Car Statistics: Mercedes - E Class Series 95 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Mid-term facelift has done little to alter the good-looking design. Big and sleek, the E has plenty of presence in the office car park.

Handling (4 stars)

Taut and surprisingly agile for something so big. AMG version isn't quite a dynamic match for the BMW M5, but it's surprisingly close.

Comfort (5 stars)

With a cosseting ride and supremely comfortable seats, the E Class is still one of the best ways of absorbing the pain of a long journey.

Quality (4 stars)

Mercedes promises it's rectified the problems that afflicted recent versions of this model. Construction feels solid and material quality is good - but the interior still isn't quite up there with that of the Audi A6 when it comes to perceived quality.

Performance (4 stars)

Even the lowliest 200K gives decent urge - with serious performance available at the top end of the range. Diesels are smooth and frugal - it's just a shame we don't get the V8 CDI version.

Roominess (4 stars)

Still one of the biggest cars in its segment, the E offers loads of space for both front and rear seat passengers. Both saloon and estate have class-leading luggage capacity.

Costs (3 stars)

Residuals should strengthen slightly, although the E Class still loses a surprising amount of money in the first three years of ownership. Fuel economy is respectable on all but the most silly versions, but servicing is very expensive.

Value (3 stars)

More expensive than direct BMW or Audi rivals, although the gap is offset slightly by the bigger size and decent standard equipment. Still worth haggling hard, though - there are savings to be made.

Stereo (4 stars)

Brilliant stereo system, especially with one of the expensive upgrade options. Satnav isn't as instinctive to use as rival systems from some manufacturers.