2012 Mercedes E-Class E 350

The E-class range is so diverse that Mercedes-Benz could spin the vehicle line into its own car company. This mid-size car is available as a coupe, a convertible, a wagon, or a sedan with a choice of a V-6, a diesel V-6, two V-8s, and rear- or all-wheel drive. When it was introduced in 2010, the E-class's styling signaled a new direction for Mercedes, but the traditional virtues are still there: this is an unusually well-built vehicle with excellent safety and technology features. Even as its chief competitor, the BMW 5-series, has traded some of its dynamic prowess for isolating refinement, the E-class has gained respect from enthusiast drivers. The ninth-generation E is the sportiest yet, with quick responses and precise steering. The base engine is a hearty, direct-injected V-6 that moves the E-class quickly without feeling taxed. Mercedes has an exclusive hold on diesel powertrains in this segment. Its V-6 is big on torque and frugal with fuel. The V-8-powered E550 can only be had as an all-wheel-drive sedan; the two-door coupes send power only to the rear wheels. The convertible and the coupe are based on the smaller C-class but feature most of the E's technology. To minimize turbulent airflow and allow for top-down driving in cooler temperatures, the convertible comes with a deflector that rises from the windshield header and neck-warming air vents in the seats. The wagon is only available in two trims: an all-wheel-drive, six-cylinder E350 4Matic or a tire-shredding E63 AMG.