Airmatic vs Luxury Comfort steel suspension
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Airmatic vs Luxury Comfort steel suspension
I'm trying to figure out if I want to pay the extra amount of money for Airmatic in a new W213. I'd either have that option, or just to have the Comfort/Luxury version of the 213. They don't have either for me to test drive here (which is sad). I didn't like the sport version of this car with the lowered suspension, and is my single biggest regret with my current car (W204).
Hoping to not make the same mistake again. Looking for your feedback, thanks!
Hoping to not make the same mistake again. Looking for your feedback, thanks!
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Run flat tires are the biggest contributor to a harsh ride. If you plan on keeping the car beyond the warranty period be aware that air suspension repair costs are very high (>$2k per wheel). I have steel suspension on my W213 and the ride is OK. It will be better when the run flats are replaced.
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Run flat tires are the biggest contributor to a harsh ride. If you plan on keeping the car beyond the warranty period be aware that air suspension repair costs are very high (>$2k per wheel). I have steel suspension on my W213 and the ride is OK. It will be better when the run flats are replaced.
Which suspension do you have? The luxury or sport one? I'm thinking about getting rid of the RFTs but the idea of having to lose trunk space is a bit...unappealing, but there's no way around it I think.
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From: New York
2025 E450 Sedan: 2019 E450 Coupe
I have an 2018 E400 luxury sedan model. The ride is a little softer than the sport. I went with luxury more for the nicer interior than comes with the sport. With luxury you get stitching on the dash and door panels. Also if you go with leather rather then the cheap m-Tex, you get Napa leather seating which is beautiful, just more expensive.
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From: Central NJ
2020 E450 Estate (currently negotiating order),2007 Lexus ES 350, 2010 Subaru Outback
I'm considering the purchase of an E now and, if ordered, will opt for the luxury version with the air suspension and upgraded nappa leather seats. I, like you, have had a difficult (impossible) time trying to find a dealer/any dealer who might have an E with (at least) some of the comfort features in a car for a test drive. Other than going to the NY Car Show this April, I'm not sure if/where else I'll be able to see an E configured that way I may choose to order. At least for me, I won't even consider ordering a new car without first being able to see/touch/experience it beforehand. I intend to buy-and-hold the car, not lease for a short period of time. Good luck on your search. {PS: My guess is that you are an MB fan and probably won't consider the BMW 5. I recently test rode the 540iX, with the upgraded nappa leather interior and 18" non-run-flat tires. The ride was very comfortable and on-par with my Lexus for comfort. While I'd prefer the E (it has somewhat better IIHS safety and head rest restraint ratings), unless I can see/test-drive one with the seating and comfort options I need (my wife has a very bad back and needs comfortable/supportive seating and a reasonably soft ride), I will not be able to bring myself to ordering the E. Plus, I have to admit that I really like the idea of the 5's option of ordering with non-run-flat tires! I've read too many horror stories about run-flat side wall failure, and I drive (fairly often) in areas with long stretches of rural roads with very limited traffic (often without cell phone service in these areas). Would hate to get stranded with a blow-out.
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I'm considering the purchase of an E now and, if ordered, will opt for the luxury version with the air suspension and upgraded nappa leather seats. I, like you, have had a difficult (impossible) time trying to find a dealer/any dealer who might have an E with (at least) some of the comfort features in a car for a test drive. Other than going to the NY Car Show this April, I'm not sure if/where else I'll be able to see an E configured that way I may choose to order. At least for me, I won't even consider ordering a new car without first being able to see/touch/experience it beforehand. I intend to buy-and-hold the car, not lease for a short period of time. Good luck on your search. {PS: My guess is that you are an MB fan and probably won't consider the BMW 5. I recently test rode the 540iX, with the upgraded nappa leather interior and 18" non-run-flat tires. The ride was very comfortable and on-par with my Lexus for comfort. While I'd prefer the E (it has somewhat better IIHS safety and head rest restraint ratings), unless I can see/test-drive one with the seating and comfort options I need (my wife has a very bad back and needs comfortable/supportive seating and a reasonably soft ride), I will not be able to bring myself to ordering the E. Plus, I have to admit that I really like the idea of the 5's option of ordering with non-run-flat tires! I've read too many horror stories about run-flat side wall failure, and I drive (fairly often) in areas with long stretches of rural roads with very limited traffic (often without cell phone service in these areas). Would hate to get stranded with a blow-out.
Last edited by superangrypenguin; Feb 24, 2018 at 10:55 AM.
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EQE 500 4MATIC replacing EQC 4matic AMG line P
I currently have a C250d with airmatic. I recently test drove a european spec sportline which has sports suspension which incs 15mm lowering over the standard. It was fitted with 20" wheels and MOE (runflat tyres). Admittedly I live in France and we have excellent roads generally smooth with few potholes. The car was surprising for comfort of ride and felt luxury smooth. Noise however was appalling compared to an earlier test drive last year of the all terrain. We did go up into the forest on an old tarmac road which was quite ridged and it felt firm but still not too hard but I would say you would guess the car was set up for sportiness however noise levels were even worse. Why they let the salesmen choose the sporty models with ridiculous wheel sizes when most customers will not be selecting those options dismays me.
