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My only disappointment with my 25MY E450 is the seat. It has the standard seats in leather and I’m constantly tweaking positions trying to get comfortable. It seems that the back of the bottom seat tilts down too much and is too stiff. If I raise the back rear position, I have to lower the front part and recline the back which is then uncomfortable that way. Hopefully I’ll find the right combination but I’m still searching.
I’ve found the brakes to be perfect for my liking and with the Airmatic steering, it feels like a VW bug maneuvering in a parking lot.
And knock on wood, it hasn’t had a single hiccup yet.
To call it the "baby S-Class" without context was my confusion. Looking like an S-Class is not what I assumed it meant. The S-Class is known for superior ride comfort and the C-Class rides like a small car and not even close to an E let alone an S. I agree, it's marketing hype.
I, too, did not use voice controls in my W213. It was hard to remember the exact phrase needed to perform a task (at least for me). The voice control in the W214 is light years ahead of the W213. "Hey Mercedes" uses natural language so you can ask it to do most any task without worrying about how to say it and it works wonderfully. Therefore, I use it all of the time now.
I forgot the term that MB calls it but basically you could keep giving a second command without activating the assistant again followed by the first command which makes thing even easier that way. It will then perform the function especially if the command is related to the previous activity.
Good news about brakes feeling better in time. I only have 300 miles on my car. Yes voice commands is now the ticket to much more safer driving. I hope mb does go back to buttons though. I actually miss the jog control. Got so use to it over the years I guess.
Good news about brakes feeling better in time. I only have 300 miles on my car. Yes voice commands is now the ticket to much more safer driving. I hope mb does go back to buttons though. I actually miss the jog control. Got so use to it over the years I guess.
They want you to rely on it over capacitive touch they have been putting in the vehicle, and screens. So your eyes are glued on the road, not the screens. Solution to a problem that shouldn't had existed (ie. kept buttons)
In my W213 one still has to look for a given button or select an icon and press the big rotary button. I'd much rather have the touch screen controls in one place instead of buttons scattered between the console, the right dashboard, the left dashboard and the steering wheel. Don't forget about the scattered seat, window and lighting controls that can't be operated without looking for them. I've piloted aircraft with a simpler control layout.
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Originally Posted by ua549
In my W213 one still has to look for a given button or select an icon and press the big rotary button. I'd much rather have the touch screen controls in one place instead of buttons scattered between the console, the right dashboard, the left dashboard and the steering wheel. Don't forget about the scattered seat, window and lighting controls that can't be operated without looking for them. I've piloted aircraft with a simpler control layout.
Contra point:
Once I am in my car the only things that I adjust and/or turn on are:
Temperature: these are easy to do with the buttons
Radio stations: without looking down or taking my eyes off the road I rotate the big rotary button
Heated steering wheel in the winter
Heated seats in the winter
As I drive the car 99.9% of the time, the seat is already set. No adjustment
I use the buttons on my steering wheel for cruise control.
I do not know what you mean by: Could you be more specific
"buttons scattered between the console, the right dashboard, the left dashboard and the steering wheel. Don't forget about the scattered seat, window and lighting controls"
I set my lighting 6 years ago and haven't touched it since and of course the windows are controlled by buttons on the door which again I can use without taking my eyes off the road.
I have to adjust/verify 24 settings when I get in the car such as seat position, seatback position, headrest position, seat ventilation, lumbar support, mirrors, steering wheel, HVAC & windows, lighting, multimedia, HUD content & position, sunshades and various assist functions. When underway items that may need to be adjusted include driving mode, lighting, hazzard lights, multimedia, various assist functions, HVAC & windows, sunshades. A peculiar item is seat ventilation is located on the door instead of with other ventilation controls.
Note that the controls for these items are scattered about the car and some are not on the diagram such as lumbar control which is a 4 way switch on the lowest part of the seat closest to the floor, . Many assist functions must be acccessed via display menus and the rotary control that are difficult to do while driving.
An issue that is probably only in Florida is a requirement that one must turn on headlights anytime the windshield wipers are operating. I got a warning for it during a very light drizzle.
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Originally Posted by ua549
Evidently you are the only driver. Lucky you.
