EXTERIOR

With signature bright-eyed circular headlights, the E350 coupe appears alert and ready for the day. The low window height added to the E350's sleek appearance. Not to be mistaken for any other brand, the Mercedes emblem in the grille was astonishingly large — in fact, it was larger than my 6-year-old's head.

As with most coupes, the E350's doors were large, but not cumbersome. When we opened the doors and pulled the front seats forward, my boys had plenty of room to enter the second row. However, child-safety seats aren't as agile as children and it was awkward getting them through this same opening. Not impossible, just awkward.

A world of possibility really opened up when we took a look at the trunk. It was huge. This car could make Costco trips and family vacations easy for everyone. Golf clubs? No problem! Strollers? Bring 'em on!

The E350 coupe has a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that's paired with a standard seven-speed automatic transmission. It gets an EPA-estimated 17/26 mpg city/highway. Don't even think about serving it regular gasoline. Premium gas is all the E350 is able to digest.

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Not Really
Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): None

    See also:

    Transfer case
    This section is only valid for vehicles with 4-wheel drive (4MATIC). Power is always transmitted to both axles. Performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. The brake ...

    Cockpit
    Cockpit Function 1 Steering wheel paddle shifters 2 Cruise control lever 3 Instrument cluster 4 Horn 5 PARKTRONIC warning display (Canada only) 6 Overhead control panel 7 Climate control sys ...

    Closing the hood
    WARNING When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers. Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone. Make sure the hood is securely engaged before driving of ...