Mercedes-Benz updates the E-Class midsize sedan for 2007 with an all-new E63 AMG performance variant to replace the E55 AMG. Other changes include two new optional engines, minimalist styling touches and a ‘Pre-Safe’system (an advanced collision-mitigation system). A new 5.5L V8 E550 replaces the E500; the E350 continues unchanged for 2007. The earlier diesel E320 CDI is renamed the E320 Bluetec, in keeping with the cutting edge, BLUETEC emission-control technology.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a midsize luxury sedan. Completely redesigned for 1996, the car underwent a complete change of image and went on to become the highest selling imported luxury car in the U.S. A new generation E-Class took a bow in 2003, with electronic braking and a new set of powertrains.
The E-Class lineup is sold in rear and all-wheel drive versions. Four models are offered, the E350, the E320 BLUETEC, the E350, the E550 and the E63 AMG. The E350 and the E63 AMG are also available in wagon body styles.
It has a basic warranty of 48 months/ 50,000miles. Others in the class comprise the Lexus GS, the Lincoln LS, the BMW 5-Series, the Audi A6 and the Cadillac STS among others.
High performance options
The E350 is equipped with a 3.5 liter V6 that puts out 268 horses and 258 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque. It features 7-speed Touch Shift automatic transmission. The E350 4MATIC all-wheel-drive wagon is powered by the same 3.5L V6 engine. Standard transmission is a 5-speed automatic. EPA estimated mileage is 18/24 mpg city/highway).
The E320 BLUETEC has a 3.0L V6 diesel engine that outputs 208 hp and torque of 388 lb-ft. It achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 26/37 mpg (city/highway).
The E550 sports a 5.5L 32-valve V8 engine that makes 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed automatic (5-speed automatic transmission with 4MATIC) is standard. EPA estimated fuel economy is 15/23 mpg (city/highway).
The E63AMG sedan and wagon are equipped with an AMG 6.3L V8 engine that produces 507 hp and torque of 465 lb-ft. A 7-speed automatic with AMG SPEEDSHIFT is standard. It achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 14/20 mpg (city/highway).
Elegant, graceful and sporty
The 2007 E-Class gets revised front and rear styling that adds a more aggressive, aerodynamic stance. Bold headlamps, a more aggressive front bumper, air dam and headlights.The E-Class sedans’ profile moves fluidly from a low, swept-back front fascia with angled oval headlights towards the chiseled trunk. The signature grille has subtle changes with blacked-out bars and a Mercedes badge on the upper span; a wide chrome strip shines above the license plate. The E63 AMG features sport suspension, exhaust notes and performance seats.
Halogen foglamps nestle in the front apron. A single red rear foglamp integrates into the left taillamp cluster. Standard exterior features include a compact spare tire, all-season tires, alloy wheels, power mirrors, a heated washer system, an electrochromic interior mirror, power window lockout, power windows, a rear window defroster, tinted glass, rain sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers, color-keyed front and rear bumpers, a front air dam and gray grille.
Understated luxury
The E-Class cabin epitomizes understated luxury. The E350 sedan has a leather-trimmed steering wheel, leather seating inserts, Burl Walnut wood interior trim, a dual-zone climate control, and a 9-speaker audio system with automatic speed-sensitive volume. The dash looks smart in its beige tone, smooth rounded surfaces and compact center console. Seats are comfortable and supportive; the back seat is roomy with a center pull-down armrest and cup holders. Rear windows go all the way down. The sedan's trunk is spacious and opens low and wide.
Interior changes for 2007 include a modified shift lever, new climate-control layout and a new steering wheel. Some options that have now become standard include a Harman Kardon stereo, a moonroof, a 6-CD changer and a power liftgate on the wagons.
All-out refined performance
The E-Class range offers a choice of four robust engines that deliver excellent mileage and dynamic performance.
The refined E320 BLUETEC diesel 208-hp V6 has plenty of torque, making zero to 60mph in 6.6 seconds. The 3.5-liter V6 with variable valve timing delivers adequate torque and a smooth ride quality.
The E550s’ potent V8 goes from zero to a 6000-rpm redline, which says plenty about the car’s performance.
The 7-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly and helps generate better fuel efficiency in comparison to the 5-speed AT.
Great crash test scores – comprehensive safety measures
The E-Class scored four stars for frontal impacts and five stars (the absolute best) for side impacts in NHTSA crash tests. It was designated ‘Best Pick’ in the segment for frontal offset crash tests conducted by the IIHS.
Available only on the S-Class previously, the Pre-Safe collision mitigation system joins the comprehensive array of standard safety features that include dual-stage airbags in the front, side-impact bags, side curtain-type airbags, antilock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability and cruise control.
Other integrated safety features include a first aid kit, front and rear pretensioners, side guard door beams, a trunk anti-trap device, a locking fuel filler door, tele aid vehicle theft tracking, radio anti-theft, power decklid locks, anti-theft alarm, an engine immobilizer and anti-lift sensor and keyless entry operated via a key fob.
