Mercedes-Benz unveils an all-new E-Class for 2010. Available in both sedan and coupe trims, the E-Class enters its ninth generation with an angular yet aerodynamic exterior design, a meticulously crafted interior, refined engines with improved fuel efficiency, a new automatic transmission, all the latest high-tech gadgets, and a wide range of safety features, including nine airbags. Exterior updates for the 2010 E-Class include a more prominent front end with larger air intakes, angled twin headlights, a pillarless side design, contoured rear fenders, and wrap-around LED taillights.

E-Class trims for 2010 include the E350 and E550 sedans, the all-wheel-drive E350 4MATIC and E550 4MATIC sedans, and the E350 and E550 coupes. A 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine powers the E350 sedan, E350 4MATIC, and E350 coupe. The V6 engine produces 258 lb-ft of torque and links to an all-new seven-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide quicker acceleration and smoother cruising, as well as improved fuel efficiency, according to the automaker. The transmission includes the Touch Shift feature, which enables drivers to shift manually using steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The E550 sedans and coupe provide more muscle, thanks to a lightweight 5.5-liter V8 engine, which produces 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, driving the E550 from 0-60 in 5.2 seconds. The V8 links to the same seven-speed transmission. New powerplant components, including new alternators and power-steering pumps that operate only when required, help improve fuel efficiency for both engines.

Under its sleek skin, the 2010 E-Class sports a stiffer body and a retuned suspension designed to optimize ride and handling. The E350 trims feature an Agility Control suspension, which adapts automatically to the road to provide a smoother ride, according to Mercedes-Benz. The E550 trims rides on an Airmatic semi-active suspension, which features electronically controlled air springs that adjust to road conditions. In addition, the suspension offers driver-selectable Sport and Comfort settings. The E-Class sedans and coupes feature ventilated braking systems with Predictive Braking Priming, which provides faster braking, and Brake Drying, which helps the E-Class stop more confidently in wet road conditions. Antilock brakes with brake assist come standard.

For all the E-Class trims, owners can choose between Luxury and Sport packages to tailor the vehicles' interior and performance. The Luxury package includes Burl Walnut wood interior accents, a monochromatic cabin color palette, and 17-inch five-spoke light-alloy wheels. The Sport package features a contrasting interior color scheme, perforated front brake discs, and 18-inch five-spoke light alloy wheels.

Inside, the 2010 E-Class comes equipped with a wide range of luxury-oriented features, including 14-way power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, hand-polished wood accents, a power moonroof, dual-zone digital climate control, a new interior ambient lighting system, and an updated Mercedes-Benz COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system with a 7-inch color LCD display and a center-console-mounted central controller, which drivers can use to operate the audio and optional navigation systems. Other standard equipment includes Bluetooth wireless connectivity and an eight-speaker AM/FM audio system with an in-dash 6-CD/DVD changer, Sirius satellite radio, and an MP3 input jack.

The E350 sedans and coupe come standard with MB-Tex leatherette seats, while leather upholstery remains an option. Other options include a panorama sunroof, heated front seats, and a Harman/Kardon Logic7 surround-sound audio system. Owners can also add a Drive-Dynamic multicontour driver's seat with advanced air chambers that automatically adjust to the driving situation. The upgraded driver's seat also includes a two-stage massage function. The E550 sedans and coupe increase the luxury quotient with such features as luxury upholstery and a full-grain premium-leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Safety features for the 2010 E-Class include innovations such as the Attention Assist driver drowsiness monitor, which keeps track of nearly 70 parameters and alerts the driver if it detects drowsiness, and the Pre-Safe system, which automatically closes the windows, adjusts seatbelts, and positions the front passenger seat for optimal airbag deployment if it detects a potential emergency situation. Electronic stability control and electronic traction control also come standard, and fully integrate with the all-wheel-drive system in the 4MATIC trims. Available safety features include Night View Assist Plus, Blind Spot Assist, and a Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe Brake, an intelligent cruise-control system that maintains a preset distance behind the vehicle or vehicles ahead, and will apply the brakes if necessary to ensure a safe driving distance.