Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The Mercedes-Benz E-class is a large car but one that also has a stately air about it. It’s superbly appointed on the inside and the cabin wonderfully blends new-age tech with old-world warmth. Front-seat comfort is good but the real highlight in the Mercedes-Benz E-class is the rear-seat experience. There’s immense leg room at the back and the electrically reclining seats are just fantastic. The 197hp, 2.0-litre petrol E 200 is quiet and feels light on its feet but isn’t as exciting as rivals. The E 220d’s 194hp, 2.0-litre engine is refined and linear in its build of power while the E 350d’s 286hp 3.0-litre straight six is silky smooth and has deep reserves of power. All long-wheelbase E-classes change direction with grace but there’s no escaping the car’s size. The E 200 and E 220d ride well on their steel springs. Air suspension adds a degree of plushness and adjustability to the E 350d’s set-up but there is some float at all times. Do note, you need to be careful over large speed breakers to prevent its belly from scraping.