One of the best reviews I've ever watched. No gimmicks, click baits or such. Just straight to the point. You are a very refined man. You don't try to force your opinions on others. You just state your findings or facts and leave it to the audience to make their own decisions. Personally, I wish more regular car makers like Mazda and Ford would make wagons. A Mazda wagon with their current design would make me drool. 🤤
@chancy319 ... +1.. Agreed. . Sure would like Mazda and others to give compact wagons a go... Unfortunately, the US market has spoken in this regard. .. In May '22 we ordered a '23 E-450S4 A/T wagon. .. To be built in early October '22. .. Can't wait.
Great review, as always. I didn't like the body cladding and elevated suspension so I snapped up a remaining 2020 E450 in Jan of 2021 and absolutely love it. It does great around town and in Sep drove from Texas to Toronto Canada to visit family and it did awesomely as a long distance cruiser getting 505 miles on a tank. It is my best vehicle yet. Keep the great reviews coming.
Did the same thing. May 2020 picked up a new 2019 when I saw the 2021 was going to be plastic. Not just the best car I have ever had, or driven, but better than I ever expected a car to be. Smooth, quiet, safe, fast, efficient, awesome stereo (I hear things I never hear on my expensive home stereo), beautiful interior, comfy seats, great headlamps, and 1,001 more things. But there are a few odd glitches. The front doors don't stay open facing uphill, the gas flap hates to close after filling up, and no spare! despite having space (my 2014 E350 has a spare and jack)... and I don't love the Good Year runflats. Still. I think the E wagon is as close to the perfect car as there is. Certainly nothing else is easier to load your 15 year old dog into, carries up to 7 people, and is as smooth and fast.
@@crownr0yalonice Got my first as a CPO. It was the same price as a new Subaru Outback at the top of their range in 2017. We've put 110k on plus the 40k it had on it and the only thing I have replaced was a wheel bearing (plus tires, brakes, rotors, battery and aux. battery but those are all maint. items) which was cheaper than I expected. I want to say $200. Just DON'T change the batteries YOURSELF.
I always love wagons having just recently parted ways with my 2000 BMW 3 series touring. You are far less likely to get pulled over in the wagon (or touring) trim, the driving dynamic is better weighted and you can carry loads of stuff. The modern wagons make the perfect stealth machines.
Agree. Two Volvo 240's back in the day, an E350 wagon, and E450 wagon (all I can say is wow). And the police ignore it. But it's fun to shut down the occasional idiot in a "sports" car.
@@johnjudge6935 .. My wife's '96 Audi UrS6 wagon w/ two 8yo kids in the way-back seat waving would blow by Corvettes on the way up to Vail @ 8,250 elevation. .. The normally aspirated Vette V8s were "shut down" sucking wind. .. Vroom, vroom in an S6 turbocharged wagon.. We have a 2023 E-450S4 A-T wagon on order since May with a '22 October build. . Can't wait, checked all the order boxes. .. The new MB inline 3.0t 6 cylinder is a thing of engineering beauty I'm told. . Cheers, M/S
I’m on my third e wagon and sadden to see the Elegant model no longer being offered. I never go off pavement so don’t need the ground clearance and never cared for the avantgarde grill on E
@@bzdtemp I did. Didn’t feel confident with their turbo super 4 banger and, I like the convenience of putting my kids in the jump seats for short trips in the neighbourhood.
@@Skfkf1393a Sounds reasonable. I do think their double charged engines have passed the test by now, but I'll agree it is more complex than just a turbo engine. Volvo does offer a third row, but only with their XC90 so that is of course a SUV and who want's that ;-)
It really is all the car any family does need... unless they live somewhere way off-road. I own a 2017 VW Alltrack and could not be happier with my choice. I did have one issue with a leaking sunroof, but VW took care of it for no charge and offered me a free loaner while it was being fixed. With AWD drive it gives me the ability to go in the snow and extra security when it rains. This M-B is one of the few wagons I would consider had I the funds. Your reviews are always top-notch and one of the best in the business. More people need to subscribe!
Thanks for everything you have posted in 2021. I look forward to seeing what's coming in 2022. In the meantime have a great, restful, Christmas and a happy new year.
Love wagons - I’ve owned 3 VW wagons plus other German hatches including a hot A3 Sport. I now have a 2010 E550 all motor 400hp and RWD active air suspension and AMG bits. Wanted a E wagon but the 350 wasn’t quick enough. This wagon at $90k is actually a great deal. If I lived in Colorado and not SoCal. Take care Tom - Alles Güte!
@bestpilot98 ... +1 .. Agreed, North America MB cost cutting at its finest. Begrudgingly we ordered a 2023 All Terrain wagon. Our 2020 Outback XT Touring spec's 8.7" clearance all day long.
@@michaelschneider- Bought one of the last new 2019's when I read about MB's plan with the plastic. I'm hoping now that they will come out with a full electric like Audi did with the A6. And no plastic.
@@johnjudge6935 Its that time again and we are on the cusp of another E-Klasse model/chassis renewal. The next E-Class series brings the sedan and T-models supported by the present crop of 4 cylinder & 6 cylinder gasoline engines. The cabriolet body style is in doubt.
