2025 Mercedes-Benz E 350: The Surprising Truth About Its 'Affordable' RWD Trim
In a surprising move, Mercedes-Benz is reintroducing a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant of its recently refreshed E-Class lineup for 2025. While this news might initially delight traditionalists, the sticker shock might temper that excitement. The E 350 RWD's pricing, seemingly aimed to compete, actually positions it nearly parallel with the existing base all-wheel-drive (AWD) model from 2024.
Pricing Breakdown
Here’s the kicker: launching this RWD model seems to make no financial sense for buyers looking to save. The 2023 E 350 RWD started at $57,900 (destination fee included), but the new 2025 E 350 RWD will start at around $63,600. Yes, that’s a hefty $5,700 bump from its predecessor. In contrast, the AWD version, the E 350 4Matic, will also see a slight price hike to $66,100, increasing by $2,650.
Trims and Specifications
Adding to the confusion, Mercedes has yet to unveil if any significant enhancements or standard features will come with these new price tags. Without this information, customers are left to wonder if they’re merely paying more for the same vehicle.
- E 350 RWD: $63,600 (New trim)
- E 350 4Matic: $66,100 ($2,650 increase)
- E 450 4Matic: $72,000 ($2,750 increase)
Under the hood, the E 350 models will continue to feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, complete with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Stepping up, the E 450 model will offer a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with twin-turbocharging, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Competitor Analysis: Outpricing the Market?
The pricing strategy places the 2025 Mercedes E-Class in an odd position against its luxury sedan rivals. The E 350 RWD costs more than the 2024 BMW 530i rear-driver ($58,895), 2024 Audi A6 AWD ($59,195), and even the 2024 Volvo S90 AWD ($59,965). Meanwhile, the Genesis G80 and Lexus ES, starting at significantly lower prices with standard AWD, make the E 350 look less attractive.
At the high end, the E-Class not only needs to contend with German rivals but also with American luxury, as the 2025 Cadillac CT5 starts at $50,385 for its RWD model, still way below the new E 350's entry point.
Conclusion: What’s the Real Deal?
While the reintroduction of a rear-wheel-drive E-Class might seem like an appeal to driving purists, the pricing strategy complicates its market position. Unless Mercedes-Benz compensates with substantial improvements in standard features or technological advancements, the higher cost makes little sense for buyers merely seeking the ‘Mercedes experience’ without paying for all-wheel-drive capability.
The 2025 E 350 RWD promises an old-school driving experience, but not without a significant hit to the wallet. Buyers will need to weigh the nostalgic and driving dynamics of a RWD against the more economically-sound AWD models and competitors.