Mercedes-Benz unveils the seventh generation of its E-Class with the redesigned 2024 E450 4MATIC, a mid-size luxury sedan packed with new technology, a hybrid engine for enhanced power, and unique features.

The 2024 E450 4MATIC sedan is now a more stylish, tech-savvy vehicle, boasting industry-first features, comfort, and connectivity.

Our test-drive model was fully loaded with 13 options costing $18,670, including $3,400 for the Pinnacle trim. This top-tier trim, above Premium and Exclusive, features a heads-up display, surround sound, noise-insulating glass, ambient interior lighting, an illuminated grille, and the elite Burmester 21-speaker, 740-watt audio system.

While the exterior sports subtle new designs, such as 20-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels with Pirelli P-Zero run-flat tires, flush door handles, and a slightly longer hood and rear cargo area, the interior truly stands out.

Three flat, multi-colored displays stretch across the dashboard: a 12.3-inch digital display behind the wheel, a 14.4-inch central infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Superscreen on the passenger side. The passenger can use this touchscreen for infotainment, access third-party apps for games and social media, and video conference with the built-in dashboard camera. Advanced AI improves system performance, offering quicker digital responses to verbal commands and personalized customizations.

MBUX also supports over-the-air updates, navigation settings, web surfing, and video streaming, with an advanced filtering system to ensure driver safety. Its intuitive, smartphone-like functionality makes it highly engaging, likely drawing kids to the front seat to leave their cellphones behind.

A unique feature combines active ambient lighting, sound visualization, and 4D sound system transducers, engaging sight, sound, and touch.

The digital screen offers a 3-D function with customizable themes like Classic, Sporty, or Maps. The cabin features white Nappa leather perforated seats, rich trim materials including chrome touches and open-pore wood, a gear shifter stalk on the steering wheel, and a dashboard red light strip at night. Cabin door handles extend forward, the center spine storage has USB ports and deep storage space, though small storage areas are sparse.

The panoramic sunroof with an opaque cover adds an airy feel to the cabin. The cargo area is ample, and while rear seating isn't generous, it's comfortable for average-sized adults.

With all its options, the E450 offers a pleasurable ride and drive, with the hybrid system helping the 6-cylinder turbo engine accelerate to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The multilink suspension system easily handles road imperfections, and the 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-axle steering provides greater agility and maneuverability.

A suite of advanced safety features, including attention monitoring, collision mitigation, and driver safety aids, helped earn top crash safety ratings.

In its 75-year history, the Mercedes E-Class has been the brand's best-selling car, with more than 15 million sold. Recently, the E-sedan has seen a decline in sales as buyers shift toward SUVs and wagons.

LIKES: Luxury vibe, sporty performance, superb handling and ride, intuitive technology, unique features
DISLIKES: Expensive options, no complimentary maintenance

BOTTOM LINE: A worthy ride for a young tech-savvy CEO, creating Mercedes cachet and onlooker envy.

FACT FILE 2024 MERCEDES-BENZ E450 4MATIC SEDAN

• Base price plus destination fee: $69,250 ($87,920 as tested)
• Vehicle weight: 4,376 lbs.
• Wheelbase: 116.6 inches
• Length: 194.8 inches
• Width: 81.3 inches (with mirrors)
• Engine: 3.0-liter, turbo inline 6, 48-volt mild hybrid
• Horsepower: 375 hp @ 5,500-6,100 rpm
• Torque: 369 lb.-ft @ 1,600-4,500 rpm
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic with manual paddles
• EPA Rating Averages: 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway
• Range: 17.4 gallons, premium
• Performance: 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds