2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 is a no-nonsense, high-caliber luxury car

In a segment where stalwarts have waged war on one another for decades, with very few interlopers genuinely working their way into the mix, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has pulled off an impressive feat

In what amounts to a strong mid-cycle refresh, the latest E-Class picks up a number of tricks that makes it the best midsize luxury sedan by a country mile. 

The 2021 E450 starts at $63,050 including destination, with my well-equipped tester ringing in at a hefty $76,140.

It's competitive with the two other segment stalwarts, the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series, but the Merc does the best job of prioritizing driving opulence.

However, there's a new competitor from farther east: the Genesis G80.

This redesigned Korean luxury sedan is damn impressive, giving Mercedes a run for its money in outright plushness and breadth of available technology.

While the Genesis lacks the cachet of the three usual players, it deserves a serious look from anyone who wants a capital-L luxury experience.

But even with its newfound (and closest) rival, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is handily the king of its segment. 

With the best tech the automaker has to offer, a car that was already mighty luxurious has grown even more so, giving its occupants a top-tier ride that offers serenity separated from the mad world outside.

Keep scrolling or clicking to check out even more pictures of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450.