Name: Mercedes-Benz E-class Review
Item: Mercedes-Benz E-class
Author: Gumtree.com

The E-Class has been the mainstay of the Mercedes mid-size executive saloon line-up since 1953. However, it wasn’t until 1993 that the E-Badge came to represent the car as we know it today, after Mercedes’ overall shift in naming convention. All through its life, the E-Class has been available in rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive variants, while several body styles have been released to market including estate, coupe, convertible and even station wagon models. To uphold a legacy of seven decades is no easy task, but the E-Class manages to clinch the title in its segment with every generation – it very much feels like the heart and soul of the Mercedes brand.

Visit the Mercedes-Benz E-Class model page to explore available cars and learn more about the model

What we think about the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Distinguished styling, refined luxury and best-in-class tech are perennial features of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, whatever the generation.

Pros

Superior build quality

Luxurious and comfortable cabin

Stunning design

Cons

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Rivals offer more oomph with driving

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Design can be too familiar

The current E-Class – the fifth generation – hit the roads in 2017, and the previous four generations were released in 1993, 1996, 2006 and 2010. Through the years, the car has stuck to a conservative style typical of Mercedes-Benz saloons. You’ll find the E-Class in more than 15 choices, 10 trims and in all types of fuel and transmission variants.

Driving performance of the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Driving Rating9 / 10

The intense rivalry in the mid-compact saloon segment between the big-German-trio is well-known. Mercedes has made one thing clear in this segment – it builds for comfort. That makes the E-Class a practical choice too, designed around the everyday needs of drivers and passengers. No matter which generation you pick, you’ll find that the E-Class effortlessly sails you through all types of road conditions without as much as a whimper. It’s a smooth and quiet ride all the way.

Safety and reliability of the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Safety Rating10 / 10

All generations since 2008 have received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Front fog lights and an anti-lock braking system which prevents skidding have been standard since that time. Moving further back in terms of age means you won’t be able to expect the same level of safety features. In terms of reliability, the German carmaker has an impeccable reputation, and the E-Class is no exception. Used car buyers should note that some 2016 cars had an airbag issue, so check the service history to make sure it was fixed.

Under the bonnet of the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

Options across generations begin at a conservative 2.0-litre engine and go all the way up to 5.5-litres, which of course packs a punch. The latest generation has two engine sizes on offer in diesel and plug-in hybrid variants – a 2.0-litre and a 3.0-litre. The sole petrol engine is the E 200, which produces a top speed of 149 mph, and all options come with a nine-speed auto gearbox. The fastest E-Class is the E 320 d, which sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. It’s worth noting that the E-Class is one of the few cars that offers a diesel hybrid.

What you'll find in the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Design Rating9 / 10

The E-Class is a fairly long car for the mid-compact segment. Levelled bonnet lines that end in signature rounded headlights are the highlight in terms of styling, at least until the third generation. The E-Class definitely made headlines when the lines got sharper across the entire body, and the sophisticated headlight design was replaced by suave-looking lamps lined with LED Daytime running lights. This significant facelift made the Benz fanbase swoon, while also giving due respect to the style features of the older generations. The makeover has largely remained the ongoing trend to this day. If you want more kerbside appeal, the AMG is the way to go.

Comfort and interiors in the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

Given that the E-Class puts comfort first on its list of priorities, expect nothing short of royal treatment. As a long-bodied saloon, there’s no shortage of legroom both in front and rear seating. The dash is carefully placed so as to not distract and delivers premium luxury with the use of quality materials such as the leather trims. The latest generation has an enormous 540 litres of boot space. Still not enough? Fold the seats down and you get 1820 litres.

Red Mercedes-Benz E-Class interior dashboard

What features you'll find in the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Features Rating8 / 10

From 2009 onwards, alloy wheels, parking sensors, remote locking and heated seats are standard across all variants. You also get an audio remote to control the music system in older models. In the latest generation, the standard Audio 20 infotainment system features a neatly placed central eight-inch screen, along with the signature COMAND rotary dial that allows you to switch channels, select sat-nav routes and change the volume. The standout feature is the twin 12.3-inch screens display behind the wheel, which gives you all the key metrics and info you need as you drive. All-in-all, there’s no shortage of high-tech gadgetry in any E-Class.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

Older generations of the E-Class line-up claim anywhere between 24-46 mpg. But realistic values may not be too close to these figures. Some entry-level models in the fourth-gen claimed up to 68 mpg. It should be noted that a more realistic WLTP measuring system was introduced in 2017, and the claims on the latest generation are much closer to what you get with regular use. The E 220d diesel returns 51.4 mpg while the hybrid gets you 201.8 mpg if driven conservatively. Entry-level diesels and hybrids make the most sense for company cars.

Running costs of the Mercedes Benz E Class

Our Cost Rating8 / 10

As part of the luxury car segment, Mercedes models often fall into higher insurance groups. Expect the E-Class to be within Groups 28 to 49, which is comparable to its rivals. If you’re looking for BiK benefits, the hybrids, which can deliver CO2 emissions of just 49 g/km, give great returns. A three-year unlimited mileage warranty is quite a good deal, and you can set up service plans that start at reasonable prices. Reliability is a strong suit for Mercedes-Benz and you won’t need any unnecessary garage time.

Our verdict of the Mercedes Benz E Class

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

With over 13 million cars sold worldwide, the E-Class is the best performing Mercedes-Benz. It's a clear winner in the segment, putting into practice everything that an executive looks for in a car.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review