The mid-size premium sedan segment has got a new competitor in the form of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class E220d. This is the more affordable diesel from the German automaker and is priced significantly lower than the more powerful E350d. Too see how it stacks up against the competition, we have pitted it against the Audi A6 and now here is our take on how it fares against the Volvo S90.
Exterior
In the most basic of things, the E-Class is subtle thanks to the S-Class copied design while the S90 with its more angular line looks quite a bit more imposing that the E-Class. However, while the latter may be more imposing, the E-Class will definitely be more familiar in terms of appearance, thanks to the badges as well as a familiar shape that remained unchanged for a long time. In terms of unique elements for E-Class, it would be the face and the extra length while for S90 it’s the unique headlamps as well as tail lamps.
Interior
At the outset, let us make one thing clear which is that this is the LWB version of the E-Class that was created for China but is now offered in India too. It’s a full 100mm longer than the standard model all of which has translated into space at the back and this is the new car’s USP. The S90 is just 100mm smaller than the E-Class but in terms of wheelbase there is an additional 38mm added to the tally, making the three-pointed star’s vehicle quite a bit larger.
In terms of features both cars are evenly matched and offer similar levels of equipment with only minor variations that would not be deal breakers in the larger scheme of things. However, the E-Class with its focus on the chauffeur driven customer offers a better rear seat package. It includes the option of moving the front passenger seat completely forward to increase space for the occupant sitting at the back.
Performance
Both cars are offered with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. In the case of the S90 this is the only powertrain option while E-Class is also offered with a larger 3.0-litre V6 engine. The Volvo’s engine produces 190bhp/400Nm while the Merc’s mill produces 192bhp/400Nm but at earlier RPMs for both, as compared to the S90.
Conclusion
Both cars have their own selling points and have unique offerings allowing them to stand out among the competition. The Volvo S90 is priced at Rs 54.5 lakh while the Mercedes-Benz E220d, which is the first E-Class in this generation to be locally assembled, is priced higher at 57.7 lakh (both ex-showroom Delhi).
