Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £36,980
Tax Band: G
Insurance Group: 32
MPG: 41.5
CO2: 163
0-62 Mph: 8.5 secs
BHP: 181 BHP
Range: 539 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4/5
The E-Class estate is one of the staples of the Mercedez-Benz range, and the added practicality and flexibility of the estate shape does mean that it will appeal to familes looking for a more practical alternative to a family saloon. However, the Sport setting ruins the ride comfort, and we can't help thinking that a diesel engine makes more sense in a car like this.

PROS:  The E-Class Estate is one of the most spacious and practical estate cars on the market, and also boasts a comfortable cabin with an engine that delivers good performance.

CONS:  The purchase price and running costs of the E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto aren't as competitive as some other models, and the quality of some of the interior plastics doesn't live up to the car's premium image.

Behind the Wheel

The driving experience is quite good with plenty of feedback given through the steering wheel and the car turns quite well without too much body roll when cornering. The engine responds well to the driver, but the Sport suspension settings will be too firm for most people, with the ride becoming especially bumpy on rough roads. The driver's seat is highly adjustable but taller drivers may find that the seat doesn't go low enough for them.

Although it isn't the most powerful engine in the range, the 1.8 litre petrol engine is able to deliver good performance, with 62mph arriving in an impressive 8.5 seconds. The top speed of 139mph is also good, meaning that the E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto will take motorway journeys in its stride.

Looks & Equipment

Estate cars will never be the most attractive vehicles, but the E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto cuts an elegant profile. The sculpted headlight clusters combine well with the grille, creating a classy-looking front end. The lines and curves in the bodywork try to take some of the angular nature of the estate out of the car with some success, and the back end is also tidy and functional, with a large boot door. Inside, the dashboard is attractive and shows all the relevant information, but the computer system can be a little awkward to use while driving.

The alloy wheels are included as standard, and features such as the CD stereo and Bluetooth connectivity are all welcome additions. Inside, the power heated seats and climate control all help to create a comfortable cabin. Some people may find that the temptations of leather seats and the electric panoramic sunroof will be difficult to resist when looking at the optional extras list.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The E-Class has been awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, and comes supplied with plenty of airbags to look after driver and passengers in case of an accident. There are also the usual driver aids such as ABS, ESP and traction control to help keep the car on the road and the driver fully in control. Mercedez-Benz have an excellent reputation for reliability, and the E-Class should prove to be endlessly reliable.

The E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto comfortably accommodates four people and has a massive boot which is ideal for transporting luggage. The rear seats also fold forward to provide even more space.

Value for Money

One factor which will affect the decision that many people will make when considering the E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto is the list price of £37,025, which is one of the larger price tags in the range. Those who are looking for a more efficient car may want to look at the range of diesel engines.

The fuel efficiency of the car is not too impressive either, with the 1.8 litre petrol engine only able to achieve an average 38.7mpg. The insurance group is fairly reasonable for a Mercedes-Benz, meaning that premiums won't be too bad, but these estate cars do depreciate quite quickly when compared to their saloon brethren. The E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto also comes with a three year warranty and roadside breakdown assistance.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Auto 5dr Car Review - by 
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