Other Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2009 - 2017) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I like to drive a car that is at one with me; becomes a part of me, and this car really does just that. I also like a car that is just that little bit special.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They all want a drive in it.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Not with the wind noise problem.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Undecided, but the options include another Phaeton, to keep the wife happy.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    July 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    A fair deal for a new model, considering the options I wanted.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Excellent, quite a surprise considering Mercedes dealers years ago.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Generally a great pleasure. A fine engine gives all the acceleration I ever need, instantly. Beware parking with the wide doors and take care not to scuff the alloys with the low profile tyres. The worst car I have ever driven on snow and ice.

    What's it like to park?

    A piece of cake to park with the parking sensors.

  • Living with it

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No,but the car was bought in summer, so the panoramic sunroof was usually partly or wholly open. It was not until autumn that both I and my wife realised the most annoying wind noise the car has when the windows and roof are closed. It spoils the pleasure of an otherwise great vehicle. A drive in a similar car at the dealers produced the same wind noise. So, it is turn up the volume on the radio until I can have the sunroof open again, or sell it.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Wide doors and the seat belt presenter mechanism.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Panoramic sunroof