Stuttgart, Germany - The new Mercedes E-Class Estates that become available in European showrooms this month comes with improved load capacity, a higher performance engine and driver assistance systems.

Design characteristics such as the interplay between concave and taut surfaces have been taken from the C- and S-Class. The entire side window looks like a single unit with the B and C- pillars appearing to merge into the background with the glossy, black trim panels. The new LED tail lights are of two-part design and create a visual continuation of the side wall into the tailgate.

Mercedes engineers have spent much effort in improving the load capacity of the new model. A "quickfold" system enables the rear 1/3:2/3-split seat backrests to be folded down by a cable pull from the load compartment. The left or right backrest sections, or both together, can be folded down, allowing the rear seat unit to be used also by passengers even when long and bulky items are being transported. The load capacity is up to 1,950 litres.

The new estate also comes with a host of new safety and other assistance systems. These include a drowsiness detection system, an optional proximity control and the pre-safe braking system, which is able to initiate partial and full emergency braking autonomously. Information received from the short-range sensors in the front bumper tensions the front seat belts at the last moment before an accident is recognised as unavoidable, reducing the loads on the driver and front passenger.

Customers have the choice between seven engine variants in the range between 125 kW/170 hp to 285 kW/388 hp. Prices in Germany start at 44,803 euros (66,474 dollars). (dpa)