The Mercedes-Benz E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY T-modell (S212) was a high-performance variant of the E-Class wagon, produced from August 2011 to January 2013. Positioned as the flagship engine option within the S212 estate range, it combined a powerful V8 engine with all-wheel drive and a sophisticated automatic transmission. This model represented a blend of practicality, luxury, and performance, aimed at buyers seeking a versatile vehicle without compromising on driving experience. It sat above the E 350 and E 250 CDI models in terms of both price and performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S212) |
| Type | E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | August, 2011 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 222 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 5000-5750 rpm |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.922 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2655 kg (5853.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 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 | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 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) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 500 T-modell was the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine featured direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers, resulting in a substantial 408 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilized a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system (also known as Active Cylinder Management) to improve fuel economy under light load conditions, shutting down four cylinders when full power wasn’t required. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission was standard, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission was known for its efficiency and ability to adapt to driving conditions. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 T-modell delivered a refined and powerful driving experience. Acceleration was brisk, with 0-60 mph times around 5.1 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 provided ample torque throughout the rev range, making overtaking effortless. While not as overtly sporty as some performance wagons, the E 500 offered a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its air suspension system. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributed to a smooth and seamless driving experience, although some drivers preferred the more engaging feel of a manual gearbox. Compared to the E 350 wagon, the E 500 offered a significant performance upgrade, while the E 250 CDI prioritized fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 T-modell came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its position as the range-topping variant. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation system, and a panoramic sunroof. Standard safety features included multiple airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The interior was well-appointed and offered a high level of comfort and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class wagon featured an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The E 500 T-modell was equipped with air suspension on both the front and rear axles, further enhancing ride quality and allowing for adjustable ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, its relatively high price tag and fuel consumption were noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to other performance wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant and the BMW M5 Touring, the E 500 offered a more balanced blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8 wagon, was lower than that of the four-cylinder and six-cylinder E-Class variants.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY T-modell (S212) remains a desirable used car, particularly for those seeking a high-performance wagon with a luxurious interior. The M278 V8 engine is generally considered to be reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also known for its durability. While not as common as the lower-trim E-Class wagons, the E 500 T-modell offers a unique combination of performance, practicality, and luxury that continues to appeal to enthusiasts today. Its blend of power and usability makes it a compelling option in the used luxury wagon market.
