Model Changes:
For 2010, all the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars have undergone some major improvements. The exterior and interior of all trims have been redesigned, the most notable being on the luxury sedans, which have a more squared yet aggressive look than 2009. The coupes now have a crisper, more pointed front fascia, and all E-Class trims have sharper body lines. The car's body is now 30 percent stiffer for firmer handling, and has been made more aerodynamic so that its drag coefficient is just 0.25, according to the manufacturer. In addition, model prices across the range have been reduced since 2009.

Model Value:
Across the line, the E-Class has a very roomy interior and nice ride, both of which make it well-suited for long trips. With 4MATIC all-wheel drive available on E350 and E550 models, the E-Class also makes a capable all-weather vehicle. The E-Class has been the standard bearer for Mercedes-Benz for generations and continues to be at the core of their worldwide sales. The base E350 starts just under $50,000.

Model Overview:
For 2010, U.S. customers will have their choice of either the E350 or the E550. Both are available as either a coupe, or sedan. The coupe is available only in rear-wheel drive, but the sedans are available in either luxury or sport trims and with either RWD or Mercedes' 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive. The E63 AMG tops out the E Series lineup and available only in rear-wheel drive.The E350 trims offer a 3.5L V6 engine making 268 horsepower @ 6000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque @ 2400-5000 rpm. The E550 trims feature a 5.5L V8 engine making 382 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 391 pounds-feet of torque @ 2800- 4800 rpm. RWD trims are mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission while all AWD powertrains are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, all with overdrive. All E-Class trims come very well equipped as luxury cars. Available options include a navigation system, premium sound system, satellite radio, HID headlights, rear park assist, backup camera, keyless start, hard disk drive, HD radio, panoramic roof, night vision and heated/cooled seats. Window curtain airbags and side-impact airbags are standard on the E-Class, along with PRE-SAFE, a system that tenses the seatbelts if it anticipates a collision and closes the sunroof and side windows if it anticipates a loss of control.New standard technology for 2010 includes Attention Assist, which detects driver drowsiness; Adaptive Main (High) Beam Assist, for oncoming drivers; enhanced LED daytime driving lights; Blind Spot Assist; Lane Keeping Assist, which uses vibrations in the steering wheel to inform the driver if they're veering out of their lane; Speed Limit Assist, which recognizes speed limit signs as the car passes them, then displays the relevant speed limit in the speedometer; and Brake Assist Plus.The E63 AMG features a hand-build 6.3L V8 engine that produces an astonishing 518 horsepower and 465 pounds-feet of torque. It does this by utilizing four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, bucket-style tappets and a variable intake manifold.