10 Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz E350 Years (With Facts & Stats)

The Mercedes-Benz E350 is a luxury midsize car that was first introduced as a 2006 model year.

It belongs to the E-Class vehicle line and is known for its first-rate interior, comfortable riding dynamics, and generous tech and safety features. 

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the best and worst model years of the E350.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz E350 Are:

The best Mercedes-Benz E350 model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2016, 2015, and 2009. The worst model years of the E350 are 2006, 2007, and 2014. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Mercedes-Benz E350?

2023 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2023 E350 is one of the best model years in terms of reliability, tech features and personalization options. It has also scored impressive scores from owners and auto professionals alike and was ranked #1 out of 10 midsize luxury sedans according to Edmunds.

The model sports an exquisite cabin with an excellent design and various comfort features.

Driver assistance technology on the 2023 E350 is some of the best on the market and truly makes driving easier.

Noteworthy safety features include a driver drowsiness monitor, evasive steering assist, and pre-safe sound system.

This model year also secured a perfect 5-star rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).

  • Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 77 / 100

2023 E350, Edmunds review:

“I drove the competitors BMW 5, Audi 6, Lexus ES 350 and this new E Class is really something special. I had the other cars via a Subscription Model including the 2020 Mercedes so I have recent experience for weeks at a time driving the cars. The MBUX is a great user experience. Buy the Premium package because of the 360 camera and the upgraded audio system. The other add-on stuff is fun but not really needed…”

2022 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2022 E350 is a luxury sedan that has all the bells and whistles any car owner could want.

It sports an upscale cabin, numerous standard features, even more optional tech, and a fuel-efficient 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission.

EPA estimates place combined driving at 26 mpg, city-only driving at 23 mpg, and highway-only driving at 31 mpg.

Drivers who appreciate variety will be pleased to hear this model comes in 11 unique body colors and 12 different interior color schemes. 

  • Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 77 / 100

2022 E350, Edmunds review:

“Phenomenal tech, smooth as glass engine and decent fuel economy make the E53 a must have. Definitely worth the few $$’s over the E450. Get the upgraded steering wheel to allow fast changes in and out of sport or sport+ mode. Love the touchscreen and smooth trans. It is a bit tight on the interior though.”

2021 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2021 E350 is a 5th-generation model that belongs to the highly acclaimed E-Class vehicle line. J.D Power ranked this model in third place for upper midsize premium cars.

It comes with a mildly refreshed exterior design, an all-new MBUX infotainment system (replacing the old COMAND infotainment system), and a bevy of various tweaks and updates.

It is more than capable of seating 5 full-grown adults, albeit at the cost of a slight reduction in storage space.

Its drivetrain is a rear-wheel-drive paired with a dependable 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission.  

The 4MATIC variant of the E350, on the other hand, is all-wheel-drive. 

  • Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 77 / 100

2021 E350, Edmunds review:

“The car met all my expectations. Having owned one before I was impressed with the updates they have made over the years. Smooth ride with all the toys.”

2020 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2020 E350 is a wonderful luxury midsize sedan that sets the standard for premium design and comfort.

The model boasts various driver assistance technology and infotainment features, along with a vast selection of customization options.

All models were fitted with blind-spot monitoring and passive entry as standard (previously optional).

According to EPA estimates, this model can reach up to 24 miles per gallon for combined city and highway driving.

It is powered by a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 255 horsepower and 273 pound-foot of torque paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission system. 

  • Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 75 / 100

2020 E350, Edmunds review:

“The transporter on Star Trek could not be more comfortable, classy and safe.  My E350 handles curves, hills and obstacles like it was a part of me.  Driving is effortless and fun to drive.” 

2016 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2016 E350 is the final version of the 4th generation of the E-Class vehicle line and is considered to be one of the most superb iterations overall.

This model was ahead of its time with a visibility-enhancing surround-view camera, which makes parking a breeze as you get a 360-degree bird’s-eye view from four cameras.

The model boasts a smooth ride, a wide variety of tech, and an efficient powertrain.

It comes in 6 trim levels: Sport, Luxury, Sport 4MATIC, Luxury 4MATIC, Sport 4MATIC Wagon, and Luxury 4Matic Wagon.

Its 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine is one of the most powerful engines in the segment, providing 302 horsepower. 

  • Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 82 / 100

2016 E350, Edmunds review:

“The performance of the car, from my expectations, is spot on. In Eco mode, I find myself driving the car with patience and purpose. If I need a little more, it’s there. In Sport mode, it’s a completely different car. Dr. Jekyll, meet Mr. Hyde. The response never lets me down. In sport mode, the car begs to be driven differently. So I oblige. My only performance related mark that is not “great” is shifting, and that is really only a concern when I want to use the paddle shifters…”

2015 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2015 E350 is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, yet relatively modern E-Class. This model year scored impressively high scores from auto review sites and owners.

While no major changes were implemented, it did a good job at working on recurring problems and concerns experienced by owners of previous model years.

The model has extensive safety features, a powerful and efficient engine, and smooth driving dynamics.

It can confidently accommodate 5 full-grown adults while accommodating up to 15.9 cubic feet of luggage in the trunk.

According to EPA estimates, this model can achieve up to 28 mpg for city driving, 42 mpg for highway driving, and 33 mpg for combined driving. 

  • Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 82 / 100

2015 E350, Edmunds review:

“I bought my CPO 2015 Mercedes Benz E350 Sport last week, but in that time have already driven over 2,000 miles in a mixture of fast highways, quiet suburban roads and gridlocked city streets. This car is smooth, quiet, powerful, and most important, COMFORTABLE. The seats are perhaps the best of any car I’ve ever driven, and I’ve driven many. This is my first. E class, but I’ve had five C class cars before and this is a real step up in terms of comfort and serenity, with only a slight step down in sportiness. So far I’m very impressed. Update1/14/19 I’ve now owned the car for about a year and a half and have added over 50,000 miles to its odometer. Everything initially mentioned remains true. This car is extremely comfortable, fast, smooth, quiet and RELIABLE. Other than routine maintenance its needed absolutely nothing. This is the best car I’ve ever owned.” 

