2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC Coupe

Mercedes-Benz E Class continues to set the standard for mid-size luxury cars. A competitive powertrain and way-above standard styling work to establish that premier positioning.

The E 450 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost, which is capable of generating 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This power is mated to the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, which carries power to the 4Matic all-wheel drive. Eco Start/Stop and Dynamic Select bring improved fuel efficiency and selectable driving character to this powertrain. The E 450 consumes 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

I never could master the art of smooth manual shifting; Always having to look down for drive mode, never able to just shift into gear.

Inside, the 12.3-inch multimedia display and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster command center stage by presenting a pod strategy for locating key information and communication devices quickly.

The cabin is beautifully designed with elegant woodwork and polished aluminum styling.

Dual-zone automatic climate control and multicolor ambient lightning set the comfort and mood for the luxurious cabin.

This Mercedes is loaded with standard technology features like MB Navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Voice Control with Natural Language Understanding, and SiriusXM All Access 6-month trial. The test vehicle had the available Burmester Surround Sound System for elevated enjoyment. The small touchpad controller is used to navigate the infotainment system. Admittedly this was a challenge for me. Also, I would have given my kingdom for a couple of small pockets to store items like phone, keys, and wallet.

Many functions can also be controlled through the new three-spoke steering wheel with Touch Control Buttons. On top of touch-sensitive buttons, there are four touch pads that allow you to navigate menus or adjust cruise speed or audio volume.

It seemed that every feature I attempted to use on the steering wheel, I would inadvertently brush up or touch some feature that was not intended. I managed to activate the function anyway, but that led to momentary frustration.

There were too many areas on the wheel you couldn’t touch, yet an insufficient number of places you could easily touch to be useful. That left little room for placing hands.

The heated leather sport seats were comfortable, aided by the lumbar support and memory system. 40/20/40-split folding rear seats allowed for more storage space, but they don’t fold completely flat, which may limit its utility in some situations.

Topstitched MB-Tex upper dash and door trim add to the luxurious touch, while power folding side mirrors and rain sensing windshield wipers add to the user convenience. Power tilt/slide moonroof opens up the cabin to more light and air.

The absolutely best feature of the E 450 was the quality ride. There was very little, if any, engine noise or tire rumble. The body design provided excellent sound insulation as wind noise seemed to be completely absorbed.

Safety and security are paramount to Mercedes-Benz. Standard Active Braking Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Surround View System, Electronic Stability Program with Crosswind Stabilization, Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call Service and 24-hour roadside assistance program work together to make your travels safe and happy journeys.

The list price for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic Coupe starts at $64,950. There is no shortage of options you can add, such as the $1,100 Head-up Display or the $450 ventilated front seats. Then there are big packages like the $1,700 Driver Assistance Package, which bundles 13 safety features such as Active Lane Change Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected].