The
2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class can be configured as a luxury coupe, sedan, convertible, or wagon, powered by either a V-6 or V-8 engine paired to a seven-speed automotive transmission. The E-Class sedan comes with a V-6 gas or diesel engine, a V-8 engine, or a V-8 AMG engine, while the coupe, which it is shorter and lighter than the sedan, comes with a 3.5 liter V-6 or a 5.4 liter V-8 engine.
The convertible and the wagon are new configurations in the Mercedes E-Class. The four-passenger convertible has a soft top roof, an Aircap feature for noise and wind dampening, and an Airscarf that forces warm air through the four headrests, so passengers keep their necks warm when the top is down. The wagon offers either the Luxury or Sport trims, has a rear facing third row, and accommodates seven passengers.
New for 2011
The Mercedes E-Class convertible and the wagon are new to the lineup for 2011. The soft-top convertible, which seats four, comes with the same engines as the sedan, either the 3.5-liter V-6 or 5.4-liter V-8, coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The convertible is designed to keep passengers warm and noise levels down in open-air driving, even when it's cold out. The wagon comes as an all-wheel drive V-6 only, with a third row that faces back and rear air suspension.
Essentials
Engines: 3.0L V-6, 3.5L V-6, 5.4L V-8, 6.2L V-8
Transmission: 7-speed automatic
Body Styles: Sedan, coupe, convertible, wagon
Trims: E350 Bluetec Sedan, E350 Sedan, E350 Convertible, E550 Sedan, E63 AMG Sedan, E350 Coupe, E550 Coupe, E550 Convertible, E350 Wagon
On the Outside
The E-Class uses styling cues that are reminiscent of classic Mercedes, which makes it a standout on the road. In addition, new 18-inch AMG wheels are not an option, and the coupe was restyled with a new grille.
From the Inside
Standard on the E-Class are leather and burl walnut wood trim and power front seats. Mercedes' COMAND system with a seven-inch screen is also standard. The black coupe and convertible can be ordered with ash wood trim and two-tone interiors.
Driving Performance
While leaning more toward being comfortable and smooth, the Mercedes E-Class sedan and coupe are also quite capable performers. However, when driving the coupe hard, its underpinnings can limit handling. But if you slow down just a bit, and coupe and sedan drive much better. The sedan is the only body style in the lineup that can be equipped with any of four engines, including Mercedes' excellent turbo diesel.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety features on the Mercedes E-Class include traction control, stability control, and four-wheel discs with ABS and brake assist. Also available are up to 11 airbags (nine airbags are standard) and features such as active lane keeping assist and blind spot assist.
Gas Mileage
E350 Sedan: 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway
E350 4Matic Sedan: 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway
E350 Coupe: 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway
E550 Sedan: 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway
E550 4Matic Sedan, E550 Coupe: 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway
E63: 13 mpg city/20 mpg highway
Plusses
- High-quality build
- Latest technology available
- Smooth power train
- Optional diesel engine
- Adequate rear-seat room in coupe/convertible
Minuses
- Polarizing styling
- Limitations of the coupe's platform
- No optional engine for wagon
Rating
Lots of great features in multiple configurations
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