We grabbed early impressions of the low volume 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet a while back. More recently we’ve been logging seat time in the mainstream sedan and practical wagon E-Class variants, and we’re happy to report, there’s still plenty to be excited about.

The new, softer look works well on the four and five door E-Class models. There are added hints of aggression in the front fascia, yet it remains understated. The Sport trim adds visual bite with unique wheels and a large three-pointed star in the grille work.

While we’d love to dwell on the top E63 AMG, with its sport tuned 4MATIC all-wheel drive and Biturbo V8, and the fact you can have it as a wagon, the biggest news for most fanciers is the introduction of a 2.1 liter turbo diesel inline 4 to the E-Class lineup.

BRIAN ROBERTS: Our initial seat time in the diesel came in Portland, Oregon where we averaged just over 40 mpg in real world driving…its rated at 195 horse power, but this engine is all about the torque and at 369 pound feet of it, it’s certainly not afraid to get up and go.

JOHN DAVIS: Weight is shaved with more aluminum and even some composites in the body panels. Safety features include active lane keeping assist, pedestrian detection, pre-collision automatic braking, and an adaptive cruise control system.

On sale now, the very appealing 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class begins around $52,000.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.1 liter
  • Horsepower: 195
  • Price: Starts around $52,000