The E 450 All-Terrain Mercedes wagon is one of two varieties Americans will encounter at their local dealer. It’s powered by a 362-horsepower turbocharged inline six with mild hybrid technology that adds 21 additional horses and 184 pounds-feet of torque, for an output of 362 horses.
Exterior of All-Terrain SUV
Exterior
While wagons have fallen out of favor in favor of SUVs, the premium midsize Mercedes E 450 All-Terrain still stands out in its segment. Sure, its faux-tough styling (chrome trim, black cladding for wheel openings and rocker panels, as well as an outgoing name) may give it away; but its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine runs silkily while its EQ Boost mild hybrid system seamlessly integrates itself into its drivetrain, adding 21 horsepower when necessary.
The All-Terrain is known for its luxurious comfort, with front seats that combine support and elegance in an attractive package. When equipped with the MBUX Superscreen ($3,950), its dashboard becomes a massive digital display capable of switching into an off-road mode that displays vital vehicle info and controls. Our tester also included a $1,950 driver assistance package featuring active brake assist with crosswind assist as well as augmented video for navigation that overlaid navigation prompts on top of video feed from its forward camera.
Interior
Although Americans often lack an affinity for wagons, the E 450 All-Terrain may draw some interest. Thanks to its redesign that also slimmed and refined the front and rear ends, this Mercedes wagon looks more rugged than previous iterations with model-specific chrome trim and black plastic wheel arch cladding.
Its unique bumper and chrome simulated underride guard are also key. Even on standard 18-inch wheels, it sits higher than most E-Class cars to accommodate for unpaved conditions.
The All-Terrain features some of the latest advancements from Mercedes-Benz, such as their MBUX infotainment system with customizable screen graphics and AI-driven routines. My test vehicle also came equipped with their $1,950 Driver Assistance Package that featured active steering assist to keep drivers centered in their lanes along with adaptive cruise control and self-park functions – perfect for my needs!
Technology
Volvo or Audi wagons might still not appeal to many drivers; for them, the E 450 All-Terrain provides an appealing luxury alternative. Equipped with height-adjustable single-chamber air suspension that makes the All-Terrain more car-like than other Mercedes SUVs on the market; yet still capable of traversing challenging terrain that most drivers will only ever come across once or twice in their lives.
Off-road capabilities of the All-Terrain are further improved through driver selectable driving modes that vary its behavior, such as hill descent control and a transparent hood feature that uses camera smarts to show what lies beneath its hood. I found it especially impressive on rougher sections of Northern Ontario backroads where most SUVs would shudder, jostle, and complain.
Safety
The 2023 Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain expands its appeal by matching SUV cargo capacity and offering rear facing third row seating, as well as its rugged look (albeit with additional plastic cladding that might make you think of Pontiac Aztek).
The All-Terrain’s elevated ride height and driver-selectable off-road modes give drivers plenty of scope to explore uncharted territory. I took it onto some dirt roads that would be difficult for any sedan, yet this wagon chugged along without breaking stride – all without making a sound!
The All-Terrain is distinguished by a safety feature that’s truly outstanding: its ability to recognize which comfort systems you rely on during certain driving situations and automatically activate them accordingly. This feature isn’t gimmicky – rather, it hints at a future when cars might anticipate our every need; for now though, it adds another impressive feat to its long list of qualities. Furthermore, MBUX Superscreen from its sedan sibling elevates this already well-equipped interior with intuitive functions and futuristic touches for extra enjoyment and futuristic flair!
