2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class |
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Overview
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class holds a strong position among German Luxury Midsize Cars, ranking first out of eleven. It also performs well in the broader category of Luxury Midsize Cars, securing the fourth position out of twenty-nine. However, when considering value for money, the E-Class falls slightly behind, ranking fourth out of seven. Despite this, its consistent high rankings across various categories suggest it is a top contender in its class, offering a blend of luxury and performance that is highly regarded.
Overview (Final Score: B+)
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class marks the latest generation of the luxury car, having been completely revamped in its sedan and wagon formats. The coupe and convertible carry on with the previous generation's design for one more year.
Everything about the E-Class emphasizes the "class" in its name. Carrying on with the updates made to the larger S-Class' upgrades last year, the E-Class has a stunning exterior, opulent interior and the latest technologies Mercedes has to offer.
In the midsize luxury sedan market, it's hard to name another car as sophisticated as the new 2017 E-Class. Most of the changes add more contemporary, understated luxury and do away with the heavy arches and thick interior elements of the previous generation. Mercedes does this very well with the new E-Class.
Options for the car include three engine choices and body styles ranging from a convertible to a coupe, sedan and wagon. The E-Class seats up to five, depending on body style chosen.
What We Love About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class:
- Beautiful interior with excellent ergonomics
- Sets the bar for luxury expectations in this class
- Excellent road handling and comfort tuning
What We Don't Love About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class:
- Fuel economy below par on all models
- Reliability expectation is high, but not proven
- Must wait another year for the coupe and convertible to catch up
Exterior View (10/10)
The exterior of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has changed considerably from the previous generation. The same sleek, sophisticated look that has always marked Mercedes is still there, but in a more modern and forward-looking design. Gone is the heavy body arch and wide, suckerfish-like front grille.
The E-Class now has a more subdued, contemporary appeal with a smaller front grille that still carries the Mercedes-Benz diamond beset with the large badge at the center. The arched lines of the previous-gen bodywork are replaced by a more subtly curved line for the beltline and greenhouse. This emphasizes the coupe-shaped roof and fast pace of the overall top line from hood to deck. The less busy styling of the rear deck completes the overall function-is-form simplicity of the new Mercedes-Benz styling used on the E-Class.
The wheel wells are flared a bit, but only slightly for power emphasis without dominance. Beautiful wheel designs finish the look. A sporty, more capable and real-world appeal is what marks this new generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Interior Comfort, Quality, Ergonomics (10/10)
The svelte new exterior of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is met with similar upgrades to the car's interior. Made up of excellent materials and masterful craftsmanship, the E-Class' interior redesign creates a luxurious experience that's unrivaled.
A bold horizontal theme sets the tone for the sophistication found inside the new E-Class. The central infotainment screen is extended from the instrument panel, giving the appearance that they're integrated. The optional virtual gauges for the instrument cluster enhance that feel.
Seating is very good with excellent headroom, shoulder room and legroom throughout. The seats, whether in the front or rear of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, are among the most comfortable you'll experience. Multi-contour seating with massage and other capabilities are available as well.
The new sedan and wagon interiors are second to none. The coupe and convertible continue with the previous generation and are less svelte, but still aren't slouches when it comes to excellence. Everything about the E-Class exudes luxury.
Cargo capacity is set at 13.1 cubic feet in the coupe and sedan, and expands to 22.6 cubic feet for the wagon, which expands to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Technology (9/10)
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has infotainment based on Mercedes' COMAND system. Standard on all E-Class models, this infotainment is new generation for the new sedan and wagon, but previous generation for the coupe and convertible. The main difference between the two is the touchpad-enhanced central dial control, allowing smartphone-like gestures and inputs for control. Without that more menu slogging is required to get from one point to the next, but for most this will be the norm on the go because the touchpad is over sensitive when driving.
The COMAND system has a good repertoire of options and items, including navigation and smartphone integration.