I have ordered my e class with airmatic as I have enjoyed the ride in my c but again remember on the test drive the steel setup gave a very similar feel. Another complaint re test drives though you rarely if ever have the chance to step from one type to the other when it is all fresh in your mind!
I do notice the use of dynamic select does make handling better on twisty routes as you would expect but without making the ride seem firmer over the few rough roads we have. On the estate even the steel suspension cars have an air self levelling system which I assume could be expensive to repair so the risks of repair costs may not be greatly enhanced if you opt for air body control (airmatic rebranded!)
I have ordered my e class with airmatic as I have enjoyed the ride in my c but again remember on the test drive the steel setup gave a very similar feel. Another complaint re test drives though you rarely if ever have the chance to step from one type to the other when it is all fresh in your mind!
I do notice the use of dynamic select does make handling better on twisty routes as you would expect but without making the ride seem firmer over the few rough roads we have. On the estate even the steel suspension cars have an air self levelling system which I assume could be expensive to repair so the risks of repair costs may not be greatly enhanced if you opt for air body control (airmatic rebranded!)
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EQE 500 4MATIC replacing EQC 4matic AMG line P
I hope so as I have included the option
. But my point is the silly extreme demo model i drove does not support the claim the car is quiet. My c class on 17inch winter tyres performs better. Only because I had previously driven the all terrain and noted it was at least as quiet if not a bit quieter than my c was I happy to think it was just the wheels and tyre combination. I could easily have decided not to upgrade to the e. The acoustic package was also an attraction as it is unavailable in the c. I do also think the e has a smoother ride.
. But my point is the silly extreme demo model i drove does not support the claim the car is quiet. My c class on 17inch winter tyres performs better. Only because I had previously driven the all terrain and noted it was at least as quiet if not a bit quieter than my c was I happy to think it was just the wheels and tyre combination. I could easily have decided not to upgrade to the e. The acoustic package was also an attraction as it is unavailable in the c. I do also think the e has a smoother ride.
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This is not an option for any MB E/C class in Canada. Can we stay on topic here? The point of this thread is to discuss suspension harshness, not so much noise in the cabin if you have double pane laminated glass in the acoustic comfort package. :p
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From: Ontario, Canada
2017 E400
Anyway the ride was marginal at best. After a couple weeks I really regretted not ordering the airmatic. I did have the tires swapped with non run flat and bought a can of fix a flat. Ride was much improved but overall I’d say the car needs air suspension. It’s not the best ride quality for sure but with regular tires it’s ok. Livable but needs to be just a little bit more supple not floaty. Just a tad hard edged especially for an E class.
And yes, I do wish we could also order acoustic. I don’t know why we can’t get it.
But, buttom line is I do love the car even with these issues and I’d get another albeit with airsprings.
Last edited by Mitch105; Feb 25, 2018 at 12:12 PM.
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2021 E450 Coupe, AMG Pkg. Obsidian Black with Mocha Interior
I’m so glad I went with the Air suspension, it really makes a big difference. If you’re going to do something, do it right and go all out. You’ll regret not getting the upgraded suspension. My two cents.
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Thanks. Precisely the info I needed. Only a $2000 option for me. Any issues/warranty claims with your Airmatic thus far?
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From: Eastern Maryland
ES350 E300 GLE350 GMC3500 Duramax
I'm considering the purchase of an E now and, if ordered, will opt for the luxury version with the air suspension and upgraded nappa leather seats. I, like you, have had a difficult (impossible) time trying to find a dealer/any dealer who might have an E with (at least) some of the comfort features in a car for a test drive. Other than going to the NY Car Show this April, I'm not sure if/where else I'll be able to see an E configured that way I may choose to order. At least for me, I won't even consider ordering a new car without first being able to see/touch/experience it beforehand. I intend to buy-and-hold the car, not lease for a short period of time. Good luck on your search. {PS: My guess is that you are an MB fan and probably won't consider the BMW 5. I recently test rode the 540iX, with the upgraded nappa leather interior and 18" non-run-flat tires. The ride was very comfortable and on-par with my Lexus for comfort. While I'd prefer the E (it has somewhat better IIHS safety and head rest restraint ratings), unless I can see/test-drive one with the seating and comfort options I need (my wife has a very bad back and needs comfortable/supportive seating and a reasonably soft ride), I will not be able to bring myself to ordering the E. Plus, I have to admit that I really like the idea of the 5's option of ordering with non-run-flat tires! I've read too many horror stories about run-flat side wall failure, and I drive (fairly often) in areas with long stretches of rural roads with very limited traffic (often without cell phone service in these areas). Would hate to get stranded with a blow-out.
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2021 E450 Coupe, AMG Pkg. Obsidian Black with Mocha Interior
Another cool added feature is that there a button on the center console that allows you to “raise” the car up, so if you’re parking at a higher than normal curb
you can just raise the car and not worry about scraping your front bumper on it. Ditto on low driveways on hills. The ride is the real draw however, on longer trips you’ll really appreciate at and on rougher roads you’re internal organs will thank you. 👍🏼
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2017 e300
I got airmatic for my 2017 e300 one year ago. So far, no problem.
