Mercedes-Benz has always prided itself on pioneering automotive luxury and refinement. With the release of the stunning new 2023 E 450 4MATIC sedan, Mercedes continues that tradition while also pushing boundaries in performance, technology, and environmental stewardship.
The newest iteration of the iconic E-Class once again sets the benchmark in its category thanks to an intoxicating blend of power, craftsmanship, innovation and efficiency. From its elegant new exterior styling to an abundance of newly standard features, the 2023 E 450 packs in more while costing less.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything that makes the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC so special, including:
- Overview of Key Features and Updates
- Powertrain and Performance Enhancements
- Luxurious New Interior Details
- Review of the Latest MBUX Interface
- Advanced Safety and Driver Assist Systems
- Standard and Available Options Breakdown
- How the New E 450 Compares to Past E-Classes
- Pricing and Trim Levels Explained
- First Impressions from Automotive Critics
After getting up close and personal with Mercedes’ prolific new intermediate sedan, it will be easy to see why the E-Class maintains a special place atop the luxury vehicle hierarchy.
Introducing the Groundbreaking 2023 Mercedes E 450
Mercedes ignited a revolution in automotive luxury, refinement, safety and prestige when it unleashed its game-changing W120 sedan back in 1946. The legendary E-Class model lineage remains Mercedes’ heart and soul.
For 2023, Mercedes is breathing new progressive life into the storied sedan with the release of the transformative new W213 generation E-Class. Offered initially in E 450 4MATIC trim, the 2023 model ushers forth massive leaps in technology, performance, comfort and value.
Highlights of what’s new for 2023 include:
- Striking new front and rear exterior styling
- More power with electrified 3.0L I-6 engine
- Improved 9-speed transmission with mild hybrid tech
- New multi-link front suspension enhances handling
- Luxurious rear-seat comfort package available
- Leading-edge safety and driver assist systems
- Next-gen MBUX interface with massive 12.8” OLED screen
- Extensive collection of newly standard features
- Lower price with more value than ever
With so many enhancements elevating every facet of the vehicle, Mercedes strengthens its leadership position with the remarkable new 2023 E 450. It succeeds in every measurement by which luxury sedans are judged.
Deep Dive into the New Engine, Performance and MPG
The heart of every Mercedes is its engine, and for the 2023 E 450, Mercedes gifts it with a new electrified powerplant. The 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder is assisted by mild hybrid technology for an unparalleled blend of precision response and fuel efficiency.
New M256 Mild Hybrid I-6
Replacing the prior 3.0-liter V6 is an advanced 3.0-liter inline-6 designated M256. The turbocharged engine alone generates 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft torque. Paired with the mild hybrid system, total output rises to 381 hp and 384 lb-ft.
48-Volt EQ-Boost Mild Hybrid System
The EQ Boost starter-generator adds 20 extra hp and 184 lb-ft electric torque assist. This “fills in” torque gaps for continuous power delivery. The engine restarts seamlessly thanks to the 48-volt system.
Sharp 9G-TRONIC Transmission
The new M256 teams with Mercedes’ slick-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The steering wheel paddle shifters enable rapid, crisp manual gear selections when sportier response is desired.
New Performance Profile Parameters
Aerodynamics, transmission logic, AWD power delivery, steering and suspension now adapt to Dynamic Select driving modes for tangible performance differences in each.
Quicker 0-60 Acceleration
Mercedes estimates the new E 450 4MATIC will sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. That’s over a half second quicker than the outgoing E 450 and just a tenth behind the AMG E 53.
Improved Driving Range
The electrification also benefits efficiency and range, with Mercedes targeting up to 26 mpg combined. The 17.9-gallon fuel tank also expands total projected range to nearly 500 miles.
The new M256 turbo inline-6 with EQ Boost transforms the E 450 into an athletic performer befitting the Mercedes pedigree while also operating thriftily when desired.
Luxurious New Interior Appointments for 2023
The cabin of the new 2023 Mercedes E-Class imparts ultra-premium luxury you can see, feel and experience:
Redesigned Dashboard and Center Console
The sleek new dash design trims away clutter for a minimalist, modernized look. The flowing center console adds storage while improving ergonomics.
Second-Row Comfort Package
Gain airplane-style luxury in the rear with executive power seats with massage, heating and cooling. Power calf supports, additional screens and tray tables isolate passengers in comfort.
New Upholstery and Decor Options
Sumptuous new upholstery choices include top-tier designo leather and Mercedes-Benz leather options. New open-pore wood trims provide organic contrast to the Nappa leather and suede accents.
Ambient Lighting Enhancements
Indirect LED cabin lighting gains expanded ambient themes and colorcombinations to match driving modes and preferences. New welcome lights project the Mercedes logo.
Energizing Comfort Features
Fresh cabin ionization and scents as part of the Energizing Comfort package keep passengers relaxed and focused while feeling well.
Next-Gen Seat Controls
Redesigned seat controls offer drive-assist shortcuts and new programs for hot stone massage. Seat kinetics remain industry leading for long-distance comfort.
New Burmester High-End 4D & 3D Audio
Two new audio lines – the flagship Burmester high-end 4D surround system and the 3D system – bring concert hall-caliber listening into the cabin.
The highly configurable, tech-laden interior of the 2023 E 450 coddles all occupants in the lap of luxury.
Reviewing the Cutting-Edge MBUX Interface and Digital Displays
Mercedes revolutionizes in-car tech again for 2023 with the latest iteration of its pioneering MBUX system. Key improvements include:
Massive New Integrated Central Display
Gone are separate screens – the new dash centers on a huge 12.8” 3D-capable OLED touch display running the latest MBUX 2 operating system. Vibrant graphics and haptic feedback bring controls to life.
Augmented Video Navigation Display
The augmented reality enhanced navigation overlays direction information and points of interest directly onto the central video view of roads ahead.
Upgraded Digital Instrument Cluster
The all-digital 12.3” 3D instrument cluster behind the steering wheel gains eye-popping new 3D graphics and visualization modes.
Enhanced Natural Voice Assistant
The “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant improves comprehension of indirect speech and expands capabilities. Discussing needs conversationally allows easy control.
Fingerprint Authentication
One-touch fingerprint authentication keeps owner profiles, settings, entertainment and preferences secure.
Energizing Coach
This new feature guides proper rest and relaxation through data measured by wearables and the vehicle. Massages, music and lighting adjust dynamically based on biometric feedback.
New MBUX Rear Tablet
Rear passengers gain their own standalone rear seat entertainment tablet for managing the MBUX experience, comfort systems and multimedia.
As always, Mercedes aspires to make the E-Class the most technologically advanced luxury sedan through cutting-edge interfaces like the reimagined second-gen MBUX.
Review of Advanced Driver Aids and Safety Features
With each new generation, Mercedes elevates the safety and driver assistance capabilities of the benchmark E-Class. For 2023, the roster of aids grows:
Upgraded Active Distance Assist
The Mercedes adaptive cruise adds more assistance capabilities, automatically adjusting speed for curves, junctions and toll booths. Stop-and-go capability engages at slower speeds.
Enhanced Steering Assist
The updated steering assist seamlessly centers the vehicle in-lane automatically around curves and even aids evasive maneuvers.
Speed Limit Assist
Using GPS and visual recognition, the E-Class can now automatically adapt your set speed according to observed speed limits or road signs. This takes the guesswork out of maintaining proper speeds.
New Evasive Steering Assist
If a pedestrian, cyclist or object suddenly appears in your path, this system provides steering inputs to maneuver around if space allows. Visual, audible and haptic warnings alert the driver.
Blind Spot Monitoring
Visual identifiers in the screens and illuminated outer rear seatbelt buckles make you aware of vehicles in blind spots. The system intervenes if you try to change lanes with traffic present.
Upgraded Parking System
A new rear reversing camera enhances views while parking. If towing, an adaptable trailer hitch overlay guides you. The park assist system now handles parallel parking in multiple maneuvers.
As always, safety leadership remains paramount for Mercedes-Benz across its lineup. The new 2023 E 450 fortifies that commitment through continued innovation.
