Shopping for a used Mercedes-Benz E-Class? This classic luxury sedan has aged like fine wine, making it an excellent option for luxury shoppers on a budget. Our used buying guide takes a look at how these upscale models have evolved during recent decades.
Sixth Generation: 2024-Current Model year
As of this writing, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class isn’t yet a used model; it’s an upcoming model! Compared to previous versions of this luxury sedan, though, these models will feature a brand new look and a ton of new tech. They’ll also be home to the Superscreen, an expansive digital dash that includes the gauge cluster and central touchscreen, as well as a passenger-side screen that lets passengers watch TikTok or play games. And, as always, these E-Class models will be the pinnacle of interior luxury, delivering both richly appointed cabins and a smooth, powerful performance.
Fifth Generation: 2017-2023
Mercedes-Benz has always made it a point to turn out E-Class models with exquisite cabins and high-performance powertrains, and this generation is no different. Depending on model year, you’ll find the E-Class available as a luxury sedan, coupe, convertible, or wagon.
There were also several AMG high-performance models available throughout this generation, which delivered both incredible speed and a list of performance upgrades. Used E-Class models with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system will impress you with their on-road agility (as well as their improved traction on snowy or wet roads).
Mercedes continued to update its flagship E-Class model throughout this generation. Here’s a look at the major changes by model year:
- 2023: No major changes.
- 2022: The AMG 63 is no longer available.
- 2021: These models have refreshed exterior style. A new MBUX infotainment system replaces the COMAND system. The E 450 wagon is now called the All-Terrain. Every E 450 model now features an inline six-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid system.
- 2020: A new, more powerful E 350 model replaces the outgoing E 300. The E-Class now comes standard with more features.
- 2019: Every model gets a redesigned steering wheel. Also, a new E 450 model replaces the outgoing E 400, ultimately providing more power. A new AMG E 53 model features a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid system.
- 2018: The coupe and convertible E-Class models are fully redesigned to match the fifth-generation sedan and wagon models. The base E300 wagons and sedans offer a longer list of standard features. Shoppers can choose from two new trim models, the E400 sedan and the AMG E63 S.
Fourth Generation: 2010-2016
Older E-Class models still have what it takes to impress you. This generation of luxury cars is known for its outstanding performance, delivering both plenty of power and world-class agility. Inside, you can expect high-end style and generous space, no matter which body style you select. Depending on the model year, you can snag a fourth-generation used E-class with a wagon, sedan, coupe, or convertible body style!
Here’s how the E-Class evolved over its fourth generation, according to model year:
- 2016: The E400 Hybrid and E 63 AMG models are discontinued. (But shoppers looking for high-performance models can still choose the E 63 AMG S sedan or wagon.)
- 2015: New E400 model features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (329 hp, 354 lb-ft).
- 2014: These models feature new exterior styling, with a sleeker front end. They also feature a new suite of driver safety aids and an automatic start-stop engine system. If you’re looking for a diesel engine, you should know that the E250 Bluetec sedan replaces the E350 Bluetec. Instead of a diesel V6, it features a turbocharged 2.1-liter diesel four-cylinder engine (195 hp, 369 lb-ft). The E63 AMG is now more powerful (550 hp, 531 lb-ft), with standard all-wheel drive. An S-Model package is available for the E63 AMG to make it even faster!
- 2013: Two new models are available, the E350 Coupe 4Matic and E400 Hybrid. The coupe and cabriolet models now come standard with heated front seats. The sedans and wagons now offer an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system. Mercedes also updated its mbrace telematics system.
- 2012: Every E-Class model gets a new, more powerful engine (except for the turbodiesel E350 Bluetec). The E550 sedan now features standard 4Matic. All E550 and 4Matic models now feature electromechanical steering (replacing last year’s hydraulic steering). The E63 now features automatic start-stop engine technology. And the E63 wagon makes a comeback.
- 2011: In addition to the return of the wagon body style, the E-Class now offers a convertible. The diesel V6 also returns. Compared to the previous year, these models feature a few styling tweaks, inside and out, including new headlight control switches and, for coupe models, new grille mesh.