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2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review
All-wheel drive, a wagon body style, and a 7-speed automatic transmission are newly available for the E-Class. The sedans were redesigned for 2003 and are joined for '04 by revamped wagons. Both come as E320 models with a 221-hp V6, and as E500s with a 302-hp V8. The E55 AMG sedan has a supercharged 469-hp V8. Mercedes' 4Matic AWD is standard on the E500 wagon and optional on other E-Class models except the E55. E320s, E500 AWDs, and the E55 continue with a 5-speed automatic as their sole transmission. The rear-drive E500 sedan trades that for an industry-first 7-speed automatic designed to improve acceleration and fuel efficiency. Both transmissions have a manual shift gate; the E55 adds manual-shift steering-wheel buttons. All models come with antiskid/traction control and ABS. Standard on V8s and available on E320s is driver-adjustable suspension firmness. E320s come with 16-inch wheels, E500s with 17s, the E55 18s.

Front and rear side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and Mercedes' TeleAid assistance are standard. Options include voice-activated cell phone and navigation and Mercedes' Distronic cruise control designed to maintain a set following distance. The optional bi-xenon headlamps are now steering linked. Also available are heated/ventilated front seats and Dynamic Drive massaging front seats with bladders that inflate to counter cornering forces. Optional on sedans is rear-obstacle warning and a twin sunroof (conventional sunroof over the front seats and a glass panel over the rears; a solar-cell version runs an interior cooling fan). Mercedes' optional Keyless Go credit-card-sized transmitter unlocks and starts the car. The E55 has exclusive trim and sport suspension, exhaust, and seats. Available for E320s and E500s is an Appearance Package with body cladding and unique wood trim. All models are prewired for newly optional dealer-installed satellite radio. Due during 2004 as an early '05 model is the E320 CDI sedan with a turbocharged 6-cyl diesel engine.

News
The E-Class may get some mild cosmetic updates for 2006, its fourth model year. No radical change is due until the next full makeover, which likely won't occur before model-year '09.

But the current E-Class soon spawns two new models. Already previewed for a 2005 debut is the CLS500, basically the V8 E500 sedan with unique coupe-like styling, seating for four, and a higher price due to added standard features. Among those, says Mercedes, are electrohydraulic brakes borrowed from the SL sports cars, 18-inch light-alloy wheels with 245/40-series tires, and an upscale interior with specific front seats and a new features controller said to mimic the BMW iDrive system. Options will include steering-linked bi-xenon headlamps, DVD navigation, and Mercedes' Distronic "smart" cruise control and Keyless-Go entry/start system. Pricing and other details will be released just before the on-sale date. A V6 CLS350 may be added at some point, and a high-performance CLS55 AMG with a supercharged 500-hp 5.5-liter V8 is almost certain.

Also coming sometime in 2005 is the R-Class, an E-based crossover wagon previewed by the recent concept GST ("Grand Sport Tourer"). Think of this as Mercedes' Chrysler Pacifica, except that no parts are shared with that American model, as Mercedes hopes you remember. The R-Class, however, will be American-built--at Mercedes' Alabama plant--alongside the redesigned M-Class and G-Class SUVs coming in '05 and '06. Word is that Mercedes's first crossover will bow with a 270-hp V6 R350 and a 306-hp V8 R500. Both should couple Mercedes' new 7-speed automatic transmission with 4Matic all-wheel drive. A supercharged 500-hp R55 AMG is said to be in the works for '08. All R-models will seat six and offer the usual array of Mercedes standard and optional features. The R-Class makes its public debut in Detroit at the January 2005 North American International Auto Show.
2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration Fuel economy (V8 models)
Steering/handling
Available all-wheel drive
Build quality
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
6 5 8 10 6.4

No opportunity yet to test 2004 E500 with 7-speed transmission. Among sedans, E320 can feel languid until engine rpm rises, then it's smooth, quick: 7.3 sec 0-60 mph in our test. E500 feels faster, and is: 5.6 sec tested with 5-speed automatic. Inconsistent throttle response with 5-speed transmission; using manual-shift feature helps. E55 has unabated thrust from any speed; test car did 4.2 sec 0-60.
Fuel Economy

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
5 4 5 3 4.6

Test E320s averaged 18-23.7 mpg, 5-speed-automatic E500s 19.4-22.4-mpg; the lower figures include gas-eating performance runs. Test E55s averaged 13.7-15.3 mpg depending on driving conditions. All require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
9 6 7 6 7

