In Mercedes speak, the E-Class resembles middle-class territory, forgive the obvious pun. It splits the difference between the entry-level C-Class and the executive-level S-Class, bridging the two with a healthy mix of leather, interior amenities, and top-notch creature comforts. Now in its sixth generation, that bridge has slightly skewed, because this new E-Class is creeping ever closer to S-Class levels of luxury. Not only that, but it also continues to fulfill its diverse range of roles, from executive limousine to family hauler to taxi driver. 

But we’ve never found the E-Class particularly pretty, certainly not in the same light as the compact and sporty-looking C-Class, or the stretched-out regal stature of the S-Class. The previous fifth-generation W213 was the closest to E-Class perfection, but it was too round in appearance, too soft and inoffensive, and a little too generic. But onto this new model. What’s going on with those headlights and the front grill? They appear to have been slapped on last minute, a lazy design with the headlights now merged into the grill surround.

Admittedly, it does appear more grand and sophisticated when the dual-stacked headlights and grill illuminate in the dark, giving off a unique night-time signature, but we can’t be the only ones yearning for a nostalgic comeback of the quad round headlights from the third-gen W211. Still, the rear taillights on this new model are noteworthy, with the silver star shape embedded within the lights to accentuate their three-dimensional shape.

And what a beautiful cabin. The material quality is excellent at this price and every interaction point feels expensive and purposeful. The seats are plush, though the leather isn’t as plump as those in the S-Class or EQS, but they look great and the headrests are electronically adjustable vertically and manually adjustable horizontally. They also come with an optional massage, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling fresh. Don’t expect OSIM levels of massage, though – automotive seats have yet to reach that degree, with Lexus and Lincoln edging the closest.

The optional MBUX Superscreen occupies the majority of the dashboard, comprising three screens that are combined to accentuate and expand the width of the cabin, making it feel airy and atmospheric. The graphics are crisp in definition and the operating speed is quick. The glass surface is prone to fingerprints, but that’s an inherent issue across the board. At least the screen does not get washed out under heavy sunlight.

The center console below has been rearranged and streamlined, with a reduced reliance on physical buttons and an increased emphasis on digital inputs. There sits a slim horizontal bar of haptic touch buttons for quick functions like volume and driving modes. However, the heating and vent controls are now integrated into the touchscreen, forcing us to take our eyes off the road and summon the dexterity of our fingers to locate and accurately press the prompts. Readjusting the cabin temperatures and fan strength is an embarrassingly arduous task, too. Yes, you can use the voice control and ‘Hey Mercedes’ feature, but we can’t be the only ones who loathe talking to our computers.

The bad news continues in the functionality department. The haptic touch sensors on the steering wheel remain frustrating to use due to their sensitivity to movement. It’s not only inconsistent in recognizing inputs, but we frequently found ourselves pressing them accidentally when turning the steering wheel.

We find some of the E-Class’s innovative new tech to be gimmicky as well. Those with a keen eye will spot the little nub perched on the center of the dashboard – no, Mercedes has not stolen Porsche’s Sport Chrono clock, we’ll tell you that much. But it is a camera, and Mercedes markets it as a new avenue of virtual connectivity – and to spy on you, I mean, to record TikTok videos, take selfies, and conduct video conference calls on the go. 

Is the E-Class crowd really going to upload their latest karaoke spiel to TikTok? We do see some use and functionality from it, though, as it transforms the E-Class into a mobile office. However, the camera can only be used while the car is stationary, which defeats the purpose. We would assume that most mobile workers would prefer to use their laptops for connectivity purposes instead. We think replacing the camera with an analog clock would have been the aesthetic design choice, as E-Class models used to always have timepieces integrated into the cabin. Not anymore, it seems.

Forget the tech and functionality for a minute. Actually, forget it entirely because once you take the E-Class for a spin, you will understand why it still exists when the popular GLE SUV has already stolen much of its sales thunder. It’s a monumental step up from the C-Class in terms of road compliance, and is inching ever closer to the S-Class in these departments. It rides with a cloud-like feel, melts down bumps like butter, and exhibits regal-like handling that effectively blends comfort and maneuverability. As a testament to its ride composure, we initially thought our E 450 test vehicle had the optional adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering feature but upon checking the spec sheet, we discovered these options weren’t checked. We admire it even more now. 

The steering is light and the front wheels turn sharply with each input, making it easy to glide about without expending too much energy. It also goes about softly and quietly, whispering in its best impression of a luxury limo, exactly the type of vibe you want after a long day at work. It handles well too, taking advantage of its body roll to ease into turns.

There are two engines to choose from for non-AMG models. The E 350 utilizes a turbo-four engine, while the E 450 we tested was equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six supplemented by a mild hybrid system. The total output from the engine is 375 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of electric boost from the integrated starter generator. In operation, the inline-six is punchy and polished, and more than enough for both family hauling and spirited driving duties. The 9-speed gearbox exhibits a level of refinement that we haven’t seen in the C-Class and GLE SUV, and is spared of the jerkiness and low-speed roughness that plagues the new AMG models like the GLC 43 we recently drove. 

Despite its occasional functionality mishaps, the E-Class remains a strong choice in the executive sedan space. Rivals like the BMW 5 Series provide better driver engagement, the Audi A6 generates more curb appeal and style, and Genesis G80 offers better value, but the E-Class understands its role well, serving as a road ambassador of high-tech, luxurious, and comfortable transport. In that mission alone, it achieves the top score.

Specifications:

Model: 2024 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC Sedan
Paint Type: Nautical Blue
Base Price: $83,900
Price as Tested: $102,185
Wheelbase(mm): 2,961
Length/Width/Height (mm): 4,949 / 1,880 / 1,480
Powertrain: 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid drive
Horsepower: 375 hp +20 hp
Torque: 369 lb-ft +148 lb-ft
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Engine & Drive Configuration: Front engine, AWD
Observed Fuel Economy: 10.8 L/100 km
Tires: Front 245/35R21; Rear 275/30R21