2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes has added a diesel variant to the E-Class lineup. Unfortunately, the E320 CDI  is not available in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York or Vermont, due to emissions restrictions.  An engine upgrade is expected for the base E320 midway through the year, and a sport package will also be added. The Mercedes scheduled maintenance program is no longer a complimentary service.

The E-Class is available in eight trim levels, configured through two body styles, three engines, and two drive trains.  Mercedes offers the E-Class as a sedan or a wagon, with rear- or all-wheel drive, powered by a V6, V8. The Diesel is only available as a RWD sedan, and the V8 wagon is AWD only.

The 320 models come standard with all the bells and whistles one might expect to find in a Mercedes, highlighted by the TeleAid assistance system, dual-zone automatic climate controls, steering wheel audio controls, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats, and a memory system (front seats, mirrors, steering wheel).

The 320 models house a 3.2 liter V6, which generates 221 horsepower.  The CDI diesel 320 gets a turbocharged 3.2 liter inline six, good for 201 horsepower.  Both 320 engines are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift gate.  The 500s upgrade to a 5.0 liter V8, making 302 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque.  The 4Matic 500 uses the five-speed automatic, while the rear-wheel drive models get a new seven-speed version.

The current generation E-Class borrows many styling cues from the full size S-Class.  The results are a more dramatic exterior shape and an elegant interior presentation.  The E-Class is more expensive than its mid-size competitors, but this lineup is available with a AWD and a powerful V8.  This Mercedes also boasts advanced safety features like electronic braking, which improves the communication between the brakes and active safety systems.

Test drivers expressed great satisfaction with the E's ride - an ideal blend of cushioning and control.  An E55 AMG is available for the enthusiasts, but that sedan is categorized by itself.