The E420 story isn't all advanced technology and hardware. It's also about
comfort, convenience and understated luxury.
The inside contours are more rounded, giving the interior a softer look. The front
seats are similar to those in the flagship S-Class sedans. Leather upholstery is
standard in the E320 and E420 (optional in the E300D), and dashboard and door panels
are trimmed with burl walnut.
A high quality sound system is an absolute requirement in luxury cars today, and for
that Mercedes went to Bose. The 200-watt 8-speaker AM/FM/cassette system was designed
specifically for the E-Class interior, and its performance in the quiet cabin is just
this side of symphony hall.
A CD player and cellular phone can be ordered as factory-installed options.
The dual zone automatic climate control system includes an electrostatic dust
filter, an activated charcoal filter to shut out pollens and particulates, plus a smog
sensor that automatically switches the system into recirculation mode if elevated
levels of carbon monoxide or oxides of nitrogen are detected.
Another switch circulates residual engine heat when the ignition is turned off to
keep the interior warm for up to 30 minutes.
Like many luxury cars today, a memory system stores seat, headrest, outside mirror
and steering wheel positions for three different drivers. Unlike most systems, it also
stores seat and headrest position for three different passengers.
The tilt-telescope steering column is power-operated, and the remote trunk release
includes a valet lock-out. A power sunroof is available as an option.
Remote entry and security systems aren't unusual among luxury cars, but the
standard system on all E-Class models uses infrared light rather than radio waves, to prevent high-tech thieves from stealing the entry code.
People who step up to German luxury cars expect superior handling response, and
the E-Class sedans are worthy of their national origins.
A new double wishbone front suspension and refined 5-link rear suspension combine
with the stiffer chassis to provide crisp responses and excellent high-speed
stability. The overall feel isn't quite as aggressive as, say, a BMW 540i Sport,
because the E-Class suspension tuning priority emphasized ride quality over absolute
handling.
And ride quality is first-rate. Thanks to improvements in shock absorber damping,
the E420 and its stablemates are more supple than the previous generation. That's not
a big deal on Germany's beautifully maintained highway system, but it's definitely a
plus here in the U.S.
However, the most memorable element of a drive in the E420 is its compelling
power. The engine isn't quite in the same league as the old E500, a limited edition
special with 315 hp on tap. But it's not far behind. Tramp on the gas and 60 mph comes
up in about 6.5 seconds, and passing performance is of the right-now variety.
Thanks to its V8 engine, the E420 adds exhilarating performance to the other
E-Class virtues--superb engineering, good looks, flawless fit and finish,
state-of-the-art safety features and outstanding comfort.