It’s no surprise that Americans as a whole have replaced their previous love of station wagons with SUVs and crossovers. While there are a few holdouts yet, most acknowledge that to really lure Americans toward wagon-eque vehicles, you gotta market them like they’re something else. Enter, the Mercedes E450 All-Terrain, formerly known as the E-class wagon.
Available in Europe for the past few years, Americans will now be able to check out the newly revamped E450 All-Terrain. Let’s take a look at what some are jokingly calling, “the world’s best, most lavishly equipped Subaru Outback”.
Design
Wagon lovers will be pleased to know that the new E450 All-Terrain and the outgoing Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic wagon are at best, only slightly different. Comparatively, the Mercedes E450 boasts a higher ground clearance, along with an unpainted rear, front, and side cladding, giving it a bit more of an ‘outdoorsy’ appearance.
In terms of spaciousness, the E450 can fit 5 comfortably, making it a good pick for the family. There’s a bit of disconnect between the luxurious interior and the vehicles “All-Terrain” moniker. If it were up to us, we’d have added a bit more of a rustic feel to the inside of this wannabe off-roader.
Performance
Let’s dig into the “all-terrain” aspect of the E450 All-Terrain. The model offers two specific off-road modes with downhill speed regulation: Offroad, and Offroad +. While this car is by no means a true off-roader, these driving modes will make it much easier for drivers to navigate slippery, wet, and icy conditions.
Additionally, last year’s 362-hp twin-turbo V-6 is out. In its place stands a new turbocharged inline-six backed up by a 48-volt electric system featuring mild hybridization. So essentially, you’ll get the same 362 horsepower, just with added 369 lb-ft aided by up to 184 lb-ft from the electric motor.
Luxury features will include: Active Distance Assist with Route-Based Speed Adaption, Active Steering Assist, Active Stop-and-Go Assist, and Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function.
Headlights
As with any new car on the market, we’re particularly interested in the headlights it offers. The Mercedes E450 All-Terrain will feature updated, narrow, split full-LED headlights and taillights, giving the face a sleek, streamlined look.
Drivers will have the option to upgrade to multibeam LEDs.
More specs on the Mercedes E450 All-Terrain
- Price: Will likely fall around 60k
- Engine: 3.0-liter Turbo Inline-6 Gas
- Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
- EPA fuel economy: Not yet rated
- Drivetrain: All Wheel Drive
- Configurations: E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain
It’s hard to say whether the E450 All-Terrain will make people fall in love with the wagon again. Regardless, it’s an all-around good car for sure. Want more new car reviews? Check out more overviews here!