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Smooth is the middle name of the Mercedes Benz’s 2021 E450 4Matic, which has a turbo inline-6 engine that is electrified.
This $68,000 beauty has a twin-scroll turbocharged gas engine outputs 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque that delivers a smooth, efficient response.
Electrifying the inline-6 gasoline engine is an innovative integrated starter-generator. It combines with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, plus a power supply for formerly belt-driven components like the water pump and air-conditioning compressor. All of this combines to reduce the weight and enhance under hood packaging. In addition, EQ Boost can generate additional, gas-free power and torque for a response that is immediate and makes its presence known.
The engine is designed to allow for gas-free coasting, and the can recapture of energy during deceleration.
The ECO start/stop system automatically shuts off the engine at stoplights and other idle situations, to save fuel and reduce emissions, which puts your conscience at ease. As soon as the driver lifts off the brake, the engine restarts, so you can accelerate in the blink of an eye.
One of my favorite things about this car is what is missing — you don’t get jostled and thrown around when there are bumps and potholes in the road. In Miami there always is construction, so the smooth ride the E450 4Matic All-Terrain vehicle delivers is stupendous.
With a greater range of ratios and shorter steps between gears, the 9-speed automatic changes gears more quickly. I know this because I read the manual, but the changes are nearly unnoticeable when you are actually driving the car.
Along with a more seamless delivery of power, the lighter, more versatile transmission enhances quiet riding comfort and fuel-efficiency. The electronic selector and shift paddles let you control all gear changes from the steering wheel. And drivers can vary the shift modes via the innovative dynamic select system, which is also amazingly convenient.
One of the great features is the gas mileage, which comes in at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. That is important because you will want to stay in this wagon for a long time.
At 195 inches in length, this vehicle seats seven comfortably, which means long trips will be a pleasure, especially for friends and family. And, everyone will get a kick out of the third row, which is rear facing, great for the kids to spot shooting stars at night.
While the family is relaxing in this beautiful car they can listen to the MBUX infotainment system, which includes a speaker system that is crisp and clear, like the symphony is rehearsing in your car as you are driving them to the concerto. The cabin also is sound proof, which makes any driving experience feel luxurious and focused.
It is a luxury vehicle, but make no mistake — Mercedes packed the E450 wagon with SUV-like features that will please the market. That includes a decorative grille with chrome finish and matte black body cladding that is made of plastic, giving it a familiar visual that has come to define SUVs.
The bottom line is that the 2021 E450 4Matic has the quality, look and feel of a Mercedes Benz, which goes a long way toward making this a gem in the market.