Another great review, thanks Tom! I’m waiting for my fifth Audi wagon to arrive, a 2022 A4 Allroad. Rolled over, a long time ago, in a Bronco 2. No more SUVs for me. The Allroad is great to drive, has plenty of room for long road trips, and really goes anywhere with confidence. Folks, check out a wagon…
I thought those wheels on your test car looked odd. They are from the pre- all terrain e class wagon or sedan. MB must’ve put them on there as a winter set. The minute I started the video I was confused by how odd the spec looked. The closest wheel like that is the 19” twin 5 spoke amg wheel with black accents. Probably the ones I’d choose!! Loving the All Terrain!!
+1.. Very nice review, Herr Tom. .. Being wagon people too, we're waiting for a 2023 E-450S4 wagon ordered back in May '22…. Selected the lighter-shade-of-grey, Selenite Grey with Nappa Beige Leather .... While pricey, it's a 10yr-15 yr keeper.. The sophisticated highly developed inline 6cyl is a torquey drive I'm told.. The 3.2 inline 6cyl of our hand-me-down '94 E-Class C124 Coupe is silky smooth... The E-450s turbo-charged inline 6 will assist with Colorado's high elevation. It's 8,200ft at our driveway.. Can't wait for the wagon delivery however until then,,,, I'll enjoy your All-Terrain review for the tenth time... Thanks!
Stunning spec in this example. The interior looks great (especially in the chocolate colour) and the dashboard screen/s are clear without much glare. Another great review.
Great Review Tom as allways. I love wagons, they're very practical and drive great, an uncle of mine used to have ( when I was a kid a Volvo 240 wagon, and those road trips were so cool. Regards
Great review as always, Tom! I use to be a kid in the back of a '95 E320 Wagon in the exact same color, Graphite Grey. The interior though--that sure has come a long way!
Well articulated review, Tom. This is a nice looking wagon. Not too crazy about the wheel arch cladding but it’s not bad in black. Learned something new on this weeks fun fact as well.
Had two e350 wagons with winter tires in NW Ontario driving on iced roads, never lost traction, even when I tried, such a compelling all wheeled drive system!
Using the third row is great. Turns out I can keep my toddler in his car seat facing backwards much longer than I could in any forward facing seat. This is a huge safety benefit. My son loves it. However, I have to correct Tom. Using the third row requires the privacy shade in place, not removed.
Hey Tom, great review as always! I would have bought a station wagon years ago if my wife approves it. I am craving for a carlike ride and more streamline body shape of the vehicle to enhance fuel economy. Love to have my future grandkids to play those "sweet and sour" game with those fun rear facing seats LOL. In all seriousness I like the bonus seats just like the Kia Sorento PHEV I am now driving
...Volvo V90 perhaps? Talk about standing out at a tailgate party...you won't see many others in a V90, so that will help feeling like a non-conformist 👍
It's really elegant and stylish. I love the subtle styling of the E-class Mercedes and as a wagon man, I love this one. I currently drive an Outback, so definitely won't be able to afford one, but when or if I am able to, I would totally buy this amazing vehicle. It's subtle, it's sleek, and very luxurious without screaming it from the mountain top like most expensive crossovers are doing nowadays
Great videos Tom! I appreciate you covering auto start stop systems. Do you ever see vehicles where it can be disabled permanently? Do you see enough to make the differentiation and call it out in a video when you can disable permanently? Thanks
I have a 2017 Volvo V90 CC, not my first wagon, and not my last. Last car hunt go around, I tried like heck to love SUV's as I was unloading my Mazda CX5. I realized that I am a wagon person, and with the all wheel drive and lifted chassis, my wagon can do everything I did with my X5s, which is buying groceries, towing a kayak trailer, and hauling dogs and pottery. I will keep a wagon as long as my aging body will allow me to get in and out of a lower vehicle. I recently drove a 2023 E Class All Terrain and fell in love with it. Compared to the Audi A6 Allroad, it's got better response. The Mercedes is rarer than the Audi around here too, which I like. I do not run into many V90s either. I like being the outlier.
This review was a little surprising: It sure seems to be a bump up in quality, even for Tom Voelk. Congrats! To wit: 1. Extra smooth writing this time, plus 2. Extra smooth, even "refined" (another commenter's word) delivery: all spoken a tish more elegantly, as befits the MB here. 3. The pruning and editing is like--to use a radical metaphor--Handel's music. You pack so many events into 16 little minutes, but it all seems so logical and smooth--no bumps at all. In cheesier parlance: It flows, and how. 4. Even that jacket seems a notch up too, to match the MB. 5. A really cool (get it?) Frostbite Falls reference to the great Rocket J. Squirrel and Bullwinkle J. Moose! Yes! (The Js stood for producer Jay Ward.) To add it up: This here review today is exceptionally good journalism. Wow. (And I even knew the fun fact beforehand!) Now for some $80,000 somewhere-----no, I'll keep my MX-5.
I love wagons. Probably started when my dad bought a 1955 Pontiac Safari (Pontiac's Nomad version). My first was a Renault 12, $900 and ran on three cylinders, and then a Volvo 245 when my son was born. Since then a Volvo 740, Volvo 940, Volvo V70 T5, BMW 525iT, and my current Volvo V70 R-Design.
Tom knocks it out of the park yet again, One day he will (maybe) do a bad review, but today is not that day. :) Happy Xmas to the Voelk family, hope you all have a great new year.
