Despite a massive focus on electric cars from the three-pointed star in recent years, the Mercedes E-Class has not been forgotten. A whole new model brings it into line with the C-Class and S-Class whilst adding plenty of tech. You’d hope it’s enough to maintain its position as one of the best premium executive saloons you can buy.

In many respects, the E-Class is the very heart of the Mercedes brand, and among its most aspirational cars. Traditionally a comfortable, refined and cultured machine, the E-Class remains a mark of achievement to many people. Drive one of these, and others are likely to think you’re a success. However, the world moves on. And the impact has been twofold for the E-Class.

Firstly, the rise of the SUV means the E-Class saloon might be considered old fashioned by some, but this latest version fights back with an immense package of often rather flashy technology. You can also see the influence of Mercedes’ all-electric EQ models in the design.

Mercedes offers six trim levels in the UK. They are – wait for it – Urban, AMG Line, AMG Line Premium, AMG Line Premium Plus, Exclusive Premium and Exclusive Premium Plus. Clearly buyers here love a sporty Mercedes.

Going beyond the usual app connectivity, the Digital Vehicle Key system means you can use an iPhone or Apple Watch as a key, allowing you to unlock and start the car. This is standard on all UK E-Class models.

The latest E-Class is available as a spacious E-Class estate that gets its own review. This increases basic boot capacity from 540 litres to 615 litres (though you lose 155 litres of this with the E300e because of the drive batteries) and also adds the ability to fold the rear seats down, creating up to 1,830 litres of space.

We’ve experienced most of the engines offered in the E-Class and driven them extensively in Europe and the UK. That’s important, as the wrong engine and suspension combination does the driving experience no favours. If you’re curious about how we test cars at Parkers, you can read our explainer page. Or, continue reading for our comprehensive review of the Mercedes E-Class.