The Mercedes-Benz E 200 BlueTEC, equipped with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, was a significant variant within the W212 E-Class facelift range, produced from July 2014 to January 2016. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and comfort over outright performance. This model represented Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to diesel technology, offering a balance between luxury and reduced emissions. The W212 facelift, introduced in 2013, brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the already successful E-Class, and the E 200 BlueTEC became a popular choice in European markets where diesel fuel was prevalent and taxation favored lower CO2 emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 200 BlueTEC (136 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | January, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.6-5.9 l/100 km (42 – 39.9 US mpg, 50.4 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.9 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.9-4.3 l/100 km (60.3 – 54.7 US mpg, 72.4 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25.6 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg, 61.4 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 119-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 2800-4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1400-2600 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.925 |
| 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 | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.25 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.28 m (37.01 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 PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 225/55 R16; 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19Rear wheel tires: 225/55 R16; 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 265/35 R18; 275/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19Rear wheel rims: 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 9J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 200 BlueTEC utilized the OM651.925 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its durability and efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve combustion. The engine employed a sophisticated common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized atomization and cleaner combustion. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque characteristics. This transmission offered smooth and efficient gear changes, contributing to the car’s overall refinement. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 2800-4600 rpm and 360 Nm (265.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-2600 rpm. The inclusion of a particulate filter and adherence to Euro 6 emission standards demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Driving Characteristics
The E 200 BlueTEC with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9 seconds, and the top speed was electronically limited to 207 km/h (128.62 mph). The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was programmed for fuel efficiency, often upshifting quickly to maintain low engine speeds. Compared to the more powerful E 250 or E 350 models, the E 200 BlueTEC felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the abundance of low-end torque from the diesel engine made it easy to maintain a steady pace. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the engagement and control offered by the available manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 200 BlueTEC typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth or Artico leatherette, with leather being an optional upgrade. The dashboard layout was typical of the W212 facelift, featuring a central display screen and elegant trim finishes. Optional extras included a navigation system, parking assist, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options. The E 200 BlueTEC was often positioned as the entry-level E-Class, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and comfort over luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The E 200 BlueTEC featured a coil spring, independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Optional air suspension was available, further enhancing ride comfort and allowing for adjustable ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The E 200 BlueTEC’s weight of approximately 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs) was relatively moderate for its class, contributing to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 200 BlueTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics, particularly for its fuel efficiency and refinement. It offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered E-Class models, especially in Europe where diesel fuel was more affordable and CO2 emissions were heavily taxed. Compared to the E 250, the E 200 BlueTEC offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The E 200 BlueTEC also proved to be more reliable than some of the more complex E-Class variants, such as those with air suspension or advanced driver-assistance systems. Its fuel economy figures of 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg) were highly competitive in its segment.
Legacy
The OM651 engine, as used in the E 200 BlueTEC, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. In the used car market, the E 200 BlueTEC remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped luxury sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the AdBlue system, particularly on vehicles that have primarily been used for short trips. Overall, the E 200 BlueTEC represents a well-engineered and practical variant of the W212 E-Class, offering a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and reliability.