Get an X5 plug-in hybrid 4.7 to 60 amazing in the turns great gas mileage still get the height lower it down to get great handling. I’m telling you I life in Northern California and there’s amazing switchback mountain roads... the X5 defies physics I keep up with Stis and gtrs ...🤷🏾♀️😅
While my 2012 diesel my was costing me a fortune in the shop we had this as a loaner. Comfortable, elegant, and don't let that engine fool you.. in sport + with that battery you're about the fastest thing on the road
+1... We have a 2021 Subi Outback XT Touring ... It's 85% to 90% of the Mercedes E-Class wagon, the top-trim Outback XT Touring is that good. The Subi's acoustic dual-pane glass side windows make for a library quiet Subi interior...
If I read the info on the Mercedes site you can raise the body a little over one inch up to 35km/h (21mph). That should help in the alley. Happy Holidays Tom!
👋 Hi Tom. Great wagon by Mercedes...but if I want to stand out at a tailgate party, I'll show up in a AMG63/S wagon (if we're only talking Mercedes cars)....unless the tailgate party is at the top of one of Colorado's highest peaks in the middle of winter...if only VW would do this to the Arteon Wagon...oops, wait, VW doesn't sell the Arteon Wagon in the states. 😕
Great review Tom! What a beautiful car! Problem with driving a wagon or sedan these days are the ride height vs many many SUV/trucks on the road, in the opposite direction their headlights shines directly to driver’s eye; in the traffic they block your view to the front or traffic lights.
@@DrivenCarReviews I wish I can agree with you more Tom, but in reality here in Seattle it turns dark early in the winter time, that means for my daily commute in the afternoon, I constantly getting high beam shines in my eye with me driving a 3 series wagon. Anyway, I just want to say, love your videos! I have been following you since 2017.
I agree wholeheartedly, as there should be some laws instated in automobile manufacturing. Surely these companies that produce these ridiculously high-jacked-up SUVs on the road, should have the headlights designed or adjusted to be pointed down onto the road and not into the eye level of approaching motorists. We have the technology today to accomplish this. They need to stop making excuses and get it right. [I drive a vintage 2001 E320 Mercedes wagon and I could never imagine giving it up it's so comfortable, and we'll built, I can only imagine what this newer model must feel like. It's got to be just a pure perfection of what automotive engineering should be throughout the world today, yet Mercedes seems to accomplish this better than any other automotive engineers and designers.]
Always appreciate your direct and succinct manner of reporting, Tom. Thanks for explaining the origins of the term "station wagon". Care to explain why the Brits call it a shooting brake?
Shooting brake comes from the Brit’s using them for hunting or shooting outings. The large square back end made it easier to grab guns. Also, a “brake” was originally a heavy chassis used to keep spirited horses from going too fast. Technically shooting brakes are two-doors.
+1 .. Nice Review. .. 2023 E450 A/T wagon will land at the Baltimore ship port December 18th.... Only several weeks until its actual delivery.. Long-term wagon ownership is soon to begin! .. All-Terrain is at the dealership ... Pickup January 10th, '23 ..
@Michael Schneider ... The new '23 E-450 wagon is about a month old ... The new M256 Inline 6cyl is a tier-one modern 48V design.. Responsive specific output and highly efficient fuel usage ... Dream boat driving experience at any speed..
Ah I remember riding in the backwards way back seat of a station wagon makes faces at the drivers! I think it's hard wired into our DNA. Come to think of it my parents never had the traditional American Station Wagon though, we had an International Travelall and a VW 412 wagon.
S212 63 and s213 400 are great. Let's see what the s214 brings. The 212 and 213 been pretty trouble-free except for regular maintenance costs. Do buy extended warranty is a must. Will bring saving ....
Is this your first Mercedes review, Tom? The column shifter has been there since 2005. Also, can't believe they removed the analog clock. $90k car without a standard heated steering wheel, you gotta love the Germans for nicking and dimming you.
I've had people hit their heads getting in my Buick Regal TourX. But once inside the flat, non-curved roof line yields plenty of head room over sedans. So now we have a Cadillac CT6 PHEV and a 2005 Hummer H2. No complaints aviator entrance in the CT6 and none about the Hummer. Just that we have to almost lift my mother in-law up as it is quite high up. Never satisfied!
I couldn't agree more. A wagon over an SUV all day long. Plenty of space and for all intents it drives and feels like a sedan. SUVs are less stable in an emergency maneuver and just too dang massive. I just bought my second one, a 2020 E450 in Cardinal Red. I had a 280 wagon about 15 yrs ago and it served well. The only thing they both needed was a proper set of performance all season tires. OE rubber is weak and good tires change the entire driving picture. I haven't even registered the 2020 yet (waiting for MB to mail the title since I just paid off the previous owner's lease buyout) so I'm chomping at the bit to put it into daily service. But especially to take a road trip.
Station wagons could sell in the USA. CAFE standards led manufacturers to focus their efforts on marketing SUVs. However, if they wanted to, there’s a big opportunity there by playing on old station wagon stereotypes and playing against all the boring SUVs on the road.
Tom , We just got the Bronco back after a decades long hiatus, what are the chances the "pure Americana" of the Country Squire, Colony Park and Vista Cruiser will make a comeback?
