The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207) E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, powered by a 170 horsepower diesel engine and paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, was a significant offering within the C207 coupe range produced between April 2011 and March 2013. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and comfortable grand tourer, this variant aimed to balance performance with economy, appealing to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without the higher running costs associated with more powerful engines. It sat in the mid-range of the C207 coupe lineup, offering a step up from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance variants like the E 350 or E 500.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Coupe (C207) |
| Type | E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (170 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2011 |
| End of production | March, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4-6.6 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.6 US mpg, 44.1 – 42.8 UK mpg, 15.6 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4-4.5 l/100 km (58.8 – 52.3 US mpg, 70.6 – 62.8 UK mpg, 25 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.3 l/100 km (48 – 44.4 US mpg, 57.6 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 128-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 234 km/h (145.4 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 105.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 249.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3000-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.911 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2015 mm (79.33 in.) |
| Height | 1397 mm (55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.95 m (35.93 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 295 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is the OM 651.911, a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a highly advanced design for its time, featuring common-rail direct injection and a bi-turbocharger setup. The two-stage turbocharging system, utilizing a smaller turbocharger for immediate response and a larger one for peak power, effectively minimizes turbo lag and delivers a broad torque curve. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 16.2:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is renowned for its smooth and quick shifts. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages across multiple gears, further enhancing fuel economy. The transmission’s programming is tuned for comfort and efficiency, prioritizing smooth transitions over aggressive downshifts.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY offers a relaxed and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque available from 1400-2800 rpm provides ample power for everyday driving and effortless highway cruising. The 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds is respectable, but the focus is more on in-gear acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributes to this, selecting the optimal gear for any given situation. Compared to the more powerful E 350 Coupe, the E 220 CDI feels less urgent in its acceleration, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are optimized for maximizing fuel efficiency at cruising speeds, while still providing enough power for overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel hesitant when requesting rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was generally a combination of leatherette and fabric, with full leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, and various driver-assistance features like parking assist and lane-keeping assist. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies such as start-stop functionality and optimized aerodynamics.
Chassis & Braking
The C207 E-Class Coupe features a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear employs an independent multi-link spring suspension, also with a stabilizer bar. The E 220 CDI typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The steering is hydraulic, offering a balanced feel and providing adequate feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. It was praised for its refined engine and smooth-shifting transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the performance was not as exhilarating as that of the more powerful E-Class Coupe variants. Compared to the E 350, the E 220 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for drivers who prioritize efficiency. Reliability was generally good, with the OM 651 engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting unit.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207) E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient grand tourer. The OM 651 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these vehicles can provide many years of reliable service. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, although regular fluid changes are essential. The combination of comfort, efficiency, and build quality has ensured that the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY continues to be a desirable option for discerning buyers.
