Why the Mercedes E400d Is the Smartest Used E-Class You Can Buy
Many drivers searching for a used Mercedes E-Class focus on the popular E220d or aspire to the flagship E63 AMG. However, the E400d offers a better balance of performance, comfort, and value for everyday ownership.
As a used executive saloon, the E400d combines six-cylinder power, luxury refinement, and sensible running costs in one compelling package.
The E400d Is a Rare Model in the UK Used Market
The Mercedes E400d is significantly rarer than other diesel E-Class models.
At the time of writing, fewer than 200 examples are advertised nationwide, compared to thousands of E220d models. This scarcity makes the E400d more exclusive and desirable on the used market.
For buyers who value rarity and specification, the E400d offers a more distinctive ownership experience.
Six-Cylinder Performance Changes the Character of the E-Class
The E400d uses a 2.9-litre six-cylinder diesel engine that transforms how the E-Class drives.
With 517 lb-ft of torque available from low revs, acceleration is immediate and effortless in real-world driving. The car reaches 62mph in just over five seconds, making it one of the fastest diesel saloons in its class.
This level of performance is impossible to achieve in the four-cylinder E220d.
Real-World Performance Without AMG Compromises
The E400d delivers strong performance without sacrificing comfort.
Unlike the E63 AMG, the E400d remains quiet, smooth, and refined in daily driving. It provides rapid overtaking ability without the stiffness, noise, and running costs associated with full AMG models.
This makes the E400d ideal for long-distance commuting and motorway use.
4MATIC Four-Wheel Drive Improves Safety and Usability
Every E400d comes with Mercedes 4MATIC four-wheel drive as standard.
This system distributes power across all four wheels, improving traction in wet, icy, or poor road conditions. It allows drivers to use the engine’s torque safely and confidently all year round.
For UK weather conditions, this is a major advantage over rear-wheel-drive E-Class models.
The Interior Matches True Executive Expectations
Inside, the E400d offers a cabin designed for premium comfort.
Standard features include the widescreen digital cockpit, COMAND infotainment system, AMG Line trim, and high-quality materials throughout. Road noise is minimal, and engine refinement is exceptional.
This creates a driving environment that feels calm, quiet, and luxurious.
Optional Air Suspension Makes It One of the Most Comfortable E-Class Models
Many E400d examples are fitted with Air Body Control suspension.
This system adapts to the road surface in real time, delivering a smooth, “magic carpet” ride quality. Even on poor UK roads, the car remains stable and comfortable.
Notably, this suspension option is not available on the E63 AMG.
Running Costs Make the E400d a Sensible Performance Choice
The E400d is significantly cheaper to run than high-performance AMG models.
Typical real-world fuel economy is around 44mpg, compared to roughly 24mpg for the E63 AMG. Insurance, road tax, and servicing costs are also much lower.
This makes the E400d one of the most cost-effective fast executive saloons available.
Why the E400d Is Better Than the E220d for Many Buyers
The biggest advantage of the E400d over the E220d is refinement.
The four-cylinder E220d often feels strained in a large luxury saloon. By contrast, the six-cylinder E400d feels smooth, relaxed, and perfectly suited to the E-Class platform.
This difference is immediately noticeable on long journeys.
Verdict: The Best All-Round Used Mercedes E-Class
The Mercedes E400d offers the strongest all-round package in the E-Class range.
It delivers six-cylinder performance, four-wheel drive security, luxury comfort, and sensible ownership costs in one model.
For used buyers, it represents one of the best value executive saloons on the UK market.
Why Buy Your Mercedes E-Class from Prestige Cars Kent?
At Prestige Cars Kent, every E-Class undergoes:
A full 175-point inspection
Professional preparation and servicing
A 90-day warranty
Nationwide delivery options
Our experienced team helps you choose the right model, specification, and ownership package.