German Car Zone

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon is the right size for most needs.

OUR TAKE: A big, heavy, awd station wagon outfitted with all-season tires: That's a pretty nice ride to have when the forecast calls for six inches of the white stuff.

The E-Class remains a nice-sized vehicle for most applications, not too small but not too big, either. It seems like a near-perfect combination of utility, economy and luxury. We're not sure what's missing here, but doubt most owners would feel they were lacking for anything with a setup like this example's.

That's with respect to the V6 engine and five-speed automatic--a strong powertrain combination that provided all the scoot we needed. Handling is taut, steering on target, brakes excellent, ride superior. Sure, you wouldn't want to put five people in this for a long ride, but four could go for days without complaint.


As-tested price: $63,605
Drivetrain: 3.5-liter V6; awd, five-speed automatic
Output: 268 hp @ 6000 rpm, 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm
Curb weight: 3985 lb
Fuel economy (EPA/AW): 18/18.0 mpg
Options: Premium II package, including DVD navigation, satellite radio, heated front seats, rear side window blinds, hands-free communication, keyless go, bixenon headlamps with active curve illumination, headlight washing system, cornering fog lamps ($4,320); cashmere leather ($1,550); Sienna black paint ($710); wood/leather steering wheel ($550)


2008 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic wagon - AutoWeek Magazine


M

Wow, they're still reviewing this old chassis?

I agree with their summary, a solid, dependable, elegant hauler. Great for riding around town on errands or a nice long road trip with plenty of space and grace.

The power is just adequate though, it could really use that new 3.5L that MB is putting in the SLK350. The weight isn't too much of a factor for handling, even on the 'Ring it drove pretty well.

Oh yes. AutoWeek tests something new every day of the week so yes even an E-Class is bound to come around.

M

Those rims have been appearing too often on North American E-Classes. I'm not a fan of them.

Similar ones are present on the S-class in India.

Oh God.

Yes,that's really a shame because they look hopeless on the S.

But those rims are better, then the standard rims on the old W220!! But there are definitely better ones. This is one of the options, where it is useful to spend some money!

Its the standard rim on the E350 Wagon.

I'm really annoyed at the styling choices available to the US, since the Wagon didn't have a "Sport" or "Elegance/Avantgarde" trim choice to get Black Birdseye wood or sport rims. They just had these standard rims. If the Sport Package was available, which it is for free on the Sedan, we would have purchased it in a heartbeat. Either that, or the AMG Package, which I think is worth the money for the rims alone, if not for the tail pipes, suspension and trim upgrades.

Blah, Mercedes-Benz, why must you torment your customers?! End Rant.

So how does MB US seperate the different trim levels? Why don't they offer "Classic" "Elegance" "Avantgarde" and "Sports" trim levels in the US market instead of having various bits and pieces on the option list. For such a large market I am surprised MB doesn't seem to offer all the available options to their customers.