Anonymous

Reviewed a 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC on May 20, 2014

At 382HP, the E550 is not lacking for power. 80HP more than the prior model year E500, and enough to move this rather heavy AWD car to 60MPH in about 5 seconds. On the upside, there is no drama when passing on a two-lane road. On the downside, fuel economy (using the required premium grade petrol) reaches only into the low twenties during the most relaxed highway cruising - otherwise it's about 18MPG overall in daily driving. The 5-speed auto trans used in 4MATIC models isn't helping fuel consumption either (RWD models use a 7-speed auto trans). Those extra two gears might make highway cruising more relaxed also, but in everyday driving, you typically don't miss them. (Interestingly, in "comfort" mode, the transmission skips 1st gear entirely, effectively making it a 4-speed). The difference between the air suspension settings (Comfort, Sport 1 and Sport 2) is fairly subtle, but Sport 2 tightens up the ride motions enough, but still not BMW-like. The E-class swings more toward luxury than sport. Premium 2 package includes directional bi-xenon headlights for much improved nighttime visibility, and Keyless Go proximity sensors so you never have to take your key out. It also features the start/stop button on the gear selection knob, which is pretty slick. Driver and front passenger heated and cooled front seats, along with 4-zone A/C, keep everyone temperate and limit arguments. The interior material and fit-and-finish aren't quite Audi level, but there are plenty of other features to keep occupants comfortable and entertained. While my car has only needed routine maintenance to date, based on my experience with other German cars and Mercedes' reputation for not being cheap to repair when needed, buying CPO or at least investing extended warranty might be a good idea.