Long a luxury sedan benchmark, the E-Class puts comfort, function, and good reflexes over glitzy flash. Passengers are pampered by a plush ride, extremely comfortable and supportive seats, all ensconced within an impeccably finished interior. Cruising in an E-Class is a relaxing, satisfying way to munch the long distance miles. Yet the driver's wants aren't neglected, either, with responsive handling, taut body control and ample power from the E350's 302-hp V6. Clearly, the E-Class not only pampers but proves it can dance as well. While not overtly sporty, the E-Class is athletic and even on a track proves to have the chops that would qualify it as a sports sedan. Ultimately, it possesses highly capable handling with great balance and composure. And that makes it all that more commendable serving up a fabulously cushy ride and an extremely quiet cabin. 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 in a luxury sedan.
Mercedes known for its cutting edge technology has a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience features employing a battery of radar sensors and cameras. The adaptive cruise control, called Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, keeps a set distance from a vehicle in front, regardless of changing speeds. It also follows the lane you're driving in automatically. The steering wheel actually moves by itself to track the lane, presaging the self-driving cars of the future -- though it does not permit operation with your hands off the wheel. These convenience features can help ease stress, but drivers must remain fully engaged with the driving process to remain safe.
The E-Class is also available with a powerful small 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.