Unlikely. Station wagons are considered a "car" in terms of CAFE, whereas SUVs are considered a "truck" and not subject to the same MPG construct. The poor mpg of the older wagons is what hurt the big 3 CAFE ratings, so they were dropped. As a result, Americans lost their taste for wagons and every attempt by euro companies to sell wagons in America have failed, despite being practical. Additionally, Americans are having far fewer children than in the past, if at all. Too much working against the wagon segment for the big 3 to invest in new models
Too bad all of the desirable wagon "battles" are fought in the premium brand segment. The Outback is good, just not desirable in my eyes (as a WRX owner)
My first car was a green with wood paneling 1974 Oldsmobile Vista cruiser . It had the potent Olds 350 rocket 🚀 for a motor and a very eager and excitable 16 yr old high schooler at the wheel lol
This was a great review. I want one with a heated wheel and rear shades, heaters, and NO sunroof. At least not the monster sized one. Love my wagons. Replacing my diesel bmw soon.
Beautiful car and excellent review. But since you de-mystified the term "station wagon," why not take a stab at "Shooting Brake?" Like you, I love wagons. Owned several examples from Volvo and Saab over the years. Unfortunately, when we replaced the Saab in 2012, my wife got to experience the elevated seating position of the KIA Sorento. That was the end of her (though not my) romance with station wagons. Since the utilitarian vehicle in our fleet is her daily driver and the family's highway slogger, she got two votes to my one and a wagon option disappeared. 😥 Happy holidays, Tom. Hope you and your family get to experience a rare white Christmas here in the Puget Sound area.
A "brake" was a heavy chassis in the horse-drawn era that was used to slow down temperamental horses. "Shooting" came from the boxy rear end used by British hunting parties which made it easier for them to load and grab their guns. Anything else? Meaning of life?
@@DrivenCarReviews Very impressive, Tom! Not sure about you but we didn't get a "white" Christmas down here on Fox Island but we have a white "Boxing Day" this morning. If you're out and about today, be careful. Seattle drivers aren't known for their skills on snow and ice covered hills. As for the meaning of life, I'm not sure but the answer to the ultimate question is 42.
if you want pure americana, put on some woodgrain panelling on the sides.. hah kidding! ohh, I partially miss the ol' 72 country squire : p This E450 is a nicely packaged unit, and has so much useable volume. Soft close doors too?!
@John Volkman .. Good question. Mercedes North America is tight-lipped on the towing metrics. .. In Germany E-Class Kombi (Station Wagon) are often pulling dual axle horse trailers... For what it is worth....
One of the best reviews I've ever watched. No gimmicks, click baits or such. Just straight to the point. You are a very refined man. You don't try to force your opinions on others. You just state your findings or facts and leave it to the audience to make their own decisions. Personally, I wish more regular car makers like Mazda and Ford would make wagons. A Mazda wagon with their current design would make me drool. 🤤
@chancy319 ... +1.. Agreed. . Sure would like Mazda and others to give compact wagons a go... Unfortunately, the US market has spoken in this regard. .. In May '22 we ordered a '23 E-450S4 A/T wagon. .. To be built in early October '22. .. Can't wait.
Great review, as always. I didn't like the body cladding and elevated suspension so I snapped up a remaining 2020 E450 in Jan of 2021 and absolutely love it. It does great around town and in Sep drove from Texas to Toronto Canada to visit family and it did awesomely as a long distance cruiser getting 505 miles on a tank. It is my best vehicle yet. Keep the great reviews coming.
Great move , it makes everything look cheap and low quality IMO.
I’m so jealous. I want a German wagon so baaaaaad!
@@ronniejaye1...Ron, please tell this to Subaru and their 2022 WRX. Body cladding does automatically make a car "more rugged", just unfinished...
Did the same thing. May 2020 picked up a new 2019 when I saw the 2021 was going to be plastic. Not just the best car I have ever had, or driven, but better than I ever expected a car to be. Smooth, quiet, safe, fast, efficient, awesome stereo (I hear things I never hear on my expensive home stereo), beautiful interior, comfy seats, great headlamps, and 1,001 more things. But there are a few odd glitches. The front doors don't stay open facing uphill, the gas flap hates to close after filling up, and no spare! despite having space (my 2014 E350 has a spare and jack)... and I don't love the Good Year runflats. Still. I think the E wagon is as close to the perfect car as there is. Certainly nothing else is easier to load your 15 year old dog into, carries up to 7 people, and is as smooth and fast.
@@crownr0yalonice Got my first as a CPO. It was the same price as a new Subaru Outback at the top of their range in 2017. We've put 110k on plus the 40k it had on it and the only thing I have replaced was a wheel bearing (plus tires, brakes, rotors, battery and aux. battery but those are all maint. items) which was cheaper than I expected. I want to say $200. Just DON'T change the batteries YOURSELF.
Feels like forever ago since I sat in the rear-facing seats Volvo used to have in their wagons. Pure nostalgia seeing them again.
Another good one, Tom. Thanks. I have a 2014 E350 and love it. It's one of the great wagons of all times. With a stand-up hood ornament to boot.
Wow, what a looker. I am glad wagons are still around. Tom you do an excellent job. Thank you. Good graces.
have a 2018 E400 wagon we picked up in Germany and I love this wagon, just love it! Enjoy your reviews!
THAT was a Great ‘Fun Fact’!!!
You learn something new every day and I’m going to use that one today.
Thanks Tom.
I always love wagons having just recently parted ways with my 2000 BMW 3 series touring. You are far less likely to get pulled over in the wagon (or touring) trim, the driving dynamic is better weighted and you can carry loads of stuff. The modern wagons make the perfect stealth machines.
Agree. Two Volvo 240's back in the day, an E350 wagon, and E450 wagon (all I can say is wow). And the police ignore it. But it's fun to shut down the occasional idiot in a "sports" car.
