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:

    Jump-starting
    WARNING Failure to follow these directions will cause damage to the electronic components, and can lead to a battery explosion and severe injury or death. Never lean over batteries while con ...

    Important safety notes
    WARNING Do not turn off the engine before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case ...

    Important safety notes
    WARNING In order to avoid possible loss of vehicle control, all seat, head restraint, steering wheel and rear view mirror adjustments, as well as fastening of seat belts, must be done befor ...