2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review: A Technological Tour de Force
Pros:
- Comfortable ride
- Smooth, quiet, and powerful engine
- Beautiful interior with extensive technology
Cons:
- Mixed styling
- Options can get pricey quickly
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: A Blend of Class and Tech
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class carries forward its legacy as a sophisticated, high-tech powerhouse that also excels in driving comfort. Available with four-cylinder and inline-six powertrains for now, and possibly an AMG variant in the future, it retains a traditional three-box sedan design, distinguishing it from BMW’s mixed body approach for electric vehicles (EVs) and gasoline models. The E-Class sticks to its classy roots, unmarred by the EQE’s futuristic "potato-like" styling.
Mercedes has opted to blend the E-Class with its latest tech features, including the "Super Screen" that turns the entire dashboard into a vibrant, interactive touchscreen. However, the replacement of traditional buttons with touch controls has drawn mixed reactions. Mercedes aims to mitigate this loss with flashy lights, advanced audio systems, and features like video calling and artificial intelligence routines. If you prefer a more traditional driving experience, rest assured you can disable these features and enjoy the E-Class as it was meant to be.
What’s New for 2024?
Entering its sixth generation, the 2024 E-Class brings familiar aesthetics but leaps forward in technology. Notably, the E 450 All-Terrain wagon remains based on the previous generation, setting it apart as a different entity altogether.
Interior and In-Car Technology
The interior of the E-Class is dominated by technology. The optional "Superscreen," though considered a less attractive add-on with its ostentatious passenger-side display, offers advanced navigation, voice recognition, and even video calling features. The primary 14.4-inch central touchscreen is vibrant, featuring an intuitive interface once you’re past the initial learning curve. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still available, though the built-in navigation and voice recognition might make external apps less necessary.
Overall, the seats and materials live up to the E-Class’s reputation, with ample customization options. Despite the technological prowess, the E-Class remains a strong contender in luxury and comfort.
Size and Comfort
The 2024 E-Class is slightly larger than its predecessor, offering sufficient rear seat space for adults. Taller drivers may find the front seats positioned a bit low, which could feel cramped. In comparison with the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, it is comparable in space, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants. The trunk is spacious enough to accommodate luggage for four people, despite some misleading cubic feet numbers.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Available in two trims, the E 350 4Matic and the E 450 4Matic, both featuring all-wheel drive:
-
E 350 4Matic:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
- 255 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque
- 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds
- EPA: 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 27 mpg combined
- E 450 4Matic:
- 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine
- 375 horsepower, 369 pound-feet of torque
- 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds
- EPA: 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined
The AMG E 53 Hybrid (PHEV) is slated for 2025, promising even more excitement.
Driving Experience
Whether equipped with the standard suspension or the $3,200 Airmatic package, the 2024 E-Class offers an exceptional driving experience. The Airmatic package adds rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability and stability. Both engines have a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing smoothness and efficiency. The inline-six, in particular, offers a pleasing auditory experience under acceleration.
Pricing and Options
- E 350 4Matic: Starts at $63,450
- E 450 4Matic: Starts at $69,250
- Pinnacle Trim: Adds high-end features for an additional cost
Options include a $1,750 Alpine Grey paint, 21-inch AMG wheels for $3,050, and a $1,500 Super Screen, among others.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The E-Class is rich in safety features, both standard and optional. Standard features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and driver attention monitoring. Optional features enhance the safety suite with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and digital light projection. While it hasn’t been crash-tested for 2024, the previous generation earned high marks for safety.
With its blend of luxurious comfort, advanced technology, and refined performance, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class stands out as a top choice in the midsize luxury sedan segment. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a traditional luxury car aficionado, the E-Class offers something for everyone.