Mercedes-Benz's E-Class range has long been the automaker's bread-and-butter lineup. A direct descendant of the rattly, yet long-lasting diesel sedans of the '70s and early '80s, the E-Class has seen considerable evolution over the years, leading to the highly refined vehicles of today. 

                                                  Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan Review
 

For the latest model year, the E-Class receives a pair of new engines that are significantly more powerful and fuel-efficient than the units they replace. E350 models receive an all-new 3.5-liter V6 that utilizes direct-fuel injection and a high compression ratio to achieve 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. E550s get a twin-turbo 4.6-liter V8 that produces 402 ponies and 443 lb-ft of torque.

                                                    Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan Review

Both engines hook up to a smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission that helps return 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with the E350 and 16/24 mpg for the E550.

                                                   Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan Review

The rest of the E-Class was also redesigned recently, representing a significant step up from its predecessor. In addition to an all-new interior and exterior, the E-Class packs a number of new or improved high-tech features, as is typical of Mercedes-Benz. Despite offering more in virtually every department, the new model lists for $4,600 less than the prior version.

Technical Specs Engine
Standard Engine: 5.5L V8
Standard Transmission: 7 Speed Manual
Cylinders: 8
Horsepower @RPM: 518@5250
Fuel Economy Cty/Hwy: 15/22
Combined Fuel Economy: Not Listed
EPA Class: Mid-Size
Number of Valves: 32
Torque @RPM: N/A
Fuel Type System: Gas Engine / Sequential Electronic Fuel Injected, Sequential Port Fuel Injected Sequential, Multi-Port Fuel Injected
Turbo (Yes/No): Yes
Overdrive Transmission: Yes
Battery Output: N/A
Compression: 10.0:1
Displacement: 5461/333
Bore X Stroke: 3.86×3.56
Cruising Range: N/A
Final Drive Gear Ratio Opt: N/A
Power to Weight Ratio: 7.8
Final Drive Ratio: Yes
Valves Configuration: Dual Overhead Cam/Twin Overhead Cam
Supercharged: No
Electric HorsePower RPM: N/A
Electric Torque Feet Per Pound: N/A
Electric Torque RPM: N/A
Electric HorsePower BHP: N/A