Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon (2002 - 2008) E320 CDI Avantgarde 4d Tip Auto (7) (Euro 4) (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

My work colleagues think I'm rich, but really, this is so lovely a runner and good MPG, that they probably spend more "patching up" their cars. I don't have to be. The only major expense is servicing and tyres, but I also get discount tyres too.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it, I have some admiring glances, and the engine bay is showroom clean condition. Lots of questions when I open the bonnet.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely 110%. I took a test drive in the newer model, but don't like its "boxy" square design. Some things looked cheaper about the interior too.

What are you likely to buy next?

I would consider an "S" class. Also (if I could get a good deal) maybe an "F" type Jaguar, but I love Mercedes as a brand.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£18,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got 4k off the asking price and got the dealer to pay for my last two months of a 5 year hire purchase contract (half paid on my old car) and so I could walk away from that one without penalty and start again with the Mercedes on a new 5 year payment scheme. I ended up paying £100 a month less, so was pleased with the outcome, very low APR too, it just takes a bit of audacity and bartering and I kept walking out of the dealership and they kept chasing me back in with a better deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I was looking for a replacement for a convertible Peugeot 307, which had severe electrical problems, so I wanted a reliable replacement.

What was the dealer like?

They were friendly enough, and if you're just browsing in a Mercedes dealership (not serious about buying), the (free) coffee is enough to tempt you into the showroom, but I am lucky to have found ex-Mercedes employees who have started a service outlet in the New Forest (Pentangle Mercedes), and their labour rates are far below the dealer and they make you feel like a human rather than just a number, so I wouldn't use the main dealer again.

What's it like to drive?

This car is an absolute powerhouse, pulls well, makes hills disappear and can easily get 45-48 mpg on a run. I did 500 miles on an £80 diesel fill up to Germany (have relations there) on 1/2 a tank of fuel. I got to the max speed (155mph) on the autobahn and it felt like she had more to offer. The diesel is so refined, no nasty unburned black smoke. I get decent 0-60 speeds (about 6.5 seconds).

What's it like to park?

I find parking effortless and it has excellent rear and all round view. If I had to reverse into tight spaces, I would recommend the parking sensors, but I generally don't and don't have "ParkTronic" fitted. I use the badge as a gunsight parking aid at work.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Generally brilliant, I had an inlet valve break but this was repaired under warranty, and I had to replace both front bushes and had a front spring break, so both were replaced. Didn't break the bank, Mercedes quoted me £600, I got it fixed all up for £260 at Pentangle, my independent agent.

What's most practical about your car?

Huge boot space (700 litres), large enough inside to sit passengers in comfort, would seat 3 easily on the back seat. Real refined (lazy cruise control) effortless long journey driving. She will cruise at 60mph (my preferred speed) at 1200rpm too, thanks largely to the smooth 7 speed tiptronic gearbox. Barely audible engine note.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Genuine leather seats, smells so good in summer (and winter). I'm not gadget prone, so didn't go for a car with Comand. I'm a bit old school "stick and string" at navigating. Know my way around the country.