Mercedes E250 CGI

By Dan Strong

January 2010

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• Latest deal price: from £26,879 to £33,752

Here’s the car Mercedes says proves you can have practicality and performance – without breaking the bank! Under its sizeable proportions, the new E250 CGI Estate is powered by a 201bhp 1.8-litre, four cylinder turbocharged engine – and it’s capable of returning 35mpg.

The well equipped Avantgarde model we drove was priced at £34,915, and as well as strong economy, it claims low emissions of 182g/km. Yet the car offers the pace of a thirsty, more epensive V6, with 0-60mph taking in 8.3 seconds.

A comfortable driving position and well built cabin add to the appeal. Our model was fitted with sat-nav, as well as electric leather seats and a multifunction steering wheel.

As you expect from an E-Class estate, versatility is impressive. The huge boot has a low loading lip, while customers can specify an electric tailgate, operated by the key fob, as an optional extra. A boot divider is also on the options list, while standard split-fold rear seats complete the practical package.

However, the trump cards are the E250’s class-leading refinement and impressive road manners. It offers the comfort and smoothness of far more expensive cars.

Rival: 5-Series Touring
It's not due on sale until early 2011, but BMW’s new 5 Touring will offer a vast boot and great handling. A four-wheel-drive version is also planned.