2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
What’s new
- Refreshed exterior design
- New steering wheel
- MBUX infotainment system replaces COMAND
- E 450 now powered by an inline-six mild hybrid powertrain
- Part of the fifth E-Class generation introduced for 2017
Pros & Cons
- Exquisite cabin with excellent design and comfort features
- Driver assistance technology works great
- Vast array of personalization options
- High-horsepower AMG models are fun to drive
- Sedan's cargo capacity is small for the class
- Standard suspension can ride stiffly over rough surfaces
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review
Though the fifth-generation E-Class has been on sale since 2017, Mercedes-Benz has done an admirable job making its midsize luxury car feel new at every turn. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class takes these constant updates even further, with a refreshed exterior and a slightly restyled cabin.
The headlights and taillights closely resemble those on the smaller A-Class, while the grille is similar to the one on the GLE SUV. Inside, the E-Class gets Mercedes' latest MBUX infotainment system. It's a huge improvement over the older interface. The E-Class also gets a new steering wheel with capacitive touch controls, though the layout is functionally the same as the old one. Also new for the E 450 is a turbocharged inline-six engine paired to a mild hybrid system. It uses an electric motor that provides a bit of extra power when leaving from a stop and is slightly more fuel-efficient than the previous V6.
The E-Class' primary competitor has long been the BMW 5 Series. The current 5 Series keeps the pressure on with a wealth of features and a plug-in hybrid variant for those looking for carpool access. The Audi A6, meanwhile, was recently redesigned and counts a high-tech cabin among its many strengths. And buyers looking for something sleek and stylish might want to check out the new Cadillac CT5 sedan or Mercedes' own CLS. The E-Class also offers itself as both a coupe and convertible as well as the new high-riding All-Terrain wagon, all of which receive the same comprehensive updates as the sedan for 2021.
Our verdict
8.4 / 10How does it drive?
8.0The steering doesn't provide much in the way of feedback, but it's quick and light, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots or on tight city streets. In corners, the E-Class feels composed without being stiff. Our biggest complaint is braking performance. While the brakes are smooth, our testing showed that the E-Class posted some of the longest panic 60-0 mph braking figures we've seen on a luxury car in a while. We suspect a better set of tires would improve things immensely.
How comfortable is it?
9.0This E-Class is quiet too, with little road or wind noise intruding into the cabin. Dip into the throttle and you get a smooth growl from the six-cylinder engine. It's just quiet enough to avoid attracting attention. The mild hybrid system allows for seamless engine stop-start functionality at stoplights, with no vibrations coming through when the engine shuts off or fires on. The climate control is also quiet, even at full blast. It works simply and evenly, and rear passengers will appreciate the air vents.
How’s the interior?
8.0Dialing in a good driving position is easy thanks to the adjustability of the seat and steering wheel. All the controls and gauges are easy to see and reach. Forward visibility is fine, but the narrow rear window makes you appreciate the crisp backup camera. Getting in and out is fine up front. But the back seat isn't quite as spacious as the ones in some rivals, so taller occupants may find knee room lacking.
How’s the tech?
9.0The E-Class also gets the latest and greatest driver aids Mercedes has to offer. The adaptive cruise control maintains a tight gap in traffic, and it changes speed smoothly and quickly. The car can even slow down when the speed limit changes or when coming up on gentle curves. We only wish the controls on the steering wheel were easier to use.
How’s the storage?
7.5Getting a car seat in the rear shouldn't be too much of an issue most of the time, though larger seats may be a bit tight. Car seat access points are placed behind easy-to-locate plastic covers.
How economical is it?
8.0Is it a good value?
8.0Unfortunately, the ownership and warranty are a bit underwhelming. Mercedes includes a four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain and rust warranty. While the basic and powertrain are fine, the rust warranty is well off the class leaders. And unlike most other luxury automakers, Mercedes doesn't include any scheduled maintenance.
Wildcard
9.0It's fun to drive too, but not completely in an athletic sport sedan sort of way. It's more of a Q-ship, thanks to a potent engine that delivers effortless power and a comfortable ride that makes it a joy to just cruise in. If you do want to tackle some back roads, the E-Class is willing to play.
Which E-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Mercedes-Benz E-Class models
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is one of the most multifaceted vehicles on the market. You can get the E-Class as a sedan, wagon, coupe or convertible, each available in multiple trims: E 350 (sedan only), E 450 (sedan, wagon, coupe, convertible), AMG E 53 (sedan, coupe, convertible) and AMG E 63 S (sedan and wagon) — each corresponding to a different powertrain.
E 350
The sedan-only E 350 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (255 horsepower, 273 lb-ft of torque) paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive (4Matic) is available. Standard feature highlights include:
- LED headlights
- Simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex)
- Power-adjustable and heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Sunroof
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- MBUX infotainment interface
- Digital instrument cluster
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Noteworthy options on the E-Class sedan include:
- Larger wheels
- Air suspension (can raise or lower the ride height of the vehicle)
- Augmented video for easier navigation prompts
- MBUX Interior Assistant (can operate controls with hand gestures)
- Head-up display
- Surround-view camera (gives you a top-down view of the E-Class and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
- Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Premium Burmester audio system
- Leather and premium leather upholsteries
- Wireless charging pad
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Massaging front seats
- Driver Assistance package
- Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
- Active steering assist (works with adaptive cruise control to keep the car centered in the lane, even around gentle curves)
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
- Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
E 450
The E 450 is available as a sedan, coupe, convertible and the All-Terrain wagon. The coupe and convertible come standard with rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive (4Matic) is optional on those and standard on the sedan and wagon. Mercedes is calling the 2021 E 450 wagon the All-Terrain. It's the same general design as in prior years but now has plastic fender body cladding and a slightly higher ride height.
