In a market flooded with SUVs and EVs, the Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate proudly flies the flag for diesel-powered luxury estate cars. Blending long-distance efficiency with timeless elegance and cutting-edge technology, the E-Class Estate is arguably one of the finest all-rounders on the road today.
A Rarity Among New Cars in 2024
Having test-driven more than 100 new cars this year, the Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate stood out not only as the only estate car I’ve experienced in 2024 but also as one of the few remaining diesel-powered models in a rapidly electrifying world.
The Decline of Diesel – But It Still Makes Sense
Once commanding nearly 40% of UK car sales, diesel vehicles now make up less than 10%, with industry forecasts suggesting a drop to just 3% by 2028. Despite this, for high-mileage drivers, diesel still offers unbeatable fuel efficiency and torque making the Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate a smart choice.
Long-Distance Comfort and Fuel Economy
Real-World Range Champion
On a recent 600-mile round trip to the North East fully loaded with four adults and luggage the E 220 D returned an impressive 55mpg, and didn’t need a single fuel stop thanks to its massive fuel tank. This kind of efficiency is hard to beat in any fuel type.
Estate Space at Its Best
The boot capacity is a standout feature:
- 615 litres with seats up
- 1,830 litres with seats down
It easily accommodated our bags and left room to spare, proving why estate cars still have a place in the modern world.
Engine Performance and Variants
The Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine pushing out 194bhp and 440Nm of torque, delivering a 0–62mph time of 7.6 seconds. CO₂ emissions sit at a competitive 136g/km.
Looking for More Power?
Mercedes also offers:
- E 450 d: A 362bhp six-cylinder diesel with 750Nm of torque and 0–62mph in just 4.8 seconds
- Mild hybrid options
- Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant for low-emission city driving
That said, Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate hits the sweet spot, offering the best mix of economy, performance, and price.
Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality
Despite being nearly five metres long, the E-Class Estate never feels unwieldy. It’s tailored more for effortless motorway cruising than tight backroad thrills, but it still handles confidently, with only mild body lean in tight corners.
Comfort Over Everything
- Rear axle air suspension helps absorb bumps
- Light, accurate steering (though slightly numb)
- Nine-speed automatic gearbox keeps revs low at cruising speeds
Around town, it’s large but manageable thanks to excellent visibility, cameras, and sensors.
Interior Design and Infotainment
A First-Class Cabin
Step inside and you’ll find:
- Rich leather trim and soft-touch materials
- A 14.5-inch central infotainment display
- A 12.3-inch driver’s digital cockpit
- Optional 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen (hidden from the driver’s view)
The infotainment system is crystal-clear and intuitive, though the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls may take some getting used to.
Safety and Value for Money
With a starting price of £57,780, the Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate offers exceptional value for a car so loaded with tech and refinement.
Five-Star Safety
The E-Class scored a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with features including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Parking assistance systems
Verdict – A Class-Defining Estate Car
In a world obsessed with SUVs and EVs, the Mercedes-Benz E 220 D Estate is a refreshing return to form. It’s elegant, refined, fuel-efficient, and packed with space and tech. If you’re a frequent traveller in need of comfort and cargo space, this is the luxury estate to beat.
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