MotorTrend magazine has bestowed the prestigious title of Car of the Year upon the Mercedes-Benz E-Class for 2025. This comprehensive review delves into the exceptional features that set this model apart. The E-Class showcases nimble handling, a finely-tuned driver assist system, and a smooth suspension, while also presenting some less desirable attributes such as a slow brake pedal, frequent voice assistant interruptions, and a stuffy cabin during auto-stops.

Top of the Midsize Luxury Sedan Class

The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class leads the pack among midsize luxury sedans. Redesigned in 2025, it now features a new rear-wheel-drive entry-level arrangement and a robust AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ system. The drivetrain is highly sophisticated, with several high-tech additions that give it an edge over competitors like the BMW 5 Series, the Genesis G80, and the Audi A6.

New Features Galore

The 2025 E-Class comes with five exciting new elements. There's the rear-wheel-drive E350 base model, a high-output Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ PHEV system, a standard center airbag between the front seats, a special-order Patagonia Red color option, and a leather-free MB-Tex interior upholstery option that now includes the steering wheel.This high-tech vehicle boasts sizeable displays, advanced safety features, and an innovative powertrain. Test drivers have noted fine handling, decent body control, and a weightless feel on winding roads.

Addressing the Negatives

While the 2025 E-Class has many impressive qualities, there are a few aspects that test drivers have noted. The brake pedal response could be quicker to instill complete confidence in drivers, similar to that found in an Audi. Additionally, the voice assistant's frequent interruptions to offer suggestions and instructions can be annoying, especially when engaging in conversations with passengers. Another drawback is that the auto stop-starts cause the HVAC system to shut off, resulting in a stuffy cabin when the vehicle isn't moving. However, the fuel-saving powertrain feature now operates almost imperceptibly.

Varied Powertrain Options

The 2025 E-Class offers three powertrain options, all paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The E350 comes with either rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive and features a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with an integrated starter-generator. The E450 has a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six hybrid engine, producing 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft available if needed. The Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ has a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine generating 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, along with an electric motor that provides 161 hp and 354 lb-ft, resulting in a total output of 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. With the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package, the output increases to 603 hp.

Tech Galore

The 2025 E-Class is equipped with an impressive array of technology. It includes a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a standard 14.4-inch central touchscreen. An optional 12.3-inch passenger display forms the Superscreen, a smaller version of the Hyperscreen found in other Mercedes-Benz models. Other features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 64-color ambient lighting, LED logo projectors, voice commands, navigation with subscription-based live traffic information, in-car Wi-Fi, three USB-C charging ports, over-the-air software updates, and wireless charging. Entertainment apps like TikTok, Angry Birds, Webex, Zoom, and Vivaldi are also included on the center display.