The Mercedes-Benz E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced between 2009 and 2011, was a key variant within the W212 E-Class range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option, it catered to buyers seeking a balance between performance and economy in a mid-size luxury sedan. This model represented Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to diesel technology, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered E-Class models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel fuel was prevalent, offering a sophisticated and comfortable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212) |
| Type | E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (204 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8-8 l/100 km (30.2 – 29.4 US mpg, 36.2 – 35.3 UK mpg, 12.8 – 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.7 l/100 km (53.5 – 50 US mpg, 64.2 – 60.1 UK mpg, 22.7 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8-6 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.2 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.1 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 122.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 301.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-1800 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-1800 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 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%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4868 mm (191.65 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1619 mm (63.74 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was powered by the OM 651.924, a 2.1-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, known for its robust construction and efficiency. It featured common-rail direct injection, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine employed a bi-turbocharger system – a smaller turbocharger for quick response at low engine speeds and a larger one for increased power at higher RPMs. An intercooler further enhanced performance by cooling the compressed intake air. The engine produced 204 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 1800 rpm. This torque output was a key characteristic, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was the sole transmission option. It was programmed for smooth shifts and optimized fuel economy, though it lacked the responsiveness of some newer automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The high torque output of the diesel engine meant that strong acceleration was available from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. While not a sports car, the E 250 CDI provided adequate performance, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.4 seconds. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the more powerful E 350 models, the E 250 CDI prioritized fuel efficiency over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the six-speed manual transmissions available on some other E-Class variants. However, the quiet operation of the diesel engine and the comfortable suspension contributed to a relaxed and enjoyable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium mid-size sedan. Standard features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of fabric and leatherette, with full leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance features like parking assist and lane-keeping assist. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies such as start-stop functionality and optimized aerodynamics.
Chassis & Braking
The W212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design. The E 250 CDI utilized an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and stability, offering a composed ride even on uneven surfaces. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The hydraulic power steering provided precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the 5G-TRONIC transmission could feel dated compared to newer automatic transmissions. Compared to the E 350, the E 250 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy but less outright performance. Against other diesel-powered competitors, such as the BMW 520d and Audi A6 2.0 TDI, the E 250 CDI held its own in terms of refinement and fuel efficiency, often being considered a more luxurious option.
Legacy
The OM 651 engine family, including the 2.1-liter variant used in the E 250 CDI, proved to be remarkably reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines are known to exceed 200,000 miles. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while not as durable as some other Mercedes-Benz transmissions, is generally reliable if serviced regularly. On the used car market, the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable luxury sedan. Its combination of practicality, refinement, and long-term reliability makes it a compelling option, even years after its production ended.
