Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class delivers good fuel economy and is more nimble than the previous generation, but it dials back on ride comfort, interior room, and user-friendliness. The E300's 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine is linked to a nine-speed automatic transmission. We got a commendable 24 mpg overall. The car is quiet and handles with impressive agility. Though the ride is mostly comfortable, it isn't as plush as in the last generation and the suspension struggles to smother impacts from some potholes. The controls are complicated. Even adjusting the lumbar support is done through the central controller and screen, which is too distracting. Partial automation gives the E-Class the ability to follow the road and steer itself temporarily as a driver assist system.

The redesigned E-Class delivers nimbler handling and better fuel economy than the previous generation. On the other hand, it dials back on ride comfort, interior room, and user-friendliness. The E300's 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is linked to a nine-speed automatic. This combination works well, but it won't set your heart on fire. Then again, we got a commendable 24 mpg overall. The car is quiet and handles with newfound agility. Though the ride is comfortable, it lost some plushness. Inside, the dash features high-resolution displays, but the controls have grown more complicated. Even adjusting the seat's lumbar support is a multistep process done through the central controller and screen. New technology gives the E-Class the ability to follow the road and steer itself temporarily as a driver-assist feature.

Though it is refined and quiet, we didn't find the 2010 redesign as impressive as its predecessor. Handling is capable, but the steering isn't as communicative as it used to be. Subsequent updates, including revised steering, moved the car back to benchmark status. Our diesel-powered BlueTec test model, (with the Luxury package), provided a more comfortable ride and surprisingly, better steering feedback. Interior accommodations are plush, with comfortable and supportive seats and excellent fit and finish. The Luxury trim is sporty enough; the Sport version has a very firm ride. A convertible, wagon, and coupe are also offered.

In total, our testing proved the updated 2007 Mercedes E350 a delight to drive. We found it to be quite solid, with an inviting blend of luxury and practicality. The E350 provides excellent ride comfort and agile handling. Rounding out the package is a beautifully constructed and roomy interior featuring supportive seats and good outward visibility. Still though, as is common among the higher-end German cars, we found some of the controls to be overly complicated.

The E-Class had long been among the best cars CR has tested, traditionally combining a first-class cabin with agile handling and a smooth ride. Redesigned for 2003, the E-Class provides a superb driving experience, combining a very comfortable ride with agile handling, a quiet cabin, and excellent fit and finish. However, we can't recommend the car. Demerits include a transmission that's a bit slow to respond and some awkward controls. The electronic braking system with "brake assist" makes brake modulation non-linear and touchy in some routine stops. Complaints also centered on awkward audio- and too easily unintentionally activated cruise controls.

Redesigned for 1996, the E-Class sedan and wagon offer precise handling, effortless performance, and an excellent ride. In fact, the E320 4Matic (AWD) wagon is one of the best vehicles we've tested. Acceleration is spirited and fuel economy respectable. The seats are very comfortable. Engine choices over the years include a 3.2-liter V6, 4.2- and 4.3-liter V8s, an inline-6 turbodiesel, and a high-performance 5.5-liter V8. All are mated to a smooth five-speed automatic transmission.