Overview

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan is four-door sedan that traces its lineage back to the mid-1930s. However, the first model with an official "E-Class" designation arrived in 1994. Now in its fourth-generation, the current body style was last redesigned for the 2009 model year. For 2011, Mercedes has reintroduced the diesel engine option and treated the sedan to a minor facelift.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is offered in for basic configurations: E350, E350 BlueTEC, E550, and E63 AMG. All models feature a full range of amenities, including power accessories, power front seats, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, and alloy wheels. Base models receive MB-Tex vinyl upholstery, while the E550 and E63 include leather upholstery. The E550 receives a larger engine plus air suspension, while the enthusiast-oriented E63 AMG model is fitted with a host of upgrades for the suspension and brakes that affect performance, ride, and handling, as well as unique interior cosmetic touches. Option packages on standard models include a navigation system, heated front seats, rearview camera, and a Harmon-Kardon upgraded audio package, although much of that equipment is standard on the flagship E63 AMG.

The E350 models are fitted with a 3.5-liter, six-cylinder engine that is rated at 268 horsepower, while the E550 models are fitted with a larger 5.5-liter, eight-cylinder engine rated at 382 horsepower. The E350 BlueTEC features a turbocharged 3.0-liter, six-cylinder engine rated at 210 horsepower, while the E63 AMG boasts a 6.3-liter, eight-cylinder engine rated at 518 horsepower. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. The E350 and E550 models are offered in rear-or all-wheel drive. The E350 BlueTEC and E63 AMG are offered only in rear-wheel drive. The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class between 13 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, depending on powertrain.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Sedan starts with a base price of about $50,000 and tops out with the E63 AMG Sedan, which starts around $65,000.