2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class exemplifies German engineering at its finest. With 4 choices in engines ranging from diesel to the heart-pounding E63 AMG and 4 body styles with 2 sub-trim levels, there is an E-Class for every driver’s needs and tastes. As with all Mercedes, the E-Class offers the highest levels of luxury, along with the latest state-of-the-art communications and entertainment technology.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

There are very few luxury automobiles on the market that offer as much diversity as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The exclusive E-Class has long been a top choice for midsized luxury car buyers. Fastidiously built and designed, the E-Class offers a high-performance drive and should be a serious consideration for anyone desiring a first-class luxury car.

What’s New For 2012:

2012 brought many exciting changes to the E-Class, including all models being equipped with more efficient and powerful engines. The E550 sedan now equipped with 4Matic AWD and the E63 is equipped standard with stop/start technology for added fuel economy. 2012 has also seen the return of the E63 wagon to the E-Class line-up.

Price Quote:

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class received high marks for its quick acceleration, secure and agile handling, braking, suspension, plush and quiet interior, comfortable seating, fit and finish. Overall reliability of the RWD non-diesel models has been average; however the AWD version is below average.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick and earned a top score for frontal and side crashes, along with roof strength tests. The E-Class also received a top score of 5 Stars from the NHTSA for rollover crashes and comes equipped with recommended safety features such as ESC (Electronic Stability Control,) Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Powerful, more fuel efficient engines
+ Responsive handling
+ Extensive advanced safety features

Cons
– Limited headroom in the Coupe’s backseat
– Not as athletic as some competitors
– E350 Bluetec not as quick as others

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a starting price substantially lower than competitor Lexus LS and is slightly higher than the BMW 5 Series. The E-Class offers drivers 19MPG city/29MPG highway with the LS offering only 16/24MPG and the BMW 5-Series with a fuel economy of 23/24MPG. The E-Class in this comparison was equipped with a 302hp engine compared to the BMW’s 240hp engine and the Lexus LS offering 380hp.

What Others Are Saying:

“Aggressively styled and quite clearly Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the E Class exudes modern Teutonic themes with sharp angles, dramatic sheetmetal work, and plenty of chrome. Inside, the style is similar, with excellent materials and clean looks that speak of quality and clarity of design vision.” – Motor Authority

“This is an E-Class, after all, and it comes with the requisite luxury touches — high-quality materials, soft-touch plastics, and most importantly, extensive sound deadening…” – MotorTrend

“Right now Mercedes and Audi are vying for the title of best luxury brand use of a diesel engine outside the traditional SUV segment. At the moment, Mercedes is winning.” – Automobile Magazine

Read more about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturer web site