The mass exodus into SUVs is in full swing with many trading their family battle bus in for something far trendier. But where does this leave the humble estate car? Once the default choice for dog owners everywhere, sales have slumped and their very existence questioned.

This Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain takes the fight to the invaders, albeit at a rather eye-watering price of nearly £59k – some £9k more than a high-spec Volvo V90 D5 Cross Country, and £2k over an Audi Q7 3.0 TDI S Line. So the competition is strong, and on first glance looks somewhat better value. Still, this burly, all-seasons E-Class shouldn’t be dismissed just yet…

First impressions

You might buy an SUV over an E-Class Estate because it has all-wheel drive and better ground clearance, an asset when leaving the beaten track, but the All-Terrain has got this covered. 

4Matic all-wheel drive is standard meaning that come rain, shine or muddy stable yard, you’ve got the traction you need. At rest the car already sits 29mm higher than the regular model, but engage the Air Body Control air suspension and 35mm can be added. Truth be told, this gives the Merc better off-road credentials than many of the SUV pretenders in the Waitrose car park.

What about the looks? That’s another big reason the SUV has surged in popularity. Well, the All-Terrain has been made to look meatier with plastic cladding, large 20-inch alloy wheels and a more pu...