Thanks to a major redesign, the 2003 Mercedes E320 four-door sedan was slightly larger and more luxurious than its predecessors. New features included a stronger body structure, making for a safer vehicle, although it weighed no more than the previous year's model. Styling updates included new headlights, an arched roof, gently flared wheel wells, and sleeker body lines.
Power was provided by a 221-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 engine. The engine was linked to a five-speed automatic transmission equipped with the Touch Shift feature, which enabled the driver to upshift and downshift by nudging the shift lever left or right.
A number of new options were available for the E320 sedan, including Dynamic Drive seats that adjusted automatically to support the driver under heavy cornering, a twin sunroof with power sunshades, and a smart cruise control system that automatically adjusted the vehicle's speed to maintain a set distance from the car it followed.
A Sport Package, with larger wheels and aerodynamic AMG-designed lower body panels, was also available, as were heated seats, a rear-obstacle warning system, and Mercedes' COMAND navigation system.
Standard features included leather seats with power adjustment in the front, a multi-zone automatic climate control system, dual front and side airbags, power windows, power exterior mirrors, cruise control, and an AM/FM audio system with a cassette player and a CD player.
The E320 sedan was also equipped with the automaker's TeleAid emergency communication and assistance program, as well as the Electronic Stability Programming (ESP) anti-skid system.
Drivers were complimentary about the E320 sedan's new design, calling it a refined and elegant car that handled well in both city and highway driving conditions. Drivers noted that the interior was particularly comfortable, and even commented on the car's good gas mileage. Some drivers noted minor problems with the car, but generally noted that it was a reliable vehicle.
