2005 Mercedes-Benz E Class 5DR SDN AT

Vehicle Overview Mercedes-Benz introduced a new generation of its midsize E-Class sedan for 2003. A 221-horsepower, 3.2-liter V-6 powers the E320, while the E500 gets a 302-hp V-8. A high-performance E55 AMG model that's fitted with a 469-hp supercharged V-8 is also available. A wagon body style is offered, as is rear- or all-wheel drive. The E-Class is slotted between the German automaker's smaller C-Class and top-rung S-Class. Sport versions of the sedan and wagon are available, and rear-drive E500 models gained a seven-speed-automatic transmission for 2004. Bi-xenon active headlights are available. Exterior Moved to a new platform for 2003, the E-Class sedan displays more flowing lines than its predecessor and sports a lower, swept-back front end. Oval headlights are angled back more sharply, and a sculpted trunk replaced the former squared-off profile. The front fenders, hood, trunk lid and bolted-on frame members are made of aluminum. An Airmatic air suspension is standard on the E500 and optional on the E320. Interior Front-seat occupants in the five-passenger interior face a V-shaped console. The Sport edition features black bird's-eye maple trim rather than the brown walnut used in other models. Under the Hood The E320 gets a 221-hp, 3.2-liter V-6, while the E500 packs a 5.0-liter V-8 that cranks out 302 hp and 339 pounds-feet of torque. The supercharged 5.5-liter V-8 in E55 AMG models delivers 469 hp and 516 pounds-feet of torque. In the new E320 CDI sedan, a 3.2-liter inline-six-cylinder diesel produces 201 hp and 369 pounds-feet of torque. The rear-drive E500 uses a seven-speed-automatic transmission, but other models have a five-speed automatic. Safety Sensotronic brake control, which is a brake-by-wire system, promises faster, more surefooted emergency response. Antilock brakes and Mercedes-Benz's Electronic Stability Program are standard. Adaptive front airbags deploy at a lower force in less-severe collisions. Side-impact and side curtain-type airbags are standard. Driving Impressions Civility reigns behind the wheel of the E-Class. Everything about this car is smooth and luxurious. With its 2003 redesign, the E-Class lost most of the heavy feel that was unpleasantly noticeable on previous models. The refined E500 delivers lively acceleration, whether starting from a standstill, passing or merging. Trimmed in beautiful wood, the dashboard layout is a little too complicated for some tastes, and the tachometer should be a bit larger. A utomotive Ad Builder.com Vehicle Marketing Solutions