The pinnacle of long-distance personal transportation is at hand, yet the threat of extinction looms as diesel vehicles fall out of favor. Despite this, we must cherish these cars while they still exist. I recently had the opportunity to experience this firsthand on a memorable road trip through the Alps.
After carefully planning the dates for our journey, I stumbled upon the perfect car for the trip in the form of a diesel Mercedes. As I flipped through the road test diary, I realized that this car aligned perfectly with our travel plans. It was a stroke of luck that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience.
With winter Continentals fitted on the car, promising a comfortable ride, we set off on our adventure. Although my wife suggested an overnight stop along the way, I was determined to make it a one-hit journey. I pointed out the luxurious quilted seats and assured her of the car’s quietness at high speeds, akin to a Range Rover.
Covering 600 miles in one go, we set off bright and early, opting to use the LeShuttle to cross into France for a more efficient route. The convenience of reaching the train from junction 11a of the M20 in just 20 minutes was remarkable, especially compared to the ferry alternative.
The Mercedes E-Class proved to be a reliable and comfortable companion for our journey, showcasing its touring capabilities effortlessly. As we ventured deeper into Europe, I couldn’t help but appreciate the beauty of long-range travel in a diesel vehicle, despite its uncertain future.
In conclusion, while diesel cars may be facing challenges in today’s automotive landscape, they still offer unparalleled long-distance capabilities that should be cherished. My Alpine road trip in the Mercedes E-Class was a true testament to the joy of driving and the importance of savoring these experiences while they last.