The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with sophisticated luxury, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional performance. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class continues this legacy, offering a refreshed design, enhanced features, and a range of models to suit diverse preferences. Whether you’re seeking a refined sedan, a sporty coupe, a breezy cabriolet, or a versatile wagon, the 2021 E-Class lineup delivers an unparalleled driving experience. Let’s delve into what makes this model year stand out in the competitive luxury automotive market.
Exploring the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Trim Levels and Configurations
Mercedes-Benz distinguishes itself by providing a comprehensive selection of body styles within the E-Class range. For the 2021 model year, enthusiasts can choose from sedans, coupes, cabriolets, and wagons, each offering unique characteristics and features while upholding the core E-Class values.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350: The Entry to Luxury
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 serves as the gateway to the E-Class experience. As a sedan, it’s available in both rear-wheel drive (E 350) and all-wheel drive (E 350 4MATIC®) configurations. Powering these models is a responsive 2.0L inline-four turbo engine producing 255 horsepower, providing a balance of performance and efficiency for daily driving.
Standard features of the E 350 emphasize comfort and convenience, including:
- ECO Start/Stop system: Enhances fuel efficiency by automatically turning off the engine when idling.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control: Allows personalized temperature settings for driver and passenger.
- 64-color LED ambient lighting: Creates a customizable and luxurious cabin atmosphere.
- New steering wheel touch control buttons: Offer intuitive control over vehicle functions.
- Nappa leather upholstery steering wheel: Provides a premium feel and enhanced grip.
- Heated power front seats with 3-position memory: Ensures optimal comfort and personalized settings.
- 40/20/40-split folding 2nd-row seatbacks: (50/50 on Cabriolets) Offers flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
- Power tilt/sliding glass sunroof: Brings natural light and fresh air into the cabin.
These standard features highlight Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and technology even at the base trim level of the 2021 E-Class.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450: Enhanced Power and Versatility
Stepping up to the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 brings a significant boost in power and expands body style options. All E 450 models are equipped with a mild-hybrid 3.0L inline-6 engine with EQ Boost, generating 362 horsepower. This powertrain enhances both performance and efficiency. The sedan, coupe, and cabriolet E 450 variants feature a nine-speed automatic transmission paired with rear-wheel drive as standard.
For those requiring all-weather capability and increased practicality, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC® All-Terrain Wagon is an exceptional choice. This wagon not only offers the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive but also unique features tailored for utility:
- Folding, rear-facing third-row seat: Increases passenger capacity, ideal for families.
- Retractable and removable partition net and luggage cover: Helps organize and secure cargo.
- Hands-free power liftgate: Provides convenient access to the cargo area.
- Height-adjustable AIR BODY CONTROL® air suspension system: Adapts ride height and comfort based on driving conditions.
- Generous Cargo Capacity: 35 cubic feet with seats up and 64 cubic feet with seats folded, making it exceptionally practical for a luxury vehicle.
The E 450 trim level of the 2021 E-Class provides a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and versatility, particularly with the unique All-Terrain Wagon.
2021 Mercedes-AMG® E 53: Performance-Infused Luxury
For drivers seeking a more dynamic driving experience, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG® E 53 models (available in sedan, coupe, and cabriolet forms) deliver heightened performance and AMG-specific enhancements. At the heart of the AMG E 53 is an AMG-enhanced 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine producing 429 horsepower. This powerful engine propels the E 53 from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds, showcasing its sporty character.
Further performance-oriented upgrades on the AMG E 53 include:
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT nine-speed transmission: Provides rapid and precise gear changes.
- AMG Performance 4MATIC+® AWD: Offers variable torque distribution for optimal traction and handling.
- AMG Performance Braking System: Ensures confident stopping power.
An optional Driver Assistance Package further enhances safety and convenience with a suite of advanced driving aids:
- Active Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in blind spots.
- Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function: Helps prevent collisions, even at intersections.
