It can be a steep climb to the top of the midsize luxury sedan class. But the Mercedes-Benz E-Class doesn’t mind the challenge, in part because it’s a sedan that enjoys the view from the top. The competition is getting fiercer in 2021, narrowing the gap and closing ground, especially in the various auto review, best-of lists.

According to Motor Trend, and across more than one of its prestigious lists, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class deserves to keep its crown and enjoy a first-place honor for another year. Any consumers looking to buy a luxury midsize car this year will likely agree that the E-Class personifies perfection in nearly every category.

How the Mercedes E-Class ranked on the list

Motor Trend ranked the best sedans to buy for 2021. And on this prestigious list are some of the best cars from each segment. From subcompact sedan to full-size luxury sedan, one model earns top rank. In the midsize luxury sedan class, Motor Trend says the Mercedes-Benz E-Class deserves the crown. 

With what the critics call its beautiful interior along with its luxurious ride, the E-Class gets to keep the title for a consecutive year. It might not be perfect, but it’s close to it. And there is a robust list of engine options. From the 2.0-liter turbo I-4 to the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, you’re sure to find just the right level of performance with an E-Class. 

Some of the contenders that didn’t stand a chance

Ok, maybe that’s a little harsh. The competition in the midsize luxury sedan space is significantly competent according to U.S. News. With stunning performances from the likes of the Audi A6 and the BMW 5 Series, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class had plenty of rivals. And the Lexus ES and Genesis G80 also proved to be fierce competitors in luxury, style, and driving dynamics.

The 2021 Car of the Year honors

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class didn’t just show up the competition in the competition for best sedans. Motor Trend also named the E-Class the 2021 Car of the Year.

The critics evaluated quite a few cars and landed on the E-Class, calling it a “stunning accomplishment.” Personifying perfection, or as close to it as possible, the E-Class offers up the wagon, the coupe, and the sedan.

Why Motor Trend thinks the 2021 Mercedes E-Class deserves to keep its crown

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been a hot commodity since its 2017 model year, according to Motor Trend. It was an excellent option then and continues to be in 2021.

The three-point star automaker did refresh the E-Class this year, making an already appealing ride even more attractive. The base engine is top-notch and compliments the tweaks to the suspension. Add in all the luxury and technology inside, and you can see why Motor Trend considers the E-Class not only the best midsize sedan this year but also The Car of the Year.

It may not make much sense that a mid-cycle sedan upstaged the exotic personality of the Porsche Taycan or the flashy BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe. But it’s impressive when a company can start with an already good sedan and “move it to greatness,” said Jonny Lieberman, the senior features editor.

Mercedes-Benz could have offered a quality car with minimal effort. But when it comes to the E-Class, it’s evident the company put forth its best effort.

If the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class gets to keep its crown as the best sedan you can buy this year, along with landing the 2021 Car of the Year Award, it certainly deserves a look. You will have a robust selection of options from body style to engine size. But regardless of how you configure your E-Class, you’ll probably agree with the critics.