The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207) E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from April 2011 to March 2013, represented a compelling entry point into the C207 coupe range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it blended respectable performance with enhanced fuel efficiency thanks to its BlueEFFICIENCY technologies. This variant utilized a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, appealing to buyers seeking a balance between luxury, economy, and driving comfort. It was part of the broader C207 generation, which itself was based on the W204 sedan platform, offering a more stylish and sporty alternative to its four-door sibling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C207) |
| Type | E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY (204 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) | 8.6-9.1 l/100 km (27.4 – 25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.7 l/100 km (45.2 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.9 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149-161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2000-4300 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.860 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 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 250 BlueEFFICIENCY is the M 271.860 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact size and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine code signifies a specific iteration of the M271 family, optimized for efficiency. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is renowned for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratios. This transmission contributes significantly to the car’s fuel efficiency and provides a comfortable driving experience. The transmission’s programming is tuned for a balance between performance and economy, prioritizing smooth upshifts and downshifts.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, with its 204 horsepower and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque, offered a respectable, though not overtly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 7 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, while smooth, could feel slightly hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers compared to the more responsive manual transmissions available in other E-Class models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t always feel as eager to rev as higher-performance variants. However, for everyday driving and long-distance cruising, the E 250 provided a comfortable and refined experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was generally a combination of fabric and leatherette, 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 dashboard layout was typical of the C207 E-Class, featuring a blend of traditional Mercedes-Benz elegance and modern technology.
Chassis & Braking
The C207 E-Class Coupe featured a sophisticated suspension system designed for comfort and handling. The E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY utilized a coil spring, independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and efficient option within the E-Class Coupe range. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and luxury. Compared to the more powerful E 350 models, the E 250 was less expensive and more fuel-efficient, but it lacked the same level of outright performance. Compared to diesel variants like the E 220 CDI, the E 250 offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly higher fuel consumption. Its main appeal lay in its ability to provide a premium coupe experience without the higher running costs associated with larger engines.
Legacy
The M 271.860 engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Common issues included occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the turbocharger. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes to ensure smooth operation. In the used car market, the E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable coupe. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option for those looking for a practical yet luxurious vehicle.
