The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S212) E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from February 2010 to January 2013, represented a compelling entry point into the premium wagon segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S212 series – the fifth generation of the E-Class estate – this variant combined a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission, prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable touring over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where wagons maintain significant popularity, offering a practical and refined alternative to SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S212) |
| Type (Engine) | E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2010 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10-10.7 l/100 km (23.5 – 22 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1-6.5 l/100 km (38.6 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5-8 l/100 km (31.4 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 175-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1800-4600 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4600 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 | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2325 kg (5125.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 665 kg (1466.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4895 mm (192.72 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1180 mm (46.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 295 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16; 245/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY was powered by the M271.860 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine featured direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler, technologies aimed at boosting power and improving fuel economy. The ‘CGI’ designation stood for ‘Charged Gasoline Injection,’ highlighting the direct injection system. The engine produced 184 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 4600 rpm. The engine utilized a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine was a 5-speed automatic transmission (typically the 5G-TRONIC), chosen for its smooth operation and contribution to fuel efficiency. This transmission was known for its adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over sporty performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to 139.81 mph. The automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes, but could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers compared to the more powerful E 250 or E 350 models. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the engine lacked the immediate responsiveness of naturally aspirated alternatives. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although it wasn’t particularly engaging for enthusiastic drivers. The focus was on providing a relaxed and efficient grand touring experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio, parking sensors, and heated seats. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies like start-stop functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized coil springs and an independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link system, often incorporating air suspension on higher trim levels. The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort, providing a smooth and controlled ride even on uneven surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by critics as a practical and efficient option within the E-Class range. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively low fuel consumption. However, some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered for a vehicle of its size and weight, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the E 250 CGI, which offered a more powerful engine, the E 200 provided a more affordable entry point into the E-Class lineup. Against diesel alternatives like the E 220 CDI, the E 200 offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but at the expense of fuel economy.
Legacy
The M271 engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the timing chain. Oil changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent premature wear. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission is also generally durable, but can exhibit issues with valve body wear over time. Today, the E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY represents a relatively affordable way to enter the Mercedes-Benz ownership experience. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and reasonable running costs makes it a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a refined and spacious wagon.
