C’mon, SUVs are just station wagons with a little lift. And most SUVs only see wagon-like service, while many of the more popular ones sell mostly premium trims. And many of the most premium brands, like Porsche, for instance, reserve wagon versions for their most expensive models. Like the BMW M5 Touring, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, and Panamera Sport Turismo models. 

Does the 2024 E-Class Estate wagon have more cabin space?

And now the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. Granted, it’s not on the S-Class platform, but it’s definitely a luxury wagon nonetheless, with some added punch. Like the sloping coupe-like side windows. And how the beltline crease has added emphasis over the wheel openings. Or the fascia’s aggressive side intakes. It may be a wagon, but it doesn’t look like a grocery-getter.

One thing Mercedes seems proud of is the extra space in virtually every interior dimension. Space is what SUVs are for, yet the new Estate is riding on almost the same wheelbase as the previous version, adding only 22 mm in length. 

What powertrain options does the 2024 E-Class Estate have?

As Mercedes shifts to electrification, the 2024 Estate functions as a plug-in transition model of sorts for those that can afford it. The E300e hybrid packs a 95 kW motor hiding inside the nine-speed automatic transmission. At 127 hp, and combined with the 2.0-liter 204 hp four-cylinder engine, it cranks out 308 hp with a zero to 62 mph time of 6.5 seconds. It also offers up a 62-mile range in EV mode.

Other engines are in the pipeline to come after the Estate’s initial debut. A plug-in gas and a diesel four-cylinder will follow, and then a six-cylinder diesel engine. For now, the E300e’s PHEV and an E200 or an E220d diesel engine will be offered. Optional Airmatic air suspension returns, but rear air suspension is standard.

What is the 2024 E-Class Estate technology?

Inside, there is the MBUX Superscreen, which has the option to extend into the passenger side of the dash. TV and video streaming are available, but should the driver want to take a look, the inside camera sees the move and dims the screen. Other electronics options include a selfie camera and Zoom and Webex app compatibility. 

The ambient lighting can be programmed to pulse to whatever is coming out of your screen or audio with new Sound Visualisation. Automated parking, optional remote parking, memory parking, and automatic valet parking are all available. The automated valet will only be a pre-programming option until related laws and parking garage hardware catch up. 

Estimated pricing for the E-Class Estate will fall in the $80,000 range. For a premium class SUV, that’s around the same price as a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban High Country before options or a Cadillac Escalade base price. They’re not exactly apples and apples, but removing the stigma that SUVs called wagons have, gives you some perspective.