Name: 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Brand: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

RECALL ALERT: There are 7 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 7 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

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2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

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2012 Luxury midsized cars Ratings

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

$7,700 - $21,750

CR MPG:

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$9,375 - $10,775

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$4,850 - $8,650

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$9,650 - $10,700

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$9,750 - $10,625

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$5,750 - $7,725

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$10,275 - $11,425

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$6,275 - $11,025

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$5,675 - $8,575

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$10,450

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$ NA

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$7,100 - $7,275

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$5,725 - $6,250

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Model History

2024-

Current Generation

Mercedes-Benz moves the high-tech and advanced driver assistance features of its 2024 redesigned E-Class midsized sedan to the next level. The new E-Class is available with infotainment screens that span almost the entire length of the dashboard, allowing owners to download and use apps including games, and the optional video camera allows Webex and Zoom videoconferencing. Mercedes says the driver is blocked from viewing the video screens when the car is in motion. Powertrains include turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines that feature a mild-hybrid setup and use a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.

2017-2023

2017 Redesign Year

The redesigned E-Class delivers nimbler handling and better fuel economy than the previous generation. On the other hand, it dials back on ride comfort, interior room, and user-friendliness. The E300's 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is linked to a nine-speed automatic. This combination works well, but it won't set your heart on fire. Then again, we got a commendable 24 mpg overall. The car is quiet and handles with newfound agility. Though the ride is comfortable, it lost some plushness. Inside, the dash features high-resolution displays, but the controls have grown more complicated. Even adjusting the seat's lumbar support is a multistep process done through the central controller and screen. New technology gives the E-Class the ability to follow the road and steer itself temporarily as a driver-assist feature. Changes for 2018 include new coupe and convertible body styles, powered by a 329-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 hooked up to a nine-speed automatic. An E400 sedan also joins the line with the same powertrain as the new coupe and convertible. Finally, a fire-breathing AMG E63 S wagon and sedan are new, and get a 603-hp 4.0-liter V8 turbo. For 2019 the V6-powered version becomes E450. An E53 gets a mild hybrid setup with a straight six-cylinder engine. Changes for 2020 include a new name for the entry-level model, now called E350 instead of E300, and a boost in horsepower – now 255 hp. Also, blind spot warning is standard on all trims. 2022 models get a freshening with new tail lights and standard adaptive high-beam assist.

2010-2016

2010 Redesign Year

Though it is refined and quiet, we didn't find the 2010 redesign as impressive as its predecessor. Handling is capable, but the steering isn't as communicative as it used to be. Subsequent updates, including revised steering, moved the car back to benchmark status. Our diesel-powered BlueTec test model, (with the Luxury package), provided a more comfortable ride and surprisingly, better steering feedback. Interior accommodations are plush, with comfortable and supportive seats and excellent fit and finish. The Luxury trim is sporty enough; the Sport version has a very firm ride. A convertible, wagon, and coupe are also offered.

2007-2009

2007 Redesign Year

In total, our testing proved the updated 2007 Mercedes E350 a delight to drive. We found it to be quite solid, with an inviting blend of luxury and practicality. The E350 provides excellent ride comfort and agile handling. Rounding out the package is a beautifully constructed and roomy interior featuring supportive seats and good outward visibility. Still though, as is common among the higher-end German cars, we found some of the controls to be overly complicated.

2003-2006

2003 Redesign Year

The E-Class had long been among the best cars CR has tested, traditionally combining a first-class cabin with agile handling and a smooth ride. Redesigned for 2003, the E-Class provides a superb driving experience, combining a very comfortable ride with agile handling, a quiet cabin, and excellent fit and finish. However, we can't recommend the car. Demerits include a transmission that's a bit slow to respond and some awkward controls. The electronic braking system with "brake assist" makes brake modulation non-linear and touchy in some routine stops. Complaints also centered on awkward audio- and too easily unintentionally activated cruise controls.

1996-2002

1996 Redesign Year

Redesigned for 1996, the E-Class sedan and wagon offer precise handling, effortless performance, and an excellent ride. In fact, the E320 4Matic (AWD) wagon is one of the best vehicles we've tested. Acceleration is spirited and fuel economy respectable. The seats are very comfortable. Engine choices over the years include a 3.2-liter V6, 4.2- and 4.3-liter V8s, an inline-6 turbodiesel, and a high-performance 5.5-liter V8. All are mated to a smooth five-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2012 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2012 Luxury midsized cars Ratings