Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review (2018)

Caroline drives the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Despite the onslaught and popularity of SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains Mercedes’ bestselling model in Ireland. Not only that, the E-Class is also Ireland’s bestselling premium car.

In 2016, Mercedes-Benz launched this new generation of their classic premium saloon; in 2018, the E-Class star quality shows no signs of abating.

On sale in Ireland from €48,200, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has classy good looks and executive presence. AMG Line models like the one tested look particularly well with AMG bodystyling and 19” alloy wheels.

What’s it like inside the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Inside, Mercedes-Benz brings the game on further, nailing premium contemporary interiors in the E-Class with a stunning design, exquisite materials and ‘show-stoppers’ like the 64-colour ambient lighting system. The interiors of the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A6 are nice; but are they this nice?

It’s hard not to feel stately behind the wheel of the E-Class and that’s just how it should be. Leather upholstery comes as standard as do comfort features like climate control, cruise control, parking sensors, reversing camera and heated front seats. The ‘Mercedes-me Connect’ infotainment system comes with a 12.3″ screen and has plenty of functionality, but could do with some more modern graphics and can be a bit fiddly to use.

Safety equipment includes Attention Assist and Active Brake Assist. There are three trim levels – Avantgarde, Exclusive and AMG Line – and numerous options to choose from.

There’s space for five with large footwells in the rear – though a large transmission tunnel makes the middle seat more challenging, like in other rear wheel drive rivals. The boot is a competitive 540 litres, so should hold its own for the modern executive’s needs.

What’s the Mercedes-Benz E-Class like on the road?

Automatic gearboxes across the range add to the affable nature of the E-Class. The launch of the E-Class in 2016 saw the arrival of a new four cylinder 2.0-litre diesel. In Ireland this 194hp model is badged E220d and it’s a big seller here for its combination of power and economy. Motor tax is just €200 per year. The E220d AMG Line model on test has a list price of €53,085.

The E-Class is a smooth, effortless drive with an onus on comfort rather than sporty driving dynamics. Though it holds the road well with decisive steering, a BMW 5-Series is more fun in that regard. There are a number of driving modes including Sport and Sport+ modes that add urgency to the throttle and tighten everything up a bit more.

For buyers of large saloons who like to feel special behind the wheel, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class delivers. Cocooned in luxury, with striking refinement and comfort, the E220d offers a neat balance between power, economy and value, and there are plenty of comfort features on board too. As a refined, comfortable luxury car, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains a ‘class’ act!

Caroline Kidd

Model tested: Mercedes-Benz E220d AMG Line Automatic
Price: €53,085 (Available from €48,200)
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
Power: 194hp
Torque: 400Nm
0-100km/h: 7.3 seconds
Top speed: 240km/h
Claimed Economy: 3.9-4.3/100km
CO2 emissions:  112g/km
Motor tax: €200 per year