2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

The redesigned E-Class delivers nimbler handling and better fuel economy than the previous generation. On the other hand, it dials back on ride comfort, interior room, and user-friendliness. The E300's 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is linked to a nine-speed automatic. This combination works well, but it won't set your heart on fire. Then again, we got a commendable 24 mpg overall. The car is quiet and handles with newfound agility. Though the ride is comfortable, it lost some plushness. Inside, the dash features high-resolution displays, but the controls have grown more complicated. Even adjusting the seat's lumbar support is a multistep process done through the central controller and screen. New technology gives the E-Class the ability to follow the road and steer itself temporarily as a driver-assist feature. Changes for 2018 include new coupe and convertible body styles, powered by a 329-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 hooked up to a nine-speed automatic. An E400 sedan also joins the line with the same powertrain as the new coupe and convertible. Finally, a fire-breathing AMG E63 S wagon and sedan are new, and get a 603-hp 4.0-liter V8 turbo. For 2019 the V6-powered version becomes E450. An E53 gets a mild hybrid setup with a straight six-cylinder engine. Changes for 2020 include a new name for the entry-level model, now called E350 instead of E300, and a boost in horsepower – now 255 hp. Also, blind spot warning is standard on all trims. 2022 models get a freshening with new tail lights and standard adaptive high-beam assist.