- Base-model E-Class gets more horsepower
- Turbocharged 2.0L four now with 255 hp, 273 lb-ft
- Blind-spot warning newly standard
- New trim choices
- 2020 E350 priced from $54,050; 2020 E350 4Matic is $56,550
The march of progress again brings more power to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Last year saw the mid-level 6-cylinder model change from E400 to E450 in acknowledgement of the additional grunt gained by its twin-turbo V6. This year, it’s the base model’s turn, as the E300 becomes the E350 as a result of a similar boost in output for its 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. In addition, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350 gains new standard features and new trim choices.
E350 Engine: A four with more
Like the previous E300, the E350 is offered as a sedan only and uses a 2.0-liter turbo four paired with a 9-speed automatic in combination with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4Matic, in Mercedes parlance). Output for the 2.0-liter turbo has increased from 241 horsepower to 255, which comes on stream at 5,800 rpm. Peak torque output remains unchanged 273 lb-ft, available across a broad rev range from 1,800 to 4,000 rpm. EPA estimates for the new version are not yet available, but shouldn’t stray too far from the E300’s 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway (29 mpg highway for the 4Matic). Mercedes puts the zero-to-60-mph time for the E350 at 6.1 seconds for the rear-drive version—shading its predecessor by 0.1 second—and an unchanged 6.3 seconds with 4Matic.
Other changes for 2020
Outside of the engine room, there are minor changes to the 2020 E350 as this E-Class generation enters its fifth model year. Blind-spot warning is now standard, a welcome addition. Mercedes also now includes passive keyless entry, pushbutton ignition, and a power trunk lid. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster joins the Premium 1 package, and an Energizing Comfort Package (which bundles pre-programmed combinations of settings for various cabin-environment systems and also includes a fragrance ionizer) is now available. New interior trim elements include an MB Tex-wrapped dashboard with contrast stitching, and a two-tone Nappa leather interior of Macchiato Beige and Yacht Blue.
Class of 2020: The New and Redesigned Cars, Trucks and SUVs
What is the price of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350?
Base prices for both the E350 variants inch up by $550 compared to their E300 doppelgangers. The rear-drive E350 sedan, representing the least-expensive ticket to E-Class ownership, is $54,050, while the E350 4Matic is $56,550. Delivery adds $995. The 2020 E350 goes on sale in the fall of 2019.
