Motoring experts have been out test driving all of Mercedes Benz’s car fleet currently on sale in the UK to determine which is the best of the lot
A team of car experts have taken on the enviable task of test driving every Mercedes model available in the UK to crown the ultimate winner.
After an exhaustive series of test drives and reviews, considering each model’s body type and fuel variant, the car gurus from the esteemed Auto Express magazine concluded that the battle for supremacy boiled down to two saloon cars: the C-Class and its larger sibling, the E-Class.
The C-Class emerged victorious, with a starting price tag of £44,000 for new models, impressing the experts with its efficiency, advancements, and interior quality.
They summed up their verdict by saying: “This model focuses more than ever on efficiency. Sleek aerodynamics contribute to the impressive economy available from most engines, in a range that still offers a pair of diesels.”
They also praised the vehicle’s interior, noting: “The S-Class style cabin is another big point in the [Mercedes] C-Class’s favour – it’s striking to look at, the tech works well, and it feels almost as upmarket as the bigger car too.”
Despite taking the top spot, the C-Class didn’t escape criticism; it was noted for its higher running costs, larger wheels affecting ride comfort, and a boot size that doesn’t quite measure up to competitors like BMW.
Trailing just behind were the E-Class, priced at £55,250, and the EQA SUV at £48,890, clinching second and third places respectively. The E-Class earned high praise as “one of the best examples of just what Mercedes can do”.
Industry specialists praised the Mercedes E-Class, stating: “Its refinement and economy are towards the top of the class, making the E-Class a car in which you positively relish long drives, and get out at the other end still feeling fresh as a daisy.”
Additionally, Auto Express commended the electric EQA for its “wide model range…premium feel…[and] decent range”. Some of Mercedes’ sportier models also made the top ten, including the AMG GT.
This coupe was described as having a more grand tourer-like feel than its sportier predecessor. However, they noted that while it was less of a hot rod, it was “more refined than it’s predecessor”.
The recent review of Mercedes’ UK range comes as global car manufacturers grapple with how to respond to Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Although the President has returned most countries to the base 10 percent tariff level, manufacturers still face a delicate balancing act.
One potential consequence of the tariffs could be an increase in new car prices in the UK, as the costs are passed on to consumers, according to the Express.
Edmund King OBE, President of the AA, explained: “Car manufacturers dependent on a high proportion of sales in the United States will be hardest hit and will lose sales.
“Whether their loss of sales in the USA will increase the costs of vehicles in the UK may well depend on the competition for sales in the particular car segment market in the UK. The UK car market is already pretty competitive on price, so big hikes in prices could be counterproductive.”