2003 Mercedes-Benz E320

The Mercedes E320 sedan grew in size and became a bit more luxurious for 2003, thanks to a major redesign. The new E320 featured 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.

A number of new options were available as well, 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.

These design changes and new options applied only to the 2003 E320 sedan. The E320 wagon remained unchanged for 2003.

Power for all E320 models was provided by the same 221-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 engine that was dropped under the hood of the E320 in previous years, though it was more closely mated with the new sedan design, resulting in a more balanced vehicle.

A five-speed automatic transmission was standard. It was equipped with the Touch Shift feature, which enabled the driver to upshift and downshift by nudging the shift lever left or right. This gave the driver the option to adjust the car's performance based on driving conditions.

As in previous years, the 2003 E320 was equipped with the automaker's TeleAid emergency communication and assistance program, as well as the Electronic Stability Programming (ESP) anti-skid system.

Other 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, although a CD player was also standard equipment in the new sedan.

A Sport Package, with larger wheels and aerodynamic AMG-designed lower body panels, was also available as an option for all models, as were heated seats, a rear-obstacle warning system, and Mercedes' COMAND navigation system.

Drivers were complimentary about the E320'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 reported that it was a reliable vehicle.