The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with luxury, and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 sedan continues this tradition, offering a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and performance. As part of the refreshed E-Class lineup for 2021, the E350 stands out as an entry point into the prestigious E-Class family without compromising on the premium experience Mercedes-Benz is known for. For those seeking a sophisticated daily driver that excels in both city streets and open highways, the 2022 E350 warrants serious consideration.
The Appeal of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Remains Strong
Despite minor changes for 2022, following a significant refresh in 2021, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class maintains its position as a top contender in the luxury midsize sedan segment. While the larger S-Class might overshadow it in sheer size and prestige, the E-Class, and particularly the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350, offers an exceptional package that balances luxury and value. Available not only as a sedan but also in coupe, convertible, and wagon body styles, the E-Class caters to diverse preferences. However, for many, the sedan, especially the E350, represents the core of the E-Class appeal – a refined, technologically advanced, and comfortable vehicle suitable for everyday use and special occasions alike.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Benchmark of Excellence
The Edmunds expert team consistently rates the Mercedes-Benz E-Class highly, and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 benefits from this esteemed lineage. The E-Class, as a whole, is lauded for its premium interior, smooth ride, and advanced driver assistance features. These elements combine to create a well-rounded luxury experience that sets a high standard in its class. While the review data often stems from tests on higher trims like the E 450, the fundamental qualities highlighted – the refined cabin, comfortable ride, and technological sophistication – are equally applicable and desirable in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350.
Performance of the E350: Smooth and Effortless
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivers smooth and effortless acceleration suitable for daily driving. While perhaps not as rapid as the higher-powered E 450, the E350 provides ample power for merging onto highways and navigating city traffic with ease. The nine-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. Although specific 0-60 mph times for the E350 are not detailed in the original review which tested the E450, it’s expected to offer respectable acceleration for its class, prioritizing smooth and comfortable power delivery over outright sportiness.
Comfort in the E350: A Sanctuary on Wheels
Comfort is a cornerstone of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class experience, and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 excels in this area. The seats are designed for long-distance comfort, offering ample support and adjustability. While described as firm, they remain comfortable even on extended drives. The ride quality is smooth and isolates passengers from road imperfections, further enhancing the sense of luxury. The cabin is remarkably quiet, minimizing road and wind noise intrusion, creating a serene environment. The climate control system is effective and operates quietly, ensuring passenger comfort in all conditions. Even without the optional air suspension mentioned in the original review (tested on E450), the standard suspension of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 is engineered to provide a comfortable and composed ride, a hallmark of the E-Class lineage.
Interior and Technology of the E350: Modern Luxury
The interior of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 mirrors the sophisticated design found throughout the E-Class range. It features Mercedes-Benz’s user-friendly MBUX infotainment system, accessible via a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a touchpad on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, along with a wireless phone charger, keeping occupants connected on the go. The digital instrument cluster further enhances the modern and tech-forward feel of the cabin. While the steering wheel controls might take some adjustment due to their capacitive touch design, the overall layout is intuitive and driver-focused. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 provides a luxurious and technologically advanced interior environment expected in a vehicle of its class.
Storage and Fuel Economy of the E350
The trunk space in the E-Class sedan is noted as being somewhat smaller compared to some competitors, but the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 still offers a usable 13.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Folding rear seats enhance versatility for carrying longer items. Small-item storage within the cabin is well-considered, with a decent-sized center console, door pockets, and glovebox. In terms of fuel economy, while the original review mentions figures for the E 450, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 with its four-cylinder engine is expected to be even more fuel-efficient. The EPA-estimated fuel economy for the E350 is likely to be competitive within the luxury sedan segment, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
Value Proposition of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 presents a strong value proposition within the luxury market. It embodies the premium quality and craftsmanship Mercedes-Benz is renowned for, from the paint finish to the interior materials and the tactile feel of controls. While the warranty is standard for the luxury class (four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain, and rust warranty), the overall ownership experience of the E350 is designed to be one of premium satisfaction. For buyers seeking entry into the E-Class prestige without the higher price tag of the E450 or AMG models, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 offers a compelling blend of luxury, features, and value.
Recommendation: The E350 as a Sensible Choice
While the original article recommends the E 450 for its more powerful engine, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 stands as a highly sensible and appealing choice for many luxury sedan buyers. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers sufficient power for daily driving, while offering potentially better fuel economy. The E350 retains all the core luxury, comfort, and technology features that make the E-Class desirable. For those prioritizing a refined and comfortable daily commute, sophisticated technology, and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 is an excellent entry point into the E-Class family and a strong contender in the luxury sedan market. Consider adding the Driver Assistance package for enhanced safety and convenience features, making the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E350 an even more compelling and well-rounded luxury vehicle.
