Safety & Features

As of this writing, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested the E-Class wagon. (IIHS has tested the E-Class sedan, but because of the structural differences, those results don't apply here.) Nine airbags, including curtains for the first two rows, are standard; so is an electronic stability system, active front head restraints and antilock brakes. Mercedes' Attention Assist system — which monitors various parameters (steering behavior, for example) for signs of driver drowsiness and alerts you if it detects any — is also standard. Click here for a full list of safety features.

A host of safety options includes second-row side airbags, blind spot and lane departure warning systems, collision detection with automatic braking, and night vision with pedestrian detection.

Standard features on the E350 wagon include all-wheel drive, power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a moonroof and a CD stereo with an auxiliary jack. Leatherette upholstery is standard. It's decent stuff, as faux leather goes, but why genuine cowhide isn't standard on a near-$60,000 car is beyond me. Leather is optional, as are a panoramic moonroof, the Harman Kardon audio system, a navigation system, heated and ventilated seats, and xenon headlights. The Sport Package, with a firmer suspension and unique exterior and interior appointments, is a no-cost option, and Mercedes expects the vast majority of buyers to choose it. Bah.

Load an E350 wagon to the hilt, and the price can crest $75,000.

    See also:

    Restarting the tire pressure monitor
    WARNING It is the driver's responsibility to set the tire pressure to the recommended cold tire pressure. Underinflated tires affect the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You might ...

    Activation conditions
    You can activate the HOLD function if: • the vehicle is stationary. • the engine is running. • the driver's door is closed or your seat belt is fastened. • the parking brake is not applied. • the ...

    Digital speedometer
    •► Press the button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. •► Press to select the digital speedometer. 1 Digital speedometer ...