Interior Environment, Peter Bleakney
Part of the E-Class’s 2014 refresh was a much-needed interior makeover. The basic blocky architecture remains, but materials and workmanship get kicked up a notch. There’s a new three-tube instrument cluster, redesigned console, richer dashboard grain and a very nice three-spoke Napa-trimmed wheel. The fine detailing of the wood and metal trim impresses, and the new-for-2014 analogue clock perched in the centre console is lovely.
Standard kit on the E 250 BlueTec includes a seven-inch LCD screen, navigation, dual zone climate control and 14-way front seats trimmed in “Artico” faux leather. The seats were universally praised for their fine blend of comfort and support. The fake hide is okay, but in this company it felt a bit outclassed. Real leather runs $2,500.
This tester had the $2,700 Premium Package that adds power trunk closer (meh), heated steering wheel (yay!) and rear window sunshade (whatever). Not such great value there. Also on the option list was the $800 Driving Assistant Package bestowing blind spot and lane departure warning.
    2014 Mercedes-Benz E 250 Bluetec 4Matic. Click image to enlarge |
The driving position is good and outward visibility the best of the group thanks to the E’s stoic upright architecture. It’s too bad Mercedes does not do backlit gauges here. In certain light conditions it’s impossible to read the speedo and tach.
Jump into the BMW 535d and your sensibilities bask in a more lush, organic experience. It feels ultra premium in here. Sure, it’s all very BMW familiar, but the gentle flow of the dash, quality veneer and brightwork, and the huge infotainment screen make this car feel more expensive than the Benz.
The optional ($1,500) and aptly named comfort seats are exceptional. They are infinitely adjustable – but this is just fine-tuning of what have to be some of the finest chairs in the biz. Beautifully detailed stitching on the creamy hide, too, but no ventilation.
The thickly padded wheel fills your hands. BMW’s electronic shift wand is initially counter-intuitive (push forward for reverse?) but here, familiarity tempers contempt. I’m completely at home with it and have no issues. My wife on the other hand….
BMW’s iDrive interface has evolved into a very user-friendly system, and there are plenty of tactile buttons and knobs on he console to operate most car functions.
We found the Bimmer’s back seats to be the most inviting and accommodating of the group.
    2014 BMW 535d xDrive. Click image to enlarge |
And on to the Audi. Well, you could put a frame around this dash/console combo and hang it in the Museum of Modern Art. The exquisite design, detailing and craftsmanship elevate the A6 to another plane. The clarity of the backlit gauges tell you this cabin is more than just a styling exercise – ergonomic function plays large too.
Every surface is a delight to the touch – every control works with silken precision. Closer inspection of the dash inlays show that, yes, we are indeed looking at a cross section of thin aluminum strips layered with dark stained wood.
There’s a bit of theatre on start up too as the LCD screen glides into position.
So yes, the Audi’s cabin is a showpiece. If you had laid out the coin to be here, it will be a continuing reassurance of money well spent.
That said, we found the front seats to be not as cossetting as those in the Bimmer and Mercedes.
We can’t talk about interior ambience without addressing the audio experience. The standard Mercedes system gets a B from these ears. It’s just okay.
    2014 Audi A6 TDI Quattro. Click image to enlarge |
The respective audio in the BMW and Audi move things up several rungs and expertly reflect each car’s personality.
Warming the BMW’s already comfy interior is a standard 12-speaker audio. It has a pleasant, full and natural sound. Crank it up and fills the cabin with a fine balance of accurate lows and highs that won’t tire the ears.
Our Audi A6 featured the optional Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System that strips your billfold to the tune of $6,500. Ouch. For this you get fifteen active speakers, 1200 watts, true 5.1 surround sound and a couple of way-cool tweeters this rise from the dashtop when you fire this system up.
Like the Audi itself, this B&O audio showcase is clinical and perfect. Hence, I find it a bit shrill and in-your-face when underway. Sounds killer in the driveway though.
In the end, the Audi’s haute interior wins for its combination of artistry and functionality.