I have to adjust/verify 24 settings when I get in the car such as seat position, seatback position, headrest position, seat ventilation, lumbar support, mirrors, steering wheel, HVAC & windows, lighting, multimedia, HUD content & position, sunshades and various assist functions. When underway items that may need to be adjusted include driving mode, lighting, hazzard lights, multimedia, various assist functions, HVAC & windows, sunshades. A peculiar item is seat ventilation is located on the door instead of with other ventilation controls.
Note that the controls for these items are scattered about the car and some are not on the diagram such as lumbar control which is a 4 way switch on the lowest part of the seat closest to the floor, . Many assist functions must be acccessed via display menus and the rotary control that are difficult to do while driving.
An issue that is probably only in Florida is a requirement that one must turn on headlights anytime the windshield wipers are operating. I got a warning for it during a very light drizzle.
I am sorry but you have got to be kidding!
You have three seat memory positions: each position remembers, how far back the seat, seat back, head rest, outside mirrors. I leave my temperature at 68 auto in the winter and 72 with AC in the summer. Can't imagine anyone doing differently.
When you driving: I have my light switch set on auto since day one and the wipers set to the lowest setting. Mercedes when the wipers come on so do the lights. That is Federal law. Nothing for you to set.
As to lumbar support: You do know that Mercedes designs the lumbar support to slowly bleed out: when I inquired I was told Mercedes was afraid the bladder if full and left in the heat could "BLOW". Never heard of such a thing. But once the lumbar is set, every 5 to 7 days I just press the button to make sure it is full.
What you are doing is what I did the first 2/3 months of ownership: I kept fiddling with every control and it was distracting and made driving dangerous. My wife was in the car and asked what I was doing. She said why not set it to what you like and leave it alone. She was correct - wives often are. Suggest you do the same.
Just because there are 64 color combinations for the lighting doesn't mean each time you drive you have to try them. Better to "set and forget".
I agree most everything is set and forget. I keep my AC at 70 both summer and winter but will sometimes change it based on how I feel at the time. Sometimes I like it warmer and sometimes colder but more often than not, 70 is perfect for me. I have a rather large music collection on USB that I typically have on any one of several play lists playing in random order. If I need to change it, it's a simple task on the touch screen. I will change the auto steering for cruise control since sometimes I want to steer myself but still have the speed managed by the car. I don't find any of these things distracting and having real buttons would not change that. I do miss the rotary dial in my W212 for quickly scrolling through artists on the USB drive. I don't need to do that often, but when I do, the dial is missed. Most everything I need is easily done with voice. For example, starting a massage is as simple as saying "start an invigorating massage" and it starts. Want to turn the seat heat on, just say "turn my seat heat to level X". Much of this, I use routines for so even less to do for me. I have it set to not need the wake word when it's just me. I've turned it off for a while and even made it so I have to hit the button on the steering wheel, but I prefer the car listening most of the time. The area where that can be an issue is at a drive through where you have to speak to someone. Happened to me at the CVS drive through where the car said, I'm sorry bla bla bla. When I told the car to cancel, the pharmacist thought I was talking to them. I had to explain to them that I was talking to the car.
The loaners at my dealer are either GLC or C class. I would choose a Honda Accord or the CRV or the RAV4, at the same price over the C class or the GLC. At thousands more to me it is a no brainer.
But people like to say they are driving a Mercedes!
Check out Consumer Reports.
Have you ever read a bad car review in Car and Driver? That is the reason I canceled my subscription many years ago.
It is like a stock broker: Hold means sell.
That bad? I see, maybe it really is a good idea to get a economy brand fully loaded than a GLC and C-Class? Or like what you did, get an E-Class.
I agree with you but at the same time, that made me curious about your thoughts on: and I understand we humans are often spoiled by nice things. For example, an S-Class owner that gets in an E-Class will also can't wait to get back into the S-Class just like how an E-Class owner that gets in an C-Class can't wait to get back in the E-Class.
Since I do have a family member that has a 2019 E 450 coupe, I totally relate to your experience, I do agree the price difference is worth it as the cars are so similar yet so different in terms of the overall experience. That said, despite being spoiled whenever I get in the C238, I am spoiled by other things like performance/size and exhaust note over luxury, although I got to admit W213 E-Class is a piece of art interior wise, I think it is timeless and aged very well, the star dust taillights are amazing at night oh and the no b-pillar!
