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2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Luxury Features & Driving Dynamics Tested
2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Redefining Executive Luxury
The tenth-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class arrived in 2017 as a technological tour de force, blending cutting-edge safety systems with autonomous driving capabilities and sumptuous comfort. Our comprehensive evaluation of the E300 reveals why this luxury sedan continues to set class benchmarks five years after its debut.]
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Key Highlights
- Pioneering Safety: Semi-autonomous Drive Pilot system
- Digital Cockpit: Optional dual 12.3-inch displays
- Surprising Performance: 241-hp turbo-four outperforms expectations
- Whisper-Quiet: Exceptional noise isolation
- Tech Overload: Three control interfaces for infotainment
Exterior Design: Conservative Elegance
Mercedes-Benz's design language has become increasingly homogeneous across its lineup, and the E-Class exemplifies this trend. While undeniably handsome, the 2017 model shares strong familial resemblance with both the smaller C-Class and larger S-Class
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Luxury Trim
- Classic three-pointed star hood ornament
- Elegant chrome accents
- 18-inch multi-spoke wheels
Sport Trim
- Aggressive front fascia
- Larger 19-inch AMG wheels
- Lay-down hood badge
The most distinctive angle comes from the profile view, where a character line reminiscent of the original CLS gives the E-Class a sense of motion. However, the rear three-quarter view proves least distinctive, with generic taillights that blend into Mercedes' design language without standing out.
Driving Experience: Silent Sophistication
Behind the wheel, the E300 delivers a masterclass in refined motoring. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque arriving at just 1,300 rpm thanks to:
- Precision direct injection
- Low-inertia turbocharger
- Camtronic variable valve lift
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Engine Sound Controversy
Mercedes employs active sound enhancement through the audio system to compensate for the cabin's exceptional sound insulation. While the company claims it merely amplifies the actual engine note, our testing suggests the system may incorporate supplemental frequencies to create a more V6-like auditory experience.
Transmission and Handling
The 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission sets new standards for smoothness, with imperceptible shifts in Comfort mode. Selecting Sport or Sport Plus transforms the character:
- Holds gears 20-30% longer
- Sharper throttle response
- Increased steering weight
- Firmer adaptive damping
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Optional Airmatic air suspension ($1,500) provides even greater adaptability, with noticeable differences between its softest and firmest settings. The system can automatically raise the vehicle at low speeds to clear obstacles, then lower it at highway velocities for improved aerodynamics.
Interior: Digital Luxury
The E-Class cabin represents a quantum leap forward in both technology and craftsmanship. Highlights include:
Strengths
- Optional widescreen digital cockpit (dual 12.3" displays)
- Exquisite material quality throughout
- Industry-leading noise isolation
- Multicontour seats with massage function
Weaknesses
- Surprisingly tight rear legroom (35.8")
- Artificial leather standard even at $55k+
- Wide center console compromises hip room
- Complex COMAND interface
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Technology Interface
Mercedes offers three control methods for the updated COMAND system:
| Control Method | Location | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Steering Wheel Touchpad | Right spoke | Intuitive for basic functions |
| Center Console Touchpad | Between front seats | Precise but distracting |
| Rotary Dial | Below touchpad | Most precise control |
Competitive Landscape
The midsize luxury sedan segment remains fiercely competitive. Here's how the E300 compares to key rivals:
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| Model | Base Engine | MPG (City/Hwy) | 0-60 mph | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Mercedes E300 | 2.0L Turbo-4 (241 hp) | 22/30 | 6.2 sec | $53,075 |
| 2017 BMW 528i | 2.0L Turbo-4 (240 hp) | 23/34 | 6.3 sec | $51,200 |
| 2017 Audi A6 | 2.0L Turbo-4 (252 hp) | 24/35 | 6.1 sec | $49,900 |
| 2017 Lexus GS 200t | 2.0L Turbo-4 (241 hp) | 22/33 | 7.0 sec | $46,310 |
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Safety and Autonomous Features
The 2017 E-Class introduced Mercedes' most advanced safety systems to date:
]Drive Pilot: Semi-autonomous driving up to 130 mph
- Evasive Steering Assist: Helps avoid collisions
- Car-to-X Communication: Shares hazard data with other vehicles
- Remote Parking Pilot: Smartphone-controlled parking
These innovations helped the E-Class earn Top Safety Pick+ status from the IIHS, with perfect scores in all crashworthiness tests.
Final Verdict: Technological Flagship
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class represents the pinnacle of midsize luxury sedan engineering, though not without compromises. It excels in:
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- Noise isolation and ride refinement
- Cutting-edge safety technology
- Interior craftsmanship
- Surprising performance from base engine
- However, rear seat space disappoints for the class, and the COMAND interface remains needlessly complex. For tech-focused luxury buyers, the E-Class sets new benchmarks, while traditionalists may prefer the analog simplicity of competitors.
Explore current E-Class inventory and pricing at MotorVero's Mercedes-Benz listings.
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Last Updated On Oct, 07-2025