The Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC, produced between 2011 and January 2013, represented a significant iteration of the W212 E-Class sedan. Positioned as a mid-to-upper range offering within the lineup, it bridged the gap between the more economical four-cylinder models and the high-performance E 63 AMG. This variant combined a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine with a seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, aiming to deliver a balance of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to improving efficiency across its model range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212) |
| Type | E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY V6 (306 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9-6 l/100 km (39.9 – 39.2 US mpg, 47.9 – 47.1 UK mpg, 16.9 – 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 174-176 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 3500-5250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.952 |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Length | 4868 mm (191.65 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE driving all four wheels permanently |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 245/45 R17; 265/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8J x 17; 9J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The W212 E-Class, produced from 2009 to 2016, represented a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size executive sedan. The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC, introduced in 2011, was a key component of this generation, offering a compelling blend of performance and efficiency. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a luxurious and capable sedan for all-season driving. This model year saw refinements to the engine and transmission, focusing on maximizing fuel economy without sacrificing the driving experience expected from a Mercedes-Benz.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC lies the M 276.952 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 200 bar, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion and reduced emissions. The engine’s architecture prioritizes smoothness and refinement, characteristics typical of Mercedes-Benz V6 engines. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the V6’s power delivery. This transmission offered smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The “PLUS” designation indicated enhancements over the standard 7G-TRONIC, including improved efficiency and a wider gear ratio spread.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 4MATIC delivered a refined and comfortable driving experience. With 306 horsepower and 272.9 lb.-ft. of torque, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.3 seconds. While not a sports sedan, the engine provided ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission played a crucial role in optimizing power delivery, keeping the engine within its optimal torque band. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions. Compared to the E 350’s rear-wheel-drive counterpart, the 4MATIC version offered increased confidence and control. Compared to the more powerful E 550 models, the E 350 offered a more balanced driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfort over outright performance. The manual transmission option, available on other E-Class models, was not offered with the V6 and 4MATIC combination.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as a premium sedan. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a multi-function steering wheel. Safety features were also abundant, including ABS, traction control, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a rear-view camera. Interior trim options allowed for personalization, with choices ranging from wood veneers to aluminum accents.
Chassis & Braking
The W212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design, utilizing an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 4MATIC models typically featured slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers to compensate for the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) further enhanced safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and all-weather capability. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a V6-powered sedan, although it didn’t match the efficiency of the four-cylinder models. Compared to the E 350 RWD, the 4MATIC version commanded a premium price but offered the added benefit of all-wheel drive. Against competitors like the BMW 535i xDrive and the Audi A6 3.0T quattro, the E 350 4MATIC offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology.
Legacy
The M 276 V6 engine, used in the E 350 4MATIC, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. While some early models experienced minor issues with the fuel pump, these were generally addressed through warranty repairs. Today, well-maintained E 350 4MATIC models remain a popular choice in the used car market. Their combination of luxury, performance, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a refined and capable sedan. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its longevity, provided it has been properly serviced. Overall, the E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC represents a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed sedan that has stood the test of time.