@@johnjudge6935 .. My wife's '96 Audi UrS6 wagon w/ two 8yo kids in the way-back seat waving would blow by Corvettes on the way up to Vail @ 8,250 elevation. .. The normally aspirated Vette V8s were "shut down" sucking wind. .. Vroom, vroom in an S6 turbocharged wagon.. We have a 2023 E-450S4 A-T wagon on order since May with a '22 October build. . Can't wait, checked all the order boxes. .. The new MB inline 3.0t 6 cylinder is a thing of engineering beauty I'm told. . Cheers, M/S
I’m on my third e wagon and sadden to see the Elegant model no longer being offered. I never go off pavement so don’t need the ground clearance and never cared for the avantgarde grill on E
When you/feel for getting your fourth check out the offerings from Volvo.
@@bzdtemp I did. Didn’t feel confident with their turbo super 4 banger and, I like the convenience of putting my kids in the jump seats for short trips in the neighbourhood.
@@Skfkf1393a Sounds reasonable.
I do think their double charged engines have passed the test by now, but I'll agree it is more complex than just a turbo engine.
Volvo does offer a third row, but only with their XC90 so that is of course a SUV and who want's that ;-)
It really is all the car any family does need... unless they live somewhere way off-road. I own a 2017 VW Alltrack and could not be happier with my choice. I did have one issue with a leaking sunroof, but VW took care of it for no charge and offered me a free loaner while it was being fixed. With AWD drive it gives me the ability to go in the snow and extra security when it rains. This M-B is one of the few wagons I would consider had I the funds. Your reviews are always top-notch and one of the best in the business. More people need to subscribe!
Thanks for everything you have posted in 2021. I look forward to seeing what's coming in 2022. In the meantime have a great, restful, Christmas and a happy new year.
If a wagon can be a dream car, this is it.
Love wagons - I’ve owned 3 VW wagons plus other German hatches including a hot A3 Sport. I now have a 2010 E550 all motor 400hp and RWD active air suspension and AMG bits. Wanted a E wagon but the 350 wasn’t quick enough. This wagon at $90k is actually a great deal. If I lived in Colorado and not SoCal. Take care Tom - Alles Güte!
Another great review Tom. Gotta love wagons!
Couldn't think of a more fitting neighbourhood than Windermere for this review!
Rolling my eyes at Merc for their decision to drop the elegant "luxury" trim with stand-up hood ornament.
@bestpilot98 ... +1 .. Agreed, North America MB cost cutting at its finest. Begrudgingly we ordered a 2023 All Terrain wagon. Our 2020 Outback XT Touring spec's 8.7" clearance all day long.
@@michaelschneider- Bought one of the last new 2019's when I read about MB's plan with the plastic. I'm hoping now that they will come out with a full electric like Audi did with the A6. And no plastic.
@@johnjudge6935 Its that time again and we are on the cusp of another E-Klasse model/chassis renewal. The next E-Class series brings the sedan and T-models supported by the present crop of 4 cylinder & 6 cylinder gasoline engines. The cabriolet body style is in doubt.
Another great review, thanks Tom! I’m waiting for my fifth Audi wagon to arrive, a 2022 A4 Allroad. Rolled over, a long time ago, in a Bronco 2. No more SUVs for me. The Allroad is great to drive, has plenty of room for long road trips, and really goes anywhere with confidence. Folks, check out a wagon…
Well, there is stability control these days David so SUVs are more stable. But the A4 AR is a nice choice. Enjoy!
I really enjoy your reviews. Thank you!
Great review! I loved the classical music in the background
Great review of an awesome vehicle. Thanks, Tom.
I thought those wheels on your test car looked odd. They are from the pre- all terrain e class wagon or sedan. MB must’ve put them on there as a winter set. The minute I started the video I was confused by how odd the spec looked. The closest wheel like that is the 19” twin 5 spoke amg wheel with black accents. Probably the ones I’d choose!! Loving the All Terrain!!
+1.. Very nice review, Herr Tom. .. Being wagon people too, we're waiting for a 2023 E-450S4 wagon ordered back in May '22…. Selected the lighter-shade-of-grey, Selenite Grey with Nappa Beige Leather .... While pricey, it's a 10yr-15 yr keeper.. The sophisticated highly developed inline 6cyl is a torquey drive I'm told.. The 3.2 inline 6cyl of our hand-me-down '94 E-Class C124 Coupe is silky smooth... The E-450s turbo-charged inline 6 will assist with Colorado's high elevation. It's 8,200ft at our driveway.. Can't wait for the wagon delivery however until then,,,, I'll enjoy your All-Terrain review for the tenth time... Thanks!
Stunning spec in this example. The interior looks great (especially in the chocolate colour) and the dashboard screen/s are clear without much glare. Another great review.
Great Review Tom as allways. I love wagons, they're very practical and drive great, an uncle of mine used to have ( when I was a kid a Volvo 240 wagon, and those road trips were so cool. Regards
Great review as always, Tom! I use to be a kid in the back of a '95 E320 Wagon in the exact same color, Graphite Grey. The interior though--that sure has come a long way!
Well articulated review, Tom. This is a nice looking wagon. Not too crazy about the wheel arch cladding but it’s not bad in black. Learned something new on this weeks fun fact as well.
Great review Tom, great car!
Happy holidays Tom. Wishing you the best in the new year. Looking forward to your reviews.
