Mercedes E-Class (2016-2023) - Interior, design and technology

Just so you know, this is an older review of the 2016-2023 Mercedes E-Class. If you are interested in information about the interior of the new Mercedes E-Class, or news about the latest Mercedes models, please follow the links provided.

From the outside, the Mercedes E-Class takes styling inspiration from the larger S-Class, and it ditches its predecessor’s boxy design in favour of the limousine’s more svelte curves. While the design might not be to everyone’s tastes, the higher-spec AMG Line model has lots of kerb appeal. A facelift in 2020 brought some changes to the exterior, with redesigned lights, a new grille and reprofiled bumper.

Step aboard, and the interior also takes its design cues from the S-Class, with a minimalist approach to the dashboard layout. The fascia flows across the cabin, featuring four circular air vents in the centre, while the twin 12.3-inch screens display crisp, sharp graphics. 

There is a striking new steering wheel design, housing touch-sensitive controls for functions such as volume, cruise control and the digital driver information. It takes a little getting used to, but the systems it controls are still typically up to the mark.

You can’t fault the technology on offer, however. Self-parking is standard on the Sport trim, as is a reversing camera, LED headlights, Mercedes’ Active Brake Assist, sat-nav, climate and cruise control, heated seats and a wireless smartphone charging plate integrated into the storage tray in front of the centre console.

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Upgrading to the Premium specification brings bigger 19-inch alloys and a 360-degree camera control, while the Night Edition Premium Plus versions add an inch to the wheel size, along with black gloss trim and a panoramic sunroof. Allied to the advanced tech inside, the E-Class’ interior puts the A6 and 5 Series in the shade, and beats the Jaguar XF, too.

Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

Mercedes' MBUX infotainment is up there with the best systems in the class, featuring sharp graphics, quick responses to any inputs and the latest tech. The logical menu layout means it's easy to navigate your way through the different menus.