The Mercedes-Benz E 350 V6, powered by the M272 engine and paired with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was a significant variant within the W212 E-Class range produced between June 2009 and July 2011. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it bridged the gap between the entry-level E 300 and the performance-oriented E 550 models. This configuration aimed to deliver a balance of luxury, performance, and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without the higher price tag of the flagship trims. The W212 generation, produced from 2009 to 2016, represented a substantial evolution of the E-Class, incorporating advanced technology and a more contemporary design language.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212) |
| Type (Engine) | E 350 V6 (268 Hp) 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | June, 2009 |
| End of production | July, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 268 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2400-5000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2400-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 272.980 |
| 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 | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660-1690 kg (3659.67 – 3725.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4868 mm (191.65 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1927 mm (75.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1599 mm (62.95 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 322 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18Rear wheel tires: 245/45 R17; 265/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18Rear wheel rims: 8J x 17; 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350 V6 is the M272.980 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size and large vehicle offerings for a significant period, features a 60-degree V-angle and utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) DOHC valvetrain. The M272 is known for its smooth operation and relatively high specific output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The engine produces 268 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 2,400 and 5,000 rpm. Paired with this engine is the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit renowned for its smooth shifts and efficiency. This transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages in higher gears to reduce slippage and improve fuel economy. The 7G-TRONIC also offers a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 V6 with the 7G-TRONIC transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals or even the higher-trim E-Class models, it provides ample power for everyday driving and confident highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.5 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed is 130.49 mph. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to a seamless power delivery, with well-spaced gear ratios that keep the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on some E 350 models, the 7G-TRONIC prioritizes comfort and ease of use over outright performance. The automatic transmission also offers a more relaxed driving experience in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 V6 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its mid-range positioning. Standard features 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. Optional extras were plentiful, including a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, upgraded leather packages, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Distronic Plus (adaptive cruise control) 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 a sophisticated chassis design with a four-wheel independent suspension. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also employed a multi-link design. Air suspension was available as an option, providing an even more comfortable ride and the ability to adjust ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the sporty character of some competitors, such as the BMW 535i. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a V6-powered luxury sedan, averaging around 19.9 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the E 300, the E 350 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while the E 550 provided even more power but at a higher price point. The E 350 V6 represented a sweet spot for buyers seeking a balance of luxury, performance, and value.
Legacy
The M272 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to certain issues, such as oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets and potential problems with the balance shaft. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also generally durable, but requires regular fluid changes to maintain optimal performance. Today, well-maintained E 350 V6 models from the W212 generation can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. They continue to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and well-equipped luxury sedan. The combination of a smooth V6 engine, a refined automatic transmission, and a spacious interior ensures that the E 350 V6 remains a compelling option in the used car segment.
