Okay, okay, so we all know that I have a special love affair going with Mercedes, but you also know I’ll shoot straight with you when I spend a week with one of their cars. Here’s the lowdown on the new E350…
You might have known it in earlier forms as the E320, but there’s more than a name change going on here. The five-speed automatic is now history; say hello to seven-speeds. You’re looking at an engine that Mercedes unveiled in the SLK350 last year, as well as their 350 SUV. It runs like a champ, and has power to spare with its 268 horses.
Inside, I almost hesitate to use the word ‘elegant’ because it seems so…old school. But what else can you say when you combine comfort, style, quiet, and luxury. Yes, I’ll say it: it’s elegant. The seats are so comfortable you could take an 800 mile trip and bounce out of the car with a spring in your step. Even the back seats are comfy, so hey, let someone else drive and you can curl up in the back.
I tried to keep this ride for an extra day or two, so that should tell you something. If you’re in the market for a mid-size luxury sedan, scoot over to your local Benz dealer for a test drive. Call me, I’ll probably want to go with you.