What are the differences between the 2016 and 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class models?
4 Answers
Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2016 and 2019 differences are as follows: Exterior: The exterior has become more sporty, more beautiful, and more fashionable, better suited to the aesthetic preferences of the younger generation. Interior: The interior has also been modified to better match the exterior; the new E-Class interior heavily inherits the design of the S-Class, including yacht-like styling and a luxurious ambiance. The oversized LCD displays on the dashboard and center console are a highlight. Mercedes-Benz has integrated the digital instrument cluster and multimedia system screens, each featuring a large 12.3-inch size and high resolution of 1920x720. Additionally, users can switch between three themes—Classic, Sport, and Progressive—based on preference or mood.
When it comes to the 2016 and 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class models, I did some thorough research last time when helping a friend choose a used car. The most noticeable difference is the headlights - the 2019 model features sharp Multibeam LED headlights that look particularly cool at night with their diamond-like arrangement. The center console also got a major overhaul, with dual 12.3-inch screens replacing the previous small display and physical buttons, making it unnecessary to bend over just to adjust the AC. Under the hood, the 2019 version comes with the new M264 engine, delivering 20+ more horsepower from its 2.0T compared to the older model, plus it added a 48V mild hybrid system for the start-stop function. The seats were upgraded too, with rear headrests becoming adjustable airline-style ones, significantly improving comfort on long trips. If the budget allows, I'd recommend going straight for the 2019 model.
Having run an auto repair shop for ten years, I frequently work with these two generations of E-Class. The 2016 model still used the M274 engine, while the 2019 version switched to the M264, with the most noticeable improvement being reduced turbo lag during acceleration. In terms of chassis tuning, the 2019 model optimized the shock absorbers, making it less bumpy over speed bumps. There's a significant difference in configurations—the 2019 model comes standard with active braking and lane-keeping assist, which were optional on the 2016 model. Another detail is that the 2019 version replaced the steering wheel with a touchpad, allowing drivers to switch songs with a finger swipe. The used car price difference is around 50,000 to 60,000 yuan, but the 2019 model is more hassle-free for later maintenance, with electronic component failure rates about 30% lower.
After comparing these two models with my friend, the most noticeable difference is the interior revolution. The 2016 version's center console resembles a traditional luxury car, while the 2019 version directly features two large connected screens plus 64-color ambient lighting, making night drives feel like under the stars. In terms of space utilization, the 2019 model is smarter, adding wireless charging for phones in the front and adjusting the depth of the cup holders. The driving difference is mainly at low speeds; the 2019 model's gear shifts are almost imperceptibly smooth, whereas the older version occasionally jerks during second-gear shifts. However, the 2016 model's column shifter operation is more traditional and easier for newcomers to get used to.