Fuel Economy (7/10)
There are three engine options for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, depending on the model chosen. The standard engine for the sedan (E300) is a four-cylinder that is EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined, with 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway in rear-wheel drive and 24 mpg combined, with 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, for the all-wheel drive option (4Matic). These are well below par for a four-cylinder base engine.
The E400 models are powered by a V6 and are EPA-rated at 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The E550 models feature a big V8 that thirstily chugs 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Predicted Reliability, Initial Quality Ratings (7/10)
J.D. Power and Associates rates the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class with a "Better Than Most" expectation for reliability. There have been several recalls for the E-Class since its debut for 2017, many for mechanical issues in steering and the drivetrain. For this reason, the reliability rating is reduced here.
Safety (10/10)
The 2017 E-Class has received the best safety ratings possible from the entities which certify that. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class a 5-Star overall rating with the maximum five stars on all crash tests performed.
Similarly, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given the E-Class its coveted "Top Safety Pick+" rating with top-level "Good" scores on all crash tests plus top scores for advanced safety measures.
Performance (9/10)
Each model of the 2017 E-Class is designated for its engine. The E300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This mates with a nine-speed automatic transmission in rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive (4Matic) available as an option. This will give the E300 sedan a 0-60 mph time of around 7 seconds, which is slightly under average for the class.
The E400 wagon, coupe and convertible, as well as the AMG E43 sports sedan have a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and AWD as standard. A nine-speed automatic is also the transmission of choice for the wagon and AMG model, whereas a seven-speed automatic is used in the coupe and convertible. In the E400 the V6 produces 329 horses and 354 lb-ft of torque. In the E43 it produces 396 hp and 384 lb-ft. Zero to 60 mph times are reduced to under 6 seconds with the latter setup.
The big E550 coupe and convertible have a turbocharged 4.7-liter V8 monster that outputs 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. This one has a 0-60 mph time of about 5 seconds.
All versions of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have excellent road handling and comfort. The E43 is a bit more sporty than the rest, with a tighter suspension and stronger road feel. In both the E300 and the E43, we felt very comfortable and a smooth highway ride was the norm.
Pricing and Value (9/10)
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a high-end car's price tag, but comes with wonderful returns. This is one of the most luxurious cars on the road, in almost every way imaginable. Prices for the sedan are reasonable and competitive, with most buyers falling somewhere in the sub-$60,000 range. With the high level of accouterments and luxury included with the E-Class, that's not outlandish.
Where the E-Class suffers is in resale, which is a weak point for Mercedes vehicles in general. The strong reliability expectation and good upfront value help counter that some, and the range of offers for body styles is another boost for the E-Class.
Total Score and Competitive Comparison (71/80, 89%)
With the redesign for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon, it becomes the newest option in the luxury sedan market. The coupe and convertible will follow in 2018. These upgrades make the E-Class more than a match for the BMW 5 Series and the Audi A6 models. The lower-cost Lexus line remains the E-Class' primary competition.
Compared to its rivals, the new 2017 E-Class is more than excellent and carries a strong presence both at the curb and on the road. Disappointments with the Mercedes are few and luxury appointments are many. We feel that every Mercedes-Benz E-Class driver will be happy with their choice.
2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Trims
Trim | Engine | Drive Train | MSRP |
---|---|---|---|
E 400 2dr Coupe | 6 Cylinder | RWD | 54550 |
AWD E 400 4MATIC 2dr Coupe | 6 Cylinder | AWD | 57050 |
E 550 2dr Coupe | 8 Cylinder | RWD | 60650 |
E 400 2dr Convertible | 6 Cylinder | RWD | 62600 |
E 550 2dr Convertible | 8 Cylinder | RWD | 69100 |
E 300 4dr Sedan | 4 Cylinder | RWD | 52150 |
AWD E 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan | 4 Cylinder | AWD | 54650 |
AWD AMG E 43 4MATIC 4dr Sedan | 6 Cylinder | AWD | 72400 |
AWD E 400 4MATIC 4dr Wagon | 6 Cylinder | AWD | 62300 |
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