Good that MB builds different cars for different needs and wants after all : ) Great car and... S-Class is better : ) That said, do enjoy your E-Class : )
Wish you all a Merry Christmas and happy holidays!
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Originally Posted by W205C43PFL
That bad? I see, maybe it really is a good idea to get a economy brand fully loaded than a GLC and C-Class? Or like what you did, get an E-Class.
I agree with you but at the same time, that made me curious about your thoughts on: and I understand we humans are often spoiled by nice things. For example, an S-Class owner that gets in an E-Class will also can't wait to get back into the S-Class just like how an E-Class owner that gets in an C-Class can't wait to get back in the E-Class.
Since I do have a family member that has a 2019 E 450 coupe, I totally relate to your experience, I do agree the price difference is worth it as the cars are so similar yet so different in terms of the overall experience. That said, despite being spoiled whenever I get in the C238, I am spoiled by other things like performance/size and exhaust note over luxury, although I got to admit W213 E-Class is a piece of art interior wise, I think it is timeless and aged very well, the star dust taillights are amazing at night oh and the no b-pillar!
Good that MB builds different cars for different needs and wants after all : ) Great car and... S-Class is better : ) That said, do enjoy your E-Class : )
Wish you all a Merry Christmas and happy holidays!
I have owned the Audi 8L, several BMW 740iL and S class Mercedes. IMO the best seat in the those cars is behind the driver. In Europe almost all these cars are chauffeur driven - not owner driven.
I have also owned several A6, BMW 5 series as well as many E Classes. 95% of the time I am alone in my E Class: 4.5% wife my wife and the balance of .5% with another couple. For me the midsize is the perfect car: trunk almost the same size as the S, but much easier to drive and more maneuverable. When we had the kids at home, then we had the bigger cars. But they gave way to the mini Van!
I am fortunate in that I can afford either the C, E or S class: I just prefer the E Class for everyday driving.
This is only my opinion, but having driven my son's Honda Accords and having owned 3 RAV4's and having driven my brother-in-laws new Honda CRV: if you took the Honda/Toyota name off and did not know what they are, I would choose them over the C Class and GLC. Again my opinion the C Class and GLC are priced as premium to luxury, but they are not. Both are a huge step down from the E Class. Throw in the price difference, cost of maintenance and reliability, or lack thereof, take away the 3 star emblem, and I doubt many people would buy them.
The other problem is service: Whether you own an S Class at over $100K, or an E Class at over $70K or the C or A class costing thousands less, the cost of an oil change and other service is the same: the mechanics are paid the same. So maybe you can justify $225 for on oil change on a $70K plus E Class or $100k plus on an S Class, it is ridiculous to pay that much for a $40K A or C Class. And being a Mercedes parts are priced the same as on the E and S Class.
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Originally Posted by W205C43PFL
Thoughts on those who buy A-Classes? Describe those cars : ) How much worse can those be when a C-Class makes you want to drive a Honda or Toyota?
Genuinely asking out of curiosity.
The C Class is classified as a compact. The A sub compact. You can get either a Korean or Japanese compact or sub compact for much, much less with similar ride quality but much better reliability and cheaper replacement parts.
The Asians have perfected the ability to make reliable cost effective small cars.
Mercedes is a luxury car maker. To be competitive Mercedes must de-content their cars. Go to third world countries, Asia and Africa, compact and sub compact cars are Asian: No Mercedes.
I bought a Mazda once and I also had a Crown, but my father (rip) threatened to disown me unless I disposed of them. Father was a Marine onboard the Missouri when Japan formally surrendered.
I bought a Mazda once and I also had a Crown, but my father (rip) threatened to disown me unless I disposed of them. Father was a Marine onboard the Missouri when Japan formally surrendered.
I have owned the Audi 8L, several BMW 740iL and S class Mercedes. IMO the best seat in the those cars is behind the driver. In Europe almost all these cars are chauffeur driven - not owner driven.
I have also owned several A6, BMW 5 series as well as many E Classes. 95% of the time I am alone in my E Class: 4.5% wife my wife and the balance of .5% with another couple. For me the midsize is the perfect car: trunk almost the same size as the S, but much easier to drive and more maneuverable. When we had the kids at home, then we had the bigger cars. But they gave way to the mini Van!
I am fortunate in that I can afford either the C, E or S class: I just prefer the E Class for everyday driving.