Comfort mode with RFT in city driving give you a lot better comfort ride than steel suspension. You can feel the difference with sport, and sport+ mode in
Highway driving. The ABC for 2017 E class is different from C class for my understanding.
Please find airbody.pdf for 2017 E class.
Comfort mode with RFT in city driving give you a lot better comfort ride than steel suspension. You can feel the difference with sport, and sport+ mode in
Highway driving. The ABC for 2017 E class is different from C class for my understanding.
Please find airbody.pdf for 2017 E class.
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I got airmatic for my 2017 e300 one year ago. So far, no problem.
Comfort mode with RFT in city driving give you a lot better comfort ride than steel suspension. You can feel the difference with sport, and sport+ mode in
Highway driving. The ABC for 2017 E class is different from C class for my understanding.
Please find airbody.pdf for 2017 E class.
Comfort mode with RFT in city driving give you a lot better comfort ride than steel suspension. You can feel the difference with sport, and sport+ mode in
Highway driving. The ABC for 2017 E class is different from C class for my understanding.
Please find airbody.pdf for 2017 E class.
So if Air Body control isn't Airmatic (which it doesn't appear it is), is it still "air suspension" in the traditional sense or is it purely hydraulic based (like the Genesis G90?). E.g. Do these things fail less frequently?
It appears to me based on the PDF that it's still a traditional air suspension, then in that case, anyone know why MB is now calling it "Air Body Control"?
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2021 E450 Coupe, AMG Pkg. Obsidian Black with Mocha Interior
Thanks! I gotta mention that this is my first Mercedes Benz, coming from five BMWs since 2000. Three 3 series, a 535i and my last one a 640i in 2015. My first month with the new E400 Coupe I was still pretty dubious. I just wasn’t used to the fact that it didn’t DRIVE like a BMW, but now, several months and a few thousand miles in, I’m a total convert. The ride, the features, the design of the interior and exterior, absolutely loving it. It’s so similar to the S Class Coupe too. M Benz has done a really great job with this car. One last piece of advice. Don’t (DO NOT) pass up the massage seat option!! Enjoy 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
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Cayman S
When I bought the MB, they wouldn't change the tires, but they did acquiesce to my demand to sell me a space saver spare and the jack paraphernalia. They ordered the pieces from the factory. The tires on my MB are even worse that RFT's. They were Goodyear Eagle Sport MoExtended, which are only rated for something like 35 km while flat. Well, that is pretty ridiculous, not to mention all the performance compromises with RFT. I replaced them the day I picked up the car. I also bought the MB sealant-type repair kit, which contains enough goop to inflate a MB sized tire.
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Cayman S
Yes, I'm very well aware of the costs, and thus I always buy the 7 year warranty from MB. I realize only years 1-6 inclusive cover the suspension, but it's a gamble I'm willing to take.
Which suspension do you have? The luxury or sport one? I'm thinking about getting rid of the RFTs but the idea of having to lose trunk space is a bit...unappealing, but there's no way around it I think.
Which suspension do you have? The luxury or sport one? I'm thinking about getting rid of the RFTs but the idea of having to lose trunk space is a bit...unappealing, but there's no way around it I think.
Junior Member
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From: Ontario, Canada
2017 E400
I have nice Michelin Primacy non run flats on my car and the ride is just OK. It could use with a more supple compliance as the car still does thump over some bumps and has not all that much give around town.
Gives me incentive to upgrade to the S class though!
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From: New Jersey
MB W213 E300 4MATIC Luxury Model
Its crazy all the hoops we have to jump through. I mean what is the big deal? If we want non ruflats and a spare for under the trunk mat why not just offer it? As it is I do believe the ride quality for the new E class is flawed. Perhaps its that 18inch wheels and the tire profile can't give a compliant ride. Maybe 17 inch wheels and smaller are whats needed. But truth is these cars need the airmatic.
I have nice Michelin Primacy non run flats on my car and the ride is just OK. It could use with a more supple compliance as the car still does thump over some bumps and has not all that much give around town.
Gives me incentive to upgrade to the S class though!
I have nice Michelin Primacy non run flats on my car and the ride is just OK. It could use with a more supple compliance as the car still does thump over some bumps and has not all that much give around town.
Gives me incentive to upgrade to the S class though!
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Like, seriously?! Anyways...FWP.
Last edited by superangrypenguin; Mar 1, 2018 at 10:07 AM.
Junior Member
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From: Ontario, Canada
2017 E400
All of this has to sit in the trunk, above the trunk lid, right? (just double checking). It's quite frankly ludicrous that I'm in the market to spend around $90K (kitted out E400), and I'm having to think about replacing the tires from day 1, and cluttering my junk.
Like, seriously?! Anyways...FWP.
Like, seriously?! Anyways...FWP.
i do do think the spare fits under the trunk mat. It’s an empty space down there obviously for a spare tire in some markets. But I have a can of fix a flat. Next car 100% airmatic for me.
