When considering the safety of a vehicle, especially a luxury sedan like the Mercedes E Class 2009, understanding its performance in crash tests is crucial. This article delves into the side impact safety ratings for the Mercedes E Class 2009 model, providing a comprehensive overview based on rigorous testing. It’s important to note that these ratings apply to Mercedes E Class models manufactured between 2007 and 2009, as this generation received specific evaluations.
The Mercedes E Class underwent significant re-engineering for the 2007 model year, with a strong focus on enhancing occupant protection during side impact collisions. In initial side impact crash tests conducted on a 2007 Mercedes E Class, the vehicle achieved an “Acceptable” rating. This initial rating was primarily influenced by the high forces recorded on the driver dummy’s torso during the test.
Recognizing the need for further improvement, Mercedes-Benz implemented design changes to the front door trim panels in models manufactured after May 2007. These modifications were specifically aimed at bolstering occupant safety in side impact scenarios. Subsequent testing was performed on a Mercedes E Class incorporating these improvements. While the results showed a reduction in the forces exerted on the driver dummy’s torso, it wasn’t substantial enough to elevate the torso injury rating or the overall safety assessment. Consequently, the safety ratings for both the initial and improved design configurations are based on the combined results of these tests.
Despite the “Acceptable” overall side impact rating, the Mercedes E Class 2009 demonstrated “Good” protection for critical areas. For driver protection, the head and neck injury measures were rated “Good,” while pelvis/leg protection was rated “Acceptable.” However, the torso protection for the driver was rated “Marginal.” It’s important to consider that driver head protection was still rated as “Good,” indicating effective deployment of safety systems in safeguarding the head in side impacts.
For rear passengers in the Mercedes E Class 2009, the safety performance was generally stronger in side impact crashes. Injury measures for the head/neck, torso, and pelvis/leg were all rated “Good.” Rear passenger head protection was also rated “Good,” highlighting a consistent level of safety for occupants in the rear seats during side collisions.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | A |
| Structure and safety cage | A |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | M |
| Pelvis/leg | A |
| Driver head protection | G |
| Rear passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Rear passenger head protection | G |
In conclusion, the Mercedes E Class 2009, specifically models from 2007-2009, offers a mixed bag in terms of side impact safety. While achieving “Good” ratings in key areas like head and neck protection for both front and rear occupants, and “Good” ratings across the board for rear passengers, the “Marginal” torso protection for the driver brings the overall side impact rating to “Acceptable.” Prospective buyers should weigh these factors when considering the safety aspects of a Mercedes E Class 2009.