Stable always, but best in base-suspension E320, which is comfortably controlled and absorbent on most any surface. E500 suffers body bounce and tire thump unless suspension set to softest mode. Better behaved is E55, which is firm but never punishing.
Steering/Handling/Braking

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
7 7 7 8 6.8

Not as nimble as rival 5-Series BMWs, but these sedans corner with grippy assurance, modest body lean. Antiskid system a boon in wet weather, 4Matic brings additional measure of security. E500 steering feels too heavy at low speed, all models suffer too much on-center play. Straightline stability impressive. Potent stopping power, though brake-pedal feel could be more linear.
Quietness

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
8 7 8 7 6.7

Low but audible coarse-surface tire thrum. Wind rush generally modest. Engines rise to classy full-throttle growl, almost silent otherwise. E55 has sportier exhaust note, slightly more rear-tire noise.
Controls

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.7

Clear gauges. Most controls illuminated, but some operations aren't obvious, including fussy audio system. In-dash CD changer's powered cover partly obscures load slot. Four-zone temperature control available for E320, standard on others. Haven't yet tested current navigation system, but hold slim hope it's any less complex than prior setup. Steering-column stalk for cruise control easily confused with turn-signal/wiper stalk. Modern, tasteful cabin decor, top-notch materials and assembly--though one test E500 suffered center-console creak.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
8 8 8 8 7.2

Six-footers get good head room, plenty of leg space. Seats, tilt/telescope steering wheel have ample power adjustments to tailor good driving stance. Dynamic Drive seats work subtly, seem frivolous. Outward visibility good.
Room/Comfort (rear)

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
6 6 6 6 5.6

Supportive seat, but two adults the comfort maximum. Limited 6-footer head room. Toe space only adequate. Leg room restricted behind tall front-seater. Narrow floor-level passages cramp entry/exit. "Panorama" sunroof steals no head space, but functions no better than regular one-panel sunroof.
Cargo Room

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
5 7 5 5 4

Sedans have long, wide trunk with flat floor. Conveniently low load sill, though trunk height isn't generous. Lid hinges eat into available space, but shielded to prevent cargo damage. Power liftgate a wagon option. Average in-cabin small-items storage.
Value within Class

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
10 9 9 5 5.8

Contemporary and sophisticated, rock-solid and confidence-inspiring on the road, the E-Class brims with worthwhile features and Mercedes cachet. Prices are steep, and the adjustable suspension and nonlinear throttle and brake feel detract some from driving enjoyment. But overall, these sedans and wagons are terrifically appealing luxury-car Best Buys.
Total Score

