Testing the turn signals
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Mercedes-Benz launched an all-new E-Class in 2023, but the model that preceded it makes a fantastic used buy, lacking very little in terms of performance, refinement, equipment or comfort to the model that replaced it, yet depreciating enough to put it within closer reach than you might have expected for a car with the three-pointed star up front.
Aside from the larger and even more luxurious S-Class, the E-Class pretty much defines Mercedes, with a lineage stretching back to the 1950s and a reputation across much of the intervening period for unburstable quality and reliability. We don’t know how many decades the latest models will last, but in the here and now they’re some of the best executive saloons available - and the Mercedes image is hard to beat.
The Mercedes E-Class is almost the default choice in the executive car class, and for good reason. It’s often described as being like a scaled-down S-Class - the implication being that while BMW’s core model might be the 3 Series, and larger models take their cues from its sporty driving characteristics, all Mercedes, and the E-Class especially, are inspired by the all-conquering luxury S-Class.
So E-Class strong points include technology, equipment, space, and comfort, and the general ambience of the car is very much like its larger sibling. Exterior styling is similar, and when you step inside, you’re presented with an expansive dashboard with flash-looking instrument and infotainment screens, and a real sense of quality.
The cabin is definitely built to accommodate taller people - to the extent that shorter drivers might even feel a little like a kid driving their parents’ car. The driving position is excellent though, and in terms of luggage space the boot is also a good size, especially in estate versions - though plug-in models get less volume, with a battery taking up some of the space underneath.
Engine choice is as expansive as the cabin. Four, six, and eight-cylinder powerplants are available (the latter only in the AMG E 63 range-topper), and easy-going performance and excellent refinement are both two more of the E’s strengths. As is fuel economy, especially in the diesels, while all engines seem to stand the test of time - we can’t promise the E-Class will go on for as long as some of its legendarily reliable predecessors, but it shouldn’t cause too many issues either if the car has been looked after. An Audi A6 feels even better built, and a BMW 5 Series offers a sportier drive, but the E-Class remains one of the best executive cars, new or used, that you can buy.
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As has long been the case with the E-Class, it’s the diesel models that make the most sense for used buyers who want to keep running costs at a reasonable level. They perform well, don’t use much fuel, and are very smooth and refined - even the four-cylinder engines, though for real pace and even better refinement, the E 300 d with its inline-six engine is hard to beat. All versions are well equipped, so trim line choices come down to personal preference and how much you’re prepared to pay. If you have real money to burn, then the draw of the AMGs is strong - the E 53 is a fast, refined cruiser, while the E 63 is a proper German muscle car.
We’re focusing on pre-2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Classes here as they’re most plentiful on the used market, so the trim levels below are a selection of what you’ll find when shopping. As the previous generation model was launched in 2016, the list below is by no means comprehensive, and earlier models may also have a different level of specification (not to mention any option boxes the original buyer ticked) - but this should give you an idea of what to expect.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class’s dimensions are:
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class’s boot space is:
As you’d probably expect from an executive car from Mercedes, the E-Class wasn’t especially cheap when it was new, and this has an impact on VED rates, thanks to the government’s tax surcharge for vehicles that cost over £40,000. For models registered between April 2017 and today, you’ll currently pay £600 per year in tax, or £590 for hybrid versions. When the car reaches its seventh birthday, the tax rate drops down to a lower level, with no surcharge.
At the bottom of the E-Class range, an E 200 or E 220 d in AMG Line trim starts in group 36 as a saloon. The E 200 Estate comes in at group 35, though the E 220 d Estate rises to group 41. The rest of the range gets higher still, with an E 53 starting at group 43, and the E 63 from group 49.
£35,495
£38,700
£53,480
£2,600 off£52,960
£1,070 off£42,995
£46,333
£42,686
£63,890
£29,996
£17,000
£36,399
£40,995
£37,980
£860 off£38,980
£43,050
£51,420
£40,980
£19,251
What is the most popular colour for Mercedes-Benz E-Class ?
What is the most popular gearbox for Mercedes-Benz E-Class ?
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What is the most popular engine for Mercedes-Benz E-Class ?
What is the average mileage for Mercedes-Benz E-Class ?
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How many Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars are available for sale?
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