Used 2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Consumer Reviews
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Mecedes Getting It Right
In spite of the negative press MB has received of late, I do think they are getting it right in the 2005 and 2006 model years. In particular I have nothing but praise for my trusty E320. This is my third MB (2nd in the last 3 years) and by far the best. In fact, I think it outshines anything in it's class. I now have nearly 15,000 miles and my only service has been for scheduled maintenance. It's been a trusty vehicle for over a year now, and I would not own any other brand for this type of car. My only complaint (and this holds for the 2003 models as well) is extremely poor wear on OEM tires. I have over 45,000 miles on my 2004 Acura MDX with less apparant wear than the MB.
Love this car
First the buying experience was exceptional & flawless. I live in NE PA & vehicle availabilty as well as professional salesmanship are not available. I also own an 04' C-240 4-Matic which led us to the E Class. My wife & I are both extatic with these two vehicles. I feel safe in these cars. They handle exceptionally well. Not a single problem with either. The size of the E vs. the C makes it firmer. The C is awesome in winter driving and look forward to the experience wthis winter with the E. DVD Nav is awesome. Wouldn't change a thing on my E. I traded an 03' Lexus ES300 which I liked, but the E is better. "I just love this car"
- E320 4MATIC SedanMSRP: $6,99532 mi away
- E320 SedanMSRP: $7,99932 mi away
- E55 AMG SedanMSRP: $18,97732 mi away
This can't be a diesel
Remarkably quiet, incredibly powerful and fun to drive. This is my first new Mercedes, bought with the idea it will have to last several years. I don't think I'll be disappointed. I'm 6'6'' tall and look forward to long trips in this car. It's that comfortable and a joy to drive.
What a great car
I have owned this car for about 4 months and I am enjoying it more everyday. I have been averaging about 17 mpg in the city and 27mpg on the highway (@75mph). I think this amazing considering the 5 liter V-8. Fit and finish like none other. Dealer service is A+. I am planning to buy one for my wife.
E Class repeater
This is my second E Class, and I'm spoiled rotten. When you compare price vs. features and quality on other cars, the "base" E Class is a terrific value. Turning circle comparable to my kid's Jeep Wrangler.
THE GREAT gets GREATER
For those who don't understand the difference between a vehicle that is designed for 65 vrs 155 this review will not be of help. While most car makers give you glitz to fool you how good their vehicles are, MB simply makes it happen. Try stopping from 75 and ask yourself a question, was it me or the vehicle that just saved my butt! MB will continue to move on. Other are simply just poor copies.
Built like a tank, fast as a jet
This is my first Mercedes, having been a BMW driver all my life. After the styling misdirection with BMW I looked for an alternative. What a find! I love this car! It is comfortable for every day driving and when you want it.....it flies! It's hard to describe unless you actually have the opportunity to put your foot into it. I realize it is expensive but the thrill and the beauty of the car is worth the price of admission. The difference between this car and a BMW 545 sport in lease payment was less than $250 per month. It is the best $250 per month I have ever spent. The steering feel is not quite up to BMW standards but EVERYTHING else is head and shoulders above it.
E-Class CDI
This auto is great. I drive on the road in sales, it is comfortable, and fun to drive. The pickup is outstanding, not what many think of when looking a a diesel, this one will push you back into the seat. Diesel fuel is not hard to find, one tip, carry a pair of plastic gloves to wear when refueling, keeps the diesel smell off of you and the auto.
2005 Mercedes-Benz E320 - The Most Beautiful Car Ever
This car is more than just the fancy Mercedes-Benz name. it has power comfort, looks and best of all you really do get what you paid for.
Love my E
I just bought the '05 E Class as a late B-day present to myself. I love the car so far. I have heard about the electronic gremlins in the car. Hopefully there aren't any in mine. The obsidian black paint is just gorgeous. I definetly reccomend the premium package. You get everything you need with that package except for the heated seats of course. I hope I am still in love with this car when I have to decide on getting the extended warranty. The appearance package is great. Except for the black wood trim, and the nasty looking rims. The stock rims look so much better. I wish they would bing back the window controls in the center. That was trademark mercedes!
After four months of driving
Have had car for four months. Averaging 33 MPH at highway speeds of 80. Around 26 in town driving. Only had one computer update on console system. No problems. Love car, the acceleration, braking, comfort of drive.
First time MB buyer and it is the best!!