Same to you!
Oh, I have always loved Mercedes wagons!
Had two e350 wagons with winter tires in NW Ontario driving on iced roads, never lost traction, even when I tried, such a compelling all wheeled drive system!
Using the third row is great. Turns out I can keep my toddler in his car seat facing backwards much longer than I could in any forward facing seat. This is a huge safety benefit. My son loves it.
However, I have to correct Tom. Using the third row requires the privacy shade in place, not removed.
Proud owner of an 850 and 9-5 wagon 😁
I would take this over any crossover. Costs twice as much as an Outback, but has the goods to justify the price if you have the budget.
Hey Tom, great review as always! I would have bought a station wagon years ago if my wife approves it. I am craving for a carlike ride and more streamline body shape of the vehicle to enhance fuel economy. Love to have my future grandkids to play those "sweet and sour" game with those fun rear facing seats LOL. In all seriousness I like the bonus seats just like the Kia Sorento PHEV I am now driving
The Sorento is nice. No Sweet and Sour though...
...Volvo V90 perhaps? Talk about standing out at a tailgate party...you won't see many others in a V90, so that will help feeling like a non-conformist 👍
Wife approves? I hope you’re joking..
Great Review Tom. The E-Class Wagon is still my favorite Benz…
It's really elegant and stylish. I love the subtle styling of the E-class Mercedes and as a wagon man, I love this one. I currently drive an Outback, so definitely won't be able to afford one, but when or if I am able to, I would totally buy this amazing vehicle. It's subtle, it's sleek, and very luxurious without screaming it from the mountain top like most expensive crossovers are doing nowadays
Great videos Tom! I appreciate you covering auto start stop systems. Do you ever see vehicles where it can be disabled permanently? Do you see enough to make the differentiation and call it out in a video when you can disable permanently? Thanks
Can't be permanently disabled, at least not easily or legally.
Let’s be honest,most suv drivers aren’t going off-road,towing trailers or hauling heavy payload so this wagon is basically all they need
True. But try telling them that.
I have a 2017 Volvo V90 CC, not my first wagon, and not my last. Last car hunt go around, I tried like heck to love SUV's as I was unloading my Mazda CX5. I realized that I am a wagon person, and with the all wheel drive and lifted chassis, my wagon can do everything I did with my X5s, which is buying groceries, towing a kayak trailer, and hauling dogs and pottery. I will keep a wagon as long as my aging body will allow me to get in and out of a lower vehicle. I recently drove a 2023 E Class All Terrain and fell in love with it. Compared to the Audi A6 Allroad, it's got better response. The Mercedes is rarer than the Audi around here too, which I like. I do not run into many V90s either. I like being the outlier.
Looks good! Thanks for a great review!
Brilliant review. Mercedes should offer it in the regular guise also or at least offer the E53 Wagon for those who don't want an AT or the 63 version.
This review was a little surprising: It sure seems to be a bump up in quality, even for Tom Voelk. Congrats! To wit:
1. Extra smooth writing this time, plus
2. Extra smooth, even "refined" (another commenter's word) delivery: all spoken a tish more elegantly, as befits the MB here.
3. The pruning and editing is like--to use a radical metaphor--Handel's music. You pack so many events into 16 little minutes, but it all seems so logical and smooth--no bumps at all. In cheesier parlance: It flows, and how.
4. Even that jacket seems a notch up too, to match the MB.
5. A really cool (get it?) Frostbite Falls reference to the great Rocket J. Squirrel and Bullwinkle J. Moose! Yes! (The Js stood for producer Jay Ward.)
To add it up: This here review today is exceptionally good journalism. Wow.
(And I even knew the fun fact beforehand!)
Now for some $80,000 somewhere-----no, I'll keep my MX-5.
Thanks for the kind words. And yeah, keep the Miata.
Finally, a station wagon!
I love wagons. Probably started when my dad bought a 1955 Pontiac Safari (Pontiac's Nomad version). My first was a Renault 12, $900 and ran on three cylinders, and then a Volvo 245 when my son was born. Since then a Volvo 740, Volvo 940, Volvo V70 T5, BMW 525iT, and my current Volvo V70 R-Design.
Great video, as always. Any chance you'll review the A6 Allroad? Would be cool to get your take
Hard to know. I don't get a lot of Audi test cars in the NW.
Tom knocks it out of the park yet again, One day he will (maybe) do a bad review, but today is not that day. :)
Happy Xmas to the Voelk family, hope you all have a great new year.
Same to you!
Get an X5 plug-in hybrid 4.7 to 60 amazing in the turns great gas mileage still get the height lower it down to get great handling. I’m telling you I life in Northern California and there’s amazing switchback mountain roads... the X5 defies physics I keep up with Stis and gtrs ...🤷🏾♀️😅
Here in The Netherlands Stationcar is used more often I think. Probably borrowed from the British. Germans call it an E Klasse Combi :-)
I'll use that in my next fun fact William
Didn't Saab call their final wagon a SportCombi? I miss Saab. Not the crapified version GM made, but the real deal.
That chocolate brown interior is stunning
Yup.
While my 2012 diesel my was costing me a fortune in the shop we had this as a loaner. Comfortable, elegant, and don't let that engine fool you.. in sport + with that battery you're about the fastest thing on the road
My heart says, “Yes,” My mind says, “Buy the two Subarus.”