This is only my opinion, but having driven my son's Honda Accords and having owned 3 RAV4's and having driven my brother-in-laws new Honda CRV: if you took the Honda/Toyota name off and did not know what they are, I would choose them over the C Class and GLC. Again my opinion the C Class and GLC are priced as premium to luxury, but they are not. Both are a huge step down from the E Class. Throw in the price difference, cost of maintenance and reliability, or lack thereof, take away the 3 star emblem, and I doubt many people would buy them.
The other problem is service: Whether you own an S Class at over $100K, or an E Class at over $70K or the C or A class costing thousands less, the cost of an oil change and other service is the same: the mechanics are paid the same. So maybe you can justify $225 for on oil change on a $70K plus E Class or $100k plus on an S Class, it is ridiculous to pay that much for a $40K A or C Class. And being a Mercedes parts are priced the same as on the E and S Class.
Just my $.02.
Thank you and appreciate your comment and reply, that answered my curiosity, I still remember a thread that compared a minivan and a GLS https://mbworld.org/forums/gls-class...ls-regret.html, people couldn't believe how much you can fit in a minivan especially the fact there is the word "mini". Need a family vehicle with kids? Minivan will be the best option in their opinion.
The C Class is classified as a compact. The A sub compact. You can get either a Korean or Japanese compact or sub compact for much, much less with similar ride quality but much better reliability and cheaper replacement parts.
The Asians have perfected the ability to make reliable cost effective small cars.
Mercedes is a luxury car maker. To be competitive Mercedes must de-content their cars. Go to third world countries, Asia and Africa, compact and sub compact cars are Asian: No Mercedes.
I too agree a Mercedes starts with the E-Class, that is when you have the true Mercedes experience. I just like how nimble an C-Class is though, I always dreamed of an S-Class in luxury and amenities of the size of the C-Class but I am in the minority. Thanks again for sharing your opinion and I do appreciate it.
Mercedes aren't meant to be associated with light weight but the C-Class is. At least the W205 was very light thanks to all the aluminum around the car include doors. The E-Class feels like a tank (in a good way of course) I guess the weight can be associated with build quality in a sense and also part of what makes Mercedes a Mercedes. That is just part of it and everything else about an E-Class is just way better than a C-Class.
Last edited by W205C43PFL; Dec 24, 2024 at 06:01 PM.
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Originally Posted by W205C43PFL
I too agree a Mercedes starts with the E-Class, that is when you have the true Mercedes experience. I just like how nimble an C-Class is though, I always dreamed of an S-Class in luxury and amenities of the size of the C-Class but I am in the minority. Thanks again for sharing your opinion and I do appreciate it.
When I had the GLC as a loaner I drove it to Vermont and back for skiing: it was as you say nimble: but no more so than a RAV4 and the RAV4 had better gas mileage and much more space inside - space inside I think is one of reason to buy an SUV over a sedan plus the higher driving height.
If you want nimble try a Maxda CX-5: the interior has a premium feel, equal if not better than the GLC for thousands less.
My point is just this: the E Class is very expensive: On the other hand I cannot think of a better driving mid size sedan - regardless of price. So there is a satisfaction knowing you are driving the best.
With the C Class and GLC, there are many competitors that drive as well or better and all (except BMW and Audi) will cost substantially less.
When I had the GLC as a loaner I drove it to Vermont and back for skiing: it was as you say nimble: but no more so than a RAV4 and the RAV4 had better gas mileage and much more space inside - space inside I think is one of reason to buy an SUV over a sedan plus the higher driving height.
If you want nimble try a Maxda CX-5: the interior has a premium feel, equal if not better than the GLC for thousands less.
My point is just this: the E Class is very expensive: On the other hand I cannot think of a better driving mid size sedan - regardless of price. So there is a satisfaction knowing you are driving the best.
With the C Class and GLC, there are many competitors that drive as well or better and all (except BMW and Audi) will cost substantially less.
Just my $.02.
Non luxury brands I definitely like Mazda, thanks for mentioning them, I am surprised with what they are doing in terms of the design and materials with the CX-90, for those who needs a third row that were shopping Kia and Toyota, Honda etc., they should look at that vehicle. What impressed me as well was them developing an inline-6 when the main focus of the automotive industry was electric. That takes some courage.
Speaking of Honda, turns out they announced a merger with Nissan.
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