The Mercedes-Benz E 400 4MATIC T-modell (estate) represents a high-performance variant of the S212 E-Class facelift introduced in 2013. Production of this specific configuration, featuring the 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, ran from July 2014 to July 2016. Positioned as a premium offering within the E-Class range, the E 400 bridged the gap between the more economical four-cylinder models and the flagship E 63 AMG, providing a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a refined and capable estate car with strong acceleration and all-weather capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type | E 400 V6 3.5 (333 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| 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) | 10.1-10.4 l/100 km (23.3 – 22.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3-6.6 l/100 km (37.3 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7-8 l/100 km (30.5 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 180-186 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 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5250-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.850 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.3 l (10.88 US qt | 9.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 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%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 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 | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 400 4MATIC is the M276.850 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to deliver a substantial 333 horsepower and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s architecture features a 60-degree V-angle, aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, and a four-valve-per-cylinder DOHC valvetrain. The twin-scroll turbochargers are strategically positioned to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve, peaking from 1200 to 4000 rpm. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is known for its smooth and responsive shifts. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The E 400 4MATIC offers a compelling driving experience, balancing performance with comfort. The combination of the potent V6 engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the base E 350 models with the four-cylinder engine, the E 400 delivers significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the E 63 AMG, the E 400 offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is programmed for smooth shifts in comfort mode, but can be shifted manually for more engaging driving. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 400 4MATIC T-modell typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded interior trim options. The standard dashboard configuration featured a high-resolution infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial and buttons. Interior color choices were varied, with options ranging from classic black to lighter shades of beige and gray.
Chassis & Braking
The E 400 4MATIC utilized a sophisticated suspension system designed to provide a comfortable ride and precise handling. The front suspension featured a multi-link setup with coil springs, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link design. Air suspension was available as an option, further enhancing ride quality and allowing for adjustable ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The E 400 was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Brake Assist for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 400 4MATIC T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Compared to the E 350, the E 400 offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the E 63 AMG. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance. Reliability reports suggest that the M276 engine is generally robust, although preventative maintenance is crucial. Some owners have reported issues with the air suspension system (if equipped), and the complex electronics can occasionally require attention.
Legacy
The E 400 4MATIC T-modell has established itself as a desirable used car option. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile estate car. The M276 engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for maintenance costs associated with the complex systems, such as the air suspension and electronic components. Today, these vehicles represent a sweet spot in the E-Class lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance and value.
