STYLING | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
The car's profile remains decidedly rakish, with ample visual thrust provided by the swollen rear fenders and angled character line.
Autoblog
The convertible is the newest member of the redesigned E-Class family, joining the sedan and coupe that debuted last year, and the droptop retains the sleek lines established by the coupe.
Cars.com
Although the car looks like an E-class sedan with the roof removed, down to the gawky crease over the rear fender, it’s dimensionally closer to the C-class.
Car and Driver
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a cabin done in a style that is meant to recall solid, dependable Mercedes from the past.
Edmunds
Iconic style and a hood ornament that commands respect from the apres-ski club valets: Standard.
Motor Trend
With no fewer than eight variants across the four body types, the 2011 E-Class range offers something to appeal to nearly everyone. All models carry forward the edgy, modern styling of the previous year's car, a contrast to the softer-edged, rounded E-Classes of the past. Lots of chrome accents, flares, bulges, and creases catch the eye, though what's beautiful to some may be busy to others. The look is similar to other lines in Mercedes' range, including the S-Class and GLK. The new sheetmetal that adorns the E-Class is still recognizable as a Mercedes, but the latest mid-size sedan has clearly evolved from the previous generation. Consumers likely won't be turned off by the new design despite the changes, as it still radiates Teutonic charm.
The sedan is the baseline for the E-Class, with all the other models sharing its cues, wrapping them in different packages. The Coupe rounds off the rear roofline and shortens the wheelbase; the Wagon lengthens the tail and roof line; and the Cabriolet mimics the Coupe's proportions, but swaps in a retractable soft top.
The E63 AMG is only available in Sedan form, though special orders of the Wagon may be allowed. Either way, it gets AMG badges, unique wheels, a high-performance aerodynamic treatment, and an upgraded interior as part of the package.
The interior of the new E-Class is more conservative than before, and more luxurious as well. The sharp corners and well-pressed creases inside give the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class a more traditionally luxurious look that meshes well with the new exterior. All models share similar design schemes, with wood, metal, and refined plastic surfaces throughout. Trim levels and appearance packages offer a myriad of personalization options for the look and feel of the cabin.
Conclusion
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers a more masculine shape than previous generations, though the styling might be a bit too bold for some.
