The introduction of a nine-speed transmission offering better fuel economy and driving performance is nothing new in the global automotive industry these days.

However, car buyers and lovers were excited about the announcement that Mercedes-Benz, with the slogan of “the best or nothing,” would install a nine-speed gearbox in its E-class range back in 2013. 

As promised, the German carmaker unveiled  with a new nine-speed transmission last year and, finally, it debuted in Korea in January this year. 

“The upgraded E220 has boosted competition in the luxury midsize sedan market in Korea in the first half of the year,” an official from Mercedes-Benz Korea company said.

In the segment, Mercedes-Benz’s E Class cars have been in tight competition with BMW 5-series for the top post in Korea.

Powered by diesel, the new E 220 BlueTEC Avantgarde beat expectations of those who look for a luxury saloon offering the perfect balance of performance and comfort.

In terms of performance, mixed with its nine-speed transmission, the car’s 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines produces 170 horsepower and 1,400-2,800 revolutions per minute. The luxury sedan also can speed up to 230 kilometers per hour and it takes 8.2 seconds for the car to reach 100 kilometers per hour.

The combined fuel economy of the diesel-powered E220 improved up to 15.5 kilometers per liter.

Despite the diesel engine, the cabin quietness is quite impressive as well.

The new E 220 BlueTEC Avantgarde also boasts advancements in external design. The Mercedes-Benz’s recognizable three-pointed star emblem, located in the center of the grill, offers a sportier and more dynamic look.

The German carmaker has strengthened safety features of every new E-Class cars. Extra equipment fitted to the new E 220 BlueTEC Avantgarde includes Collision Prevention Assist Plus, which warns drivers if a crash is imminent.

The Active Parking Assist helps drivers size up parallel parking spaces as they drive by, using sensors in the bumper to determine if a spot can fit your car.

The new E 220 car has achieved multiple achievements inside and outside of the car, but some features, including navigation, need more improvements. The small screen of the touch-based navigation is sometimes uncomfortable. It is hard to connect an Android smartphone to the car system for safe use.

The price of the E 220 BlueTEC Avantgarde car stands at 63,500,000 won ($54,172), tax included. 

By Seo Jee-yeon (jyseo@heraldcorp.com)