Never driven such a smooth car before, you almost get tired, because there is nothing to do while you drive. Everythig is done for you.....the ride is the smoothest ever. Even my SOLO2 laser radar turns itself off because it can't tell that the car is driving
On the one
I did a lot of shopping around before I chose the E-class Mercedes. I don't feel that I could have found a better car for me. It's classy, but yet sporty at the same time. The sleek lines in its design, make the E-class a true eye catcher. I'm truly happy.
Nearly 3000 miles -- Awesome car!
This car is very different than anything I have driven. New to diesels, I can't get over the launch at low revs. Taking off, you need to push the throttle gently at first to spool up the turbo and then let it go. Amazing torque! In regards to looks, feel, ride, quality, it truly does the Mercedes brand justice. A fine car with great toys and beauty throughout. So far I am delighted! In regards to MPG, I have a mixed highway city daily commute of 30 miles. I am seeing 30 MPG consistently on each leg.
E320 4Matic
Replaced a Ford Expedition with a CLK 430 then an E320. Huge improvement in quality, ride, fuel economy, etc.
We really enjoy this car
Have always wanted to own a new Mercedes, now we do. Previous car was a '01 E-320 & though we thoroughly enjoyed owning it, the '05 model is vastly improved. Thought about waiting for the new E-350, but felt very comfortable with the deal I got on this one.
My Benz!
This car is exciting on so many different levels. There is nothing like it on the road even though Audi and Cadillac try very hard. There's still nothing that feels, smells, or drives like a Benz. Faster than some Ferraris and Porsche's but practical enough to strap my daughter into her car seat and go go go!
Rocket sled
I traded in a C6 Corvette because I didn't like getting pulled over every other day by cops wanting to eyeball it. This is much more discreet, until one notices the four tailpipes and V8 Kompressor badges. It corners more confidently in high-speed sweepers than the Vette did, and accelerates just as hard, even harder in roll-on acceleration. I notice other reviewers have given it high marks in fuel economy - not me, I average about 11 mpg.
Better than gas
I owned a gasoline engine E320 Sport and was dissatisfied with the acceleration, fuel economy and ride. This diesel puts the gas model to shame. This is the best car I've owned in 40 years of driving. Averaging over 30 mpg with mainly in-town driving.
Not as impressed
I went from an Audi S4 to my E55 and have to say I am really disappointed with the MB. It is a great car, fast as can be but doesn't compare with the Audi. The handling and build quality of the MB aren't up to the Audi standards which was a let down.
My Final Benz!
I have had 61 new cars in my life, and 8 M-B's before this. Clearly, this is the worst car ever owned and the worst Benz! When it wasn't in the shop or on the back of a truck headed to the shop -- which happened every 2 months or less -- it was excellent. The dealer tried to help, but he couldn't make a silk purse out of this sow's ear. Hopefully I can dump it before a potential buyer finds that it is a Consumer Reports "used car to avoid!" M-B has produced a real disaster, and was totally unwilling to even discuss assisting me with my problems beyond the now expired warranty. Maybe it's time to return to Japanese quality -- quality cars which have never let me down/left me stranded.
Beautiful Car
I tested everything including Infiniti M45, BMW 545 and Lexus 430. The Mercedes was far and away the most elegant. I bought the sport package, which gives dual exhaust, sport tuned suspension, and AMG wheels. The ride is firm, but not too hard on city streets, and performance on the winding canyon roads is awesome. I have a slight "clunk" in the stepdown from second to first gear which needs looking at. Other than that, it's the greatest car I have ever driven
Simply the best !
It is amazing how mercedes has coupled the durability and mileage of a diesel platform into a quiet, high performance engine. The Audi, Acura, BMW are all nice but are no match for this vehicle.
Quality
Rebuilt transmission twice, numerous electrical issues, new shocks & struts within the first year. No service dealer.
Stay away from E320: Poorest quality
More problems than you can imagine with the computer, buttons falling off, phone not working. Worst navigation system (Acura & Lexus are better -- I have both). Car had a sticker of $62K new with options. Could have bought four Hundays for that. Made the mistake of buying the SCAM of an extended warranty when the original warranty expired. Nothing but excuses as to why something isn't covered. Hands free phone that came with car doesn't work. Now they are saying it's "trim" and not covered. Do yourself a favor and buy a Lexus. That's what I'm going to do. Mercedes "Summer of Love". Give me a break!
