The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S212 facelift), specifically the E 220 BlueTEC variant producing 170 horsepower, was a popular choice in the European market from its introduction in July 2014 until its discontinuation in July 2016. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S212 wagon lineup, it blended practicality with the efficiency expected of a modern diesel engine. This model represented a refinement of the earlier S212 series, benefitting from the 2013 facelift which included updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced fuel economy. It catered to buyers seeking a premium estate car with a focus on long-distance comfort and reduced running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 BlueTEC (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | July, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8-6 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.1 l/100 km (48 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 127-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3000-4200 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.924 |
| 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 | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 600 l (21.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1855 l (65.51 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 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 | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Rear track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1182 mm (46.54 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.28 m (37.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 220 BlueTEC utilized the OM651.924 2.1-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. The ‘BlueTEC’ designation indicated the inclusion of advanced emissions control technologies, including a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce NOx emissions. The engine featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A bi-turbocharger setup, employing both a small and a large turbocharger, minimized turbo lag and provided a broad torque curve. The valvetrain employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing precise gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the E 220 BlueTEC provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 220 km/h (136.7 mph). The engine’s strength lay in its mid-range torque, making it well-suited for effortless cruising and overtaking on highways. Compared to the more powerful E 250 CDI or E 350 CDI variants, the E 220 BlueTEC offered a more relaxed driving experience. The manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement than the optional automatic transmission available on other models. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine occasionally felt strained when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 BlueTEC T-modell typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and an audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was generally a high-quality cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing a clean and functional design. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, parking sensors, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class T-modell featured a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized a multi-link independent setup with coil springs, while the rear employed a multi-link independent suspension. An optional air suspension system was available, providing adjustable ride height and further enhancing ride comfort. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 BlueTEC T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the E 250 CDI, the E 220 BlueTEC offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the Audi A6 Avant and BMW 5 Series Touring, the E 220 BlueTEC held its own in terms of refinement and practicality. Its fuel economy was competitive, and its reliability proved to be generally good.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the 2.1-liter variant found in the E 220 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. The S212 E-Class T-modell, and specifically the E 220 BlueTEC variant, remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a practical and efficient estate car. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, DPF cleaning (if necessary), and AdBlue refills. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain.
