Growing up immersed in the world of Mercedes-Benz, with a family history steeped in their non-sporty classics like the 560 SEL and various generations of E-Class sedans, my appreciation for the brand runs deep. Having personally enjoyed the refined experience of our family’s E-Class sedan, I was particularly excited to spend a week with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe 4MATIC. This model year marked a significant facelift for the E-Class, a flagship series for Mercedes-Benz and a personal favorite within their impressive lineup.
Despite its E-Class designation, the Coupe model cleverly utilizes the C-Class platform. This subtle distinction is virtually undetectable, as the post-facelift design is undeniably striking. The meticulously crafted LED contours in both the headlights and taillights are visually stunning, especially at night, drawing admiring glances wherever it goes. The pillarless window design, a nod to the grand touring coupes of yesteryear, contributes to an exceptionally sleek and uncluttered aesthetic. My test model, finished in Tenorite Gray and enhanced with the AMG Sport Package, featured tasteful chrome trim, including a particularly attractive front lip. During my week-long test, opinions on the styling were polarized – people either loved it or didn’t, with little middle ground. Personally, I find the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe to be one of the most visually appealing two-door vehicles currently available.
Powering the 2014 E350 Coupe is Mercedes-Benz’s renowned 3.5L V6 engine. This versatile engine is deployed across a range of models, from the C-Class to the ML350 SUV. In this coupe configuration, it delivers a robust 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While competitors such as the BMW 435i and Audi S5 may offer slightly higher power figures, they cater to a somewhat different performance-oriented market. The E350 Coupe strikes a balance, feeling athletic and potent without aiming to be an outright sports coupe. It truly embodies the spirit of a grand tourer. The power delivery is more than sufficient, and the E350 emits a satisfyingly assertive engine note when accelerating onto the highway, instilling a sense of confident capability. This car means business, but with grace.
The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system performs seamlessly. While my spring test drive didn’t present snowy conditions, my experience with our family’s E-Class sedan in numerous winter storms assures me of its exceptional stability. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe feels incredibly solid, reinforcing confidence in its all-weather capability. Highway cruising becomes remarkably effortless; it’s genuinely an ideal vehicle for long road trips. Fuel economy, using premium gasoline, averaged around 10L/100km in combined driving, a respectable figure for this class of vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz consistently excels in interior quality, and the E350 Coupe is no exception. The cabin is meticulously assembled, free of panel gaps or poorly fitted trim. Every surface exudes luxury and high quality materials. In a market where some new cars feel overpriced for what they offer, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe justifies its as-tested price of $70,500. The Multicontour front seats are exceptionally comfortable and highly adjustable, including extensive lumbar support settings. Finding an ideal driving position is effortless. At my height of just over six feet, the car felt perfectly tailored. The panoramic sunroof, while visually appealing, does slightly compromise headroom for taller occupants.
My test E350 Coupe was generously equipped, featuring the AMG Sport Package (upgraded seats, 18” AMG wheels, sport steering wheel, and distinctive trim), the Premium Package (including park assist, rear sunshade, Harman-Kardon sound system, 360-degree camera, and Keyless Go), the LED Lighting Package, and a Driving Assistance Package. The base price for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe 4MATIC starts at $63,000, with the added options bringing the as-tested price to $70,500. Considering the array of features, it represents considerable value in the luxury coupe segment. The media interface is user-friendly, although the USB port compatibility with my Apple iPod required Mercedes-Benz’s proprietary cable, conveniently included in the glovebox. The Harman-Kardon sound system delivered crisp, distortion-free audio, enhancing my driving experience with classical music throughout the week.
It’s challenging to find significant faults in a car that is so inherently appealing. The pillarless window design, while aesthetically pleasing, does contribute to slightly more road noise than I would ideally prefer. In such a refined and comfortable vehicle, near-silent highway cruising would be the ultimate experience. The steering is light and easily manageable at lower speeds, firming up as driving intensity increases. While effective for maneuvering, the artificial feel isn’t entirely to my personal preference. However, it does make quick maneuvers straightforward and predictable. It’s important to recognize that the 2014 E-Class Coupe excels as a comfortable and capable grand tourer rather than a purely sporty backroad performer.
For anyone in the market for a midsize luxury car, the E-Class should undoubtedly be a top contender. The V8-powered E550 seems almost unnecessary, as those seeking raw power would likely gravitate towards the formidable E63 AMG. A “personal executive coupe” like this 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC is perfectly suited for discerning young professionals. It radiates sophistication, elegance, and luxury from every angle. Mercedes-Benz’s extensive history of automotive innovation shines through, making this car truly exceptional in every aspect.