E320 sdn E320 4Matic wgn w/ Appr. Pkg. E500 sdn E55 Class Average
71 66 70 65 60.8
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
48
Average Score
60
High Score
71
2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/08/2004
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
E320 4-door sedan $48,075 $44,710 $720
E320 4Matic AWD 4-door sedan $50,575 $47,035 $720
E320 4-door wagon $50,550 $47,012 $720
E320 4Matic AWD 4-door wagon $53,050 $49,337 $720
E500 4-door sedan $56,325 $52,382 $720
E500 4Matic AWD 4-door sedan $58,825 $54,707 $720
E500 4Matic AWD 4-door wagon $59,950 $55,754 $720
E55 4-door sedan $78,550 $73,052 $720
Price note: E500 adds $1000 Gas-Guzzler Tax. AWD E500 adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax. E55 adds $1700 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
E320
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
TeleAid telematics system, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, power tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, vinyl/leather upholstery, 10-way power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, memory system (front seats, mirrors, steering wheel), split folding rear seat (wagon), 3rd-row rear-facing folding seat (wagon), wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals and driver-side automatic day/night, passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/weatherband/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage-door opener, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers w/heated nozzles, map lights, cargo cover (wagon), rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer (wagon), automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails (wagon), front and rear fog lights, rear air load-leveling suspension (wagon), 225/55HR16 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
E500 adds to E320:
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
4-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), leather upholstery.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Automatic and driver-adjustable air suspension w/level control, 245/45ZR17 tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
E55 adds to E500:
Powertrain
5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof, heated multicontour front seats, Harmon/Kardon sound system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 245/40ZR18 front tires, 265/35ZR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
E320/E500 sedan
$3,650
$3,395
wagon
$3,550
$3,302
Active-ventilated front seats w/automatic body-securing side bolsters, power sunroof, COMAND navigation system, Harman/Kardon sound system, CD changer, power rear sunshade (sedan).
Entertainment Pkg.
E320, E500
$950
$884
Harman/Kardon sound system, CD changer.
Comfort Pkg.
E320, E500
$1,520
$1,414
E55
$1,050
$977
Active-ventilated front seats w/automatic body-securing side bolsters.
Heating Pkg.
E320, E500
$900
$837
Heated seats and steering wheel.
Lighting Pkg.
E320, E500
$1,180
$1,097
Steering-linked xenon headlights w/washers.
Rear Seat Pkg.
E320/E500 sedan
$530
$493
Split folding rear seat, ski sack.
Appearance Pkg.
E320
$3,880
$3,608
E500
$1,410
$1,311
Unique wood interior trim, blue-tinted glass, xenon headlights w/washers, aerodynamic body cladding, 245/45ZR17 tires. E320 requires full-leather upholstery.
AMG Sport Pkg.
E320/E500 sedan
$4,800
$4,464
AMG styling kit, 245/40ZR18 front tires, 265/35ZR18 rear tires, unique alloy wheels. NA AWD.
designo Expresso/Graphite/Silver Edition
E320/500 sedan
$6,200
$5,766
E55
$5,400
$5,022
wagon
$6,950
$6,464
Unique interior trim, alcantara headliner (E55), special paint. E320, E500 require heated front seats. NA w/heated steering wheel.
Safety
Rear-obstacle-detection system
sedan
$1,060
$986
Tire-pressure monitor
E320, E500, E55
$390
$363
Comfort and Convenience Features
COMAND System
E320, E500, E55
$1,200
$1,116
Navigation system.
Distronic adaptive cruise control
E320, E500, E55
$3,010
$2,799
Power sunroof
E320, E500
$1,240
$1,153
Power Panorama sunroof
E320/E500 sedan
$1,530
$1,423
Solar panel
E320/E500 sedan
$950
$884
Provides power for ventilation while parked. Requires power Panorama sunroof.
4-zone automatic climate controls
E320
$560
$521
Full leather upholstery
E320
$1,470
$1,367
Heated front seats
E320, E500
$670
$623
Multicontour power front seats
E320, E500
$780
$725
Active-ventilated front seats
E320, E500
$1,230
$1,144
E55
$650
$605
Includes heated seats. E320 requires full leather upholstery.
Drive Dynamic Seats
E55
$1,170
$1,088
Automatic body-securing side bolsters.
Special wood interior trim
E55
$260
$242
Power rear-window sunshade
sedan
$450
$419
Manual side sunshades
E320, E500
$330
$307
In-dash 6-disc CD changer
E320, E500, E55
$410
$381
Harman/Kardon sound system
E320, E500
$710
$660
Cellular telephone
E320, E500, E55
$1,595
$1,065
Cellular telephone w/voice control
E320, E500, E55
$1,995
$1,437
Heated steering wheel
E320, E500
$410
$381
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
E320, E500
$510
$474
Keyless Go
E320, E500, E55
$1,040
$967
Power trunk closer
sedan
$490
$456
Power liftgate
wagon
$500
$465
Cargo organizer
wagon
$200
$186
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Special paint
E320, E500, E55
$670
$623
Some colors require special-order charge.
Special-order charge
E320, E500
$1,150
$1,150
Fee for car ordered with one or more options requires special-order charge.
2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door sedan Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 112.4 112.4
Overall Length, in. 190.3 190.3
Overall Width, in. 71.3 71.3
Overall Height, in. 57.0 57.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 3635 3966
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 15.9 68.9
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 20.6 20.6
Seating Capacity 5 7
Front Head Room, in. 37.4 37.9
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.9 41.9
Rear Head Room, in. 37.7 38.0
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.6 36.0
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  sohc V6 Turbodiesel dohc I6 sohc V8 Supercharged sohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 3.2 /195 3.2 /197 5.0 /303 5.4 /332
Horsepower @ rpm. 221 @ 5700 201 @ 4200 302 @ 5600 469 @ 6100
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 232 @ 3000 369 @ 1800 339 @ 2700 516 @ 2650
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
5-speed automatic 19/27 27/37 --/-- 14/21
7-speed automatic --/-- --/-- 16/24 --/--
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door sedan Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 4 NA
Front Impact, Passenger 4 NA
Rollover Resistance 5 NA
Side Impact, Driver 5 NA
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 NA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 4/50,000 --
Free roadside assistance --/-- Unlimited
Free scheduled maintenance 4/50,000 --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: Germany
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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