The automotive press fleet in Phoenix seemed to be sending a message: family haulers were on the agenda. After reviewing a 7-seater Mitsubishi Outlander, the next vehicle to arrive was the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon. This wasn’t just any wagon; it was the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC, and it immediately captured attention.
The first impression was striking. AMG sport wheels and cross-drilled rotors on a wagon? This E350, finished in Palladium Silver, was more than just practical; it was beautiful. In the bright Arizona sunlight, every curve of the bodywork invited closer inspection. Describing it as a sports car with seating for seven wouldn’t be an exaggeration.
Barely five minutes after the E350 Wagon arrived, a neighbor, a former Mercedes-Benz E320 owner, was already across the street to admire it. He was impressed by the advancements evident in this newer model.
“This is really new,” he remarked, and indeed, the odometer confirmed it with just 1,363 miles. The new car smell was undeniably present, a scent that is always appealing.
Later, a text message from a roommate further confirmed the car’s appeal, stating simply, “Your car is getting a lot of looks.” The Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon was definitely turning heads.
But beyond its aesthetic appeal, how did it perform? The cabin took a little getting used to. True to German automotive design, the seat adjustments were located on the door panel. Once comfortable, operating the transmission via a lever to the right of the steering wheel proved straightforward.
The driving experience quickly brought a smile. Pushing the E350 at higher RPMs using the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters revealed a torquey engine. The 302 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque made it easy to forget this was a wagon. Mercedes-Benz had engineered a vehicle that was both practical and genuinely fun to drive.
The engine note was satisfying, a subtle growl even with sound deadening. The cabin felt solid and well-built, with a reassuringly robust door closing sound.
This particular test car came with a substantial $9,970 worth of optional equipment, including:
- 3-Spoke Sport Steering Wheel
- 18-Inch AMG Wheels
- Heated Front Seats
- High-Performance Tires
- Premium 1 Package (Navigation, Traffic, Weather, Rear Side Window Sunshades)
- Lighting Package (Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Full LED Headlamps with Curve/Corner Illumination)
- Sport Package (Lowered Suspension, Sport Body Styling)
- Parking Assist Package (Active Parking Assist, Surround View Camera System)
- Driver Assistance Package (Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Cross-Traffic Assist, Pedestrian Recognition Braking)
These extras brought the as-tested price to $70,215, roughly double the price of a well-equipped 2013 Acura ILX. While it’s debatable whether it’s twice the car in every aspect, Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for longevity, often reaching hundreds of thousands of miles. The crucial question is the cost of maintenance to achieve such mileage.
A conversation with a local Mercedes-Benz dealership in Scottsdale provided some insights. The first oil change for this model is scheduled at 10,000 miles and costs $235.00. Subsequent major maintenance is recommended every 20,000 miles, at around $600 each time. While these costs seem reasonable for a luxury vehicle, a long-term test would be needed to fully assess the overall maintenance demands.
From a front three-quarter view, the styling is assertive, featuring a wide-mouth front bumper.
The rear of the E350 is substantial, yet surprisingly, rear visibility from the driver’s seat remains good.
A roommate’s brother, a 2010 E350 Bluetec owner, noted that the 2014 model’s seats were a significant improvement. He also appreciated the gauges and active front lighting system. Inside, the E350 offers a tiered approach to passenger accommodation.
The front seats are undeniably first class, offering comfort and support.
The second row provides coach-level seating with ample legroom and easy access.
The rear-facing third row, or economy seating, is best suited for children.
The Active Lighting System was indeed impressive. Instead of abruptly switching off, the lights dimmed gradually, a refined touch.
Beneath the prominent Mercedes star on the grille, one of the car’s multiple cameras is located, contributing to the “around-view” bird’s-eye perspective when reversing.
The 18-inch AMG wheels were a particular highlight, adding to the sporty aesthetic.
Likes:
- Steering wheel grip and contours: exceptionally comfortable.
- Ample power and surprisingly fun driving dynamics.
- Paddle shifters offer quick powertrain response.
- Handling is remarkable for its size and profile.
- Intuitive controls for most functions.
- Advanced technology and driver-assist features, with a clear back-up camera.
- Elegant interior touches like instrument panel strip lighting.
- Estimated 26 mpg highway fuel economy is excellent for its performance.
- 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive provides confidence in various weather conditions.
- Impressively tight turning radius for a vehicle of this size.
Dislikes:
- Call/“help” button placement is too close to and the same size as the map light button, leading to accidental calls.
- Active seat belt tighteners are initially noticeable but likely adjustable.
- ECO mode default upon startup, with engine shut-off at stops, impacting climate control performance in hot weather. Customization may be needed.
- Lack of cooled/ventilated seats considering the price point.
- Cruise control lever is obscured behind the steering wheel, with no steering wheel controls.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon is overwhelmingly impressive. While the $70,000+ price tag is significant, this vehicle delivers on multiple fronts. It’s a car that inspires confidence and enjoyment, suitable for both everyday driving and long road trips.
The opportunity to test drive this vehicle was greatly appreciated. Upcoming travel plans included a road trip to St. George, Utah, for a marathon, promising further mileage accumulation and driving impressions in the Acura ILX.
Have a great weekend!
