2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain Review: A Modern Day Classic
Saying that station wagons are not as popular as they used to be would be an understatement, but that doesn't mean there aren't automakers out there that still have faith in the body style. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain is evidence that the station wagon still has relevance in the modern age of crossover SUVs. Of course, having a robust powertrain and good looks certainly doesn't hurt, but perhaps it's the crossover styling that's so in-vogue that makes the E-Class All-Terrain so right for the market. Mercedes doesn't have the segment all to itself, though, as competition like the Audi A6 allroad and Volvo V90 Cross Country deliver similar packages, especially in style. But, with a potent 362-horsepower inline-six engine and sumptuous interior, the Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain has more to offer than just good looks. All-wheel drive and a raised ride height give it capability over rougher terrain and the large cabin aids practicality compared to an E-Class Sedan. Above all, it strikes that delicate balance between car-like ride and handling and SUV-like style and practicality. With the EV revolution around the corner and Mercedes itself already indicating that crossovers will get lower and more wagon-like, perhaps the 2022 E-Class All-Terrain is more relevant now than ever before.
What's the Price of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain?
Not counting the AMG variant, which is reviewed separately, there is only a single E-Class wagon to choose from. The price of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain starts at $68,400, but don't expect that to be the final figure on your bill. The German automaker will add $1,050 for destination fees, and since more than a few desirable features are left off the list of factory-installed components, you can expect to add on quite a bit once you get through looking at the optional extras and packages.
2022 E-Class All-Terrain Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
194.8 in | 115.7 in | 58.9 in | 73.7 in | 63.3 in | 63.4 in | 4,530.0 lbs |
2022 E-Class All-Terrain Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
It's no sports car, but that doesn't mean the Merc E-Class Wagon isn't a nimble handler. Yes, it's a heavy car that's meant to be a luxury family cruiser above all else, but it doesn't shy away from having some fun. It remains composed through the bends, even at high speed on the highway. Despite this, comfort is always the primary concern, and the standard air suspension ensures that nothing upsets the All-Terrain. That is so long as you stick with the smaller wheels as the bigger ones add a harsh edge to the ride.
A choice of drive modes helps the wagon adapt to your needs, and it can even go off-road when needed. The standard Off-Road mode raises the body a little and is suited to slippery roads or light gravel. The Off-Road+ setting disables traction control and turns on hill-descent control. That being said, this isn't a hardcore off-roader or even nearly an SUV - it's much more suited to urban dwellings with the extra confidence needed to take on slightly unruly road surfaces.
2022 E-Class All-Terrain Interior
2022 E-Class All-Terrain Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Hybrid/Electric Components | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 8 Years / 100,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
---|---|---|---|
5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain A Good Station Wagon?
It is hard not to love the E-Class All-Terrain, and not just because of the nostalgia it evokes. Consumers may have moved away from the station wagon body style, but all the strengths that made it so popular are still very much present in modern-day iterations. The E-Class handles like a sedan, a particularly nimble one thanks to Mercedes' expertise, but it also supplies oodles of space inside for people and stuff.
But, the automaker is very savvy to the current trend towards crossovers and SUVs, which is why it has styled the All-Terrain to look like one. This will bring in shoppers who want to fit in but also those who want to stand out. Its luxurious cabin is alluring, but what really wows is the way it handles. The inline-six engine is the right blend of potent and refined but won't set your hair alight in the same way as the Mercedes-AMG E63 Wagon would. Combined with the sedan-like strengths of a station wagon, the All-Terrain still gives drivers an experience like no other.
However, there are a few negative points that detract from the otherwise glowing review. Mercedes is a bit stingy with the standard safety specs on the E-Class Wagon, expecting you to pay extra for packages that include features many other automakers give you for free. This is particularly disappointing when you consider the cost of a premium vehicle like this. Even so, the answer to the question remains ar resounding yes, the Merc E-Class All-Terrain is an exceptional station wagon, even if there aren't many competitors to choose from.
What Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain Model Should I Buy?
The E 450 4Matic All-Terrain Wagon is the only model presented in the All-Terrain range. Unless you're happy with plain black or white, you'll have to pay extra for the more interesting paint colors. Manufaktur Cardinal Red is enticing at $1,750, but the Selenite Grey Magno in matte is to die for at $3,250. We'd stick with the 19-inch wheels, but you can swap them out for AMG styling at $700. Inside, we'd upgrade from MB-Tex to leather for $1,620 and keep the no-cost Natural Grain Black Ash wood trim. The heated steering wheel is a must at $250, but the whole Warmth & Comfort Package at $1,050 feels a bit unnecessary. The Premium Package is essential, though, as it adds a surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert, while the 13-speaker Burmester sound system is just a plus. This will cost you an extra $2,400, but we'd add the $1,950 Driver Driver Assistance Package, too. If you want to spoil yourself, the head-up display is a steal at just $1,100. Total cost for this build comes in at just under $80k, excluding destination.
2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain Comparisons
2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain vs Volvo V90 Cross Country
When it comes to classic station wagon looks adapted for the modern market, nobody does it better than Volvo. The V90 Cross Country is arguably the best-looking car in the segment, but that isn't all it has going for it. The Swedes take safety very seriously and ensure their wagon comes outfitted with all the bells and whistles in the driver-assist department. The V90 is also significantly cheaper than the Mercedes, with the base price starting at $55,200 - a substantial $13,200 less than the Merc wagon.
That said, the E-Class All-Terrain is a whole lot more car for the money. It's genuinely fun to drive, with six-cylinder power easily trumping the twincharged four-pot in the Volvo. It handles significantly better, too. But it's not just a car for speed demons; it is highly practical with a whole lot more room in the trunk than the V90. The Volvo's 2022 tech updates make it quite compelling, and for what it costs, is worth a place on your shortlist, although still not as premium as the E-Class wagon. It's a close battle, though, and buyers who favor comfort and safety over performance will definitely be drawn to the V90 CC.
2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain vs Audi A6 allroad
Both Audi and Mercedes use a six-cylinder powertrain with mild hybrid assistance to deliver an engaging and exciting driving experience in their station wagons. The A6 may have less horsepower on tap, 335 hp to be exact, but it's just a smidge faster to 60 mph at 5.1 seconds. However, the Merc boasts better fuel economy figures and its powertrain just feels more refined.
Aside from this, the All-Terrain obliterates the Audi in terms of cargo capacity and it even has space for seven passengers in a pinch. Both German automakers dress their wagons in stylish and upscale materials on the inside, but the A6 has a more impressive list of standard features, especially in the safety department. It is cheaper than the Merc by so buyers who want a balanced package at a good price will favor it. However, the Mercedes is stronger in the areas that make station wagons so attractive, such as practicality and driving engagement. There will be sacrifices either way, but we'd rather get the most out of the wagon experience and go with the E-Class.