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- Marcus
The diesel engine makes the Mercedes-Benz E20 Bluetec a heck of a cruiser.
OUR TAKE: A remarkable driving experience: Terrific chassis, good power, imperceptible shifts and near 30 mpg--in mixed driving conditions.
The steering is better than the last E-Class we drove, but it still feels way too light, and turn-in is likewise too abrupt. A car of this heft should have proportionately heavy-weighted steering.
The car definitely feels lighter than its 3800 pounds might dictate. Jump on the accelerator and the diesel is fantastic, all torque, all the time. There is a slight hesitation at throttle tip-in, but peak torque at 1600 rpm shoots you away in no time. Combine the thrust with the E's cushy ride and quality interior surroundings, and you have a heck of a cruiser that provides great fuel economy and an entertaining ride.
That said, this car seems happiest out on the freeway. The ride is ultra smooth and the engine, spinning at around two grand, just wafts along silently, but still with more than enough poke to get around traffic if need be.
As-tested price: $56,770
Drivetrain: 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6; rwd, seven-speed automatic
Output: 210 hp @ 3800 rpm, 400 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm
Curb weight: 3860 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 26/29.1 mpg
Options: Premium package including DVD navigation, satellite radio, heated front seats, power rear window sunshade, hands-free communication ($2,410); Iridium silver paint ($710); wood/leather steering wheel ($550); iPod integration kit ($425)
2008 Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec - AutoWeek Magazine
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