For those wishing for a bit more winter-weather usability from their diesel saloon, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now available with an all-wheel drive option. The system is now available in both saloon and estate bodystyles on models badged E 220 d 4MATIC, costing £38,175 and £40,175 respectively.
By dividing torque proportionally between the front the rear wheels, the 4MATIC system should offer greater control when traction and stability levels decline in the wet, winter months.
Using the same 2.0-litre diesel engine and nine-speed automatic gearbox as the standard E 220 d, power and torque figures remain the same at 190hp and 400Nm. This means an identical 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 149mph, despite the all-wheel drive system increasing the vehicle’s weight.
Where company car drivers will notice a difference will be in BIK tax costs. With CO2 levels rising from 102g/km in the saloon to 117g/km, the 4MATIC will sit in the 22% BIK tax band in the 2017/18 tax year, with fuel economy dropping from 72.4mpg to 62.8mpg. This means a 20% tax payer will pay just below £140 per month, with a £280 per month charge for 40% taxpayers.
In comparison, the load-lugging estate comes with a claimed average of 57.7mpg with its slightly higher 126g/km of CO2, putting it in the 24% BIK tax band and costing £161/£322 per month (for 20/40% tax payers respectively).
The E 220d 4MATIC will be available in both SE and AMG Line trims. Standard equipment includes a Garmin sat-nav, self-parking system, autonomous emergency braking, LED headlights and climate control.
Is there another Mercedes E-Class 4MATIC option?
The E220 d is currently the only diesel option available with all-wheel drive. It has yet to be confirmed whether the system will be fitted to the Coupe version launched later this year, while those seeking a petrol-fuelled model are limited to the high-performance Mercedes-AMG E43 and E63 variants.
Click here to read more about the 2017 E-Class Coupe
Click here to find eight reasons why the E-Class could be your next company car
