Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

Don't sign up for that SUV just yet; this imposing and spacious estate might well suit you better

- GEORGE HILL

IF SOMEONE SAYS that cars like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate have no place in a world increasingly dominated by SUVs, feel free to raise an eyebrow.

This 2016-2023 generation of the E-Class not only has a bigger boot than many an SUV, but it also eclipses even more of them when it comes to luxury and comfort. Add its elegantly imposing looks, and who needs an SUV, really?

Like its BMW 5 Series Touring arch nemesis, the E-Class Estate was available with an expansive range of engines. There were four diesels, ranging from the E200d to the six-cylinder E350d (or E400d in facelifted models). All do a good job of punching the car through the air at pace, with the 192bhp E220d our pick of the bunch.

Mercedes also offered a four-cylinder petrol E200, but it needs to be worked harder than the diesels to make swift progress. The petrol engines that won't need working hard belong to the V6 E53 and V8 E63 AMG models; the latter is particularly grin-inducing, with a thunderous exhaust note and storming acceleration.

There were also diesel and petrol plugin hybrids (PHEVs); their electric range depends on the age of the car. The early E350e manages 21 miles officially, while the later models (petrol and diesel) can do up to 31 miles.