The 2010 Benz E550 stands as a significant upgrade within the esteemed Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup. Building upon the foundation of the E350, the E550 introduces a robust V8 engine and enhanced features, catering to drivers seeking both luxury and performance. Let’s delve into what sets the 2010 E550 apart.
The standard E350 models, including both the sedan and coupe, are well-equipped with features like 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, power-adjustable steering wheel, power front seats with memory, and dual-zone climate control. Technology highlights include the COMAND interface, Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with a CD changer. The E350 Coupe distinguishes itself with a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and sporty seats.
However, stepping up to the E550 brings substantial enhancements. The most notable upgrade is the powerful V8 engine, delivering a significant boost in performance compared to the E350’s V6. Beyond the engine, the E550 sedan gains an air suspension system, enhancing ride comfort and handling dynamics. The braking system is also upgraded for increased stopping power to match the V8 engine. Inside, leather upholstery and heated front seats become standard, elevating the luxury experience.
The 2010 Benz E550 coupe further differentiates itself from its E350 counterpart with 18-inch wheels, a sporty body kit, and a sport-tuned suspension, emphasizing a more aggressive aesthetic and driving feel. Notably, the E550 coupe, in its standard configuration, does away with the heated seats found in the E550 sedan. Shift paddles are added to the coupe, offering a more engaging driving experience.
For both the E350 and E550 sedans, the Sport package provides an avenue to further sharpen the driving dynamics and visual appeal. This package includes 18-inch wheels, a sport suspension, a sport steering wheel, and unique interior trim elements.
Moving to optional packages, the Premium 1 Package, available across all E350 and E550 models, incorporates desirable technology and comfort features. This includes a hard-drive-based navigation system, voice control, a rearview camera, heated front seats (for E350 sedan and all coupes), ventilated front seats (for all sedans), a power rear sunshade, and a premium Harman Kardon surround-sound system with digital music storage, HD radio, satellite radio, and iPod/MP3 integration.
The Premium 2 package expands upon the Premium 1 offerings, adding adaptive bi-xenon headlights with adaptive high-beam assist, LED daytime running lights, a power trunk closer (sedan only), keyless ignition/entry, and ventilated seats for coupes. For sedan drivers prioritizing safety and convenience, the Driver Assistance package offers blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning systems.
Individual options for the E550 sedan allow for further customization, including parking sensors, an infrared night-vision display, a panoramic sunroof, split-folding rear seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, extended leather upholstery, and a multicontour driver seat with massage function.
At the pinnacle of the 2010 E-Class range is the E63 AMG. This high-performance variant includes all the E550 features and significantly elevates performance with a larger, more powerful V8 engine, a sport transmission, adjustable drive settings, an adaptive sport suspension, high-performance brakes, and an AMG sport steering wheel. While the E63 AMG’s Premium 1 package is streamlined to navigation, rearview camera, and voice control (as many features are already standard), the Premium 2 package and stand-alone options remain largely available. The AMG Performance package further enhances the E63 AMG with 19-inch wheels, a limited-slip differential, sportier suspension tuning, and a leather/Alcantara steering wheel.
In conclusion, the 2010 Benz E550 offers a compelling blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury and V8 performance. It represents a significant step up from the E350, providing a more powerful engine, enhanced features, and a more premium driving experience, making it a sought-after model in the used car market for those desiring a sophisticated and potent vehicle.
