The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan emerges as a compelling blend of understated elegance and formidable power. As part of the esteemed E-Class lineage, tracing its roots back to the German term “einspritzung” – a nod to Mercedes’ pioneering fuel-injection systems – the 2007 iteration receives a significant injection of both style and performance. This model year marks a refined aesthetic with subtle yet impactful front-end enhancements and, more crucially, a substantial power upgrade under the hood. The result is the E550, a vehicle poised to redefine Mercedes-Benz’s presence in the midsize executive sedan segment, offering a potent driving experience wrapped in sophisticated German engineering. It’s a car designed to not just compete with, but potentially outshine rivals like the Audi A6 and BMW 550i on the open road, all while maintaining a composed and luxurious demeanor.
A Sharper Look: Exterior Refinements
Eagle-eyed observers will immediately notice the subtle yet effective facelift bestowed upon the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan. The mid-cycle refresh sharpens the E-Class’s front fascia, presenting a more assertive and beak-like grille compared to the preceding E500 model. These cosmetic adjustments, including the addition of horizontal “eyelids” to the headlamps and refined wire mesh detailing beneath the front bumper, collectively contribute to a more dynamic and sporty aesthetic. However, these enhancements are carefully integrated to amplify, not overshadow, the car’s inherent understated elegance. The 2007 E550 successfully walks the line between sporty aggression and classic Mercedes-Benz sophistication.
Interior Harmony: Technology Meets Tradition
Stepping inside the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan reveals an interior that masterfully blends traditional Mercedes-Benz design cues with contemporary technology. Luxurious leather upholstery and rich burl walnut trim establish a premium ambiance, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the car’s technology interfaces. Features like Keyless Go offer modern convenience, allowing drivers to access and start the vehicle without physically using the key fob. The 10-way adjustable seats and automatic tilting and telescoping steering wheel, complete with integrated remote controls, further underscore the E550’s commitment to both comfort and technological integration. These steering wheel-mounted buttons offer intuitive control over audio settings, Bluetooth hands-free calls, and, notably, the multifunction display nestled within the speedometer.
The Multifunction Display: A Cabin Tech Highlight
The in-speedometer multifunction display stands out as a particularly user-friendly and valuable feature within the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan’s cabin. Accessible via steering wheel-mounted controls, this monochrome display offers a wealth of information at a glance. Drivers can easily cycle through satellite radio station details, real-time GPS navigation prompts (including turn-by-turn directions, distance to the next turn, and street names), phone status, and essential vehicle data such as speed, fuel economy, and remaining range. This thoughtful integration of key information directly in the driver’s line of sight enhances both convenience and safety.
COMAND System Challenges: Navigation and Interface Quirks
While the multifunction display earns praise for its usability, the E550’s Cockpit Management and Data (COMAND) system, accessed via the central LCD display, presents a less intuitive user experience, particularly for navigation. Unlike some contemporaries equipped with touchscreens or rotary dial controllers, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan relies on a five-way rocker switch for destination input. This method can be cumbersome, requiring repetitive button presses to enter addresses. Furthermore, the display’s washed-out light-blue-on-lighter-blue color scheme and single-function display limitation – preventing simultaneous map and audio information viewing – detract from overall user-friendliness. These aspects of the COMAND system contrast with the otherwise well-executed technology integration within the vehicle.
Audio and Connectivity: Sound and Media Options
Despite navigation interface shortcomings, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan redeems itself with commendable audio and connectivity features. The in-dash six-disc CD changer, cleverly concealed behind a pop-out faceplate, and the glove box-integrated auxiliary input jack offer versatile media playback options. An optional dealer-installed iPod integration kit further expands connectivity, enabling iPod control through the car’s head unit. The standard Logic7 surround-sound audio system by Harman Kardon delivers an immersive and high-fidelity listening experience across the audio spectrum, even at higher volumes. While Bluetooth hands-free functionality initially catered primarily to specific Mercedes-Benz handsets, a dealer-installed Bluetooth Interface Module was available to broaden compatibility, albeit at an additional cost.
Performance Prowess: The Heart of the E550
Beyond its luxurious appointments and technological features, the true essence of the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan lies in its exceptional driving performance. Under the hood resides a potent 5.5-liter all-aluminum, 32-valve V8 engine, borrowed from its S550 sibling. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a substantial 391 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm. This abundance of torque translates to exhilarating acceleration and effortless cruising, making the E550 a true performer in its class. The engine’s responsiveness and smooth power delivery contribute significantly to the E550’s driving appeal.
Transmission and Driving Dynamics: Tailoring the Ride
Enhancing the driving experience is the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan’s sophisticated seven-speed automatic transmission. The “Shift into Optimum Gear” system allows for manual gear selection by pulling the shifter laterally, enabling drivers to maximize acceleration or engine braking as needed. Furthermore, the driver-adaptive programming intelligently adjusts shift patterns to match individual driving styles. A selectable Comfort mode provides a more relaxed driving experience by starting in second gear and shifting at lower RPMs. The E550 also features Airmatic air suspension, offering adjustable settings to tailor ride comfort and handling characteristics. While possessing ample power to challenge competitors, the E550 prioritizes refined executive sedan comfort over outright sports car agility, even in its sportier suspension settings. The optional Sport Package, featuring larger wheels, lowered suspension, and sportier styling cues, could potentially further sharpen the driving dynamics.
Fuel Economy and Emissions Considerations
The trade-off for the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan’s robust V8 performance is fuel economy that leans towards the lower end of the midsize sedan spectrum. EPA ratings stand at 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Real-world mixed driving may yield averages around 20 mpg, as observed in tests. From an emissions standpoint, the E550 registers higher on the scale compared to some rivals, with greenhouse gas emissions around 10.1 tons per year (10.5 tons for the 4Matic all-wheel-drive variant). Prospective buyers should factor in these fuel consumption and emissions figures when considering the E550.
Safety Innovations: Pre-Safe and Advanced Systems
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan prioritizes safety with a suite of advanced systems, most notably the inclusion of Mercedes’ Pre-Safe collision-mitigation system as standard equipment. Previously featured in the flagship S-Class, Pre-Safe proactively prepares the vehicle for a potential collision by analyzing driving dynamics and pre-tensioning seatbelts, closing windows and the sunroof, and adjusting seat positions to optimize airbag effectiveness. Adaptive brake lights, also inherited from the S-Class, enhance visibility during hard braking. Additional safety features include bi-xenon headlights with active curve illumination and cornering fog lights. Standard passive safety measures encompass dual-stage front and side airbags for front occupants, side airbags for rear outboard passengers, and window curtain airbags, all within a reinforced cabin structure with crumple zones.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan entered the market with a higher base price compared to competitors like the Audi A6 4.2, BMW 550i, and Acura RL. While some aspects of its onboard technology, particularly the COMAND system interface, might not fully justify this price premium, the E550’s exceptional engine performance and luxurious driving experience present a compelling value proposition. Option packages, such as the Premium II package adding navigation, premium audio, and comfort features, further enhance the vehicle’s appeal, albeit at an increased total cost.
Conclusion: A Powerful and Refined Choice
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan ultimately delivers on its promise of blending power and luxury in a refined package. Its potent V8 engine, comfortable yet capable chassis, and well-appointed interior create a desirable driving environment. While the COMAND system’s navigation interface and fuel economy may present minor drawbacks, the E550’s strengths in performance, safety features like Pre-Safe, and overall driving experience solidify its position as a strong contender in the executive sedan segment. For those seeking a sophisticated sedan with genuine performance credentials and a touch of understated German luxury, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 Sedan remains a compelling choice.
