Mercedes Benz E220 CDi Avantgarde Auto

Although the W211 model concerned has now been replaced by the more dynamic W212, these remain a delightful car, and retain a little more of the traditional Mercedes benz feel than the new model.

The E Class estate, engine and trim aside, is a large car, and has class leading interior space. They all have Airmatic rear suspension, so self level whatever you load them up with, also great for towing!

Comfort is unrivalled this side of an S Class, with acres of room, and a beautiful ride, along with plenty of insulation from the noisy outside world. Standard interior is half Artico leather and cloth, but mine has full leather, and a lovely Black Ash wood trim. The whole inside is classy, yet restrained.

While the best engine is still the V6 Diesel (280/320CDi) in terms of punch and refinement, the 220 offers more economy, and frankly not a whole lot less performance, as 170bhp is still plenty, although a Caravan blunts it somewhat! 5 speed Auto is a must, and the tiptronic box is a peach, with dual mode and smooth changes. Reckon a top speed of over 130mph with ease, and an easy 40mpg, nudging 50 if you're gentle, although short trips around town with a cold engine result in nearer to 34mpg.

Handling, whilst not exactly sporty, is very good, remember this is a very large car, so chucking it around will result in moderate understeer which discourages stupidity, but the limits are surprising, and the car always feels stable, even if speeds are too high, or rough steering input is detected! Upgrade the modest 16" wheels to 18's like the Sport model (The suspension is already lowered as standard!) and you'll get a more dynamic steering feel, and more grip which does make things sportier if thats what you want, but the sublime ride quality will suffer a bit.

Standard kit includes Radio, CD, Electric Windows, Remote locking, Rear load cover and retractable Dog guard, Trip computer and Xenon headlamps, in addition to ESP.

ESP (Electronic Stability Program) is part of what makes this car so safe! It incorporates Traction Control to prevent wheelspin, ABS brakes, and Stability control, which grabs the car back from you if you get into a skid, and forces the car back onto the chosen route. Not entirely foolproof, but works in any reasonable case, and is a proven lifesaver. These cars are built like the proverbial brick outhouse, and very strong indeed, hence a 30 year Anti perforation warranty & Roadside assist package. Thats World class!

E class cars are no bargain, but still represent good value for money if you consider the resale values, longevity and modest running costs. Road tax is currently £215 a year, and £31 a month buys the all inclusive Mercedes service package, whilst economy is very good if you drive within the law. 80+mph on a Motorway is what these cars are built for, and they will cruise at 100 literally all day long, whilst driver and passenger alike relax in a relaxed ambience that only an E class can deliver.

If you're buying one, ensure it's original, and Mercedes serviced with a good warranty, as faults won't be cheap to fix should you be unlucky. These cars respond well to years of care, but not abuse and neglect. There are hundreds of hidden features in these cars, little touches that make them special, such as the multi function Key, which operates Windows, Alarm, Locking and Immobiliser, but is blunt so gentle on your trouser pockets, or the 'Tunnel feature' which offers one touch operation to close all the Windows, and then (This is the clever bit!) opens them back to exactly where they were! Even the load cover glides upwards as you open the tailgate, driven by electric motors, a beautiful touch! To compare these cars with Audi or BMW is delusional, as the attention to detail, the lengths that Mercedes Benz went to whilst designing the E class were extraordinary!

Thanks for reading my review!