The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with automotive excellence. For many, the tagline “engineered like no other car in the world,” once associated with Mercedes, still resonates, particularly when recalling iconic models like the 1986 W124 E-Class, lauded by Car & Driver as potentially “the best car in the world.” However, the landscape of luxury automobiles has shifted dramatically since then. The emergence of Lexus and BMW’s successful expansion into luxury and sport categories has challenged Mercedes’ dominance. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the W212 generation, represents a significant redesign aimed at reclaiming its top position. But does it recapture the magic of the E-Class models of yesteryear? Let’s delve into a detailed examination of this pivotal model.
Exterior Styling: A Bold Departure?
The timeless elegance of the W124 E-Class set a high bar. In the mid-1990s, Mercedes attempted to modernize its image with the W210 E-Class, featuring four oval headlights, a move designed to signal a departure from traditional, some might say, “stodgy” styling. While initially successful, nostalgia for the W124’s classic design soon resurfaced. The 2003 W211 generation marked a return to more timeless styling, but arguably, it became somewhat anonymous amidst the increasingly bold designs of competitors like Audi.
With the 2010 W212 E-Class, Mercedes once again prioritized road presence and distinctive styling. The new model adopts a chunkier silhouette, characterized by rectangular headlights and rear fender bulges – design choices that are certainly more assertive. While opinions on aesthetics are subjective, the W211 arguably presented a more conventionally beautiful design. However, the W212 undeniably conveys a sense of premium value, projecting the image of a $55,000 luxury sedan, even if the hood design might give a slightly misaligned appearance to some observers.
Interior Design and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2010 E-Class, the interior design echoes that of the contemporary C-Class. The design language leans towards blocky shapes rather than flowing, organic lines. This aesthetic might be perceived as basic or even austere were it not for the demonstrably high quality of materials and meticulous detailing. The overall impression is distinctly German – functional, well-crafted, and focused on substance over flamboyant style.
Following a trend pioneered by BMW, the gear selector is relocated to an electronic stalk on the steering column. This design choice frees up valuable space in the center console, accommodating an iDrive-like controller for infotainment and vehicle settings. While functionally efficient, the absence of a traditional console-mounted shifter might detract from the perceived sportiness for some drivers.
Driving Performance and Handling
Mercedes-Benz maintains its tradition of a relatively high driving position in the W212 E-Class. This provides enhanced forward visibility compared to some competitors, such as Audi and BMW models. The front seats continue Mercedes’ characteristic firmness. While offering good support, including lateral support during cornering, they lack the plushness often associated with luxury sedans from brands like Volvo or Lexus. For some, the firmness might be welcome, but others might find them less comfortable for long journeys than expected in this class.
The rear seats in the W212 E-Class represent an improvement over the preceding W211 generation. However, they still trail behind competitors like the BMW 5-Series and Infiniti M in terms of overall comfort and spaciousness. Mercedes-Benz’s apparent philosophy seems to be that buyers prioritizing a truly spacious and luxurious rear passenger experience should consider the S-Class. A practical advantage offered by the E-Class rear seats, optionally, is the ability to fold down and expand the trunk space – a feature not always found in Asian competitors.
Engine and Transmission
The vast majority of buyers in the United States are expected to opt for the standard engine: a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. And for good reason – it provides more than sufficient power for everyday driving. While comparable horsepower figures can be found in mainstream models like the Honda Accord, and some competitors offer six-cylinder engines exceeding 300 horsepower, the reality is that most drivers will rarely approach the E350’s full power potential in typical driving situations. The seven-speed automatic transmission ensures that the engine is always operating within its optimal power band, unlike older four-speed automatics. This transmission in the W212 is refined and responsive, offering smooth shifts with appropriate frequency, addressing criticisms of earlier iterations of this transmission.
Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz’s pricing structure can sometimes seem inconsistent. While AMG body kits, sport-tuned suspensions, and larger wheels can add significant cost in some models, the 2010 E350 Sport package was offered at no extra charge. This inclusion of the Sport package as standard equipment is a compelling value proposition.
Ride Quality and Comfort
The sport-tuned chassis of the E-Class delivers competent handling, exhibiting good balance, composure over uneven road surfaces, and minimal body roll during cornering. The car feels solid and precise from the driver’s seat. However, the steering system is a point of contention. Described as “dead,” the steering offers weighting that ranges from excessively light to artificially heavy. Crucially, road feel is almost entirely absent. While the suspension itself might be well-engineered, the lifeless steering prevents the driver from truly connecting with the car dynamically.
The ride quality of the E-Class strikes a middle ground. It is firmer than a Lexus GS but not as firm as a BMW 5-Series. It avoids feeling overly soft, yet it is not harsh. It also avoids the occasional unsettling jiggles sometimes present in models like the Hyundai Genesis. The solid and planted feeling traditionally associated with Mercedes-Benz is definitely present. Consistent with modern luxury sedans (with the Audi A6 being a notable exception), noise levels inside the cabin are remarkably low, contributing to a refined and comfortable driving experience.
Overall Impression
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class presents itself as a solid and premium vehicle. However, whether it fully recaptures Mercedes’ former reputation as the pinnacle of automotive engineering is debatable. Certain styling elements might appear dated sooner rather than later, a common trend in the post-Bangle era of automotive design. More significantly, the combination of firm seats and detached steering creates a driving experience that excels neither as a plush luxury sedan nor as an engaging sport sedan. This raises the fundamental question: Who is the target audience for this car? Do even luxury sedan buyers desire such a degree of disconnection from the driving experience? Given Mercedes-Benz’s extensive history in automotive manufacturing, the question of why a more communicative steering system couldn’t be implemented remains.
Based on a review by Michael Karesh, originally published on TrueDelta.com.
