Stepping into a Mercedes Benz E350 is always an experience, and the 2016 Sport version elevates this further. When I first encountered my E350, admittedly, the nuances of the “sport” trim weren’t immediately apparent. Unlike older models with prominent badging, this iteration was more subtle. However, the driving dynamics quickly revealed its sporty character, a fact confirmed by the dealer’s description aligning with the car’s performance.
The ride quality of the 2016 Mercedes Benz E350 Sport strikes an excellent balance. It’s far from jarring, maintaining the comfortable composure expected of an E-Class, yet it offers a noticeable firmness that enhances driver engagement. Cornering feels remarkably flat, inspiring confidence when navigating winding roads. The steering response is a standout feature – precise and quicker than you might anticipate, especially when compared to earlier models. For instance, stepping out of an older E-Class, like a 2000 E430, into the 2016 E350 Sport reveals a distinct improvement in steering responsiveness. While the E430’s steering isn’t slow by any means, the 2016 model feels palpably more agile and connected to the road.
However, the sporty design of the 2016 Mercedes Benz E350 Sport does come with a practical consideration – the front fascia and bumper. This is a common point of concern for owners, and for good reason. The lower bumper design, while aesthetically appealing and contributing to the car’s athletic stance, is notably vulnerable to scrapes and damage. Its low clearance means it can easily catch on various road obstacles. Concrete parking lot stops become potential hazards, capable of causing significant undercarriage or bumper damage if approached carelessly.
My own experience unfortunately underscores this point. During roadworks near my home, an unavoidable encounter with a traffic cone, positioned directly on a highway on-ramp at dawn, resulted in substantial front bumper damage. With no room to maneuver, the cone impacted the bumper, leading to cosmetic and internal damage that amounted to a considerable $1800 repair bill. This expense, borne personally, highlighted the vulnerability of the sport bumper design in real-world driving conditions.
The body shop expertly repaired the damage, utilizing advanced epoxy techniques and a repaint to restore the bumper’s appearance. Interestingly, research into the W212 E-Class generation reveals a variety of front bumper options available, suggesting Mercedes-Benz recognized the diverse needs and preferences of their clientele. This experience has instilled a heightened awareness when driving the 2016 Mercedes Benz E350 Sport. Navigating urban environments and parking situations now requires a conscious approach, always mindful of that low-slung front end, a stylish yet somewhat delicate “cow catcher” leading the way.