All E 450s are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine paired to a mild hybrid system (362 hp, 369 lb-ft) mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Standard and optional features of the E 450 are similar to those of the E 350.
AMG E 53
Mercedes offers two performance variants of the E-Class. The AMG E 53 is available as a sedan, coupe or convertible. They have the turbocharged six-cylinder engine but here it makes 429 hp and 384 lb-ft. All E 53 models come with a sport-tuned all-wheel-drive system. Standard features mirror those on the E 450 models but add a few AMG-specific touches such as a sport-tuned air suspension and special wheels and exterior styling.
E 63 AMG
The range-topping E 63 AMG is a brute, powered by a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (603 hp, 627 lb-ft) that sends power to all four wheels through a specially designed nine-speed automatic transmission. The E 63 AMG is only available as a sedan or wagon. Features build on the E 53 AMG, adding even more performance-tuned goodies such as:
- 20-inch wheels
- Upgraded suspension tuning
- AMG exhaust
- AMG-specific MBUX functions
- Standard AMG Track Pace app
Options on the E 63 include options available on the E 53 plus:
- Carbon-fiber trim package
- Carbon-ceramic brakes for improved braking performance
Sponsored cars related to the E-Class
Features & Specs
| E 350 4dr Sedan 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $54,250 |
| MPG | 22 city / 31 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $73,900 |
| MPG | 22 city / 29 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm |
| E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $56,750 |
| MPG | 22 city / 30 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $62,000 |
| MPG | 23 city / 30 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 362 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite E-Class safety features:
- Driver Drowsiness Monitor
- Helps mitigate an accident by monitoring signs of driver fatigue.
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Calculates extra steering torque during an evasive maneuver to help the driver avoid a collision and maintain control of the car.
- Pre-Safe Sound
- Reduces hearing damage from an accident by emitting a specific noise that triggers an inner-ear muscle reflex to protect hearing.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Driver | Not Rated |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 5 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | Not Rated |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs. the competition
Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs. Audi A6
The Audi A6 was fully redesigned just a few years ago, and it remains one of our favorite sedans on the market, sitting just below the E-Class in our ratings. It's sporty and athletic yet comfortable, and it features a handsome and refined interior filled with Audi's latest and greatest tech. We prefer Mercedes' tech and driver aids to the latest from Audi, but both cars are so good we highly recommend trying both if you're shopping for a luxury sedan.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs. BMW 5 Series
For decades, the BMW 5 Series has been the E-Class' closest rival. Both cars offer a wide array of features, tech and customization and are available with a range of engines, including high-performance models that will make some sports cars blush. The 5 Series offers more cargo space, but we found the interior to fall short in terms of refinement when compared to the E-Class.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Think of the CLS as a slightly more stylized version of the E-Class. Both cars are very similar underneath the skin, and from the driver's seat the two don't feel all that different. The CLS' swoopy styling does compromise cargo and passenger space, and a base model is significantly more expensive than the CLS. Still, it looks and feels a little more special, which is especially important if you want to stand out in a crowd.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class:
- Refreshed exterior design
- New steering wheel
- MBUX infotainment system replaces COMAND
- E 450 now powered by an inline-six mild hybrid powertrain
- Part of the fifth E-Class generation introduced for 2017
Is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class reliable?
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The least-expensive 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $54,250.
Other versions include:
- E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $54,250
- AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A) which starts at $73,900
- E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $56,750
- E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A) which starts at $62,000
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
More about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Overview
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is offered in the following submodels: E-Class AMG E 53, E-Class Sedan, E-Class Coupe, E-Class Hybrid, E-Class Convertible, E-Class Wagon. Available styles include E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), E 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A), E 450 4MATIC 2dr Convertible AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A), AMG E 53 2dr Convertible AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A), E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A), AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A), E 450 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A), E 450 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A), AMG E 53 2dr Coupe AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A), E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), and E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A).
What do people think of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 E-Class.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 E-Class featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A)
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $74,950. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A) is trending $5,967 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,967 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $68,983.
The average savings for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A) is 8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG E 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $57,800. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $4,312 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,312 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $53,488.
The average savings for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is 7.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 16 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $55,300. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $4,580 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,580 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $50,720.
The average savings for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is 8.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 350 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A)
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $63,050. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A) is trending $4,901 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,901 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $58,149.
The average savings for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A) is 7.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Classes are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class for sale near. There are currently 63 new 2021 E-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $58,150 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Can't find a new 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Classs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Mercedes-Benz E-Class for sale - 11 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $12,760.
Find a new Mercedes-Benz for sale - 2 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $17,772.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials