The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C238) E 400 4MATIC, produced from December 2016 to May 2018, represented a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology within the E-Class range. Positioned as a mid-to-high-end variant, it offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the base E 300 models, while remaining more accessible than the range-topping E 53 AMG. This coupe, built on the W213 E-Class platform, aimed to deliver a sophisticated grand touring experience with a focus on comfort and dynamic handling. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a stylish and powerful two-door alternative to the E-Class sedan.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Coupe (C238) |
| Type | E 400 V6 (333 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | December, 2016 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2-11.0 l/100 km (21 – 21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7-6.4 l/100 km (35.1 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4-8.1 l/100 km (28 – 29 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 189-183 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5250-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.823 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.61 m (38.09 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 | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 400 4MATIC was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s M276.823 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of the modular M276 family, featured direct injection, twin-turbocharging, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides. The twin-turbo setup utilized a single “hot-side” turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine produced 333 horsepower at 5250-6000 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque between 1600-4000 rpm. This power was delivered to all four wheels via Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The 9G-TRONIC was known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. The transmission offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Manual, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The E 400 4MATIC offered a refined and capable driving experience. The combination of the powerful V6 engine and the 9G-TRONIC transmission resulted in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the base E 300 models with their four-cylinder engines, the E 400 offered a noticeably more effortless and refined power delivery. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the E 400 provided ample power for both highway cruising and spirited driving. The 9G-TRONIC transmission, while generally smooth, could occasionally exhibit slight hesitation during downshifts in certain situations. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing a good connection to the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 400 4MATIC typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a large infotainment display 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, upgraded leather packages, a head-up display, and advanced parking assist features. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. The dashboard layout was modern and elegant, with a focus on intuitive controls and a high-quality feel.
Chassis & Braking
The C238 E-Class Coupe featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The E 400 4MATIC typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering system utilized electric power steering, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employed a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 400 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Compared to the E 300, the E 400 offered a significant performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prioritized power and refinement. However, the E 400’s fuel economy was slightly lower than that of the E 300. In terms of reliability, the M276 engine family was generally considered to be robust, although some owners reported issues with the auxiliary compressor and fuel injectors. The E 400 4MATIC competed with other luxury coupes such as the BMW 4 Series and the Audi A5 Coupe.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C238) E 400 4MATIC remains a desirable used car option. The M276 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, has proven to be relatively durable. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is also generally reliable. The car’s combination of luxury, performance, and technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand touring coupe. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the auxiliary compressor and fuel injectors, and should ensure that the car has been properly maintained. The E 400 4MATIC represents a sweet spot in the C238 E-Class lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance and refinement at a relatively accessible price point.
