The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe is not inexpensive, with a starting price of $55,525, but neither does it cheat you in any part of the experience it affords. This is a traditional Mercedes, one that affirms the character of the company. The styling is a little delicious, but aren’t we all a little tired of the whole Hugo Boss austerity thing?

A Mercedes knows what it must do — take us to distant places. The E-Class coupe has a lot of style, yet it fulfills its mission with a satisfying lack of pretense, and that is what makes it a serious luxury car.