The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207) E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from April 2011 to March 2013, represented a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency within the broader C207 coupe range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the more accessible E 220 CDI and the higher-performance E 350 CDI models. This variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a refined grand tourer with strong diesel economy and respectable power, appealing particularly to the European market where diesel engines held significant popularity. The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY incorporated Mercedes-Benz’s ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ technologies, focused on reducing emissions and improving fuel consumption.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Coupe (C207) |
| Type | E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (204 Hp) Start & Stop |
| 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) | 6.3-6.7 l/100 km (37.3 – 35.1 US mpg, 44.8 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.9 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4-4.4 l/100 km (58.8 – 53.5 US mpg, 70.6 – 64.2 UK mpg, 25 – 22.7 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 | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 307.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 95.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-1800 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-1800 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 | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 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 (braked) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 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 | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 322 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 205/55 R16; 215/55 R16; 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 205/55 R16; 215/55 R16; 235/45 R17; 255/40 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Front wheel rims | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The C207 E-Class Coupe, launched in 2009, represented Mercedes-Benz’s foray into a more style-focused, two-door offering based on the W204 sedan platform. The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, introduced in 2011, was a key variant, leveraging the advancements in diesel technology to deliver a compelling combination of performance and economy. It was designed to appeal to buyers who desired the elegant styling of the coupe but prioritized fuel efficiency and lower running costs. The ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ designation signified the inclusion of various technologies aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY lies the OM651.911 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a highly refined unit, featuring common-rail direct injection and a sophisticated bi-turbocharger system. The two-stage turbocharging – a smaller turbo for immediate response and a larger turbo for peak power – effectively minimizes turbo lag and delivers a broad torque curve. The engine produces 204 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 1800 rpm. This torque output, available from relatively low engine speeds, provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow and contributing to its efficiency. The E 250 CDI was typically paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, although a 5-speed automatic transmission was also available, though less common. The automatic transmission was known for its smooth shifts but slightly dulled acceleration compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The abundant low-end torque made it particularly well-suited for relaxed highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. While not a sports car, the engine provided sufficient power for spirited driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7 seconds. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, while the automatic offered convenience, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful E 350 CDI, the E 250 CDI felt less urgent in its acceleration, but its lighter weight and more balanced chassis contributed to a more agile feel. The gear ratios in the 6-speed manual were well-chosen, providing a good balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The automatic transmission, while smooth, sometimes felt hesitant during quick downshifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its position as a premium coupe. Standard equipment typically included automatic climate control, a high-quality audio system, leather upholstery, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (such as Harman Kardon), navigation system, and various driver assistance features like parking assist and lane keeping assist. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. The standard seats offered excellent comfort and support, and were available in a variety of colors and materials.
Chassis & Braking
The C207 E-Class Coupe featured a sophisticated chassis design, incorporating a multi-link independent suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front suspension utilized coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. It was often seen as a sensible alternative to the more expensive and less economical E 350 CDI. Compared to the petrol-powered E 250 Coupe, the E 250 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy and a broader torque curve, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine was slightly noisier than the petrol unit. In terms of reliability, the OM651 engine proved to be a robust and durable unit, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure its longevity.
Legacy
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The OM651 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The C207 E-Class Coupe, in general, has maintained a good reputation for build quality and refinement. Today, these coupes represent a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and economical grand tourer. While modern cars offer more advanced technology, the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY remains a desirable and capable vehicle, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency that continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