+1... We have a 2021 Subi Outback XT Touring ... It's 85% to 90% of the Mercedes E-Class wagon, the top-trim Outback XT Touring is that good. The Subi's acoustic dual-pane glass side windows make for a library quiet Subi interior...
I’m skeptical of its long term reliability, but that beautiful interior just makes me want to own one even so.
If I read the info on the Mercedes site you can raise the body a little over one inch up to 35km/h (21mph). That should help in the alley. Happy Holidays Tom!
Yes, that was going to be in a graphic that I forgot to paste in. The screen said it would lower automatically at 22 MPH.
👋 Hi Tom. Great wagon by Mercedes...but if I want to stand out at a tailgate party, I'll show up in a AMG63/S wagon (if we're only talking Mercedes cars)....unless the tailgate party is at the top of one of Colorado's highest peaks in the middle of winter...if only VW would do this to the Arteon Wagon...oops, wait, VW doesn't sell the Arteon Wagon in the states. 😕
Great review Tom! What a beautiful car! Problem with driving a wagon or sedan these days are the ride height vs many many SUV/trucks on the road, in the opposite direction their headlights shines directly to driver’s eye; in the traffic they block your view to the front or traffic lights.
I hear that but I can't say I've found it to be an issue. I've not been bothered by headlights, and just leave a little space at the stoplight.
@@DrivenCarReviews I wish I can agree with you more Tom, but in reality here in Seattle it turns dark early in the winter time, that means for my daily commute in the afternoon, I constantly getting high beam shines in my eye with me driving a 3 series wagon. Anyway, I just want to say, love your videos! I have been following you since 2017.
I agree wholeheartedly, as there should be some laws instated in automobile manufacturing. Surely these companies that produce these ridiculously high-jacked-up SUVs on the road, should have the headlights designed or adjusted to be pointed down onto the road and not into the eye level of approaching motorists.
We have the technology today to accomplish this. They need to stop making excuses and get it right.
[I drive a vintage 2001 E320 Mercedes wagon and I could never imagine giving it up it's so comfortable, and we'll built, I can only imagine what this newer model must feel like. It's got to be just a pure perfection of what automotive engineering should be throughout the world today, yet Mercedes seems to accomplish this better than any other automotive engineers and designers.]
Always appreciate your direct and succinct manner of reporting, Tom. Thanks for explaining the origins of the term "station wagon". Care to explain why the Brits call it a shooting brake?
Shooting brake comes from the Brit’s using them for hunting or shooting outings. The large square back end made it easier to grab guns. Also, a “brake” was originally a heavy chassis used to keep spirited horses from going too fast. Technically shooting brakes are two-doors.
@@DrivenCarReviews .. +1 .. Chapter & verse. . Danke.
Beautiful car. I love wagons.
Can you get this without the lower plastic cladding?
Must add, got all my kitchen cabinets in the back too!
What full cleareance is it ?
Growing up, a real Benz has the hood ornament! I miss the hood ornaments..
Thanks for info on the origin name of wagon, Tom.
@YazAMG .. +1.. Agreed. .. Who da Thunk? .. Station Wagon..
I think that makes it a station wagon, if that's what one wants.
Looks great!
+1 .. Nice Review. .. 2023 E450 A/T wagon will land at the Baltimore ship port December 18th.... Only several weeks until its actual delivery.. Long-term wagon ownership is soon to begin! .. All-Terrain is at the dealership ... Pickup January 10th, '23 ..
@Michael Schneider ... The new '23 E-450 wagon is about a month old ... The new M256 Inline 6cyl is a tier-one modern 48V design.. Responsive specific output and highly efficient fuel usage ... Dream boat driving experience at any speed..
I just bought a 2023 E450 All Terrain. Can't believe how nice it drives. I am getting more than 600 miles of range on the highway.
Lovely car you have there.
Ah I remember riding in the backwards way back seat of a station wagon makes faces at the drivers! I think it's hard wired into our DNA. Come to think of it my parents never had the traditional American Station Wagon though, we had an International Travelall and a VW 412 wagon.
Tom, have you driven the souped up E63 AMG version (with the Bi-turbo V8 on PEDs) of this wagon?
I have not
Love the E class wagon
S212 63 and s213 400 are great. Let's see what the s214 brings.
The 212 and 213 been pretty trouble-free except for regular maintenance costs.
Do buy extended warranty is a must. Will bring saving ....
Is this your first Mercedes review, Tom?
The column shifter has been there since 2005.
Also, can't believe they removed the analog clock.
$90k car without a standard heated steering wheel, you gotta love the Germans for nicking and dimming you.
Lots of Mercedes reviews. Doesn't mean I have to like the column shifter.
I wear black gloves while driving.
Never needed a heated steering wheel.
I've had people hit their heads getting in my Buick Regal TourX. But once inside the flat, non-curved roof line yields plenty of head room over sedans.
So now we have a Cadillac CT6 PHEV and a 2005 Hummer H2. No complaints aviator entrance in the CT6 and none about the Hummer. Just that we have to almost lift my mother in-law up as it is quite high up. Never satisfied!
Love the E wagon :)
I couldn't agree more. A wagon over an SUV all day long. Plenty of space and for all intents it drives and feels like a sedan. SUVs are less stable in an emergency maneuver and just too dang massive. I just bought my second one, a 2020 E450 in Cardinal Red. I had a 280 wagon about 15 yrs ago and it served well. The only thing they both needed was a proper set of performance all season tires. OE rubber is weak and good tires change the entire driving picture. I haven't even registered the 2020 yet (waiting for MB to mail the title since I just paid off the previous owner's lease buyout) so I'm chomping at the bit to put it into daily service. But especially to take a road trip.
Station wagons could sell in the USA. CAFE standards led manufacturers to focus their efforts on marketing SUVs. However, if they wanted to, there’s a big opportunity there by playing on old station wagon stereotypes and playing against all the boring SUVs on the road.
Tom , We just got the Bronco back after a decades long hiatus, what are the chances the "pure Americana" of the Country Squire, Colony Park and Vista Cruiser will make a comeback?
Unlikely. Station wagons are considered a "car" in terms of CAFE, whereas SUVs are considered a "truck" and not subject to the same MPG construct. The poor mpg of the older wagons is what hurt the big 3 CAFE ratings, so they were dropped. As a result, Americans lost their taste for wagons and every attempt by euro companies to sell wagons in America have failed, despite being practical. Additionally, Americans are having far fewer children than in the past, if at all. Too much working against the wagon segment for the big 3 to invest in new models
Zero I'm afraid. But I just saw a BEAUTIFUL Roadmaster the other day and people were gawking. So there's hope.
@@DrivenCarReviews Tom, it is up to people like you and me to keep wagon hope alive!! SaveTheWagon ;-)
Good review, Tom Though, I'd still prefer my regular E450 wagon
Fair enough!
Too bad all of the desirable wagon "battles" are fought in the premium brand segment. The Outback is good, just not desirable in my eyes (as a WRX owner)
@@K03sport Hopefully, they bring back the new-gen WRX wagon stateside
I've seen the SW in NZ, it's chicer & more practical than a sedan
My first car was a green with wood paneling 1974 Oldsmobile Vista cruiser . It had the potent Olds 350 rocket 🚀 for a motor and a very eager and excitable 16 yr old high schooler at the wheel lol
The wood paneling in its day was boss
Mine was a brown Country Squire. Paid $850 bucks for it and did a great job of hauling my band gear.
What model are the wheels from...not currently shown as all-terrain option
They are the optional 2021 factory wheels. RRR 20" AMG Twin 5-Spoke Wheels w/ Black Accents
If you like it, you can buy it for about half the price after 3 years
Loved the fun fact.
I can only imagine the electric version of this in the future.
Bringing back a Dodge Magnum with RT and Hellcat options would make me so happy.
On a recent trip in my 2022 I averaged over 30 on the highway
Got over 600 miles on a tank of gas
This was a great review. I want one with a heated wheel and rear shades, heaters, and NO sunroof. At least not the monster sized one. Love my wagons. Replacing my diesel bmw soon.
Why would you want a perfume dispenser when you have Napa Leather?
Looks good
Hey, your sons growin’ up! 🤙
Yes. He's quite the guy.
where are you testing this, a suburb of Seattle? I want to move in that neighborhood
Not really a suburb. It's near University of Washington.
Fuel engines ONLY.
Beautiful car and excellent review. But since you de-mystified the term "station wagon," why not take a stab at "Shooting Brake?"
Like you, I love wagons. Owned several examples from Volvo and Saab over the years. Unfortunately, when we replaced the Saab in 2012, my wife got to experience the elevated seating position of the KIA Sorento. That was the end of her (though not my) romance with station wagons. Since the utilitarian vehicle in our fleet is her daily driver and the family's highway slogger, she got two votes to my one and a wagon option disappeared. 😥
Happy holidays, Tom. Hope you and your family get to experience a rare white Christmas here in the Puget Sound area.
A "brake" was a heavy chassis in the horse-drawn era that was used to slow down temperamental horses. "Shooting" came from the boxy rear end used by British hunting parties which made it easier for them to load and grab their guns. Anything else? Meaning of life?
@@DrivenCarReviews Very impressive, Tom! Not sure about you but we didn't get a "white" Christmas down here on Fox Island but we have a white "Boxing Day" this morning. If you're out and about today, be careful. Seattle drivers aren't known for their skills on snow and ice covered hills. As for the meaning of life, I'm not sure but the answer to the ultimate question is 42.
How old are you!? lol
if you want pure americana, put on some woodgrain panelling on the sides.. hah kidding! ohh, I partially miss the ol' 72 country squire : p This E450 is a nicely packaged unit, and has so much useable volume. Soft close doors too?!
Is the "Hey Mercedes" command an option or is that standard?
Without looking it up, I think it was an option but not too expensive. $300 or so. I'll also assume that after a certain period there's a data charge.
What’s the difference between an SUV and a station wagon? What’s the difference between this E450 and a GLE 450? The height?
Functionally? Not a lot. The SUV has more ground clearance and is raised up for better visibility. The wagon is lower for better cornering.
Anyone know what the towing capacity is?
@John Volkman .. Good question. Mercedes North America is tight-lipped on the towing metrics. .. In Germany E-Class Kombi (Station Wagon) are often pulling dual axle horse trailers... For what it is worth....
Ah yes, two of the deadly sins, lust and envy. Back to the confessional I go.
I so want to like the station wagon but I can’t get Mike and Carol Brady driving to the Grand Canyon out of my head. 😂
Mike and Carol were pretty cool. And they had a nice house.
The sweet and sour game. I'm team sour 😏
There's always hope. You can repent.
This is not a suv it is a station wagon It looks like the W123 is making a comeback
Yay! Etymology!