Mercedes E220 CDI SE
For more than two decades, Mercedes’ E-Class has been trying
to beat the BMW 5 Series to the top of the executive car tree. It’s always been
a desirable choice, with its mix of quality, comfort and refinement, but it’s
lacked its rival’s engaging driving experience and sporty styling cues. Until
now, that is.
After five years on sale, the E-Class has been treated to
comprehensive update, with a sleek new look, upgraded interior and tweaked
engines. As before, there’s a choice of SE and AMG Sport trims, plus the option
of a practical estate bodystyle. At the top of the range is the wild,
twin-turbocharged V8 AMG model.
Styling 3.6/5
After five years
on sale, the E-Class has been treated to comprehensive update, with a sleek new
look, upgraded interior and tweaked engines
With tis upright lines and clunky details, the outgoing
E-Class always appeared a little awkward. However, designers have given the new
car a softer look, featuring more flowing curves, less fussy flanks and a nose
treatment that mirrors the recently launched S-Class.
Yet while the styling is more modern than before, it’s still
a bit staid and sensible next to the rakish XF and muscular 5 Series. LED front
and rear lights help the Mercedes stand out at night, but our SE test car’s
17-inch alloys are dwarfed by the car’s bulky proportions. Buyers wanting to
make more of an impact can opt for the AMG Sport model, which adds deeper front
bumpers and distinctive 18-inch rims.
Mercedes has taken an equally conservative approach with the
interior, which is carried over largely unchanged from the old car. That means
you get a blocky, upright dashboard and a logical layout. Quality is first rate
and the cabin is packed with upmarket materials.
Mercedes has taken
an equally conservative approach with the interior, which is carried over
largely unchanged from the old car
Plus, although the dials and some of the switchgear look
dated, everything works precisely, including Mercedes’ trademark single stalk
for the indicators, windscreen wipers and headlamp full beam.
There’s also plenty of equipment as standard, including
leather seat trim, climate control and the brand’s intuitive COMAND
infotainment system.
Driving 4.0/5
As there wasn’t a lot wrong with the E-Class driving
dynamics, engineers have instead concentrated on boosting efficiency as part of
this facelift. As a result, the entry-level six-speed manual E220 CDI diesel
emits 125g/km of CO2 – that’s 9g/km less than before – while our
seven-speed auto puts out just 128g/km.
Strong and progressive
brakes, a great driving position and good visibility all add to the E-Class’
appeal behind the wheel
Happily, these eco-friendly tweaks don’t come at the expense
of performance, with the Mercedes covering 0-60mph a tenth faster than either
rival, in 8.7 seconds. And with the muscular 400Nm of torque available from
just 1,400rpm, the E220 provides brisk real-world acceleration. However, this
assured display at the track is undermined by the engine’s gruff soundtrack –
it clatters noisily at idle and is coarse when extended. The 168bhp 2.1-liter
settles down to a background hum once you’re up to speed, but you never forget
there’s a diesel under the bonnet.
This is a shame, as the E-Class is otherwise exceptionally
refined. There’s almost no wind noise and tire roar is well suppressed. Better
still, the standard adaptive dampers serve up a supple ride, helping the car
soak up bumps that send a shudder through the Jag’s cabin.
As you’d expect, this relaxed character extends to the
E220’s handling. And while it’s not as sharp or engaging as the BMW, it still
feels poised and inspires confidence. The steering is direct and naturally
weighted, body control is good and there’s decent grip.
Strong and progressive brakes, a great driving position and
good visibility all add to the E-Class’ appeal behind the wheel. We’d just
steer clear of the standard six-speed manual box, as it suffers from a springy
and imprecise shift action – our test car’s slick seven-speed automatic is well
worth the $1,518 extra.