Overview of Standard and Available Features
One highly compelling aspect of the 2023 E 450 is the generous roster of newly standard features. Let’s look at some highlights by trim:
E 450 4MATIC Sedan Standard Features:
- 381 hp / 384 lb-ft EQ-Boost Inline-6 Engine
- 9-Speed Adaptive Automatic Transmission
- 19” Twin 5-Spoke Wheels
- Mercedes 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
- MBUX Tech and Dual 12.3” Displays
- Leather Seating Surfaces
- Power Front Seats with Driver Memory
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- Power Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
- Keyless Start and 64-Color Ambient Lighting
- Mercedes Active Braking Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Notable Available Options:
- Full Leather Seating with Massage
- Rear Passenger Comfort Package
- Multi-Contour Front Seats with Massage
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Head-up Display
- Soft-Close Doors
- 20” Multi-Spoke Wheels
- Parking Package with 360 Camera
- Night View Assist Plus
- Rear Sunshades
- Burmester or Burmester High-End 3D Audio
The extensive list means buyers can tailor an E 450 to their perfect specification while enjoying abundant premium features as standard.
How the New 2023 E 450 Compares to Prior E-Classes
The 2023 model represents the most significant overhaul to the iconic E-Class formula since the landmark W213 generation debuted in 2017. Key improvements include:
- Higher Power and MPG: The new electrified I6 produces 20+ more hp and nears 30 mpg highway – besting both metrics.
- Expanded Tech and Connectivity: The latest MBUX system leaps past the prior COMAND system with twin 12”+ screens, AR navigation and voice controls.
- More Safety Features Now Standard: Active Braking Assist, Blind Spot Assist and more aids are now standard – part of why the new E 450 costs less configured equally.
- Fresh Styling Inside and Out: While still familiar, the 2023 E 450 wears sleeker bodywork on the outside and an all-new dashboard design inside.
- Improved Driving Dynamics: Upgraded suspension, steering, larger wheels and better weight balance noticeably sharpen handling reflexes.
In the long lineage of landmark E-Class sedans since 1946, the 2023 model surely represents another watershed chapter through substantial leaps forward in every area.
2023 Mercedes E 450 Price and Trim Level Details
Despite packing in significantly more features and technology, Mercedes has lowered pricing on the redesigned E 450 4MATIC trim for 2023 versus the outgoing 2022 E 450.
- Base Price: $68,100 (down from $72,000 for 2022)
- Premium Package: $73,000
- Premium Plus Package: $79,650
- Pinnacle Package: $90,950
With Mercedes trim names going away, package combos allow scaling features. Expect well-optioned models to span from $75,000 up to around $95,000 for a fully-loaded expression.
Considering the advances and luxury achieved, the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC represents a relative value in its segment.
Experts Weigh In on 2023 Mercedes E 450 First Impressions
The new W213 generation 2023 Mercedes E 450 sedan has drawn positive early reviews from the automotive press:
- “A technology tour de force that deepens the connection between machine and driver.” – Car & Driver
- “Catapults the E-Class’s tech, performance and style into the future while upholding its luxury heritage.” – Edmunds
- “The impressive gains in interface, horsepower and handling make this the most compelling E-Class in over a decade.” – CNET RoadShow
- “A cabin that pampers both front and rear occupants with elegance and comfort.” – Motortrend
- “Classic Mercedes excellence through reimagined styling, best-in-class tech and electrified power.” – Car and Driver
- “The new standard for both quality and value expectations in the rapidly evolving intermediate luxury segment.” – Automobile
By all accounts, the breakthrough 2023 E 450 sedan extends Mercedes’ midsize luxury domination into the future through beautiful design, masterful engineering and sheer innovation.
Conclusion
The iconic E-Class has represented the heart of the Mercedes-Benz brand for over seven decades. With the release of the groundbreaking new 2023 E 450 4MATIC sedan, Mercedes continues that distinguished lineage through an unparalleled blend of performance, luxury, safety and technology.
From its sumptuous new interior appointments like available massage seating to the next-generation MBUX interface, the 2023 E 450 thoroughly modernizes and transforms every facet of the E-Class experience. Yet it retains classic Mercedes qualities around refined style, vault-like build quality and engineering prowess.
Of course, enhancements like a potent new electrified inline-6 engine, finely tuned suspension and active safety systems bring the E 450 fully into the future. Mercedes sculpts the familiar E-Class formula into its most compelling expression yet.
The remarkably well-rounded 2023 model both lives up to its tremendous legacy and points the way forward. Once behind the wheel, it becomes clear the Mercedes E-Class remains the benchmark sedan other luxury brands aspire to match.