2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Road Test
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2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $51,200 -$86,050
- Invoice: $47,616 -$80,026
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Our road test for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class help you decide if a 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 9 | 6.9 |
We've had no opportunity yet to test the E63. E350 is stately from a stop but gathers speed quickly and has fine passing power. E320 Bluetec diesel is similar, though turbo lag is noticeable both from a stop and in passing maneuvers. E550 is impressively gutsy from any speed. In all, the transmissions provide smooth, timely shifts, though E320 Bluetec suffers some kickdown delay. Mercedes quotes 6.5 seconds 0-60 mph for the E350 sedan, 6.6 for the Bluetec, 5.4 for the E550, and 4.3 for E63. Figures for models we've tested seem reasonable.
FUEL ECONOMY
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 4 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an E550 4Matic sedan returned 17.5 mpg. We've had no opportunity to measure fuel economy with other models. Premium-grade gas is required in all non-diesel models. Note that Bluetec is unavailable in California and certain Northeastern states.
RIDE QUALITY
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 6.5 |
E-Class models always feel stable, with an impressive blend of comfort and control. Only the sharpest bumps intrude. The driver-adjustable air suspension settings on our test E550 4Matic with Sport Package had an affect on ride quality: Comfort mode allowed slightly more wallow than Sport 1; tire thump was more noticed in Sport 2.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
All E-Class models handle with grippy assurance and modest body lean. Steering feel is accurate, and straight-line stability is excellent. However, they're not as nimble as rival 5-Series BMWs, and some testers found them slightly ponderous in fast corners. Powerful brakes deliver short stops. Sport Package models are a shade more agile.
QUIETNESS
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.1 |
Wind rush is well muffled. Coarse-surface tire thrum is low but audible. E350 and E550 engines rise to a classy full-throttle growl, but are almost silent otherwise. Bluetec's diesel makes a slightly different sound than the gas engines, but it's little louder overall and nearly devoid of traditional diesel clatter.
CONTROLS
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Gauges are easy to read. Most controls are illuminated and handy, but some are far right of center--making them a bit of a reach--and others have unclear markings, especially those for the audio system. The available navigation system isn't daunting but still requires familiarization. The steering-column stalk for the cruise control can easily be confused with the turn signal/wiper stalk.
DETAILS
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.5 |
Cabin decor is modern and tasteful, with quality materials and top-notch assembly. Structures seem impressively stout; door closings sound like those of a bank vault.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Six-footers get good headroom and plenty of legroom. The seats and tilt and telescopic steering wheel have ample power adjustments to tailor a good driving stance. Outward visibility is good, but lane changes would be easier with larger door mirrors.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
The seat is supportive and comfortable for two adults; three would be squeezed. Headroom is limited for six-footers, legroom grows tight behind a tall front-seater, and foot space is only adequate. Narrow floor-level passages cramp entry and exit. Housing for the available Panorama roof steals no more head space than the housing for a conventional sunroof.
CARGO ROOM
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
The trunk isn't very tall and the lid hinges eat into space, though they're shielded to help avoid cargo damage. Available split folding rear seatback is unusual in this class. In-cabin small-item storage is only average.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
Contemporary and sophisticated, rock solid and confident on the road, the E-Class brims with worthwhile features and Mercedes cachet. Prices are steep, but overall, these very appealing cars are easy Recommended picks.
Total Score
| E350 sedan | E320 Bluetec | E550 sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | 78 | 77 | 69.2 |
Total Score: 77
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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