The Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, produced between 2011 and January 2013, represented a significant iteration of the W212 E-Class sedan. Positioned as a mid-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 the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, aiming to deliver a balance of refinement, performance, and fuel efficiency for the North American and European markets. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation denoted Mercedes-Benz’s suite of fuel-saving technologies implemented in this generation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212) |
| Type | E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY V6 (306 Hp) 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) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3-5.6 l/100 km (44.4 – 42 US mpg, 53.3 – 50.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8-7 l/100 km (34.6 – 33.6 US mpg, 41.5 – 40.4 UK mpg, 14.7 – 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 184.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.9 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 | 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 | 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 | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| 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 | 225/55 R16; 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 225/55 R16; 245/45 R17; 265/50 R18; 275/30 R19 |
| Front wheel rims | 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17; 9J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is 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 optimized combustion and efficiency. The engine’s block is constructed from aluminum, contributing to weight reduction. 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, and included a manual shift mode for driver control. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” package included features like optimized aerodynamics, low-rolling resistance tires, and an ECO start/stop function to minimize fuel consumption.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors or even the higher-trim E-Class models, the 306 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth acceleration, although some drivers found it to be slightly hesitant in certain situations compared to the more aggressive shift programming of sportier models. Compared to the E 300, the E 350 offered noticeably more power and a more relaxed driving experience, while the E 550 and E 63 AMG provided significantly higher performance levels at a higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a driver assistance package with features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The W212 E-Class featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over outright sportiness. Steering was via a hydraulic power steering system, offering a balanced feel and good feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a V6-powered luxury sedan, although it didn’t quite match the efficiency of the four-cylinder models. Compared to rivals like the BMW 535i and Audi A6 3.0T, the E 350 offered a more comfortable ride and a more traditional luxury experience. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with electronic components.
Legacy
The M 276 engine family, including the 3.5-liter variant found in the E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. These engines are known for their longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. On the used car market, the W212 E 350 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, well-equipped, and reliable luxury sedan. While newer E-Class models offer more advanced technology and improved fuel efficiency, the W212 E 350 continues to represent a compelling value proposition.
