Mercedes-Benz' E-Class lineup combines all of the virtues typically associated with the three-pointed star brand - luxury, performance and cutting-edge technology - in an appealing midsize package. Notable in the past for its understated visual presence, the E-Class was recently updated with sleeker styling, impressive new safety systems and more. Additionally, it's offered with a choice of gasoline, diesel and hybrid powertrains.
Along with the sedan discussed herein, the E-Class is available in wagon, coupe and convertible bodystyles, as well as a high-performance E63 AMG derivative.
Overview
While it continues to feature a formal roofline and a traditional three-box sedan shape, the E-Class was recently updated with a number of stylistic revisions that give it a more-eye catching appearance than before. In place of the quad headlights that have adorned every E-Class since the W210, the facelifted model sports simplified single-piece units with a more streamlined look. The vintage-inspired but busy "pontoon" rear fenders have also been axed in the name of simplicity.
Two different front-end treatments are available - the old-school Luxury model wears an elegant three-slat grille with a small Mercedes emblem protruding from the hood, while the Sport variant receives a more aggressive two-slat unit with an oversized badge. Sport models also use an AMG-designed body kit and sit on a stiffened and lowered suspension.
Inside, things are as plush and refined as ever, with generous amounts of wood and chrome trim creating a decadent environment. Notable new touches include a revised steering wheel, a classy, Art Deco-inspired clock and a reworked center stack with more intuitive controls. Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system remains; controlled either by voice commands, a central knob or steering wheel-mounted buttons, it integrates the sedan's audio, navigation and Bluetooth-based connectivity functions into a single unit - a seven-inch display screen mounted on the dashboard.