2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E450 4Matic AMG Line First Drive Review - Glide Bomb

Not too long ago, if you had to spend big bucks on a fast luxury saloon, you either opted for the sedate and comfortable Mercedes-Benz E200, compromising on performance, or you made the ‘right’ choice by buying the BMW M340i xDrive. However, Mercedes-Benz now believes the Indian market has evolved – that we can accept a fast car which doesn’t look like it leapt out of a teenager’s daydream. It’s about time we prioritised comfort over the ability to set lap records – especially given the infrastructure we have in India. With that context in mind, allow me to present the new 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E450 4Matic AMG Line. Is it more than just a new engine? Let’s find out.

Mercedes-Benz E450 Design: Blink and Miss

Yes, that’s exactly what might happen if you’re not sure what you’re looking at – and that’s the point. It may feature a snarling 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine under the bonnet, but the understated styling definitely classifies this as a sleeper. The most prominent differentiating feature are the 18-inch AMG wheels, but they appear rather small and underwhelming due to the E’s large dimensions.

Inside, however, there are no design cues that shout performance. The cabin is identical to the E200, which costs ₹14 lakh less. But that’s not entirely a complaint – I quite like the interiors of modern Mercedes-Benz cars. The true star of the show is the rear seat experience. Thanks to the long wheelbase, legroom is ample, further enhanced by the ability to adjust the front passenger seat and reclining rear seats. Then there are the electric rear window blinds and sunshade – features missing even in the BMW 5 Series.

Mercedes-Benz E450 Performance: More Punch

This is exactly what the E450 brings to the table. The 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged petrol engine produces 381bhp and 500Nm, while 48V mild-hybrid system adds another 23bhp and 205Nm for short bursts. The result? The E450 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds – something that’s achieved by full-blown AMG models.

But this isn’t a loud, theatrical AMG. It idles quietly, only letting out its howl when you mash the throttle. Power delivery is smooth and confident, with a progressive surge up the rev range. It’s quick, yet composed – ideal for getting to office faster in relaxed comfort.

Ride and handling, on the other hand, is noteworthy. Thanks to the hydro-pneumatic Airmatic suspension, the E450 delivers a plush ride over broken tarmac, potholes, and undulations – you name it. If it could talk, I half expect it to ask, ‘Is that all you’ve got?’

In my opinion, it feels heavy but doesn’t compromise handling characteristics. Quick direction changes at high speeds can unsettle it, but for the most part, it feels balanced and composed. The steering is light and communicative, making it well-suited for diverse driving conditions. The E450 genuinely feels like it can do it all.

Mercedes-Benz E450 Review Verdict

The new E450 4Matic is a formidable package. It takes the E-Class’s traditional strengths – luxury, space, comfort, and brand value – and enhances them with a genuinely impressive and refined powertrain.

For the Indian market, where the long-wheelbase E-Class is often the default choice for the chauffeur-driven, the additional performance and smoothness of the inline-six ‘450’ will encourage more owners to take the wheel themselves. Yes, it commands a significant premium at ₹92.5 lakh (ex-showroom), but, then, how many cars offer S-Class comfort with AMG-like performance?