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2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan
2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan
Enhanced Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan offers a broad lineup of choices, from a fuel-efficient diesel to one of the fastest four-doors on the road.
The E-Class boasts the most body, engine, and drivetrain variations of any Mercedes. It includes both V6- and V8-equipped sedans and station wagons, and a fuel-efficient, diesel-powered sedan. All of them have standard rear-wheel drive, and select models can be outfitted with optional all-wheel drive. The E-Class is Mercedes-Benz’s second-best-selling vehicle in the U.S. after the compact C-Class, and it is both elegant and eminently capable in all versions.
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The base-model Mercedes-Benz E350 Sedan comes powered by a strong and reasonably fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine that should provide ample acceleration for most motorists. It’s mated to a sophisticated, seven-speed automatic transmission that can skip as many as three gears when downshifting for added power when needed. It also includes Touch Shift manual gear selection, though most Mercedes-Benz E-Class owners will likely leave the gearbox in drive and be done with it.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec Sedan is a true fuel-economy leader. It has a clean-burning diesel-powered V6 that sips the latest low-sulfur fuel, mandatory in the U.S. market since 2006. Mercedes calls the clean-diesel technology “Bluetec.” While its peak horsepower rating is nearly one-third less than the gasoline-powered V6, the diesel engine generates considerably more torque, which is the strong low-end power you feel immediately when you press the accelerator. Its 0-60 mph time is virtually equivalent to the gasoline-fueled V6 in the Mercedes-Benz E320 Sedan.
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For those who are more power-hungry, the Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan offers a 5.5-liter V8 that can reach 60 mph about a second quicker than the six-cylinder versions, with added smoothness. Unfortunately, low fuel economy makes this version subject to the federal gas-guzzler tax.
The Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is available on the E350 and E550 Sedans. The system delivers added handling prowess and security on wet pavement, though it only comes with the previous generation’s five-speed automatic gearbox.
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan Vehicle Summary
At the top of the line is the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG sedan, which remains one of the fastest cars on the road, with more than 500 horses under the hood. This model likewise qualifies for the federal gas-guzzler tax. The immense power and taut suspension make for an intoxicating driving experience that rivals some sports cars. But most motorists will likely be content with the lesser-powered (and much less expensive) E-Class models.
The ride and handling qualities of the E-Class Sedan tend to be a bit on the soft side, compared to some tightly sprung sport sedans, though an available Sport Package adds larger wheels and a lowered sport suspension for crisper cornering. The E550 Sedan and E63 AMG Sedan include an Airmatic air suspension that allows motorists to choose four different ride modes that deliver a ride quality ranging from soft to stiff.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan is equipped with an array of sophisticated chassis control systems, safety features, and comfort and convenience items. First introduced in the top-of-the-line S-Class sedan, Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-Safe system is standard across the E-Class Sedan line. If sensors detect that a collision is imminent, it will automatically pre-tension the seat belts. The system also moves the front seats to put occupants in the safest position relative to the airbags in case they deploy.
Pre-Safe also closes the sunroof and the side windows, which is especially important in case the car rolls.
The seat belt-tugging, and window- and sunroof-closing take place whether or not the car actually hits anything. Seat belt pre-tensioners in most cars don’t go off until the car has actually hit something and the car has started to suffer damage, which also makes the airbags deploy. Separately, active front-seat head restraints help reduce whiplash injuries in collisions, and no less than eight airbags are included.
You want an elegant midsize luxury sedan that strikes a nice balance of comfort, style, and performance.
Price is a concern; having to take this expensive German sedan to the repair shop isn't your idea of a luxurious experience.
The E-Class comfortably seats four adults, with a fifth able to squeeze into the backseat when necessary.
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