While the old saying “you get what you pay for” isn’t always accurate, many shoppers still apply it to luxury cars. After all, the extra money spent on a car typically unlocks the best powertrain options and tech features. However, as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class proves, you can still be a segment leader with a relatively affordable price tag.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a great midsize luxury sedan

The E-Class has both a high overall ranking and might be the best car in its segment. Edmunds tested the E 450 4Matic version, which has a turbocharged 362-hp six-cylinder engine under the hood. It can reach 60 mph in less than five seconds while still achieving good gas mileage thanks to its mild-hybrid technology. 

Even with all-wheel-drive, the E 450 earns an estimated 25 mpg combined. That’s just as efficient as the rear-wheel-drive E 350, which is powered by a 255-hp turbo-four. The E 450 4Matic actually exceeded its EPA-estimated mileage on the Edmunds test track, plus showcased a balanced ride quality and effortless steering. Keep in mind that the E 450 comes with a sport-tuned air suspension, so the E 350’s ride might be slightly more rigid.

However, Edmunds was even more impressed with the E-Class sedan’s interior. The cabin isn’t disturbed by any exterior noise, and any mechanical sound stays subdued regardless of how much power you’re using. The standard synthetic leather seats are supportive and feature wide seat cushions.

The rear row is a tad short on legroom, and taller riders might have seat access problems. It also only has 13 cu-ft worth of trunk space. However, the entire interior is solidly constructed and surrounds riders with soft-touch surfaces.

The MBUX infotainment interface is another highlight thanks to its user-friendliness and multitude of standard features. Every E-Class also comes with Pre-Safe technology and several crash mitigation features. The Driver Assistance package adds an unobtrusive adaptive cruise control function, along with lane-keeping assist features and evasive steering assist.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class also has a wide array of options to suit every driver’s needs. Besides a sedan, you can purchase this car as a wagon, coupe, or convertible. Fancy interior options include Nappa leather seats, massaging seat functions, upgraded Burmester stereos, and more.

How much is a Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

The base E 350 sedan currently carries an MSRP of $56,750, and all-wheel drive is a $2,500 upgrade. Edmunds says that buyers typically purchase the E 350 4Matic, which costs an average of $60,400 with destination fees. The E 450 4Matic costs $66,700.

The AMG E 53 has an asking price of $82,450, and the AMG E 63 S costs $113,950. The main draw of these two models is the turbocharged six-cylinder and twin-turbo V8, respectively. However, most drivers should be satisfied with the speed of the two cheapest engines.

The most expensive car doesn’t always get you a better one

A 2023 Audi A7 might cost at least $69,200. Its base turbo-V6 is slightly less powerful than the E 450’s engine, though it reportedly posted better stopping distances without sacrificing acceleration. However, the Audi A7’s seats aren’t as comfortable, and taller riders might be annoyed by the sloping roofline. The A7 might have a lot of standard infotainment features, but the interface itself is too challenging for newcomers to operate. 

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is roughly the same size as the E-Class, yet it has a higher asking price of $76,500. The CLS-Class offers a few more standard tech features, but the E-Class is still superior in terms of passenger headroom and legroom. Both offer the same great performance and handling capabilities, so there’s no practical reason to choose the most expensive option between the two.