2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Rating applies to 2007-09 models

Tested vehicle: 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4-door

The Mercedes E class was re-engineered for the 2007 model year. Frontal ratings are assigned by the Institute based on a test conducted by Mercedes.

Rating applies to 2007-09 models

Tested vehicle: 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 350 4-door with standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front seat-mounted and rear door-mounted torso airbags

The Mercedes E class was re-engineered for the 2007 model year with an emphasis on improving occupant protection in side impact crashes. In the Institute’s initial test of a 2007 model, the car was rated Acceptable, primarily because of high forces recorded on the driver dummy's torso.

Beginning with 2007 models manufactured after May 2007, changes to the front door trim panels were made to further improve occupant protection in side impact crashes, so a test of the improved design was conducted (note: information about when a specific vehicle was manufactured is on the certification label typically affixed to the car on or near the driver door). This test showed some reduction of the forces on the driver dummy's torso, but not enough to change the torso injury rating or the overall rating. Therefore the ratings for both vehicles are based on both tests.

View of the vehicle and barrier just after the second of two crash tests.

View of the vehicle after the second crash with doors removed, showing the side airbags and damage to the occupant compartment.

Smeared greasepaint shows where the driver dummy's head was protected from being hit by hard structures by the side airbags (first test shown).

Smeared greasepaint shows where the rear passenger dummy's head was protected by the side airbags (second test shown).

Seat type: All seats AHR