The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C238) E 350d 9G-TRONIC, produced from 2019 to 2020, represents a sophisticated blend of performance and luxury within the fifth generation of the E-Class Coupe. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a refined grand tourer experience with strong diesel power and advanced transmission technology. This variant occupied a space between the entry-level E 220d and the more performance-focused AMG models, appealing to those prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable long-distance driving. It was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C238) |
| Type (Engine) | E 350d (286 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2019 year |
| End of production | 2020 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 159-178 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 159.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 335.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 286 Hp |
| Power per litre | 97.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1200-3200 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1200-3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 656 |
| Engine displacement | 2925 cm3 (178.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2365 kg (5213.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4826 mm (190 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1112 mm (43.78 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13° |
| Departure angle | 14.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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) |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 350d Coupe is powered by the OM 656 2.9-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine represented a significant advancement in Mercedes-Benz diesel technology, featuring a lightweight aluminum construction, stepped combustion, and a two-stage turbocharging system. The two turbochargers work in sequence, providing both low-end responsiveness and high-end power. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system operating at extremely high pressures (2700 bar) for optimized fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. The engine produces 286 horsepower and a substantial 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1200 rpm, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising. Paired with the engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts, wide gear ratio spread, and contribution to fuel efficiency. The 9G-TRONIC allows the engine to operate within its optimal efficiency range more frequently, further enhancing fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the OM 656 engine and the 9G-TRONIC transmission delivers a refined and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.6 seconds, making it a brisk performer. The broad torque curve ensures strong pulling power in any gear, making overtaking maneuvers easy and confident. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the E 350d offers a comfortable and composed ride, well-suited for long journeys. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is generally smooth and responsive, although some drivers may find it occasionally hesitant in certain situations. Compared to the E 220d, the E 350d provides significantly more power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration and improved highway performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 350, the diesel offers superior fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, albeit with slightly less peak horsepower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350d Coupe typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-resolution infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, ventilated and massaging front seats, and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The dashboard layout was characterized by a dual-screen display, integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment system into a single, cohesive unit.
Chassis & Braking
The C238 E-Class Coupe features a sophisticated chassis design with an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The E 350d typically came 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. The steering system is direct and precise, offering a good balance between feedback and ease of use. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, but it also provided a reasonably controlled and stable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350d Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the diesel engine offering significantly better mileage than the gasoline alternatives. Some critics noted that the steering lacked a bit of feel, and the transmission could occasionally be hesitant. Compared to the E 220d, the E 350d offered a substantial performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for buyers seeking more power. Compared to the E 350 gasoline model, the E 350d provided better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, making it a popular choice for long-distance travelers.
Legacy
The OM 656 engine has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the OM 656 has generally maintained a good reputation for durability and longevity. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be a reliable unit, although some owners have reported minor issues with software glitches. On the used car market, the E 350d Coupe remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and efficient grand tourer. Its combination of performance, comfort, and fuel economy continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although diesel-specific components such as the particulate filter may require periodic attention.
