The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe has always been a compelling blend of luxury and performance, and the 2014 E400 model year is no exception. Often compared to the BMW 435i, this coupe offers a unique proposition in the premium segment. While the E-Class saloon rivals the BMW 5-Series, the E400 Coupe, built on a combination of C-Class and E-Class components, directly competes with the six-cylinder BMW 4 Series in terms of pricing, power, and market positioning. Let’s delve into what makes the 2014 Mercedes E400 a noteworthy contender.
2014 Mercedes E400 Specifications and Performance
Under the hood, the 2014 Mercedes E400 boasts the only petrol V6 engine in the E-Class Coupe range. This twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine delivers a robust 329 horsepower and a substantial 354 lb-ft of torque, readily available from as low as 1400rpm. Paired with a smooth seven-speed automatic gearbox and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, the E400 sends power to the rear wheels, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. The test model was equipped with optional, but performance-enhancing, 19-inch Continental tires, part of the AMG exterior package.
The AMG exterior pack further enhances the E400’s sporty aesthetic with more aggressive front bumper intakes, a rear diffuser-look element, a subtle bootlid spoiler, and body-colored door handles. Chrome trim, typically found on lower-spec models, is omitted for a cleaner, more performance-oriented appearance.
Stepping inside, the 2014 E400 is generously equipped with features like keyless entry, refined interior inlays, and a well-constructed cabin. While the interior design might show its age when placed next to newer Mercedes models like the C-Class and S-Class, it remains a comfortable and high-quality space in its own right.
The AMG trim version exclusively features a black interior, accented by sporty red stitching and eye-catching red seatbelts. However, a surprising omission for a car in this price bracket is the electric seat adjustment, which was a £1225 option on the test vehicle, highlighting potential areas where optional extras can quickly inflate the final price.
Driving Experience of the 2014 Mercedes E400
The 2014 E400 excels in providing a refined and enjoyable driving experience. The cabin, while reminiscent of previous Mercedes generations, maintains a luxurious and user-friendly ambiance. Excellent visibility, thanks to large side mirrors and a well-considered driving position, contributes to driver confidence. The seats, while firmer than some competitors, offer commendable support, especially beneficial on longer journeys.
The V6 engine sound is a standout feature. It produces a deep, resonant tone that is both engaging and remarkably smooth across the rev range. Cruising on the motorway at 70mph, the engine operates at a relaxed 2000rpm, barely audible in the cabin. Engaging the shift paddles provides quick gear changes and a sharp throttle response, accompanied by the engine’s satisfyingly deep exhaust note.
Selecting Sport mode sharpens the throttle response considerably – perhaps almost too sensitive for everyday city driving, making it feel slightly abrupt. The adjustable suspension settings offer subtle variations, with the ride quality remaining composed at slower speeds. However, larger road imperfections can be felt with a slightly firmer impact in both suspension settings.
Despite the responsive throttle, turbo lag is minimal. While the E400 offers capable handling, even in Sport suspension mode, it may not possess the outright agility to be classified as a dedicated “traffic carver” when compared to more overtly sporty rivals.
Handling and Agility of the E400
The 2014 Mercedes E400 strikes a good balance between comfort and handling prowess. It demonstrates competent and well-controlled dynamics, managing changes in direction, weight transfer during braking (dive), acceleration (squat), and body roll impressively for a vehicle of its class. While it doesn’t match the outright sharpness of a performance-focused model like the E63 AMG, it’s far from lacking in dynamic ability and offers confident cornering capabilities.
The high-grip Continental tires fitted to the test car provide substantial lateral grip, contributing to the E400’s planted feel in corners. In terms of straight-line performance, the Mercedes E400 is undeniably quick, achieving 0-62mph in a respectable 5.2 seconds – impressive for a Mercedes coupe that maintains a relatively understated appearance.
Verdict: Is the 2014 Mercedes E400 Worth It?
The 2014 Mercedes E400 comes with a premium price tag. Starting at £46,265, the price can quickly escalate with optional extras. The test vehicle, equipped with a panoramic glass roof, electric seats, metallic paint, and a safety package, reached a significant £52,240. This price point places it £10,000 above a comparable BMW 435i M Sport, making it a considerably more expensive option.
For buyers considering the AMG brand, the C63 AMG Coupe, while perhaps less spacious and nearing replacement at the time of the original review, was only around £6,000 more than the tested E400. The C63 AMG offers a significant step up in performance and driving drama, presenting a compelling alternative for those prioritizing outright performance.
Fuel economy is another factor to consider. During a mixed driving run, the E400 averaged around 28mpg. While the 2014 Mercedes E400 is undoubtedly a refined, capable, and sophisticated coupe, its higher price point compared to fresher competitors and running costs should be carefully considered.
>> When considering a luxury coupe in 2014, would you have leaned towards the BMW 435i or perhaps stretched for a C63 AMG Coupe instead of the Mercedes E400? The market offered compelling choices within this segment.
