zuessh

Hello MBWorld, I am a new member and a huge MB fan. I do not currently own a MB but have been looking for a while, and am hoping to get some advice/suggestions/info/etc. I recently ran across two MBs, a 2014 E 350 and 2016 GLE 350, and with both being in my wheelhouse I need some help. All things being equal for the two vehicles (hoping that doesn't offend fans of either ), and from a 30,000 ft view, which of the two vehicles would have more options for after market upgrades (if i'm asking that correctly)? For example, if I wanted to upgrade the instrument cluster to the digital version (seen in some of the AMGs I believe) and/or wanted to add the LED interior lighting, would either one be more conducive to doing so? Does either offer more upgrade options?

Also, please feel free to offer any other thoughts/opinions/etc on either vehicle. For me, the more info the better!!! Thanks in advance and looking forward to being able to post about my 'new to me' MB!!

MJ50

moved to W212 forum...

BenzV12

Hello,
I have not seen a digital instrument panel made for the W212s .That's one of the tings I would love to have surely
You can install Android Auto because our screens don't come with the touchscreen option and screen size is small compared to newer Mercedes-Benz models as well . You can buy wireless phone charging pads to replace cup holders or place it under arm rest if you like . I dislike yellow hue lights, white interior led lights are great .

nc211

i can’t really speak much to the customization aspect, other than the 2016 likely has the better comand platform (that runs the infotainment) which would make upgrading a bit easier.

But I will say this - while I adore my 2014 E350 sedan, hindsight 20/20, I do wish I had gone the GLE route instead sometimes. I’m older now, have had mine for 6 years, and wouldn’t mind the SUV elevated ride and easy of getting in/out. The E is low. You’re basically sitting on the floor. It is so low infact that I can get the entire hood under our security gate, nearly up to the windshield.

If max comfort is your thing, then I would go for the GLE. However, and this is just my own opinion, the W212 sedan is perhaps one of the greatest E series sedans all around that MB has ever built. The looks are timeless, the interior is a beautiful place to spend your time, it is an absolute joy on curvy roads (think West Virginia), and wears like a fine leather-band watch. Techno-wizardry, it is not. That stuff started to show up in the next generation, and doubt you will get a lot of glowing comments about it in this section…

nc211

PS, you should expect to spend a couple thousand per year to maintain it properly, and stay out of the dealership. Find a good indi, they are around. But things like leaking cam magnets, worn front diff seals (if 4Matic), worn driveshaft couplings, hard to DIY spark plugs, etc. These are nuts and bolts cars, not plastic clips and easy access. You buy one of these knowing it can easily last you a decade or two, but will need some things along the way. Ignoring a Merc’s upkeep after year 3 of life, WILL catch up to you.
The upside is that you’ll be able to enjoy a merc for far longer than you would expect. Mine is coming up to 10 years old now, and there is no reason why it can’t see another decade of enjoyment at this point.

juanmor40

We recently bought a 2015 ML350, and though I feel the car is great it is not as great as the 2014 E350. The suspension range is longer; you can feel the 4Matic on the big wheels. On a straight line though slow to speed up (heavier), you can easily cruise, overpass, and enjoy a long trip; however, I would not be doing 100+ on anything with significant turns since it is obviously taller, and the wife is already uncomfortable with me speeding even on the E.

Since you are new to the brand, please stay away from the 4 cylinder turbo engines. In particular with used vehicles since you would likely have no warranty and there have been some issues with some of them.

Left Coast Geek

the instrument cluster in a W212 *is* digital, its just not 100% flat screen like some newer cars are.

if thats what you want, get a newer (2017+) Mercedes that already has that feature.