By Jeff Fortson of JeffCars.com, NNPA Newswire Contributor

Highlight: With a mere $155 increase, the all-new E450 replaces the E400, with a larger engine and more horsepower.

E450 AWD Base MSRP: $88,535 (Base Model: $65,195)

Seating Capacity: 5 to 7

Standard Safety Features: ABS; air bags; a rearview camera; an electronic stability system; a brake hold feature; and a tire pressure monitoring system; a crosswind assist system; a dynamic corner assist system; rain sensing windshield wiper; and a rear window wiper with an auto-on in reverse

Standard Equipment: a 9-speed automatic transmission; AWD; a start/stop gas saving feature that can be turned off; a keyless entry system; pseudo leather seats; second-row, easy fold down seats; a cargo cover; partition net; luggage cover; power folding side mirrors; power front seats with lumbar support; a power sunroof; a power liftgate; an illuminated entry system; a dual zone automatic climate control system; a touch pad system; and roof rails

Optional Features On Test Vehicle: 18-inch AMG wheels; high performance tires; optional red paint; air fragrance and filtration system; heated/ventilated front seats; active multi-contour seats with a massage feature; a heads up display system; a 12-inch infotainment screen; an adjustable suspension system; a 3-zone climate control system; and soft close doors; Acoustic Comfort Package: increased cabin insulation, windshield and side windows with acoustic and heat absorbing membrane; Premium Package: an in-car wireless charging system; SiriusXM, a Burmester surround sound system, a keyless entry system; Special Nappa leather seats: Nappa leather, a black headliner, floor mats and chrome door pins; Exterior Lighting Package: LED light system and an adaptive high beam assist system; A Warmth and Comfort Package: heated armrests, heated steering wheel and rapid heat functionality for front seats; Parking Assist Package: an active parking assist system and a surround view system; A Driver Assistance Package: an active assist package, active lane keep assist system, an active brake assist system with a cross-traffic function, an evasive steering assist system, an active lane keep assist system, an active blind spot assist system, a rear end collision assist system and a route based speed adaption system

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Other Trims: AMG E63 S Wagon

Other Trims: Standard Audio On Test Vehicle:an 8-speaker AM/FM/HD

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder/362-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 17-city/21-hwy

What’s New: The E450 is the newest addition to the E-Class wagon. This model replaces last year’s 2018 E400, adding an upgraded 362-horsepower engine. This year’s model adds on an additional 33-horsepower over what was offered in the base E400 model. The German-engineered wagon also sports a new three-spoke steering wheel, which allows the driver to control all of the safety assistance systems features, without ever having to remove one’s hands.

Why: The E-Class is available in a variety of configurations. Buyers can opt for a coupe, a sedan, a convertible or a wagon. It’s the only midsize luxury nameplate that offers this array of selections.

For buyers who aren’t ready to join the crowd of car buyers who have traded their keys in for crossovers and SUVs, the five to seven passenger wagon, which offers loads of space, is a great alternative for those seeking a car-like ride. Yes, the Mercedes-Benz wagon offers the best of both worlds. It’s a German-engineered vehicle that offers loads of utility space and car-like characteristics. There is no compromising here. Mercedes-Benz has even outfitted the vehicle with a fold flat temporary third-row seat.

And, as we noted in this review, this year’s model offers a larger engine, which equates to more horsepower and a barely noticeable price increase. What customer would pass up on this?

This is literally the ultimate luxury wagon. The upscale family cruiser combines both high-tech and luxurious features that can only be found in this German-engineered vehicle. Our vehicle was loaded up with about $22,000 in added-on features. Mercedes-Benz included every conceivable option available except a driver.

Some of those standout features included everything from one-of-a-kind exclusive heated armrests to soft close doors to an air fragrance and filtration system.

Moreover, the wagon is available with the latest self-driving aids, too. Buyers can also customize the vehicle, creating a sportier effect with AMG wheels or a pricier AMG package.

But: The rear facing, fold-away, third row in the wagon is suitable for small kids as opposed to teens and adults. We’re not sure with it being rear facing and only accessible through the rear — if it’s even feasible for most drivers. With so many unsafe drivers on the road, who would feel comfortable placing their precious small packages in the rear facing seats?

Also there were too many high-tech features on this vehicle. Unfortunately, one will need to read the online owner’s manual to figure how to use such features as the auto hold (brake) feature and the heated steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz is notorious for over complicating their vehicles with features.

Furthermore, the vehicle is only available in an all-wheel drive configuration. Depending upon the area of the country, most buyers might not need this function.

Verdict: It’s not cheapto receive an invitation into the world of luxury, especially wagons. Despite this vehicle being a wagon, Mercedes-Benz offered style, class, high-tech features and loads of utility space. Again, for those who aren’t ready to join the crossover craze and have out grown a traditional car, the wagon is the perfect alternative.

Competition:  Volvo S90

About Jeff Fortson: He is the host of SiriusXM Channel 141 Auto Trends with JeffCars.com. It’s a weekly multicultural auto show, which includes in-depth conversations with today’s influencers and pioneers. For show times and to price a new vehicle, cruise over to JeffCars.com.

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