Mercedes Benz E320 CDI
We bought the new E320 CDI after deciding buying a new car every year was a luxury we could no longer afford. We bought a used 1976 240D in 1999 and had the car for 12 years. It was the most dependable car we ever owned and sold her in 1991 for the down payment for our first house. We always vowed that someday, somehow we would get another Mercedes Diesel and are we glad we waited. This car is amazing truly amazing. Fast, Firm, Quiet, and undeniably a Mercedes. This E320CDI is really a sweet piece of machinery. I have no doubt they sell the 3000 alotment for the US market. I want another one.
BMW convert
After 31 years of driving BMWs of one type or another, the iDrive and the exterior design forced me to look at this car. Fast, Fast, Fast. I don't know what in the world could ever replace it for me. An improvement would be a manual 6 speed. Its the first auto tranny I have ever owned. If they could ever get that BMW feel, no one would buy a Bimmer. I will look at the M6 when it comes out, but it going to take a lot to pry my white knuckled hands from this steering wheel. An all grown up luxury hot rod.
Sleeper rocket wagon
When I first heard about the wagon, I ordered it immediately. I had hoped Mercedes would bring a high performance wagon to the U.S. but never had before, only the rest of the world had a performance estate wagon. While it is rather expensive for a wagon, approaching the price of an S55 (which I also have), I think the exclusivity and performance make the price acceptable. I was unable to order a power liftgate or parking sensors (two options the wife wanted) so she is less likely to use the wagon (ok with me) and cannot figure out why since both options are available on the E55 sedan but those options will probably be offered soon (the power liftgate should be standard). It handles like a sedan
Great Auto
Test drove the E320 (gasoline) and the E320 CDI. Wow, the E320 really moves and is a pleasure to drive. I was a bit nervous about the MB reputation for quality but so far my fears have been completely unfounded. I've owned a number of Lexus autos (LS, LX, ES, GS) and the MB so far is my favorite auto. I took the car for a trip to San Antonio and averaged about 34mpg (odometer was under 1000 miles). I enjoyed the lower cost of diesel too. Keep in mind that most diesel pumps are designed for "truckers" and sometimes don't have the pay-at-pump option (especially out on the highway).
My new MB diesel
Great car, much improved over previous MB diesel, much quieter, no smoke, plenty of power from a dead stop.
My favorite Benz
Leasing the car to have a safe ride for my family. I drive all current MB models on a regular basis and this is my most favorite model. The torque is neck snapping, more that of a 8 cylinder car. The vehicle is fast, safe comfortable. Ride quality is outstanding and handling is precise and firm. I got 38mpg, but you HAVE to drive 55mph constantly to achieve this. Higher speeds impact economy. Heated seats get warm and in a hurry. We had first snow and there was not a second of insecurity. Do actually like the CL55 AMG better, but there is that hefty price tag. About cupholders: It is a cultural thing, but I wonder what size cups some people use?
Go Baby Go
Unassuming power with effortless acceleration. It's sleek and comfortable enough to drive daily, but it can fly whenever you want. It's only a matter of time before my first speeding ticket.
One VERY Happy Camper
Averaging 31 MPG or mixed highway and (limited) city driving. Quiet inside the vehicle and no diesel odors. Unbelievable response when the accelerator is pushed.
2005 Mercedes E320 CDI
I have been very pleased with my E320 CDI in the year I have had it. My mileage has been between 33 and 35 mpg, and even higher on longer trips. The car has excellent pickup and is much better than the diesels I have owned in the past. The only problem I have had is that the clock in the dash gains a couple minutes a month and it is not exactly easy to reset. The dealer told me that this gain per month is within tolerances, but none of my clocks gained that much in the past. I have had one burned taillight in the year I've had the car, and one recall to repair the computer assisted brake system. All in all, it is an excellent car.
A diesel MB charmer
When 1) Premium gas goes north of $2.30/gal; 2) you change jobs and started commuting 50 mi/day roundtrip on one of Atlanta's most congested roads and 3) the tranny in your 2002 Lincoln LSE is replaced at 26k miles, you buy a Benz turbodiesel. The new diesel technology is going to tramp hybrid into the ground IMHO. It's not the road warrior the LS was, but it's darn close. Cabin is much better suited to the long commute - better seats, stereo, NVH isolation. Torque spoils you immediately; HP has no meaning when the car locomotive pulls you to an easy 80mph cruise with no sign of power dropoff. I try not to subscribe to society's definition of success, but I feel like I've arrived in m E320 CDI.
E320 CDI Review
I purchased my 2005 CDI in March. It's a great car! Powerful, great mileage and range, and very quiet at cruise. I get bored with cars quickly, but can see myself driving this one for a while. I wish it had bluetooth - Mercedes needs to get busy with this option. I thought I would not appreciate the dynamic seats, but wow...they really help with support taking aggressive corners. If you are going to purchase an E-Class, this is the one to get.
