For the longest time, an E-Class Mercedes-Benz has represented the very essence of the Three-Pointed Star. A thoroughly engineered luxury sedan that had a massive focus on safety, quality and reliability. As the years went by, the tech increased - most notably with the introduction of the W211 in 2003.
Since then, it’s become a technological tour de force, nearly equalling the S-Class in terms of first-rate tech and intelligent features.
The latest model, which first appeared in 2016, has been given a recent facelift. While still handsome, it’s lost some of the individualism associated with Benz’s midsize saloon. From afar, you’d struggle to tell it apart from the bigger S - or indeed, the smaller C.
Still, it’s a handsome car, one that’s perfect for flying under the radar. And fly you will - despite the seemingly ordinary four-cylinder turbodiesel that lives under the bonnet, the 143 kW/400 Nm oil-burner will shove the big Benz to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds. Drive it gently - as you should - and you’ll return 5.2 L/100 km. The top speed of the 220d is 240 km/h.
The diesel engine is barely audible at highway speeds, but can sound a touch gruff at low speeds. Still, it’s certainly not bad. The turbodiesel melds well with the 9G-tronic automatic gearbox. Shifts are near-imperceptible, blurring through the cogs as the engine quietly gets on with its business.
Adding to the relaxing experience is the softly-sprung suspension. It soaks up the bumps nearly as well as the outgoing S-Class, particularly when equipped with smaller wheels.
Simply put, the interior is supremely plush and spacious, whether you’re seated in the rear or up front. Dense, solid-feeling materials cover most surfaces, with leather or fine wood trim pieces taking up plenty of interior real estate. The boot is equally as commodious, offering up 540 L of luggage space.
While plush feeling, we feel that for the price, Mercedes-Benz should beef up the standard features. It’s certainly not bare - a reverse camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and LED headlamps are all standard. But it’s surprising that a R988 200 Mercedes-Benz requires buyers to pay extra for keyless-go (part of a R17 100 package), metallic paint (R5 700) and a panoramic sunroof (R25 100. It does at least come standard with a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a two-year/unlimited km warranty plan.
Verdict
When we critique the relatively sparse equipment levels (for the price) and the slightly gruff engine (at low speeds), we’re really nitpicking. In actuality, the E220d is a superb motorcar. It’s sleek, subtle and so elegant. What’s more, it feels sumptuous without being over the top, and a welcome throwback to the solid, sturdy Benzes of old.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Celebrates 140 Years with an Epic Glob and the Mercedes-Benz Gla.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-Benz E220d cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-Benz E220d starts at around R950,000 for the base model, but prices can climb to R1,200,000 depending on the specification and optional extras you choose.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz E220d worth buying?
The E220d is worth buying if you want a refined luxury sedan with excellent fuel economy, strong safety credentials, and that unmistakable Mercedes prestige, but only if you can justify the premium price tag.
Q: What are the main problems with the Mercedes-Benz E220d?
The main issues include potential diesel particulate filter problems if driven mainly in city conditions, expensive maintenance costs at Mercedes-Benz dealers, and some owners report minor electrical gremlins with the infotainment system.
Q: How much fuel does the Mercedes-Benz E220d use?
The E220d returns an impressive 5.2 litres per 100km when driven sensibly, making it one of the most fuel-efficient luxury sedans you can buy in South Africa.
Q: What are the best alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz E220d?
The BMW 520d, Audi A6 40 TDI, and Volvo S90 D4 are the closest rivals, with the BMW offering sportier handling and the Audi providing similar luxury at a slightly lower price point.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes-Benz E220d is a solid choice if you've got deep pockets and prioritise comfort over everything else. At around R950,000 to R1,200,000, it's not cheap, but you're getting a supremely refined luxury sedan that sips diesel like a Sunday afternoon beer. The 143kW turbodiesel engine delivers adequate performance while returning excellent fuel economy, and the interior quality is genuinely impressive. However, the high purchase price and expensive maintenance costs mean it's really only worth considering if you're already committed to the Mercedes-Benz ownership experience. For those seeking the best luxury sedan under R1,000,000 in South Africa, you might want to consider a well-specced BMW 520d or Audi A6 instead, both of which offer similar refinement at a lower entry price.
