2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

NEW FOR 2009:

- Last year for this generation

- Avantgarde Edition for all models except E63 AMG

- Standard Bluetooth connectivity, DVD changer, MP3 capability and SD card slot

- Standard COMAND APS with hard-drive navigation, voice recognition and 4-GB audio memory

- Standard iP0d/MP3 media interface

- New Harman/Kardon Logic7 Sound System with 610 watts and 12 speakers

For 2009, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class enters its last year before a planned redesign for 2010. Changes are therefore minimal, with new standard and optional features.

The E-Class is available in six models: the E300 4Matic sedan, with 3.0-litre V6 and five-speed automatic; the E320 Bluetec sedan, with 3.0-litre diesel and seven-speed automatic; the E350 4Matic sedan and wagon models, with 3.5-litre V6 and five-speed automatic; the E550 4Matic sedan, with 5.5-litre V8 and five-speed automatic; and the E63 AMG sedan, with 6.2-litre V8 and seven-speed automatic.

Features on the E300 4Matic include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, sport suspension, COMAND APS with navigation system, six-CD/MP3 stereo, Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, media interface, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, two-stage rain-sensing wipers, heated washer system, electronic trunk closer, active bi-Xenon headlamps with washers and cornering lights, ten-way power heated seats with Artico leather upholstery, split-folding rear seats, heated leather-wrapped multifunction wheel with power tilt and telescopic, black bird's-eye maple trim, power sunroof, auto-dimming rearview and driver's side mirrors, trunk pass-through with ski bag, garage door opener, SmartKey keyless system, tire pressure loss warning system, and Parktronic parking assist.

The E320 Bluetec uses 16-inch alloy wheels and adds a rear window sunshade. It does not have sport suspension.

The E350 4Matic sedan adds AMG 18-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, AMG styling package, heated rear seats, and leather upholstery; it does not have a heated steering wheel. The E350 4Matic wagon uses 17-inch alloy wheels and adds a heated steering wheel and rear-window roller blinds, but does not have sport suspension or rear sunshade.

The E550 4Matic builds on the E350 sedan and adds four-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front multi-contour seats, Airmatic suspension with adaptive damping system, panoramic sunroof, and Keyless Go.

The E63 AMG adds 18-inch wheels with performance tires, AMG sport suspension, AMG Nappa leather upholstery, Alcantara roof liner, and multi-contour seats.

Roomy, comfortable, stylish and powerful, the E-Class offers a wide range, including a diesel, a practical wagon and the 500-plus-horsepower E63 AMG version. Prices remain unchanged from 2007 as an all-new version prepares to hit the road for 2010.