cashking

Hi,

I was interested in the new E550. Can anyone give me their opinion on the ride quality? I'm older so I actually prefer more of a luxury feel while I do appreciate good performance handling. Is the ride on this car more for the sports car enthusiast?

Busta Riles

In my opinion, the term "ride quality" combines both "luxury feel" and "good handling". This car is both. The Airmatic suspension is a must....once again, in my opinion.

If you want the sports car enthusiast ride quality....go get a 5-series. If you want a soft, boring, old man ride, go get the Lexus. If you want the best overall "ride quality", get the MB or maybe even an Audi.

If you're trying to compare it to a Lincoln or a Cadillac, please don't.

cashking

Thanks for the insight, Busta. By no means do I want a soft ride. Otherwise, I wouldn't care about getting the V8. But I've had a couple of MB's that made me cringe every time I saw a little bump in the road. No caddies for me. lol

BenzV12

You can easily swap suspension components in the last gen Fleetwoods, I mean B Bodies . If you like firm ride yet own a Caddy that's not a problem

However, I think MB W 212 blows Fleetwoods out of water in regards to ride quality and comfort level
Don't let my dad read this message lol

Mbenz260e

haha Are we talking about the '94 fleetwoods or are they bringing that model back? I am partial to the styling of the 80s boats myself

BenzV12

Yup, my message referred to 1993-96 Fleetwoods . I like styling of 80's RWD Caddies too

dan1495

I have a 2012 E550 and find the ride to be just right. I traded in a Lexus LS460 and always thought the ride, handling and steering were not well suited for an entusuaist. 2012 US market E550's do not have Airmatic any longer.

K-A

Avoid the Sport if that's the case, 'cause you will cringe.... at least on the 350's steel Sport suspension.

I find the Sport to ride perfectly balanced and sublime on smooth roads, but imperfections make the suspension fumble.... badly.

LaicepsYdobon

If I recall correctly AIRMATIC is not offered on the 2012 550's anymore. You need to go with a CLS or S-Class if you need it in a sedan.

SolidGranite

Airmatic is a special order option on the 2012s. I drove a 2012 E550 and while I thought the stock setup was good it would be nice to have airmatic.

Rocketman

I just ordered a 550 cab and asked about airmatic and was told by several dealers it is not an option - perhaps that only applies to the cab?

Tjdehya

Airmatic has never been available on the coupe/cab because they are C-class vehicles wearing E-class clothes (so to speak). The airmatic is a special order option for the E-550 sedan.

The sport setting is not the greatest and the Comfort is not the greatest either, but what you do have is the option to change your suspension depending on your mood... and that is "Luxury".

Busta Riles

It's still standard equipment in Canada on an E550. If it were not available, i would've either waited to buy a new car or step up and order the CLS. There was nothing wrong with my E55...but i fell in love with the 4.6TT.

Never Airmatic on a coupe/cab, as TJdehya said. I like the coupe/cab styling, but you're getting less car than the sedan for similar money.

LaicepsYdobon

Good to know. One of my leases is ending and I'm going to be in the market for a 4 door sedan again. I was contemplating a CLS because of AIRMATIC but if I can get it on an E 550 I'd rather get one of those.

monteh

Just took delivery of an E 550 4MATIC with AIRMATIC as a $1610 option. How do I like it?? Heck I only have a hundred miles on it. I can tell you it is a sweet ride compared to the 2007 E 550 4MATIC I traded in. If you want to know more, I will share. Glad to talk about my new "baby."

BenzV12

Congrats, I can't not see your pic assuming I see red X instead lol
This is a nice place and you can learn a lot cool things about your ride as well