The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic presents itself as a vehicle with a bit of an identity crisis, much like ordering every flavor of Slurpee in one cup. At first glance, its design is undeniably Mercedes-Benz E-Class – a shape that leans towards classic, three-box sedan sensibilities in a world increasingly dominated by coupe-like curves from its German rivals, Audi and BMW. For those nostalgic for the traditional sedan silhouette, the E550 doesn’t disappoint, even sporting the iconic hood ornament. However, delve deeper, and you’ll find a car that seems to blend different personalities, leaving you questioning its true purpose.
While the top half of the E550 exudes understated elegance, the lower portion hints at a sportier nature. In 2013, all E550 models adopted a sportier aesthetic, featuring an assertive mesh grille in the lower front fascia and eye-catching 18-inch “AMG twin 5-spoke” polished alloy wheels. For a subtle touch of aggression, a decklid spoiler could be added for a mere $300. This duality in design sets the stage for the driving experience – a mix of luxury and sport that doesn’t always feel entirely cohesive.
Stepping inside the 2013 E550, the rectilinear design theme continues. The interior is characterized by high-quality materials and meticulous detailing, conveying a sense of expense, though perhaps not outright luxury in the most opulent sense. For Mercedes-Benz purists, the 2013 model retains classic elements like a prominent analog clock in the instrument cluster and the traditional cruise control stalk – features that were streamlined in the subsequent 2014 E-Class update. The seats, typical of the E-Class sedan, offer firm support, a characteristic often associated with German luxury cars prioritizing long-distance comfort. For enhanced comfort, the “Active Multicontour Driver Seat w/Massage” was an optional extra, providing a relaxing lower back massage. However, the active side bolsters, designed to keep you secure during spirited driving, could be overly enthusiastic even in low-speed maneuvers like parking, highlighting a minor refinement opportunity in its intelligent features.
Under the hood, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 boasts a significant powertrain upgrade from the previous year. The naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 was replaced with a more efficient, turbocharged 4.7-liter V8. This new engine delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and a substantial 443 pound-feet of torque, an increase over the previous 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet. While peak torque was theoretically available from a low 1,800 rpm, the engine’s responsiveness felt somewhat muted initially, with noticeable thrust kicking in around 3,000 rpm. Combined with a somewhat relaxed throttle response and taller gearing, the E550’s initial acceleration might feel less urgent than expected for a car with such potent figures. Despite this, the E550 is capable of reaching 60 mph in under five seconds, making it undeniably quick, but its character is more aligned with effortless autobahn cruising than stoplight sprints.
The shift to a smaller, turbocharged engine was aimed at improving fuel economy, and indeed, the EPA ratings saw a bump. City fuel economy improved from 15 to 16 mpg, and highway economy from 23 to 26 mpg. Real-world suburban driving yielded around 20 mpg, a respectable figure for a 4,400-pound, 402-horsepower, all-wheel-drive sedan. In 2013, all E550 models came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, eliminating the rear-wheel-drive option. While this provides enhanced all-weather traction and stability, it also means that inducing tail-out fun requires more deliberate effort, quickly curtailed by the firm intervention of the stability control system, which cannot be fully disabled in this model.
Being designated as a “sport” E-Class, the 2013 E550 is equipped with a sport suspension. In everyday driving, the chassis feels firm and composed, conveying a sense of solidity. However, the ride might be perceived as too firm for those prioritizing ultimate luxury comfort. When pushed harder in corners, the E550’s handling reveals its limitations. Body control becomes less refined, understeer becomes apparent, and the stability control system steps in assertively. Unlike some performance sedans that thrive on aggressive driving, the E550 feels less rewarding when pushed to its limits. Comparisons to the BMW 550i of the time highlight this difference, with the BMW generally considered to offer superior steering and handling dynamics. Ironically, some critics even suggested that the all-wheel-drive Audi S6, with its inherently nose-heavy weight distribution, offered a more engaging driving experience in the German mid-size segment.
Despite its premium positioning and price tag, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 retained some traditional, less convenient features, such as a physical key ignition. Keyless Go was available, but as an additional option. Interestingly, despite Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for premium pricing, the 2013 E550 was competitively priced against its German rivals. A comparably equipped BMW 550 xDrive and Audi S6 would typically command a higher price, positioning the E550 as a potentially value-conscious choice within its segment.
In conclusion, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic presents a mixed bag. It boasts a powerful turbocharged V8 engine, a solid and well-built chassis, and the undeniable prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its exterior design is a blend of classic and sporty elements, while the interior offers quality and comfort, albeit with a firm edge. However, its sporty aspirations don’t fully translate into a truly engaging driving experience, and its character feels somewhat less defined compared to more focused rivals. Ultimately, while the E550 possesses numerous strengths – rock-solid build quality, advanced safety systems, and premium appeal – these qualities are also present in the more balanced and fuel-efficient Mercedes-Benz E350, which comes at a lower price point. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550, like a cup filled with every Slurpee flavor, offers a lot, but might leave you searching for a more singular, coherent taste.