Best choice!
I am so glad that I had chosen this over Lexus. Sure Lexus is reliable, but very boring and unoriginal. Also, absolutely no problems ever! Not one! Only time I went to the dealership was to buy the car, and have it washed! I love the interior design and soft leather and seats!
THE E320 CDI LET'S ROLL
Undoubtedly the best car I have ever owned. The performance and handling even compared to the basic model is without comparision. So far I've had 4600 miles of trouble-free driving. It's very quick with it's 369 lbs of torque and will even squeal if you're too heavy footed all while still delivering outstanding fuel economy.
Finally
A sedan that sends most sports car owners running to their therapists. Just incredible to haul groceries in comfort, and humiliate most Porsches at the same time.
Different paradigm of diesel technology
This car is in no way similar to the diesels my dad drove; gone are the days of turning off the air conditioning to get up the hills on the freeway. The harder you push this diesel the more refined it sounds. It seems to have a deep well of power and torque that never stops pleasing. I love this car!
2005 E320 CDI
It is fun to drive and fast. Great handling and drives well. My second "E" class, but most favorite to drive.
Fast and Fun
It doesn't corner like my old 7 series BMW -- but this is perhaps the most fun car I've ever driven. Classy, comfortable, easy to drive, and the raw acceleration is hard to beat. Nav is overly complex -- but the surround stereo is hard to beat. (goes through tires fairly quickly, though).
My Baby
Why buy a E320 when you can get a E320 CDI! Amazing torque (no hesistancy), smooth ride, great handling, huge trunk, and unbelieveable fuel mileage (not to mention diesel is cheaper). On the road I get around 36.5 miles per gallon, that's driving 70 mph. The only way I will get rid of this car is when Mercedes produces a CDI wagon.
E55 Review
The automotive know-how that went into this car is simply amazing. It is incredibly versatile and user friendly. It will willingly comply whether you want to go slow and smooth or fast and hard. The fit and finish is superior and the outside looks elegant and powerful. The engine is scarily powerful. You will NEVER AGAIN wish you had more horsepower at your disposal, and braking is very authoritative. This is an everyday car, a super car, a family car and a commuter car all in one.
Perfect Balance of Quality and Economy
After 23,000 miles, not one problem. The build quality does not disappoint as in some previous Mercedes. The performance and economy of the diesel engine is unbelievable. My round-trip comute of 36 miles averaged 19 mpg in a 6 cyl. Grand Cherokee; the E320 averages 32. Best mileage was 41 for a long road trip and never lower than 26 in city driving. The diesel definitely prefers hot weather as highway milage drops about 4 mpg in the winter. The small items of bad news: the electric brakes have no reason to exist, there is no oil dipstick, the electronics are difficult to set, the stone colored carpet and mats are impossible to keep clean, and MB is not interested in owner feedback.
E320 CDI is a joy
My E320 CDI (Turbo diesel) is a joy to drive. Mileage is amazing. A wonderful, solid feeling road car. Interior is miles ahead of BMW 535 and Audi A6. I drive 300 miles a week and I only get fuel once every 2 weeks! Navigation system is excellent as is the suspension. This car has been tweaked to near perfection. As promised by the dealer, cold weather starting is fantastic - 3 seconds of glow plug operation in 10 degrees and it starts faster that gasoline engines - WOW! My dealer, Leikin in Willoughby has been great. Mercedes is working very hard to make sure you love the vehicle and the dealer. Lots of surveys to insure satisfaction.
Surprised and delighted
I was a little worried about my decision with the diesel at first but over the last year of driving it have been glad I made the choice. Besides the 35 mpg the 369 lbs of torque makes it a real pleasure to drive. Many friends that have ridden with us have no idea that it is a diesel unless we mention it.
Marylander
Since the new CDI arrived, I had been wanting to buy one. I have been happy ever since I bought this car. It is fun to drive, and gets more than excellent gas mileage. I average 650 miles between fill-ups. Then interior is comfortable and well designed. Sound system is great also.
Who Needs a Hybrid?
Excellent Car--Great Drivetrain. American drivers won't believe it's a diesel. This car seems too good to be true. It is quiet, economical, luxurious and powerful.
Fantastic Car
We have had for one month. Combination of city (DC-Baltimore) and highway (I95) driving. Fun to drive, fuel economy is fantastic. This is our 2nd Mercedes and we love it.