In this time of rapid change in the automotive industry, it’s nice to have an old reliable to fall back upon. A go to. No-brainer. Automatic.
For more than 75 years the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan has set the standard for mid-range luxury. Of course today it combines modernity with tradition, technology with tried-and-true, classic sedan proportions with distinctive new design elements.
Enter the 2024 Mercedes E 350 4MATIC sedan, a technological powerhouse with significant advances throughout. It was love at first sight.
The new exterior features the proportions of a classic ‘cab-backward’ design (a short front overhang and long hood) as well as progressive design elements, including a striking black panel connecting the radiator grille with the headlamps. My tester came with a striking coat of “Alpine Grey” enamel and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels with black accents.
The E 350 is powered by an economical yet responsive 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder turbocharged, 48V mild hybrid engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The combo generates 255 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque. That’s good enough for a 6.1-second 0-to-60 miles per hour time, 33 miles per gallon fuel economy, and a range of 574 miles on a tank of gas.
Talk about having your cake and eating it too.
But that just scratches the surface. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an agility control suspension with selective damping delivers outstanding ride comfort and agile handling. Available 4.5-degree rear asteering, part of the optional AIRMATIC package (which my tester included), takes handling stability and maneuverability to the next level.
Other optional equipment that elevates the E 350 price tag by an additional $20,000 included a MBUX super-screen package, driver assistance package, digital light package, winter package, leather package, and Pinnacle trim.
The creature comfort list is long and impressive. My favorites were the premium navigation system, panoramic sliding sunroof, and Burmester 4D Surround Sound with Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio that features 17 premium speakers, nd a total system output of 730 watts.
Let’s just say the XM Radio 70’s rock music sounded way better than it originally played on my vinyl records. And I could tell the difference, even with damaged ears.
The electronic architecture in the new sedan is more software-driven, which makes individual updates easier in the future. Numerous functions are powered by a new central onboard computer, including MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation and a zero-layer design which reduces user scrolling for common functions.
Exquisite seating for five adults is enhanced with “Tonka Brown” Nappa leather heated front seats and lumbar support. The trunk was more than functional, accommodating all the golf bags I could muster – that’s four.
Completing this masterpiece is a safety suite highlighted by active brake assist, blind spot assist, active parking assist, antitheft alarm system, adaptive high beam assist, surround view camera and LED headlamps.
The new Mercedes-Benz Digital Vehicle Key, standard on the new E-Class, enables users to unlock, lock, and start the vehicle with a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch. Key sharing is also possible.
Base Price: $63,450
Price As Driven: $83,400
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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