The Mercedes E-Class is something of an icon in the executive saloon class, with a reputation for quality, power and sophistication. While the brand’s reliability was called into question with its predecessor, the latest model seems to have put Mercedes back on an even keel.

A rival to the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Jaguar XF, the Mercedes is less sporty than the BMW, but focusses more on comfort over huge distances, making it one of the best motorway cars on sale. A recent facelift has improved its looks and updated it engines.

Performance

The entry-level model is the E200 petrol 2.0-litre with 181bhp, followed by a tuned 208bhp version of the same engine badged as the E250. Acceleration from 0-62mph is fairly similar, taking 7.9 and 7.4 seconds respectively. Most are likely to choose a diesel, however, starting with the E220 BlueTEC, a 2.1-litre producing 175bhp. It may be the same engine found in an A-Class, but performance is still adequate in the heavier E-Class, reaching 62mph in 8.4 seconds.

The E250 CDI has 201bhp, shaving almost a second off this benchmark, while the range-topping E63 AMG S boasts 577bhp from its 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8, reaching 62mph in a supercar-rivalling 4.1 seconds.

Every version comes fitted with an automatic gearbox as standard, with either seven or nine gears. With shifts aimed at smooth driving, the gears almost blur into one, but the trade-off is a slightly lazier feel if you change gear using steering-wheel mounted paddles or nudge the gear selector. 

Ride and Handling

It’s at its very best on the motorway and tackling sweeping A-roads, where it can show off its supreme stability, excellent ride comfort and hushed refinement.

The E-Class is just under five metres long and weighs between 1,655kg and 1,885kg, so it can’t be expected to handle like a Lotus Elise. It’s at its very best on the motorway and tackling sweeping A-roads, where it can show off its supreme stability, excellent ride comfort and hushed refinement. On tighter roads, it still acquits itself surprisingly well, but vigorous driving feels like trying to defy physics. AMG models get stiffer and lower suspension, but we prefer the option of air suspension, with settings to boost comfort or handling. With this fitted, the E-Class gains an extra layer of polish well-suited to its relaxing character.

Interior and Equipment

The Mercedes E-Class might be seen only as an expensive luxury car in Britain, but in many European cities (particularly in Germany) it’s revered by taxi companies because of its size and incredible durability.

While some lesser models are decked out with faux metal, synthetic leather and plastic wood, the E-Class feels authentic. Everything is solid and precisely machined, from the glovebox to the heater controls. There’s as much space as you’d expect too, with taller drivers and passengers accommodated with ease and plenty of width across the cabin. It has a different character to the BMW 5 Series, feeling more stately, but less sporty. The boot measures 540 litres, but it’s worth noting the 60:40 split/folding rear seats are an optional extra. With just two trim levels (SE and AMG Line), things look simple, but this is just a starting point. As standard you’ll get 17-inch wheels, start/stop, front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats, sat-nav and DAB, making it very well-equipped. AMG Line adds 18-inch wheels, sports suspension, a body styling kit and sports steering wheel. Option packages include ‘Premium’ with folding rear seats, memory seats and mirrors, a panoramic sunroof and reversing camera and ‘Premium Plus’  with all the above, keyless entry and a surround sound system.

Cost

While large luxury cars are notorious for depreciating heavily, the E-Class fares better than many others.

Diesel engines labelled BlueTEC are the most economy-focussed, but also cost a bit more to buy. The E220 BlueTec returns up to 64.2mpg, with CO2 as low as 116g/km – impressive figures for such a large and luxurious executive saloon. For comparison, the BMW 520d manages 62.8mpg and 119g/km of CO2, costing the same £30 in annual road tax. The AMG versions couldn’t be more different, with huge power but a similar thirst, averaging 28.8mpg and emitting 230g/km, costing £485 to tax. The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid combines diesel and electric motors, charging a battery pack as you drive, to return 67.3mpg and emit 110g/km. With prices of between £34k and £84k before options, it’s possible to get rather carried away when buying an E-Class, while it’s also slightly more expensive than the 5 Series. Choose wisely, however, and we think you get plenty of car for the money. Used buyers seem to agree, because while large luxury cars are notorious for depreciating heavily, the E-Class fares better than many others.

Our Verdict

The Mercedes E-Class boasts a stellar reputation, and we think it’s entirely deserved. A luxurious cabin, superb comfort and plenty of performance make it a great long-distance companion. We only wish we had the equivalent of the German autobahn network to stretch its legs. From the entry-level diesel to the E63 AMG S, the driving experience exudes a feeling of quality. It doesn’t feel as sporty as the 5-Series or ultra-modern like the Audi A6, but it certainly isn’t lacking in character and charm.