The E450 envelops its passengers in a cocoon of luxury and refinement, ensuring they arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. That is the hallmark of a true luxury sedan, and the E450 accomplishes this with unmatched excellence.
While the E-Class has earned its place on our 10Best list before—its predecessor claimed the title in 2018 and 2019—this marks the first time the new W214-generation has been honored. Notably, the spotlight is on the E450 model alone, as we did not include the E350 in this round of testing.
Performance and Agility
The E450 is the epitome of a refined mid-size luxury sedan, boasting a serene ride and a quiet cabin even at highway speeds. Its inline-six engine is a marvel: smooth, powerful, and sonorous, with sports-car-level acceleration on tap. In our testing, the E450 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.4 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 13.0 seconds at 109 mph.
This impressive performance is matched by its agility. The E450 carves through corners with confidence, delivering the kind of sporty handling and driver feedback that once defined BMW. Switch to Comfort mode, and the car transforms into a tranquil cruiser, effortlessly absorbing road imperfections—even on its striking 21-inch wheels.
Comfort and Range
When it’s time to relax, the E450 excels as a sanctuary on wheels. Long drives become effortless thanks to its remarkable refinement and comfort. Its impressive highway fuel-economy rating of 35 mpg, combined with a 17.4-gallon fuel tank, means over 600 miles of cruising range between fill-ups.
Interior Excellence
Inside, the E450’s cabin exemplifies luxury. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship create an atmosphere of sophistication. While the driver-focused technology can feel overwhelming at first glance, the underlying experience is defined by supple, massaging leather seats, generous space for all passengers, and an ambiance that lifts your spirits.
A Perfect Balance
The E450 strikes a harmonious balance between the serene comfort of the larger S-Class and the dynamic sportiness of the AMG C-Class. Its perfectly proportioned design and well-rounded attributes ensure it excels in every role, making every drive a pleasure. With the E450, you’ll arrive not just at your destination, but in a state of relaxation and contentment, no matter where the journey takes you.