Mercedes E 350 D Coupe 2017 Review: 255 HP V6, Luxury Ride

The 2017 Mercedes E 350 d Coupe stands out as a pinnacle of executive motoring, combining a potent 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine with the elegance of a two-door grand tourer. Priced significantly higher than its four-cylinder sibling, this model delivers unmatched refinement, all-wheel drive capability, and long-haul comfort that redefines what a premium coupe can offer.

Powertrain and Performance Excellence

At the heart of the E 350 d Coupe lies a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine producing 255 horsepower and a substantial 620 Nm of torque. This power unit propels the coupe from 0-62 mph in just 6.0 seconds, with a governed top speed of 155 mph, making it brisk for overtaking and highway merging. The engine’s seamless delivery feels even quicker in real-world scenarios, thanks to the massive low-end torque reserves.

Paired exclusively with Mercedes’ nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, gear changes are imperceptibly smooth, enhancing the car’s relaxed demeanor. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensures confident traction in varied conditions, from wet roads to light snow, without compromising the rear-biased feel. Fuel efficiency impresses at up to 52.3 mpg combined under ideal conditions, with urban figures around 44.1 mpg and extra-urban up to 56.5 mpg.

This table highlights the E 350 d’s advantages, justifying its near-£10,000 premium for buyers prioritizing power and poise.

Chassis Dynamics and Ride Quality

Mercedes tunes the E-Class Coupe firmly toward grand touring rather than track-day thrills. The standard air suspension system, adaptive across all corners, soaks up imperfections with poise, delivering a creamy ride ideal for motorways. In Comfort mode, it glides over undulations, while Sport settings sharpen throttle response without inducing harshness.

Handling remains composed, with precise steering and minimal body roll, though it leans in corners like a true GT car. The 4MATIC system aids stability, preventing understeer during aggressive maneuvers. Larger 19-inch AMG wheels strike a balance between style and compliance, avoiding the jittery ride of optional 20-inch alternatives. Braking is strong and progressive, instilling confidence on extended journeys.

• Key Ride Highlights: Exceptional isolation from road noise, wind, and tire roar.
• Adaptive dampers adjust in milliseconds for optimal balance.
• All-wheel drive enhances wet-weather grip without added weight penalty.

Interior Refinement and Space

Step inside, and the cabin exudes sophistication with high-quality leather, wood accents, and metallic trims. The seats, contoured for long trips, offer heating, ventilation, and four-way lumbar support, accommodating drivers up to 6ft comfortably. Pillarless doors enhance the airy feel, though rear visibility suffers slightly when reversing.

Surprisingly accommodating for a coupe, rear seats fit adults for short trips, thanks to a sloping yet recessed roofline providing adequate headroom. Front space is generous, with supportive bolsters preventing fatigue on drives exceeding 500 miles. Storage abounds, from the damped center console to deep door bins.

The 425-liter boot surpasses many hatchbacks, including the Volkswagen Golf, and accommodates golf bags or weekend luggage with ease. Folding rear seats expand capacity further for versatility.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Infotainment

Standard kit includes LED headlights, keyless entry, heated wipers, and Garmin satellite navigation. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen digital cluster (£495) and COMAND infotainment deliver crisp graphics and intuitive menus.

Premium Plus package (£3,895) elevates luxury with a panoramic sunroof, Burmester 3D surround sound, and MultiBeam LED headlights that selectively dim for oncoming traffic, reducing glare effectively. The Driving Assistance pack (£1,695) introduces semi-autonomous Drive Pilot, capable of lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, even suggesting lane changes.

• Infotainment strengths: Responsive touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
• Safety tech: Collision prevention, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition.
• Audio excellence: Burmester system rivals dedicated hi-fi setups.

Design and Exterior Appeal

The E-Class Coupe’s sleeker silhouette distinguishes it from the saloon, with a longer wheelbase and frameless windows lending a cabriolet-like elegance. AMG Line trim adds aggressive bumpers, side skirts, and diamond-grille detailing. Flush door handles and LED taillights complete the modern aesthetic.

Build quality shines through, with tight panel gaps and a premium paint finish. At 4.8 meters long, it commands presence without excess bulk, positioning it as a stylish alternative to saloons.

Ownership Costs and Value Proposition

Starting around £48,000 for AMG Line, the E 350 d’s premium reflects its superior engine, AWD, and equipment. Running costs remain reasonable given diesel efficiency and Mercedes’ three-year warranty. Residual values hold strong in the executive segment.

Compared to rivals like BMW 4 Series or Audi A5, it excels in comfort but trails in sportiness. For those valuing serenity over adrenaline, it’s peerless.

Pros and Cons Overview

Who Should Buy the E 350 d Coupe?

Ideal for executives clocking high motorway miles, valuing refinement and tech over corner-carving prowess. Families may prefer the saloon’s practicality, while enthusiasts eye sportier alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the E 350 d faster than the E 220 d?

Yes, with 63 more hp and 220 Nm extra torque, it shaves 1.4 seconds off 0-62 mph.

How fuel-efficient is it?

Expect 52.3 mpg combined, with real-world figures in the high 40s.

Does it have self-driving features?

Drive Pilot offers semi-autonomous highway driving with lane changes.

Is the boot practical?

425 liters beats many rivals, suitable for daily use.

What’s the warranty?

Standard three years/unlimited mileage, extendable.