Timeless tradition: The Mercedes-Benz E300

by Metropol | July 9, 2025 8:30 am


Something elegant exudes from a traditional luxury sedan. Sure, the SUV is perhaps more practical, yet drifting along in a classically-proportioned four-door, quietly and reverently, has timeless appeal, writes Ben Selby.

Mercedes-Benz are still flying the flag for traditional luxury, adding the new look W214 E-Class, in particular, the new E300, to their stable.
The W214 E300 is the last remaining sedan in the range. With the same classic proportions as the previous generation, it boasts revised LED headlights and a fresh illuminated front grill embossed with a Mercedes-Benz star pattern design. Subtle chrome accents and 20-inch alloys complement the look well. The flush door handles pop out upon entry and once inside, the refinement starts to run.

With so many premium materials such as a piano black lacquer front fascia and Nappa leather, you are met with a sense of occasion when you jump in from the front or back. Rear seat passengers have oodles of head and leg room, and 540L boot space is more than ample for a weekend away, let alone the weekly shop.

The E300 features the latest generation MBUX interface system with what Mercedes-Benz call a “Superscreen.” This includes a 14.4-inch central touch screen display with 12.3-inch passenger display. It is a very intuitive system to use and the latest generation features a clever ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice activation system. Find a whole host of the latest gadgetry including a plethora of safety equipment such as a 360-degree rear view camera, park assist, lane keep assist, active steering assist and active lane change assist.

I chose to listen to German composer Wagner’s Prelude to Act III from Lohengrin while having a hot stone massage courtesy of the uber-comfy leather chairs.
No, it’s not a powerhouse, yet the E300 has more than enough muscle on tap for sedately commuting and motorway cruising.

Its 2.0L four-cylinder mild hybrid petrol engine with 190kW/420Nm sports some meaty tow low down and brings you up to the national limit in sprightly fashion. A 48 volt Integrated Starter Generator also lends a hand, easily storing and distributing energy when needed most, all while allowing you to waft along in almost
chapel-like quiet.

The E300’s ‘Agility Control’ suspension with selective dampers give an immensely supple ride. As for road noise, what road noise? It drowns out the outside world brilliantly, something all classic feeling, modern luxury cars should be able to do.

Probably one of the best luxury sedans out there at this price point, the E300 offers a distinctly classical feel, brilliantly blending old money tradition with new money technology. Raising its game, this scribe is very impressed indeed. Do give it a try.

FACT FILE: 2025 Mercedes-Benz E300


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