The
E-Class is completely new this year, and headlines Mercedes 2003 lineup. Boasting
swept-back styling in the vein of the elegant, yet pricier S-Class, the new E
is available now as a sedan and soon, a wagon.
Engine choices are familiar: either the E320's 3-valve 3.2-liter V-6 that produces
221-hp and 232 lb-ft of torque, and the E500's 5.0-liter V-8 that produces 302-hp
and 339 lb-ft of torque. Both models get a five-speed automatic transmission with
manual shift control. Unfortunately, likely is that the wagon won't get the V-8,
save some electoral recount within the bean-counters' offices. Bummer. What
all-new E-Class models share, however, are boatloads of technology. An air suspension
is available on the E320, standard on the E500. Side curtain air bags compliment
the side torso air bags, and every other safety innovation you can think of is
standard as well, including a new "brake-by-wire" system that takes
the mechanics out of braking (although there is a mechanical backup system, just
to be, um, safe). The
interior is nothing short of cool -- literally. A trick optional Panorama sunroof
integrates solar cells in the roof that power fans to keep the interior cool on
hot days. The sweeping dash design mimics that of other M-B models like the CLK
and S-Class, and the seats are outstanding. We
really wish that the COMAND system navigation/HVAC/stereo control screen was more
intuitive to use, but either it's getting better with every iteration or we're
getting better at using it. Perhaps both. Still it would take more than that to
tarnish the shining beauty of the E-Class, a great car that has more than earned
the prestigious 3-pointed star on its hood.
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