The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a top ranked luxury car, fitted with an improved powertrain and a luxurious interior, making it a favorite among Mercedes aficionados.
The E-Class is available in 4 body styles and along with an array of powertrains. Both AWD and rear-wheel-drive versions are available, along with the E63 AMG version. The E-Class accommodates 4 to 7 people depending on the type of body style.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $51,000.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 l) | MPG: 20 city / 30 hwy |
| Length: 191.7 in. (486.9 cm) | Wheel Base: 113.2 in. (287.5 cm) |
| Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm) | Width: 73 in. (185.4 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3825 lbs (1735 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 3.5L DOHC V6 | Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 302 HP | Max RPM: 6500 RPM |
| Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm | Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:E350 BlueTEC Diesel | MSRP: $51,690; MPG: 21 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:E550 4Matic 4.6L Bi-Turbo V8 | MSRP: $60,400; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:E63 AMG 5.5L Bi-Turbo V8 | MSRP: $89,800; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy |
| Option:E350 4Matic Wagon 3.5L V6 | MSRP: $57,700; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy |
| Option:E63 AMG Wagon 5.5L Bi-Turbo V8 | MSRP: $92,400; MPG: 15 city / 23 hwy |
Engine & Performance
The E350 coupe, wagon, sedan, cabriolet models use a 3.5 V6 engine that generates 302 horsepower and 273 lbs-ft of torque. The E550 Cabriolet, 4Matic sedan, and coupe models uses a twin-turbo 4.7 V8 engine that makes 402 horsepower and 443 lbs-ft of torque.
The sedan gets a standard 4Matic AWD, while the coupe and Cabriolet comes in standard rear-wheel drive. This engine nets a fuel estimate of 16/24 mpg city/highway. The E63 AMG wagon and sedan on the other hand, get a twin-turbo 5.5L V8 engine with start/stop fuel-saving function. This engine outputs 518 horsepower and 516 lbs-ft of torque.
When the AMG performance package is included, the output goes up to 550 horsepower and 590 lbs-ft of torque. Regardless of which E-Class model you opt for, the sedans are equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission, powering the rear wheels in the E350 Bluetec and E350; while the E550 comes with standard Mercedes 4Matic all wheel drive.
Exterior
From the outside, you are welcomed by outboard portions resembling those of the C-Class, while the headlights with slot-like inboard bezels are worth noting. Eyebrow-like fog-lights placed at the 3-piece lower air dam adds elegance to this vehicle.
At the rear, you will find taillights and oval shaped exhaust pipes which are trapezoidal in the E550. Other notable features are the: 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daylight running lights and rear air suspension on the wagon. Optional features include: xenon active headlights and 18-inch wheels.
Interior
The interior was not neglected when it comes to the use of high-tech features. The simple and elegant cabin tends to focus more on traditional luxury that brings out the classic Mercedes feel, along with quality materials throughout and sharp angles.
The E-Class comes with comfortable seats, which are adjustable that offer enough space for taller occupants. Coupes and Cabriolets come with paddle shifters, and a center console housing the media interface. Another notable feature is the Mercedes’ COMAND system that houses major controls at hip height.
Mercedes’ mbrace technology is also included in the 2012 E-Class allowing the driver to connect this vehicle with a Smartphone. Wagon has a seating capacity of 7, with standard rear-facing third-row and power tailgate. Optional features include: panoramic moonroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, and leather upholstery. The E-Class also comes with an easy-to-access trunk that can hold up to 15.6 cubic ft of cargo.
Safety & Performance
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is fitted with adequate safety features including 9 standard airbags. Safety of the occupants is enhanced through: antilock brakes, electronic stability system, traction control, daytime running lights, night vision, emergency trunk release, 4-wheel ABS and integrated turn signal mirrors.
Presafe system from Mercedes is also offered as a standard feature. This system cinches seat belts, tries to close the moonroof and windows if it detects an imminent accident and also repositions the seats. This car is covered by a 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty as well as 24/7 road assistance during the warranty period.
Pros
- Elegant exterior styling
- Opulent cabin with classic style
- Strong safety features
- Superb ride and handling balance
- Spacious sedan interior
- Potent engines
- Ample trunk space
Cons
- High price & costly options
- Performance trails key rivals
- Maintenance can be expensive
Generally, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class continues being a top choice against a number of rivals including: Porsche Panamera (MSRP $75,200; 18 city / 27 hwy), Audi A5 (MSRP $41,700; 25 city / 33 hwy), and BMW 3-Series (MSRP $34,900; 23 city / 34 hwy) just to mention a few. Most of the engines fitted in the E-Class models are very powerful; thereby, making this car a top choice for people shopping for luxury large cars.
Surprisingly, an American brand broke into the ranks of this luxury sedan segment, that would be the Chrysler 300 SRT (MSRP $47,670; 14 city / 23 hwy). Other contenders worth looking at include the Lexus GS350 (MSRP $46,900; 19 city / 28 hwy) and the Jaguar XF (MSRP $53,000; 16 city / 23 hwy).
Overall Rating
What others say:
“In style, fit, finish, and cabin ambiance in general, the current-generation Mercedes-Benz E Class models are a return to form.”Car Connection
“E-Class is pleasant and capable, but all fall well short of being outright sporty. We notice some body lean in fast turns. Steering feel seems sloppy to some testers, even on versions equipped with the Sport Package. Braking is highly responsive, easy to modulate, and impeccably secure. The exception is the E63, which has firm, direct steering, outstanding body control, and strong brakes.”Consumer Guide
“The E-Class is a well-finished, substantial-feeling luxury car. Handling is agile and secure. Luxury versions have a smooth ride, but the Sport is stiffer.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class continues its reputation as the “everything to everybody” mid-size luxury vehicle.”KBB
“Enjoyable to drive, meticulously built and available in a host of different body styles, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a luxury-car triumph that deserves serious consideration.”Edmunds
