Mercedes E Class
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. Familiar looks hide a comprehensive makeover - but can the new E Class deliver on substance as well as style?
Review
The E Class has received far more than just the customary mid-life visual makeover with some major changes under the surface intended to improve its reputation for indifferent reliability.
Not that much has changed on the surface, where the strong, characterful styling looks very similar to that of the pre-facelift model. The sleek design radiates plenty of carpark presence, while the cabin is solidly constructed and filled with a good selection of standard fit toys - with plenty more available on the vast options list. Space is excellent for both front and rear passengers, with a huge range of driving position adjustment meaning that pretty much any size of pilot should be able to get comfortable. Both saloon and estate versions have impressively proportioned boots, too - it's small wonder so many German taxi drivers use 'em.
Compliant chassis settings enable the E to combine smooth progress with excellent driving dynamics. It's not as explicitly sporty as the BMW 5 Series to drive, but it's still a fine companion when the road gets twisty.
Buyers are spoiled for choice when it comes to engines, with no fewer than 10 powerplants to select between. The entry level E200 Kompressor now boasts 183 bhp, although it still feels slightly out of place compared to six-cylinder rivals. Both V6s and V8s give smooth performance, especially in conjunction with Mercedes' outstanding "7G" automatic gearbox. Three substantially revised diesel engines combine strong performance with very good fuel economy, with the all-new 320 CDI being particularly impressive. At the top of the range the new E63 AMG gives massive performance - and comes with an equally massive pricetag.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
Mid-term facelift has done little to alter the good-looking design. Big and sleek, the E has plenty of presence in the office car park.
Handling
4 star
Taut and surprisingly agile for something so big. AMG version isn't quite a dynamic match for the BMW M5, but it's surprisingly close.
Comfort
5 star
With a cosseting ride and supremely comfortable seats, the E Class is still one of the best ways of absorbing the pain of a long journey.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
Mercedes promises it's rectified the problems that afflicted recent versions of this model. Construction feels solid and material quality is good - but the interior still isn't quite up there with that of the Audi A6 when it comes to perceived quality.
Performance
4 star
Even the lowliest 200K gives decent urge - with serious performance available at the top end of the range. Diesels are smooth and frugal - it's just a shame we don't get the V8 CDI version.
Roominess
4 star
Still one of the biggest cars in its segment, the E offers loads of space for both front and rear seat passengers. Both saloon and estate have class-leading luggage capacity.
Running Costs
3 star
Residuals should strengthen slightly, although the E Class still loses a surprising amount of money in the first three years of ownership. Fuel economy is respectable on all but the most silly versions, but servicing is very expensive.
Value for money
3 star
More expensive than direct BMW or Audi rivals, although the gap is offset slightly by the bigger size and decent standard equipment. Still worth haggling hard, though - there are savings to be made.
