Mercedes is now selling its mid-size saloon sixth generation, a comfortable and safe car. However, the company must make do with the SUVs’ relentless onslaught on the 2024 car market and needs other assets to attract customers that desire ever more screens and technology. Being up to date does not prevent the new E-Class from using diesel engines that are synonymous with uninterrupted journeys getting you wherever you want more quickly.
We won’t bore you stating the new Mercedes E-Class is a smaller S-Class. Conservative according to some, pragmatic according to others, the three-volume body style manages to keep a number of enthusiasts over time, even if their numbers are dwindling. Nothing will ever be more pleasing to drive, and above all, more energy-efficient, than a good old saloon. However, don’t get us wrong : be the E-Class wears an up to the minute elegant design and, in our view, it’s more successful than some of its premium rivals which display aggressive, or even brutal lines. The E220d we tested is a great design. Its tapered headlamps and sensual curves are pleasing even though its overall look remains too conservative for some. We’d add that’s just because they weren’t even bothered to get onboard…
I like it
Once inside, the evolution is the most visible : the spectacular Superscreen running the entire dashboard’s length. In fact, it’s a straight evolution of the Hyperscreen first seen in the EQS. The front passenger won’t fail to be attracted to it, obviously. It offers a staggering number of layout choices to the driver. Mercedes improved it simplifying its menu and even uses more colors to make the system easier to understand. Some will find the whole thing a little too disco, however… especially if you play around with the infinite color range that can highlight the interior ! However, it’s also possible to tone it down, fortunately. If you tick the passenger side screen, Your passenger will be able to watch his or her favorite series on the move without disturbing you while driving. If the driver ever glances to the right, he or she will be summoned to look up at the road in front of hm or her by the dashboard camera. Nevertheless, it can be very useful for taking part in online meetings – provided the vehicle is standing still, of course!
Quite clever
As we said above, it’s a diesel engine that lurks under the bonnet of ″our″ saloon and it feels great. Starting a test drive with a nearly 680 miles range reminds you that not so long ago, travelling far and fast was the norm. The 2.0 4-cylinder engine produces 197 bhp matches BMW’s 520d, but it beats it for torque : 440 versus 400 Nm for the BMW. The 9-speed automatic gearbox is a perfect match for the engine, allowing a serene and relaxed drive whatever you throw at it. Even though it’s still a rear-wheel drive car, you’d never notice it : even in heavy rain conditions, the numerous driver aids being so efficient. Cheers to Mercedes : the central screen gives lets you turn off easily the maximum speed warning system, while the main shortcuts page allows to easily disable the overly intrusive lane departure warning system.
I don’t like it
We’ve been OK with Mercedes‘ technological interiors for a long time. Some people find them distasteful, and we’re not so sure about the illuminated grille : it’s too gimmicky for our taste. If rear-seat space could be more generous, what really annoyed us is the front seats’ lack of support, even if this E220d is no rally car and obviously we wouldn’t take it to the Dikkebus special stage…
Why I buy it
Even if some people disagree, we’d say it’s best to be behind the wheel of a full-size diesel saloon to enjoy a long drive. Miles are munched in utmost comfort and range doesn’t change because of weather conditions or just because the aircon is on. Meanwhile, the front passenger can binge watch the latest Netfix series on his or her own screen, while rear-seat occupants will appreciate the generous legroom allowed by the front seats slimline backrests. Once warmed up, the engine and transmission won’t be noticed. There’s no need to fork an an extra €2,600 extra €2,600 to get the 4-wheel drive system. We averaged 43 MPG on our test drive : no mean feat as we didn’t really try to !
Why I don’t buy it
The front seats are not supportive enough and are this car’s main problem for us. They could be more supportive and softer at the same time. As is often the case with Mercedes, prices are prohibitive (The E220d Business Line is available from €64,000 !), even more so when compared to their competitors. However, the stock equipment list is now longer… and remember that it’s the first Mercedes you buy that is dear : trade-ins values are pretty good and the loss is always on the lowish side if you remain faithfull to the brand. In all fairness, let’s say that the E220d is not light : at 1915 kg, it’s close to the overweight electric cars. (Translation: Dimitri Urbain)
