Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review
Published: 28th February 2005
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class might be a large saloon car but on driving it we were surprised at how agile and enjoyable it was. A new four-link front suspension and multi-link rear suspension replaces the previous double wishbone set-up offering a responsive, dynamique ride and the optional Parameter Steering which is speed sensitive is both well-weighted and direct. Given the overall dimensions and weight of the car not once did it feel cumbersome.
Our test car was fitted with optional AirMATIC Dual Control semi-active air suspension with adaptive damping and self-levelling suspension - electronics hold the car at a constant level thanks to its air-filled struts and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The strut settings are electronically controlled allowing them to adapt to different driving styles and situations. This semi-active air-suspension system has three settings one comfort and two sports. In comfort mode the car cossets both you and your passengers gliding smoothly over road imperfections. In either of the sports modes the more enthusiastic driver can take advantage of the E-Class' improved agility and handling without compromising the ride quality making the E-Class behave more like a sports saloon than a limousine. When cornering at speed the system automatically stiffens the suspension enhancing driver pleasure. Although relatively expensive at £1240 this system is absolutely superb and comes highly recommended.
Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) Mercedes-Benz's revolutionary brake-by-wire system is standard on the new E-Class. The brake pedal is connected electrically to the main brake cylinder and a powerful microprocessor feeds information to the hydraulically-activated brakes using electrical pulses. A special simulator uses spring pressure and hydraulics to give pedal resistance maintaining the driver's feel for the brakes. SBC is quicker than a conventional system resulting in shorter stopping distances - around three percent at 70 mph. The system is a little unnerving to begin with especially when you come to a road junction in traffic but you soon get used to it and if you take your foot off the accelerator you will gradually come to halt with the system braking for you it also apply's the brake lights. It will effectively hold the car on the brakes without you having to touch the brake pedal. ABS (anti-lock braking system) with BAS (brake assist) are part of the SBC system as standard.
ESP (electronic stability programme) with ASR (acceleration skid control) counteracts skidding by applying the brakes to individual wheels and adjusting engine power exactly when and where its needed.
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