Owners of the 2016/17 E350e AMG

[AMG33D]

Greetings,

I just joined the site and have dedicated some time to perusing the extensive C350e owners thread, since both the C350e AMG trim and E350e AMG trim are contenders for my next business vehicle selection.

Until yesterday, the C350e in AMG configuration was a formidable option; nevertheless, it may be rather inadequate in size, particularly since I sometimes transport colleagues and have a young family requiring car seats. The engine exhibited robust performance, and the trim was satisfactory; nevertheless, the little cabin constriction ultimately proved detrimental.

Consequently, I regret to inform you that the C Class is no longer a consideration for my future corporate vehicle.

During my visit, they provided me with the keys to an E350e, but not in the AMG grade that we had requested. Although the cabin seemed far larger, I must admit that I left feeling disappointed with the whole experience.

To clarify, I am not here to provoke or start a debate on which automobile is superior; that is not my aim.

The trim level of the E350e vehicle I drove yesterday seemed to be very low, particularly by Mercedes' standards, especially considering it was a car supplied by Fleet for demonstration reasons.

I have not yet had a Mercedes as a corporate vehicle, but I have lately visited several dealerships and sat in a few models. The overwhelming majority seemed to be a really pleasant location.

Recollecting, the majority of the E Class included a leather-stitched dashboard and the traditional multi-button configuration on the door panel for seat adjustment, elements that distinctly convey Mercedes luxury and elegance.

However, the E350e I was shown yesterday lacked any of those features. The dashboard was an unappealing, rigid black plastic, and the chairs lacked complete adjustability, including just a limited array of buttons at the base, along with a manual lever for forward and backward placement.

The vehicle lacked the elegant arrangement of Mercedes side panels, was devoid of parking sensors, and did not include an automatic boot closure button on the lid. The headlining was a cream hue that appeared worn, all on a car with 3,500 kilometres on the odometer.

The most impressive aspects of the E350e were the engine acoustics and the driving experience.

The engine was very loud and harsh-sounding, not just during acceleration in Sport or Sport+ mode but also when idling at traffic lights, creating an intrusive noise that was apparent to all of us.

Surprisingly, none of us saw it in the C350e, making it perplexing why the technically superior vehicle had worse sound quality.

The E350e suspension seemed to be inadequate as well. It seemed to languish, entirely lacking in sensation and response.

Regrettably, I found the whole procedure profoundly unsatisfactory, resulting in both vehicles on my list being in contention.

I am optimistic that the E350e I rode yesterday lacked some technological enhancements that contribute to superior ride handling seen in its more advanced variants. Given the absence of fundamental features such as motorised seats, I would presume that this may be the situation.

I have written Mercedes to enquire whether they had an E350e in AMG trim available in the UK, since I am willing to go, giving yesterday's experience the benefit of the doubt.

As I am unaware of the whole specifications or trim level of the vehicle I rode yesterday, could anybody with an E350e, particularly in AMG trim, provide insight into if enhancements are anticipated in the AMG variant?

Regarding the engine, do you see yours as unusually loud, or might it be that the one observed yesterday was just operating very poorly?

This is not a trolling message; I am maintaining an optimistic outlook, which is why I contacted Mercedes by email this morning.

However, if I must base my purchase choice on yesterday's experience, I would be reluctant to approve a £55k E350e AMG and commit to a three-year lease, since it poses an excessive risk without assurance that the ride and handling would improve, although I am certain the trim will.

[bvlenci]

I expect the AMG line will have a more rigid ride owing to the firmer, sport-oriented suspension.

[Rojoires]

I have had the c350e for the last two years and have just drove the new e350e, as I am considering a potential shift.
It seems you own a SE model; the literature delineates the enhancements of the AMG variant.
All PHEV versions include air suspension, with ride quality dictated by the settings. Both vehicles perform well; nevertheless, the E exhibits somewhat more composure because to its extended wheelbase. The Comfort option, however, imparts a floaty, disjointed sensation.
Select Individual options and adjust them to your satisfaction.
Specify the superior dashboard and the Premium Plus package; the E is an enjoyable environment.
The engine noise is unappealing when the internal combustion engine activates.

I am not making any changes; I am only awaiting the debut of a completely electric Mercedes that is not a B-Class.

[ML350_Colin]

Regrettably, the M274 petrol engine produces an unpleasant sound. I admit I am rather perturbed by it. It functions well, although produces a dismal sound quality. It is OK in our C350e provided that the windows remain closed.

