The Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC V6 (231 hp) with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, produced from July 2014 to January 2016, represents a significant iteration of the W212 facelifted E-Class. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the E-Class lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined luxury sedan. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines held significant market share, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered E-Class models and competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 300 BlueTEC V6 (231 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | January, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg, 46.3 – 44.8 UK mpg, 16.4 – 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.5-4.8 l/100 km (52.3 – 49 US mpg, 62.8 – 58.9 UK mpg, 22.2 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5-5.3 l/100 km (47 – 44.4 US mpg, 56.5 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 133-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 305.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (398.28 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.852 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.28 m (37.01 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 300 BlueTEC is the OM 642.852 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine is a member of the OM642 family, known for its robust construction and refinement. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at extremely high pressures (typically around 2,000 bar) for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is a key component, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize fuel economy and provide smooth, responsive shifts. This transmission replaced the older 7G-TRONIC and was a significant advancement in automatic gearbox technology.
Driving Characteristics
The 231 hp and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the E 300 BlueTEC V6, coupled with the nine-speed automatic, resulted in a relaxed and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.7 seconds, making it adequately quick for most drivers. The 9G-TRONIC transmission’s close gear ratios kept the engine within its optimal power band, providing strong acceleration in various driving situations. Compared to the more powerful E 400 or the sportier AMG variants, the E 300 BlueTEC prioritized fuel efficiency and comfort over outright performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox, but it suited the car’s overall character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 300 BlueTEC typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-range luxury vehicle. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-resolution infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of safety features like adaptive brake assist, lane keeping assist, and collision prevention assist. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, air suspension (Airmatic), and various driver assistance packages. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing for some personalization.
Chassis & Braking
The W212 E-Class featured a multi-link independent suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 300 BlueTEC typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESP) were standard safety features. Optional air suspension (Airmatic) provided adjustable ride height and damping, further enhancing comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 300 BlueTEC V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, refined engine, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the diesel engine, while powerful, lacked the responsiveness of the gasoline-powered E 400. Compared to the E 250 CDI (a lower-powered diesel variant), the E 300 BlueTEC offered a noticeable performance upgrade. Against competitors like the BMW 530d and Audi A6 3.0 TDI, the E 300 BlueTEC held its own in terms of performance, fuel economy, and luxury.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.852 found in the E 300 BlueTEC, has a reputation for durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be a reliable unit. In the used car market, the E 300 BlueTEC V6 represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of luxury, efficiency, and performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with diesel emissions systems, such as the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and AdBlue system, which may require periodic maintenance or replacement.
