Mercedes E-Class - best executive cars

The latest E-Class arrived in 2016, and put simply is one of the best cars Mercedes has ever produced. The E-Class comes with a high level of technology and its premium feel ought to be enough to make you think twice about whether you really need to step up to an S-Class.

On the outside, it's fair to say Mercedes hasn't strayed far from the standard formula - the design is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, and could easily be mistaken for its larger or smaller siblings, the S-Class and C-Class. A sleek estate version, coupe and convertible are available for those wishing to stray from convention.

• Mercedes E-Class review 

Inside is where the big news is. Only base-spec models get any analogue gauges - above that, it's LCD displays all the way. Two 12-inch screens display all the information you could possibly want. Refinement is also top-notch, while the S-Class-inspired technology should make the E-Class incredibly safe and easy to live with.

With all the technology on the inside, it's almost easy to forget about what's under the bonnet – but an excellent range of new diesel engines is likely to top the sales charts. Suspension and handling is biased towards comfort, and the E-Class is a relaxing car to travel in.

Best executive cars to buy 2019

1.  

    

   1. 1. BMW 3 Series
   2. 2. BMW 5 Series
   3. 3. Mercedes C-Class4. Alfa Romeo Guilia
   4. 5. Volvo S90
   5. 6. Mercedes E-Class
   6. 7. Jaguar XE
   7. 8. Audi A6
   8. 9. Jaguar XF
   9. 10. Tesla Model 3