- Active Emergency Stop Assist: Can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop in emergencies.
- Active Lane Change Assist: Aids in smooth and safe lane changes.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Helps prevent unintentional lane departures.
- Active Speed Limit Assist: Automatically adapts vehicle speed to posted speed limits.
- Active Steering Assist: Provides steering support to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Backup Camera: Enhances visibility when reversing.
- Congestion Emergency Braking: Provides automatic braking in heavy traffic situations.
- Evasive Steering Assist: Helps the driver maneuver around obstacles in emergency situations.
- Extended Restart in Stop-and-Go Traffic: Automates restarts in traffic jams.
- Route-Based Speed Adaptation: Adjusts speed proactively based on navigation data.
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG® E 53 seamlessly blends luxury with thrilling performance, making it an appealing choice for driving enthusiasts.
2021 Mercedes-AMG® E 63 S: The Pinnacle of E-Class Performance
At the summit of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class performance hierarchy sits the Mercedes-AMG® E 63 S, available as both a sedan and an All-Terrain wagon. This model represents the ultimate expression of power and driving dynamics within the E-Class family. It’s powered by a handcrafted AMG® 4.0L V8 twin-turbo engine unleashing a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. The E 63 S sedan achieves a blistering 0 to 60 mph time of just 2.8 seconds and boasts a top speed of 186 mph, placing it firmly in high-performance territory.
Exclusive features specific to the E 63 S trim level include:
- Nappa leather AMG® Performance steering wheel: Offers superior grip and feedback for performance driving.
- Ventilated front seats: Provide cooling comfort during spirited driving or in warm climates.
- Panorama roof (AMG E 63 S Wagon®): Enhances the sense of spaciousness and light in the wagon variant.
- AMG® DYNAMIC SELECT with multiple drive modes: Includes Comfort, Sport, Sport+, RACE, and Slippery modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s dynamics to various conditions and preferences.
The Warmth & Comfort Package, standard on the E 63 S, further elevates the luxury experience with:
- Rapid heating front seats: Quickly provide warmth in cold conditions.
- Heated front armrests: Add an extra layer of comfort in colder weather.
- Heated steering wheel: Ensures warm hands for comfortable driving in winter.
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG® E 63 S stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s ability to combine exhilarating performance with opulent luxury in a single vehicle.
Revolutionary Technology: MBUX and Connectivity in the 2021 E-Class
Beyond performance and luxury, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class emphasizes advanced technology and connectivity. A key highlight across all 2021 E-Class models is the inclusion of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system as standard. MBUX represents a significant leap forward in in-car technology, featuring:
- “Hey, Mercedes” voice control with natural language understanding: Allows for intuitive voice commands to control various vehicle functions.
- 12.3-inch high-resolution color touchscreen multimedia display: Provides a visually stunning and user-friendly interface.
- Reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display: Offers customizable displays of driving information.
- Console-mounted central touchpad controller with multitouch gestures: Provides an alternative input method for the infotainment system.
- Color multifunction display (integrated with instrument cluster): Presents essential vehicle information in a clear and concise manner.
- Hands-free Bluetooth®* interface: Enables seamless smartphone integration for calls and audio streaming.
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto®: Provides smartphone mirroring for familiar app access.
- MB navigation system: Offers advanced navigation features and real-time traffic updates.
- Multiple USB-C ports: Ensures convenient charging and connectivity for devices.
The integration of MBUX as standard across the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class range underscores Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to providing a technologically advanced and user-centric driving experience.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class solidifies its position as a leader in the midsize luxury segment. With its diverse model range, potent engine options, luxurious interiors, and state-of-the-art technology like MBUX, the 2021 E-Class caters to a wide spectrum of drivers. Whether prioritizing comfort, performance, versatility, or cutting-edge innovation, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class delivers an exceptional and refined automotive experience that continues to set the benchmark for luxury vehicles.
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