Long a luxury sedan benchmark, the E-Class places comfort, function and good reflexes above glitzy flash. Passengers are treated to a plush ride, comfortable and supportive seats, as well as an impeccably finished interior.
Yet the driver's wants aren't neglected, with responsive handling, taut body control and ample power from the E350's 302-hp V6. This car pampers and proves it can dance as well. While not overtly sporty, the Mercedes is athletic and has the chops to qualify as a sports sedan. Highly capable handling is aptly combined with great balance and composure. This makes it all the more commendable for serving up a fabulously cushy ride and an extremely quiet cabin too. Expect 21 mpg overall from a rear-wheel-drive E350.
Both Luxury and Sport trim levels are offered. We've tried both and prefer the Luxury, which has a more comfortable ride and less tire noise. Regardless of which you choose, upright styling brings big windows and great visibility. Although not exactly simple, the controls are among the easiest to use in a luxury sedan.
The E-Class is also available with a small, but powerful diesel engine, which boosts fuel economy to an impressive 30 mpg overall. This 2.1-liter four-cylinder delivers good power without ever feeling taxed. And, for the first time, the diesel sedan is available with 4Matic all-wheel-drive.
Other model variations include a practical station wagon (with or without all-wheel drive), making the E-Class one of the last European luxury wagons left on sale.