For over two decades, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has cemented its status as a leading midsize luxury sedan. Often viewed as the sweet spot within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, it adeptly balances the accessibility of the C-Class with the prestige of the S-Class. The generation introduced in 2003 continued this legacy of success, impressing with its sophisticated presence, exceptional refinement, and well-rounded capabilities. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E350, part of this esteemed lineage, largely maintained the successful formula of its predecessors.
Offered in both sedan and wagon configurations, the 2009 E-Class presented a variety of engine choices to suit different preferences. While models like the Mercedes E350 and E550 had historically been popular, growing interest in fuel efficiency began to shift attention towards alternatives like the E320 Bluetec. Notably, the E320 Bluetec stood out as the sole midsize luxury sedan in the U.S. market powered by a diesel engine. Overcoming previous diesel stigmas, this V6 engine incorporated a urea additive system, resulting in significantly cleaner operation compared to older diesel engines. At the performance-oriented end of the spectrum, the E63 AMG, boasting a potent 507-horsepower V8, delivered exhilarating speed, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.3 seconds, outperforming many sports cars of its era. However, for many discerning buyers, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E350 represented an ideal balance of luxury and performance in the range.
Despite often holding a higher price point than its competitors, the E-Class consistently earned top rankings within its segment. The Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M35/M45, Jaguar XF, and Lexus GS all presented compelling alternatives, offering comparable power, handling, and features, often at a more accessible price. The high-performance E63 AMG also faced stiff competition, notably from the BMW M5 and the then-new Cadillac CTS-V, a 556-hp contender anticipated to be significantly more affordable.
Ultimately, selecting any vehicle within this competitive class would be a sound choice. While perhaps not the most overtly sporty luxury sedan available, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the E350, delivered a compelling blend of opulent comfort, distinguished brand prestige, and capable performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a refined and well-rounded luxury experience.
