Off Duty, Automotive - Army Times

Tops for 2010: Luxury rollers

•2010 Mercedes E500

Base MSRP: $48,050

If you loved last year’s stunning CLS but not the $70k price tag, the all-new E-Class should make you happy — about $20k happy. That’s the difference in asking price between a CLS ($70,700) and the all-new E-Class ($48,050 to start).

The new E-Class even costs less than last year’s E-Class, which carried a base price of $53,200. You’ve also got more choice in body styles because the 2010 E-Class is available as both a coupe and a sedan. It offers both V-6 and V-8 engines, with a 40 mpg-capable diesel BlueTec V-6 expected to join the roster during 2010. Both rear wheel drive and 4Matic all-wheel-drive versions will be available. For the big kahuna experience, there’s the E63 AMG — which comes with a 518-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8. It can tear to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds — as quick as a new Corvette, but with five people enjoying the ride instead of just two.

Though not quite as dramatic as last year’s stunning CLS, the new E-Class is pretty close: low-cut roofline (with high door sills to accentuate the “chopped” look), steeply raked windshield and tapered rear section. Add to the mix the latest in Mercedes-Benz high technology (“drowsy driver” monitor, infra-red night vision, automatic-braking cruise control), the E-Class’s superior practicality and lower price — and you’ve got one of the most appealing new luxury rides going.

• 2010 Lexus HS250h

Base MSRP: $32,000

A new model for Lexus and the brand’s second hybrid vehicle. The mid-sized HS250h will also be the second front-wheel-drive Lexus (after the ES350) and should be capable of around 35 mpg in both city and highway driving — make it the most fuel-efficient Lexus and one of the most fuel-efficient luxury sedans available.