Mercedes E-Class (new)
Overall Average Rating - 88.39%
Position in the Top 100 cars - 3rd
It’s official – the E-Class is the most satisfying executive car you can own. It’s getting on a bit these days, but like a fine wine, the big Mercedes is maturing nicely, scoring its best result ever in Driver Power. You adore the way the E-Class floats over bumps, insulates its occupants and keeps them comfortable at all times.
For such a large car, it’s easy to drive, too, with an ergonomically sound and solidly built cabin. Strong brakes complete the package. Downsides are few, but significant. The handling could be sharper, servicing and fuel bills are pricey, while reliability is still no better than average – 43 per cent of owners have experienced a problem in the last three years. These are all areas Mercedes will be addressing with the next E-Class, which is due next year.
WINNER OF CLASS - Executive Car
If you wonder why so many drivers choose to shell out huge amounts of money on executive cars, just look at these results. The class average score is higher than for any other sector. Top of the pile is the latest E-Class. Its luxury, refinement and much improved build quality see it climb to third place in the Top 100 and steal the class crown from the 5-Series. That will be a bitter pill for BMW to swallow, but at least it can take consolation from the fact that even the old-shape 5-Series ranks well in this highly competitive class. Jaguar’s ageing S-Type also received a glowing report and makes it into third place. Audi’s A6 takes up fifth position, but lags some way behind.
Ratings
Position in the Top 100 cars
Reliability: 58th
Build Quality: 20th
Running Costs: 72nd
Performance: 22nd
Braking: 3rd
Ride Quality: 3rd
Handling: 41st
Practicality: 22nd
Comfort: 6th
Ease of Driving: 4th
Your Quotes
“OK, it’s expensive to buy, and is a little pricey to run, but every journey is a special occasion. My only change would be to go for a diesel next time.”
Julian Osborne, Coalville, Leicestershire
“My seventh Mercedes, and probably the best yet. The ride quality is superb, and it has easily adjustable air-suspension and damping. I just love it!”
Bob Innes, Desborough, Kettering
Manufacturer Verdict (Position - 13th)
Dependable and relaxing to drive? Not quite. The German firm’s cars are still comfortable, yet build quality remains a problem on some models. But cost is your biggest bugbear.
