This generation of the E Class is a popular sight on Irish roads, in particular with taxi drivers and executives who cover long distances. This is a testament to the car’s reliability and comfort.  More an evolution of the last model than a revolution – it carried with it all the class and understated elegance of the previous generation, and gained just a little extra pizazz in the form of sleeker lines, a larger grille, and a more sculpted, sloping bonnet. This was an effort to appeal to a younger market and shake its image as strictly an older person’s car, without alienating the fiercely loyal long-term Mercedes aficionados. We think they struck a nice balance designing this update and with a good choice of economical engines, as well as all the style, sophistication, comfort, refinement and practicality we have come to expect from that three pointed star (not to mention the impressive resale values) – the E Class remains a timeless and clever choice for an executive saloon.

• Foot operated parking brake can take some getting used to

• Unrivalled refinement
• Beautiful to look at inside and out
• Great to drive, feels smooth and sporty on the move
• Standard kit and safety features are in abundance
• Highly practical with spacious cabin and big boot

• The AMG model can be expensive to run