The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a midsize luxury vehicle that has been one of the most popular options for a number of years. The 2012 models, which now include a coupe, a wagon, and a convertible as well as the sedan, will provide something for everyone looking for a great luxury ride.
Key Features
The vehicles feature a 7-speed transmission, optional paddle shifters, eight speakers, a six-disk CD/DVD system, airbags, electronic stability control, and more.
Changes for 2012
In 2012, they added a new vehicle to the E-Class – the E63 AMG Wagon. They’ve also added new engines, which have helped to increase the power of the vehicles, as well as their fuel economy. You will also find some design changes, and an updated 7-speed transmission.
What We Like
The vehicle looks great inside and out, and it drives well. It comes with plenty of standard features even on the base models, so no matter what you choose you will be driving in style.
What Concerns Us
There are more pros with the vehicle than cons. There are no major issues, and the only thing that might stand in the way of some buyers is the price. They are costlier than many other vehicles in their class, but you need to remember you are paying for luxury.
Available Models
The E-class offers four different engines, all of which are 7-speed automatics. You have the option of getting a paddle shifter for them as well.
The E350 models have a 3.0-liter V6 Turbodiesel engine, 210 horsepower at 3,400 RPM, 400lb torque at 3,400 RPM, and they get 21 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The E550 models feature a 3.5-liter V6, 302 horsepower at 6,500 RPM, 273lb torque at 3,500-5,250 RPM. The mileage for the sedan is 20 in the city and 30 on the highway, the coupe gets 19 in the city and 28 on the highway, the convertible gets 18 in the city and 28 on the highway, and the wagon gets 19 in the city and 27 on the highway.
The 46-liter V8 Twin-Turbo engine has 402 horsepower at 5,000-5,750 RPM, 443lb of torque at 1,600-4,750 RPM. The AWD sedan gets 16 in the city and 26 on the highway, the coupe gets 17 in the city and 27 on the highway, and the convertible gets 16 in the city and 25 on the highway. The 5.5-liter V8 engine gets 518 horsepower at 5,250-5,750 RPM, 516lb torque at 1,700-5,000 RPM. The sedan gets 16 in the city and 24 on the highway, while the wagon gets 15 in the city and 23 on the highway.
Major Recalls
Mercedes-Benz has a very good record with their vehicles, and the E-Class autos are no exception. There have not been any major recalls associated with the cars. However, there have been some issues reported by consumers, as noted below.
Common Issues
Issues reported by drivers of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class have reported that the fuse and relay boxes located in the rear compartment and engine compartment are sometimes defunct, which can cause the car not to start.