Mercedes Benz E 250: so clever it can drive itself..

MERCEDES-BENZ E 250

What exactly is it? A substantially updated version of what many think of as the quintessential Mercedes-Benz. Aside from styling changes, the latest E Class carries a new package of safety features intended to re-establish it as the technological flagship of the marque – at least until the new S Class arrives at the end of the year. The E 250 models have been launched first. The new E 400 (with a twin-turbo V6) and E 63 AMG S will come in September, while the E 350 CDI arrives in November.

Powertrain: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four producing 155kW/350Nm (E 250) or 2.1-litre turbo-diesel four producing 150kW/500Nm (E 250 CDI). Seven-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive. Combined fuel consumption 6.4/4.9 litres per 100km.

Anything interesting in the equipment list? Under the banner of Intelligent Drive, all E Class models now have Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control with Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, BAS braking with pedestrian recognition, Pre-Safe Plus that now covers impending rear-end collisions, Cross Traffic Assistant, blind-spot warning, adaptive high-beam lights and automatic parking.

Base price: $114,000..