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Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2024 review

Saloon Diesel

Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2024 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The E-Class is the car that defined the executive saloon, and the latest generation keeps that reputation firmly intact. From the driver's seat it feels exactly as a Mercedes flagship saloon should: hushed at motorway pace, calm over broken urban tarmac, and effortlessly composed when the miles stack up. The 2.0-litre diesel under the bonnet here is the sensible pick for high-mileage drivers, pulling strongly from low revs and returning around 57mpg on long runs. Inside, the cabin is a genuine step up from the C-Class, with a wide sweep of digital displays, superb seat comfort on long journeys, and a 540-litre boot that swallows family luggage with ease. The nine-speed automatic shifts almost imperceptibly, and the steering is light but accurate rather than sporty. Running costs are the sting in the tail: insurance group 41 and Mercedes servicing prices mean it rewards owners who budget properly. As a used-mileage hero or a long-distance business tool, few cars do the job with this much polish.

UK price from: £55,000

Specifications

Engine	2.0 diesel
Power	197hp
0-60 mph	7.6s
Transmission	9-speed automatic
Fuel type	Diesel
Fuel economy	57mpg
CO2 emissions	130g/km
Seats	5
Boot space	540L
Insurance group	41

Features

Key features: 2.0-litre diesel with 9-speed automatic gearbox; MBUX dual widescreen digital displays with voice control; Active Brake Assist and full LED headlights as standard; 540-litre boot with split-folding rear seats

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads	£54.99	Fits E220d; change axle set every 40k miles
Oil filter	£18.49	Use at every annual or 10k-mile service
Cabin pollen filter	£24.99	Replace yearly for clean airflow and demisting
Front wiper blades pair	£32.99	Aero blades; replace when streaking appears
12V battery	£129.99	AGM type for stop-start; check charge each winter
Headlight bulb H7	£14.99	Keep a spare pair in the boot for night driving

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

Superb long-distance comfort and refinement. Around 57mpg makes it cheap to run for a car of its size. Cabin quality and tech feel a class above its price.

Cons

Insurance group 41 keeps premiums high. Options list is expensive and easy to get carried away with. Diesel only suits high-mileage drivers now; low-mileage users should look at petrol or hybrid.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Mercedes E-Class reliable?

The E-Class has a solid reputation for long-distance durability, with the 2.0 diesel proving tough in high-mileage use. Like any premium car, servicing and parts cost more than average, so a full service history matters.

What is the real-world fuel economy of the E-Class diesel?

Expect around 57mpg on long motorway runs with a gentle right foot, dropping to the mid-40s in town. Short trips suit a petrol or hybrid better, as diesels need long runs to stay healthy.

How much does it cost to insure a Mercedes E-Class?

It sits in insurance group 41, so premiums are firmly in executive-car territory. Shopping around, adding a named experienced driver and choosing a secure parking spot can all help bring quotes down.

Is the E-Class a good family car?

Yes. The 540-litre boot swallows prams and luggage, the rear seats fit adults comfortably, and the calm cabin keeps long journeys stress-free. Just budget for premium running costs.