2009 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2009 E350 is a great choice for those on a tight budget. Despite being slightly dated it still possesses the core attributes that make an E-Class, namely: comfort, luxury and prestige.

The model boasts a sleek and dignified interior and exterior, pleasing riding dynamics, and a reliable 3.5 liter V6 engine.

It comes with an intuitive audio unit, a standard 6-CD/DVD changer with video playback, and a hard-drive-based navigation system that can hold up to 4 GB of music files. 

It has a robust rear-wheel-drive system paired with a 7-speed shiftable automatic transmission.

  • Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 82 / 100

2009 E350, Edmunds review:

“My 2009 E320 BlueTec is a superb automobile. Subtle yet classy styling (black exterior/interior/wood trimmed steering wheel) that always draws compliments. Extraordinary performance (400 ft-lbs of torque mean effortless acceleration – the power surge is like a locomotive). Unbelievable economy (I’m averaging 33 mpg over 25,000 miles of mixed city/highway driving in the Washington DC area). Comfortably seats four adults – meaning large adults! – and can accommodate five…”

Consumer Scores For Best Mercedes-Benz E350 Years

Model YearEdmunds
Consumer Rating
Kelley Blue Book
Consumer Rating
JD Power
Consumer Rating
2023 Mercedes-Benz E3504.5 / 5.04.2 / 5.077 / 100
2022 Mercedes-Benz E3504.5 / 5.04.2 / 5.077 / 100
2021 Mercedes-Benz E3504.4 / 5.04.2 / 5.077 / 100
2020 Mercedes-Benz E3504.4 / 5.04.2 / 5.075 / 100
2016 Mercedes-Benz E3504.5 / 5.04.7 / 5.082 / 100
2015 Mercedes-Benz E3504.5 / 5.04.7 / 5.082 / 100
2009 Mercedes-Benz E3504.2 / 5.04.6 / 5.082 / 100

Related: How Long Do Mercedes-Benz E350 Last? (Solved & Explained)

What Are The Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz E350?

2006 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2006 E350 is the most problematic model to date according to NHTSA data.

The main problem owners faced is fuel leakage and issues with the fuel system.

Owners commonly reported smelling fumes after filling up the tank.

This was a known issue that led to Mercedes extending the warranty period.

In many instances, the fuel tank and fuel system components needed replacing.

Crankshaft and balance shaft problems were widely reported and a number of owners reported brake failure.

Common Problems:

  • Engine problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Transmission problems

2007 Mercedes-Benz E350

Much like the 2006 E350, the 2007 E350 was plagued by issues with the fuel system.

There was a recall issued however some owners complained they were not covered by it despite having fuel system problems.

Symptoms included fuel leakage and strong gas smells in the interior.

Here is one owners report:

“There is a strong smell of gasoline due to a defective gas tank seal – this problem is exacerbated when the gas tank is filled or nearly filled, the extreme danger of the gas fumes emitted manifests itself in the probable explosion causing deathly harm to people, owners and innocent bystanders, property, including the car itself. The car is a 2007 mercedes-benz e-350.”

Common Problems:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Interior accessory problems

2014 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2014 E350 was widely affected by the infamous Takata airbag recall. The airbags were known to explode and fire shrapnel into the cabin, posing a serious health and safety risk.

Owners complained in their droves due to the amount of time they had to wait for repairs due to the shortage of parts.

Problems with the car’s speakers were also widespread with owners stating that they would crackle, make static noises and in numerous instances smoke would come out of them.

Here’s what one owner had to say:

“This car has an electrical problem related to the radio amplifier and speakers. Many stories on the net of burning wire speakers and amplifier related to this. I have disconnected after wife complained of smell of electrical fire and smoke from speakers.”

Common Problems:

  • Takata recall
  • Smoke from speakers
  • Rusting of subframe
  • Brake lines rusted

Mercedes E-350 Common Problems

  • Fuel leakage / fuel system problems
  • Takata recall
  • Speakers caught fire
  • Balance shaft and crankshaft issues
  • Subframe rusting
  • Faded wood trim

Related: 7 Most Common Mercedes Benz E-Class Problems (Explained)

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Mercedes-Benz E350?

Make & ModelScoreMSRPFuel Economy (MPG)
Mercedes-Benz E3508.7$54,950 – $113,500City: 16 – 23 /Highway: 23 – 31
BMW 5-Series8.6$54,200 – $142,000City: 15 – 25 /Highway: 21 – 33
Genesis G808.4$50,000 – $65,750City: 16 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 32
Audi A68.3$55,900 – $59,800City: 21 – 24 /Highway: 30 – 31
Lexus ES8.2$41,440 – $50,230City: 22 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 34
Lexus ES Hybrid8.2$41,900 – $51,080City: 43 /Highway: 44
Volvo S908.2$57,000 – $70,500City: NA /Highway: NA
Acura TLX7.6$39,650 – $62,000City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 31
Jaguar XF7.5$47,000 – $52,700City: 22 – 25 /Highway: 30 – 33
Cadillac CT56.9$38,195 – $90,995City: 13 – 23 /Highway: 21 – 33

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

Related: 12 Best & Worst Lexus ES 350 Years (With Pictures)

References

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mercedes-benz/e-class

https://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/

https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/2022/

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/mercedes-benz/e-class

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercedes-Benz/E350/

https://www.carproblemzoo.com/mercedesbenz/e350/

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...