[Taboleo] The More You Step, The Greater the Sense of Stability

Test Driving the Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC AMG Line

E350 AMG Line

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] The most common imported car on the streets of South Korea is the Mercedes-Benz mid-size sedan E-Class. As of the end of last year, the number of registered vehicles exceeded 300,000. Among domestic cars, only 15 models, including the Grandeur and Avante, have higher numbers.

South Korea is the country where the E-Class sells the most worldwide. Considering that even the cheapest trim approaches 70 million KRW and the expensive ones exceed 100 million KRW, it is natural that the German headquarters regard it as a key market. The currently sold 10th generation E-Class, launched in 2016, has sold over 200,000 units domestically alone. This is also a first record among imported single models.

The E350 4MATIC AMG Line, which I recently test drove, is considered a flagship product within the E-Class alongside the E250 model. The AMG Line features high-performance brand sensibilities highlighted in various points. The LED headlamps are slightly sleeker, and the hood has a bulging dome shape that gives a strong impression. The front bumper and 20-inch wheels also convey the AMG feel.

The steering wheel incorporates various advanced technologies. There are sensor pads on the front and back that activate capacitive hands-off detection. Even without physical movement, it is possible to control various assistance systems inside the vehicle. It is intuitive and convenient to use without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Just as Mercedes-Benz has recently focused on interior displays, this car is equipped with a 12.3-inch display screen cockpit and its own infotainment system, MBUX. Wood trim, interior mood lighting, and a panoramic sunroof add a luxurious impression at the top level in its class.

E350 AMG Line Interior

The true value of Mercedes-Benz emerges during high-speed driving. While any car tends to become unstable as speed increases, this car shows its unique relaxed acceleration and stable driving performance. It uses a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine combined with 48V mild hybrid technology. It delivers a maximum output of 299 horsepower and torque of 40.8 kg·m. The mild hybrid technology assists acceleration with an additional 14 horsepower and 15.3 kg·m of torque.

Mercedes-Benz’s proprietary driving assistance system, Driving Assistance Package Plus, comes as standard. Compared to the previous package, recognition of vehicles cutting in has improved, and a side collision risk detection function has been added. During the test drive, when I delayed deceleration, the vehicle attempted emergency braking on its own, operating more smoothly than other cars I have experienced so far.

Convenience features are also substantial. The parking assist system, including a 360-degree camera, has become smart enough to recognize parking space lines alone. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, and the audio system is by Burmester.