[AMG33D]

It is believed that the engines are same in the C and E 350e variants.

[AMG33D]

Initially, I commenced with the E350E AMG and subsequently incorporated the Premium Package, Night Package, Lane Tracking Package, Parking Package with a 360-degree camera, metallic paint, and split rear seats. I am enquiring about the pre-installation for rear entertainment, as it currently appears to include only USB ports, possibly accompanied by some brackets, which may enhance the experience for children during extended journeys.

I have disabled several automatic driving capabilities, since I am uncertain about their use for the £1695 investment.

Mercedes HQ positively replied to my email and will bring a long-term test vehicle, the E350E AMG, tomorrow. I will have it for a total of seven days, which pleases me much.

Although it lacks the night package, a conversation with a kind gentleman revealed that several more amenities would likely be included, hence enhancing the vehicle's representation compared to the rudimentary specifications provided before.

I look forward to operating it in various scenarios, since I have many long-distance journeys planned, in addition to a few short workplace commutes of just 7 miles each way.

[clk320x4]

If you choose to acquire an E350e, I would very enjoy being informed of the projected delivery date they provide. I placed an order for a fully equipped E350e on June 2nd, with the guarantee of delivery in late September; nevertheless, I now lack a construction date, despite the involvement of the dealership's General Manager.

I selected the Driving Assistance package for my C350e as my primary choice. It is especially beneficial in stop-and-go traffic, so consider that in conjunction with automatic driving.

What is your assessment of the Lexus? In 2008, I had a new GS450h Hybrid, which is the only vehicle I have owned for three years. I disposed of it because to its small boot, and the alteration of congestion pricing regulations resulted in the loss of its exemption; I sold it prior to the information being widely known.

[AMG33D]

I will inform you about the construction dates, of course.

During our first discussion on the 'underwhelming test,' it was revealed that the production of the E350E is now suspended owing to 'engine difficulties' (her terminology, not mine), with an anticipated delay of 6 to 7 months.

Considering the engine's considerable noise during my test drive, I chose to enquire about it, hoping they were making some refinements. She somewhat retracted her statement to assert that Mercedes was only swamped by demand, which may really be accurate, since the G30 BMW 530E is now one of their top-selling premium vehicles.

It remains peculiar that builds would be 'suspended'; so, the true rationale is uncertain. Here’s to anticipating improvements in the engine; nevertheless, I will do the test drive first and thereafter request further information from Mercedes HQ UK. They may be considering that the BMW meets a lower emissions standard, resulting in significantly reduced BIK tax expenses, especially in M Sport configuration with 20" wheels. The batteries provide a significantly extended range, suggesting potential modifications to the vehicle.

The Lexus GS450h F Sport is notably fast. I acquired it from my Executive Director, who ordered it since he had the V6. However, he then developed a preference for an Audi RS6 Avant, purchased it privately, and asked if I would want to assume his GS lease.

It is not as well constructed as the prior German vehicles I have owned (Audi/BMW), yet it remains quite satisfactory. Additionally, it incurs substantial BIK costs; thus, opting for the E350E would result in a monthly tax savings of £250, while the BMW would yield a £295 monthly saving. Consequently, either vehicle presents a significant financial advantage, as these amounts represent enhancements to my take-home pay, potentially allowing me to purchase a new car for my wife with those savings.

[bvlenci]

The E-Class offers somewhat more power and torque, albeit it utilises the same engine. The M274 is the new four-cylinder petrol engine for the whole range for the foreseeable future, as far as I am aware.

It is undoubtedly an ingenious creation; yet, it is regrettable that little effort was devoted to enhancing its auditory appeal. It also serves as the foundation for the A45 AMG engine.

[AMG33D]

Regrettably, I must await a little longer to fully enjoy the E350E AMG, since I remained at the office on Tuesday until 4:55 PM for its arrival, after which I emailed the UK headquarters and departed for home. An email I was expected to get was never received; thus, my loan date has been postponed to the week commencing the 25th.

I will have the BMW 530E M Sport just before the 20th to 22nd, providing an excellent chance to evaluate the engines and overall refinement.

Regarding the Merc engine and the alleged construction issues, I enquired with an individual at headquarters, who seemed lacked knowledge on the matter; nonetheless, I suspect that even if he were informed, he would be unable to provide any details.

It is peculiar that this engine is inducing delays in both E350e and C350e production, suggesting that the issue is more likely related to the engine itself rather than the specific vehicle model.