The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with automotive excellence, and for many, the tagline “engineered like no other car in the world” resonated deeply. The 1986 W124 E-Class was lauded as possibly “the best car in the world,” setting a high bar for future generations. But as the automotive landscape evolved with the rise of competitors like Lexus and BMW, Mercedes-Benz needed to ensure its E-Class remained at the forefront of the luxury sedan segment. Enter the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the W212 generation, a complete redesign aimed at recapturing that legendary status. Does the 2010 E-Class successfully revive the magic of its predecessors, or does it fall short in today’s competitive market? Let’s delve into a detailed review.
The styling of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class marks a departure from the more understated designs of recent years. While the timeless elegance of the W124 was undeniable, Mercedes-Benz recognized the need for greater road presence. The mid-1990s W210 attempted to inject modernity with its four oval headlights, a move that, while initially successful, eventually led some to yearn for the W124’s classic appeal. The 2003 W211 saw a return to more traditional styling, but in a market increasingly populated by distinctive designs, it risked blending into the background. Therefore, the 2010 W212 Mercedes E 2010 embraces a bolder aesthetic. It features a more sculpted, chunkier shape, highlighted by quad rectangular headlights and pronounced rear fender bulges. While opinions on aesthetics are subjective, the W212 certainly commands attention and projects a more assertive image, arguably looking every bit the part of a premium vehicle in the $55,000 price range, despite some potentially perceiving the hood design as slightly misaligned.
Stepping inside the Mercedes E 2010, the interior design echoes the contemporary styling found in the C-Class. The shapes are more angular and blocky, moving away from flowing, organic forms. This design approach might initially seem basic, even austere, but the high quality of materials and meticulous detailing quickly dispel any notion of cheapness. The overall ambiance is distinctly German – functional, well-crafted, and focused on substance over flamboyance.
In a nod to BMW’s design direction, the 2010 E-Class incorporates an electronic transmission shifter mounted on the steering column. This frees up valuable space in the center console, which is then occupied by an iDrive-style rotary controller for managing various vehicle functions. While functionally efficient, the column-mounted shifter might detract slightly from the sporty feel traditionally associated with a console-mounted shifter, a matter of personal preference for drivers.
Continuing a long-standing Mercedes-Benz tradition, the 2010 E-Class offers a relatively high driving position. This provides excellent forward visibility, a notable advantage compared to some competitors like Audi or BMW. The front seats maintain another classic Mercedes characteristic: they are notably firm. While offering good support, including lateral support during cornering, these seats may lack the plush, pillowy softness that some buyers expect in a luxury sedan. They prioritize long-distance comfort and posture over initial softness.
The rear seats in the W212 Mercedes E 2010 represent an improvement over the preceding W211 model. However, they still trail behind rivals such as the BMW 5-Series and Infiniti M in terms of overall spaciousness and plush comfort. Mercedes-Benz seems to position the S-Class as the definitive choice for those prioritizing a truly adult-friendly rear passenger experience. However, the E-Class does offer a practical advantage not always found in its Asian competitors: optional folding rear seats. This feature significantly expands trunk space, enhancing the car’s versatility and practicality for everyday use.
For the majority of buyers in the United States, the standard engine choice will be the 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. And for good reason – it provides more than sufficient power for most driving scenarios. While comparable power can be found in mainstream sedans like the Honda Accord, and some competitors offer V6 engines exceeding 300 horsepower, the E350’s output is genuinely ample for 99% of typical driving needs. Coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the engine always operates within its optimal power band. This transmission, a refined iteration of previous versions, delivers smooth and appropriately frequent gear changes, enhancing the driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz’s pricing structure can sometimes appear complex, with options and packages varying considerably. However, in the case of the 2010 E350, the Sport Package – typically an extra-cost option that includes AMG body styling, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded wheels – is offered at no additional charge. This “free” Sport Package is an enticing proposition for buyers seeking a more dynamic driving experience without inflating the price.
Equipped with the sport suspension, the chassis of the Mercedes E 2010 demonstrates commendable handling characteristics. It exhibits good balance, maintains composure over uneven road surfaces, and minimizes body roll during cornering. The car feels solid and precise from the driver’s seat. However, the steering system is a point of contention. Described as “dead,” it suffers from inconsistent weighting, ranging from excessively light to artificially heavy. Crucially, road feel is almost entirely absent. While the suspension itself is undoubtedly well-engineered, the lack of steering feedback prevents the driver from fully connecting with the car and diminishing the overall driving enjoyment for enthusiasts.
The ride quality of the E-Class strikes a balance, falling between the firmer setup of a BMW 5-Series and the more plush ride of a Lexus GS. It avoids feeling overly soft or “cushy,” yet it also manages to absorb bumps and imperfections without harshness. It lacks the occasional unsettling jiggles sometimes found in cars like the Hyundai Genesis. The solid, planted feel traditionally associated with Mercedes-Benz is definitely present in the 2010 E-Class. Furthermore, in line with modern luxury sedans (excluding the Audi A6, noted for slightly higher noise levels), cabin noise is well-suppressed, contributing to a refined and comfortable driving environment.
In conclusion, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class presents itself as a substantial, well-built, and premium vehicle. However, whether it fully recaptures Mercedes-Benz’s former “engineered like no other” aura is debatable. While the bolder styling aims for contemporary appeal, some aspects might risk appearing dated sooner rather than later, a common trend in post-Bangle era automotive design. More significantly, the combination of firm seats and the disconnected steering feel positions the W212 E-Class in an ambiguous space – not quite a plush luxury sedan and not a genuinely engaging sport sedan. This raises the question: who is the target audience for this car? Do luxury sedan buyers truly desire such a detached driving experience? Given Mercedes-Benz’s long and storied history in automotive engineering, the underwhelming steering system is a puzzling aspect of an otherwise competent vehicle. The Mercedes E 2010 is a solid contender, but it may leave some drivers wanting more in terms of driving feel and ultimate comfort.
Review based on initial impressions and assessments. For detailed reliability and real-world fuel economy data, consult resources like TrueDelta.com.
