I spoke with my sales rep. today and he said that they just received word that the E350 will be available in the US in the spring. With 272hp on tap and better fuel economy, I would recommend anyone who's in the market currently for a V6 E-Class to hold off for a few months unless you're interested in a great deal on the outgoing 3.2L. I think this car will actually cut into E500 sales as it approaches E500 performance for $7,000 less.

(Image: 3.5L V6 in the E)

 

that's true it may cut into E500 sales cuz of the short performance gap in specs but probably may only be for a short time before MB throws in the new V8's they're producing to replace the classic '5.0L' V8. They've got two new V8's coming, a 4.4 throwing out 325HP I believe and a 5.5 throwing out 410HP, respectifully dubbed 440 and 550 as it follows suit with their naming convention.

 

when's that suppose to be?

 

I'll just be happy with my 221hp V6 that I have. :o

 

DO you think they will present the E350 as an 2006 model or 2005.5 model?

The reason I am asking is that the E-class is due for a minor refresh in '06. Even though it's gonna be "minor" (probably side skirts, bumpers, LED lights, headlight shape, some minor equipment updates...etc.). If MBUSA is brining in the E350 in spring as 2005.5 model perhaps it's better to wait for summer and get your hands on the 2006.

Just wondering. Hope someone has the answer out there.

 

I just got confirmation on our new 2005 E350 4Matic, delivery will be in March/05. This is in Finland, Europe.

 

Don't assume the 350 will "approach E500 performance". Dirve one... you'll see!