Because the E-Class has been redesigned, we don't yet have predicted reliability ratings for this model. Furthermore, the 2010 E-Class hasn't yet been crash-tested by our preferred source, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. All-wheel-drive models are estimated to get 17/24 mpg city/highway — slightly less than models without all-wheel drive.

Standard safety features for the E350 4Matic include antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags that cover both rows of seats. As mentioned, our test model also came with a few optional safety features, including Blind-Spot Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist, Attention Assist, and an adaptive cruise control system called Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe Brake, which can apply the brakes to slow the car all the way to a stop if needed. Click here to see a full list of safety features.

About the Distronic/Pre-Safe system: It works. In one of my highway drives, someone decided to exit the highway by cutting across three lanes of traffic in front of me and several other cars. I saw what was happening in time to have my foot on the brake pedal, and I'd like to say I was so quick I was able to properly apply the brakes — but the system was quicker. Let's hope I never get to test the airbags.