Driving a 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 wasn’t on my agenda, but as a car enthusiast, I’m always eager to experience a new vehicle. This opportunity arose unexpectedly at Denver International Airport when my reserved Cadillac XTS rental wasn’t available. Offered a choice between a “BMW” or a “Mercedes,” and having recently reviewed a BMW 328i, the Mercedes option was too tempting to pass up. This impromptu experience provided a great afternoon with the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, and here are my impressions.
First Glance: Elegance in Slate Gray
The 2015 E350 presented was a sophisticated slate gray model, standing out amongst the typical rental fleet of economy cars and SUVs. It was undeniably the most attractive car in the lot, and I was pleased to take it for a spin, even if just for the afternoon.
My first view of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, a premium rental car option at Denver International Airport.
The E350 has a substantial presence, appearing larger in person than it might seem in pictures. My initial thought was simply, “This is a sizable car,” yet it carries its dimensions with grace. The proportions are well-balanced, lending it an air of refined style and elegance.
The 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, though a large car, maintains an elegant and streamlined profile.
The slate gray paint further enhanced its upscale appeal. This color choice is a significant improvement over more flamboyant shades, like the Velocity Yellow I experienced on a recent Corvette test drive. Imagine this sophisticated gray on a Corvette – that would be close to automotive perfection in my book!
The slate gray color of this 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 exudes class and sophistication.
Stepping inside, the interior immediately conveyed a sense of luxury. It felt a notch above the BMW 3 Series in terms of opulence. The cabin of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is clearly designed for comfort and refinement.
The steering wheel and white-face gauges of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 contribute to its luxurious interior ambiance.
On the Road: The Driving Dynamics of the E350
The driving experience of the Mercedes E350 was largely positive. Despite its size, the car felt composed and controlled. The 3.5L V6 engine provided ample power, delivering brisk acceleration from a standstill. This engine is well-suited for the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, offering a good balance of performance and smoothness.
If there was one aspect of the driving dynamics that was less impressive, it was the braking system. From the first application, the brakes felt somewhat weak and lacked initial bite. The pedal had a soft, almost spongy feel, requiring significantly more pressure than expected to achieve strong deceleration, especially from highway speeds.
The 18-inch wheels on the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 are a stylish and functional component of its design.
However, beyond the braking, the E350 excels as a highway cruiser. Driving along I-70, heading west through Denver and into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, was a genuinely enjoyable experience. The car effortlessly devoured miles, tackling inclines with ease. The abundant torque from the V6 engine ensured there were no struggles on steep uphill sections. And the quietness of the cabin was remarkable.
Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for building vehicles with serene interiors is well-deserved, and the 2015 E350 is a prime example. While the Corvette Stingray was exhilarating for cross-country driving in a different way, the E350‘s tranquility would make it an ideal companion for long journeys where comfort and calmness are prioritized.
The E350‘s considerable size became more apparent on the winding roads of the Colorado mountains. It felt somewhat cumbersome on tight switchbacks and hairpin turns. Engaging “sport” mode and utilizing the paddle shifters offered a marginal increase in engagement, but ultimately, the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is not designed to be a sports car for canyon carving.
Navigating the winding mountain roads in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 presented an interesting mix of comfort and handling limitations.
Interior Comfort and Refinement
The interior of a Mercedes-Benz is generally a pleasant environment, and the 2015 E350 certainly upholds this standard. Expectations for comfort were met in every aspect of the cabin.
The exceptional quietness at highway speeds, combined with the premium materials used for the steering wheel and seats, contributed to a very high-quality overall feel. The interior of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury.
The dashboard and steering wheel of this 2015 E350 feature high-quality materials, though some may find the woodgrain excessive.
The climate control and entertainment center in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 are ergonomically designed and well-appointed.
The woodgrain center console of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 adds a touch of traditional luxury to the interior.
Notably, the gear selector is located on the steering column, a classic Mercedes design element.
The rear seats in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 provide comfortable seating for passengers.
Rear seat legroom in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is ample, offering comfort for average-sized adults.
Rear passenger space was adequate, with decent legroom – comfortable for someone of average height.
The dashboard clock in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is a classic and elegant detail.
The interior design presents an interesting blend of sporty and luxurious elements.
The interior of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 features a blend of sporty and luxurious design elements.
The overhead console buttons in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 are well-placed and functional.
The white-face analog gauges with a digital information display are clear and easy to read.
The white-face analog gauges with a digital information display in the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 are both stylish and functional.
At night, the gauges invert to white-on-black for enhanced visibility.
At night, the gauges of the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 reverse to white on black for better visibility.
The front of the key fob for the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, a symbol of luxury and engineering.
The back of the key fob for the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350, highlighting its detailed design.
However, a minor drawback was the seat design. While aesthetically pleasing and upholstered in high-quality materials, the seats were somewhat flat and wide, lacking sufficient lateral support for spirited driving. During more aggressive cornering, there was noticeable sliding, which detracted from the driving experience in demanding conditions.
The seats felt reminiscent of bench seats from older cars, lacking the bolstering needed for more dynamic driving. While this class of vehicle isn’t typically expected to have deeply sculpted sport seats, a bit more side support would be a welcome improvement. Cars like the Chrysler 300 S, a competitor to the E350, also suffer from similar seat shortcomings.
Final Verdict: A Comfortable Cruiser, Not a Sports Sedan
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 is an excellent car for relaxed, comfortable driving. It excels on highways, providing a smooth and solid ride, and the engine offers enough power for confident acceleration in everyday driving. While it attempts to incorporate sporty elements like paddle shifters and a “sport” mode, these are not enough to transform it into a truly engaging sports sedan.
Perhaps the appeal of the E350 grows with age, but for those seeking a more performance-oriented experience, features like more supportive front seats would be necessary before considering the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 as a personal vehicle. For those prioritizing luxury, comfort, and a refined driving experience, the 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 remains a strong contender in its class.
