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:

    Automatic engine start
    The engine is started automatically if you: • release the brake pedal when HOLD is not activated and the transmission is in position D or N • shift the transmission to position R • depres ...

    Storing the current speed or calling upthe last stored speed
    WARNING   The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising ...

    Cleaning the headliner and carpets
    •► Roof lining: use soft brushes or dry shampoo if it is particularly dirty. •► Carpets: use carpet and textile cleaners that have been approved and recommended by Mercedes-Benz. ...