives later on. Available in both saloon and estate variants, the E43 is powered by the 3.0L V6 twin turbo engine producing 367PS of power and 520Nm of torque while mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox. It can get through 0 to 100kph in 4.6 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph.

As an AMG, the E43 comes with a dedicated sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL for better dynamics as well as the AMG Performance 4Matic system, resulting to a much milder dynamics that won't cause a scorched earth policy on your tootie-booties, although its your arms that feeling the policy because of its grippy characteristics. It can be fun to drive on the track but it's very mild and menacing to throw through the curve and yes, you get some understeering. What this car needs is some patience and with enough patience, you can be sure that you'll be able to uncover the hidden potential of these cars before you can graduate yourselves to the more powerful E63, which is available sadly on a saloon basis. Sorry.

Anyway, the new Mercedes-AMG E43 starts at 75,089 Euros for the saloon and 77,856 Euros for the estate. Sounds very expensive but they are the starting points to understand an AMG-fied W213 E-Class before graduating to the E63. Enjoy your maiden voyage on those!

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Estate

With the latest-generation Mercedes E-Class, the German carmaker is taking a path ahead to the autonomous driving trend by delivering its highly-advanced driver tech that is smart enough to track down roads with precise movements. A quantum leap through the better future of driving thanks to its clever intelligence planted in this sports saloon, if I recalled. So, what if you can get the same driving tech from the saloon while getting some more space in the trunk?

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

An estate version, to be exact. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate delivers the same highly-advanced driver tech that is smart enough to track down roads with precise movements, only this time, with the added boot space big enough to load their lifestyles.

It's the same E-Class story inside out but because this is the new estate version, there are new stuff offered on this model such as the new EASY-PACK tailgate that can be opened and closed at the push of a button for better loading and unloading as well as the available KEYLESS-GO with HANDS-FREE ACCESS, which fits very well in various situations like your kid's afterschool football practice, your next grocery shopping, your next trip to the province, or whatever you see fit to this tech-savvy station wagon. Another features you can expect later on is the third, folding bench seat at the back as well as the rear-seat entertainment system that will keep kids staying on that "sweet spot" they've been saving for weeks. Although it's not just made to be a family car, its luxury car status will keep rich men leaving with their "out on a limo" feeling.

Because this is a station wagon version, it has a capacity of 670 to 1820 litres, making it the biggest in its class, courtesy of its 40:20:40 split foldable rear seats with various seating arrangements suitable for various situations.

Like the saloon, the new E-Class Estate features the DRIVE PILOT feature with Distance Pilot DISTRONIC allows the car to handle road types to keep it in the correct distance behind vehicles in front automatically as well as following them at speeds up to 210kph. It even comes with the Remote Parking Pilot feature, Car-to-X  communication, and PRE-SAFE as well, making it technologically ready for tomorrow's world.

Performance-wise, the estate version inherits the same engine choices from the saloon as well as the brand new 3.5L V6 turbo engine for the E400 4MATIC model that produces 333PS of power and 480Nm of torque, while mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. PHEV and an AMG models will follow shortly post-launch. As for dynamics, the new E-Class Estate, inherited the same lighter and stiffer bodywork from the saloon as well as its Direct-Steer system, can track down corners with precise movements and it's a great wagon to take it on the highs and lows of the road, from workdays to day offs.

Should you buy one? The new E-Class Estate starts at 48,665 Euros, which is a pricing that slot between its rivals for its expense, but rest assured that with all that tech-savvy features inherited from the saloon, this station wagon version of the E-Class is here today, ready for tomorrow's roads.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213

Now more technological than ever, the newly regenerated Mercedes-Benz E-Class is going to shock familiar drivers with its highly-advanced driver tech that is smart enough to track down roads with precise movements. I wonder how precise this technologically-advanced masterpiece is as a quick examination will showcase what's what.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

For a normal E-Class user, the loss of its four-eyed look is something of a witchcraft. One look and you'll say that that's not the E-Class everybody knows. Hey, at least it isn't the only one this car faced, perhaps its rival car the Lexus GS faced its fate when it lost its four round-eyed look in favor for a more sharper tone. Anyway, the new look is more of a bulked up C-Class and looks if the vice principal has taken a cup of coffee while busy reading some mystery novels...with a dystopian taste for sure.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class interior

Now, the uniform interior that Mercedes saloons adored since the present-day S-Class is lavished on the new E-Class like a tidal wave of money pooled in by some Monopoly-playing tycoon who invests in some offshore companies in the Caribbean. Sure is topical but all that gadgetry pooled on the new interior really means business for the driver and passenger themselves. It can respond to your sense of touches and access you to a wide variety of features that sounds complicated at first but you'll get used to it the more you know how. Speaking of interior comforts, the seats are well-trimmed for an executive saloon of this caliber and once you're inside, you really can't tell the difference on how nice it is or how cozy it is.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Time to delve deeper into the tech fest because with the future is drawing nearer for us, drivers, the new E-Class is the first to introduce an autopilot feature called DRIVE PILOT. Recommended for highway use, this bizarre feature with Distance Pilot DISTRONIC allows the car to handle road types to keep it in the correct distance behind vehicles in front automatically as well as following them at speeds up to 210kph. It kinda reminds us of Tesla's AUTOPILOT feature in so many ways but don't get too comfy about stupid things to do about whistling while letting your car works because with all those next-generation safety tech implemented on the new E-Class, especially the brand new Remote Parking Pilot feature, Car-to-X  communication, and PRE-SAFE, the new E-Class is about great power with great responsibility. It may have some artificial intelligence planted on this car but mastery is the key if you want to get the most of when or where to use it.

Because intelligence is the top-priority for the new E-Class, looks like there's little known about its performance. In this new model, only three models are available for launch with more to follow, including a PHEV and an AMG model. The R200, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine that produces 184PS of power and 300Nm of torque. The E220 d, meanwhile, comes with a 2.0L turbodiesel engine that produces 194PS of power and 400Nm of torque. Lastly, the E350 d comes with the 3.0L V6 turbodiesel engine that delivers a powerful 258PS of power and 620Nm of torque. All models are mated with a brand new 9G-TRONIC gearbox.

As expected, the new E-Class's body is now lighter and stiffer than the previous model, resulting to a better handling as you would expected for a German executive sports saloon in its class. Couple that with the new Direct-Steer system, the new E-Class can truly track down corners with precise movements. Yep, it really is that precise without breaking a sweat for the drivers and passengers alike and I think that's enough for that.

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Should you buy one? The new E-Class W213 from Mercedes-Benz starts at 45,303 Euros, making it too expensive to own than the Audi A6 and the BMW 5-Series, but nevertheless, the new E-Class is a quantum leap through the better future of driving thanks to its clever intelligence planted in this sports saloon. You know that this car makes sense as long as you are not throwing too much criticisms about this car is too smart for its own good, like what you experienced with Tesla Model S's AUTOPILOT hijinks through the days.

Photo: Daimler AG