The opportunity to get behind the wheel of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350 unexpectedly presented itself during a recent trip. While it wasn’t the planned Cadillac XTS experience, the chance to drive a Mercedes, particularly the E-Class known for its blend of luxury and performance, was too good to pass up. Opting for the Mercedes over a BMW alternative offered by Avis at Denver International Airport turned out to be an insightful afternoon with a sophisticated machine.
Initial Encounter: Standing Out in the Rental Crowd
Nestled amongst a sea of ordinary rental cars, the slate gray 2015 E350 was a clear standout. In a lot dominated by economy models, bulky SUVs, and practical minivans, this Mercedes E-Class exuded an air of understated elegance. It was undeniably the most attractive car in its section, and taking possession, even temporarily, felt like a step up.
The E350’s presence is more substantial in person than pictures might suggest. My immediate thought was, “This is a sizable car,” yet its design maintains a graceful and refined silhouette. The proportions are well-balanced, lending it a stylish and elegant aesthetic that’s distinctly Mercedes-Benz.
The slate gray paint further amplified the car’s sophisticated appeal. It’s a color that speaks of class and refinement, a welcome departure from more ostentatious shades. Imagine this color on a high-performance sports car – the subtle power it would convey!
Stepping inside, the interior first impressions were equally positive. The cabin felt undeniably upscale, projecting a sense of luxury that surpassed even that of a BMW 3 Series.
Behind the Wheel: Experiencing the 2015 E350 Performance
The driving experience in the Mercedes-Benz E350 was largely commendable. Despite its size, the car felt composed and controlled. The 3.5L V6 engine delivered ample power, providing brisk acceleration from a standstill and confident highway cruising. This engine is a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz reliability and smooth power delivery, making it a strong choice for the E350.
One area that initially stood out, and not in a positive way, was the braking system. The brakes felt somewhat underpowered and lacked immediate responsiveness upon initial pedal application. The pedal feel was softer than expected, requiring a firmer press, especially when slowing down from higher speeds on the highway. This could be an aspect potential buyers might want to have inspected, particularly on a used model.
However, beyond the braking, the E350 excelled as a long-distance cruiser. Driving through Denver and into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains on I-70 was a genuinely enjoyable experience. The car effortlessly covered miles, tackling inclines with ease thanks to the engine’s abundant torque. And the cabin quietness was remarkable.
Mercedes-Benz has long prioritized cabin serenity, and the 2015 E350 exemplifies this. While a recent drive in a Corvette Stingray was thrilling in its own way, the E350’s hushed interior makes it ideally suited for extended road trips where comfort and tranquility are paramount. This is a car designed for relaxed, refined travel.
The E350’s larger dimensions became more apparent on winding mountain roads. Navigating tight switchbacks and hairpin turns required more effort. Engaging “sport” mode and utilizing the steering wheel paddle shifters offered a slightly more engaging experience, but it’s clear that canyon carving isn’t the E350’s primary mission. It’s a comfortable cruiser first and foremost, not a sports sedan disguised as a luxury car.
Cabin Comfort: A Mercedes-Benz Hallmark
Mercedes-Benz interiors are renowned for their comfort and quality, and the E350 certainly upholds this reputation. Even before settling into the driver’s seat, there was an expectation of a premium experience, and the car delivered.
As previously mentioned, the exceptional quietness at highway speeds is a major contributor to the overall comfort. Combined with the high-quality materials used for the steering wheel and seats, the E350’s cabin creates a genuinely pleasant environment for both driver and passengers.
The gear selector being located on the steering column is a classic Mercedes touch, freeing up space in the center console and adding to the uncluttered design.
Rear passenger space is generous, providing comfortable legroom even for taller adults. It’s a car that accommodates passengers as well as it does the driver.
Small details like the analog clock in the center of the dashboard further enhance the sense of luxury and refinement within the cabin.
There’s an interesting interplay of sporty and luxurious design cues throughout the interior, creating a balanced and sophisticated ambiance.
The white-faced analog gauges with a digital information display are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, offering excellent readability.
At night, the gauges invert to white on black, a subtle but effective detail that further enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
One minor drawback regarding comfort was the seat design. While trimmed in premium materials and visually appealing, the seats felt somewhat flat and wide. They lacked sufficient lateral support, leading to noticeable sliding during spirited driving on twisty roads. More pronounced side bolstering would significantly improve driver confidence and comfort in more dynamic driving scenarios. In essence, they felt reminiscent of bench seats in older, less performance-oriented cars in terms of lateral support.
It’s important to acknowledge that the E-Class is not designed to be an outright sports car, and comfort often takes precedence over aggressive seat bolstering in this vehicle class. However, a slight improvement in this area would be beneficial.
Final Verdict: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350 as a Solid Used Luxury Choice
Driven with a relaxed approach, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a truly excellent car. It excels in comfortable highway cruising, providing a solid and composed ride. The engine offers sufficient power for enjoyable acceleration in everyday driving situations. While it incorporates sporty elements like paddle shifters and a “sport” mode, these features don’t transform it into a genuinely sporty car.
For those seeking a luxurious and comfortable sedan, the used 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350 presents a compelling option. It’s a car that prioritizes refinement, quietness, and a smooth ride. If you value these qualities over outright спортивности, the E350 is well worth considering. Perhaps for drivers who prioritize comfort and luxury over спортивности, or those simply not yet in the market for a performance-focused vehicle, the E350’s blend of attributes makes it a very appealing choice.
