The Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain (S213) E 400d 4MATIC, produced from September 2018 to 2020, represents a unique offering within the E-Class range. Positioned as a crossover-estate, it aimed to blend the practicality of a wagon with the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system, appealing to buyers seeking a more adventurous and versatile luxury vehicle. This variant, powered by a potent diesel engine and a sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission, occupied the upper echelon of the All-Terrain lineup, offering a significant step up in performance and refinement compared to the lower-powered options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class All-Terrain (S213) |
| Type (Engine) | E 400d (340 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 165.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 340.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 3600-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1200-3200 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1200-3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 656.929 |
| Engine displacement | 2925 cm3 (178.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2055 kg (4530.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2690 kg (5930.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 640 l (22.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1820 l (64.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4947 mm (194.76 in.) |
| Width | 1861 mm (73.27 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2939 mm (115.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R20; 275/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 400d All-Terrain is the OM 656.929, a 2.9-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine represents a significant advancement in Mercedes-Benz diesel technology, featuring a steel piston, a two-stage turbocharging system, and a CAMMATIC variable valve train. The CAMMATIC system allows for continuously variable valve lift, optimizing engine performance and efficiency across a wider range of operating conditions. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for improved combustion and reduced emissions. Paired with this engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. The 9G-TRONIC features a torque converter lockup clutch that engages in most gears, minimizing slippage and further enhancing efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 400d All-Terrain delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1200 rpm, provides effortless acceleration and strong pulling power. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is well-tuned to the engine’s characteristics, offering seamless gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. While not a sports car, the E 400d All-Terrain feels surprisingly agile for its size and weight, thanks to the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system which provides excellent traction in various conditions. Compared to the E 220d All-Terrain, the E 400d offers a substantial performance upgrade, with a significantly quicker 0-60 mph time of around 5.1 seconds. The higher output also provides a more relaxed driving experience on the highway, with ample power for overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 400d All-Terrain typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a large infotainment screen with navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The All-Terrain also featured unique exterior styling cues, including rugged body cladding, raised suspension, and distinctive grille. Optional extras included air suspension (AIRMATIC), a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and various interior trim upgrades. The interior dashboard configuration was similar to other E-Class models, with a focus on luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The All-Terrain models feature a reinforced chassis and a slightly raised ride height compared to the standard E-Class wagon, providing increased ground clearance for off-road excursions. The suspension utilizes a multi-link setup at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 400d All-Terrain was typically equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control were standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 400d All-Terrain was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. The powerful diesel engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system were highlighted as key strengths. Compared to the E 220d All-Terrain, the E 400d offered a significant performance advantage, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and capability, averaging around 44.4 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although diesel engines can be more complex and potentially more expensive to maintain than gasoline engines.
Legacy
The OM 656 engine family, including the one found in the E 400d All-Terrain, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. These engines are known for their longevity and relatively low maintenance costs, provided they are properly serviced. On the used car market, the E 400d All-Terrain holds its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a luxurious and capable all-weather vehicle. The combination of performance, refinement, and practicality makes it a desirable option for those looking for a versatile and long-lasting estate car.
