Like any other Mercedes-Benz model, the E-Class has been engineered to make sure the occupants feel safe and secure. Among the changes done to the E-Class is the removal of the tricky brake-by-wire Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system in favor of a much more conventional hydraulic system. However, with the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system technology, the E-Class is able to continue to do things such as automatic brake drying (for driving conditions) as well as prepping up the brakes in case of an accident.  This new braking technology is partnered with PRE-SAFE--a system that anticipates an impending accidents and automatically activates protective measures to protect both front occupants. In addition, the seats have been redesigned to accommodate NECK-PRO, an anti-whiplash head rest design that automatically moves the head rests forward when a rear impact is detected. In addition, the head restraint system has been engineered to prevent bending during accidents. Of course, the E-Class receives the ubiquitous eight airbag system as well as anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitors and ESP. The E-Class has been engineered to meet and pass all crash tests including the US's new 80 km/h rear impact test, side-impact and rollover tests.  Engineers decided to skip run-flat tire technology since this will definitely ruin the long-distance touring comfort of the E-Class--a core strength since the car was introduced.

For the Philippine market, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be available with a total of four trim levels: E 200 Kompressor Classic (P 3,880,000); E 200 Kompressor Elegance (P 4,125,000); E 280 Elegance Sport (P 4,880,000); E 280 Avantgarde Sport (P 5,125,000). The Classic trim evokes good value for money with standard 16" alloy wheels, eucalyptus wood trim, and new high quality fabric patterns. The Elegance gets wider 16" alloy wheels, leather seating and burr-walnut wood trim while the Avantgarde trim gets 17" alloys, bird's eye maple trim and a moon roof. The Sport package, available on the Elegance and standard on the Avantgarde includes mixed ratio 18-inch alloy wheels, revised front and rear bumpers, exposed dual tip exhaust with chrome finishers, a sports tuned suspension and modified front seats.

Our first drive of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 280 will appear in this pages soon, so watch out for it.
Some new some familiar... the E-Class features revised controls for better tactile operation. The confusing A/C controls though still remain.
Black bird's eye maple says that this is the E 280 Avantgarde. Don't worry, if you're not a fan of beige/tan leather, Mercedes-Benz can order you one in black.

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