For Solid construction, fuel economy, spacious, comfortable accommodation
AgainstFussy styling, lack of a sixth auto gear, occasionally intrusive engine noise
As a measure of the consistency Mercedes-Benz has achieved with the E-class, take a look through its star ratings for each road test sub-section: without exception, it gains a ‘very good’ rating. The E-class feels like a Mercedes executive saloon as they used to be.
It may not be the most exciting Mercedes, and if you’re looking for feel good interior ambience the Jaguar XF may be more to your taste, but it solidly goes about its business in a very competent fashion.
We can’t vouch for the E-class’s long-term durability, but you sus
pect that when people climbed into a W124 20 years ago they emerged thinking something not dissimilar to occupants of this car.
Dynamism and flashiness come way down the list compared to getting the basics right and providing a sound platform from which to chew through thousands of miles.
£28,925
53.3 mpg (combined)
1735 kg
201 bhp / 369 lb-ft
