The Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, produced from April 2013 to July 2014, represents a significant iteration of the W212 E-Class facelift. This variant combined a powerful and efficient diesel engine with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-to-upper range offering within the E-Class lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and fuel economy. The E 350 BlueTEC aimed to provide a refined driving experience while adhering to increasingly stringent emissions standards.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type | E 350 BlueTEC V6 (252 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3-7.7 l/100 km (32.2 – 30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.5 l/100 km (46.1 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9-6.4 l/100 km (39.9 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 252 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.858 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 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 capacity | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 2100 kg (4629.71 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 track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
INTRODUCTION
The W212 E-Class, facelifted in 2013, represented a significant update to Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size executive car. The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, introduced with this facelift, combined a refined diesel powertrain with the security and all-weather capability of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This model aimed to appeal to drivers who prioritized fuel efficiency and long-distance comfort without sacrificing performance. It sat comfortably within the E-Class range, above the E 250 BlueTEC and below the more powerful E 550 models. The “BlueTEC” designation signified the implementation of advanced diesel emissions control technology, ensuring compliance with Euro 6 standards.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 350 BlueTEC was the OM 642.858 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, featured a common rail direct injection system operating at extremely high pressures to optimize combustion. The engine utilized a variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and torque across a broad RPM range. The engine produced 252 horsepower at 3600 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2400 rpm. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve efficiency at cruising speeds. The Start & Stop system further contributed to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle was stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC offered a compelling blend of performance and refinement. The high torque output of the diesel engine provided strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission’s close gear ratios ensured that the engine remained within its optimal power band. While not as overtly sporty as some of its gasoline-powered counterparts, the E 350 BlueTEC delivered a confident and composed driving experience. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively, resulting in a smooth and relaxed ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive array of features, reflecting its position as a premium vehicle. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-resolution infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and various driver assistance packages. 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. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup with coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link independent suspension. Air suspension was available as an option, further enhancing ride comfort and allowing for adjustable ride height. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the E 250 BlueTEC, the E 350 offered significantly more power and performance. Against the E 550, it provided a more economical option without sacrificing a substantial amount of driving enjoyment. Fuel economy figures of around 39.9-36.8 US mpg combined made it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances. Reliability was generally good, although, like all modern diesel vehicles, it required diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and AdBlue system.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the version used in the E 350 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable when properly maintained. Today, used examples of this model continue to be sought after by buyers who appreciate its blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. While the cost of maintaining a diesel vehicle can be higher than that of a gasoline counterpart, the longevity and fuel economy of the E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC make it a compelling choice in the used car market. The W212 E-Class, as a whole, is remembered as a well-engineered and comfortable executive car, and the E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC represents a particularly well-rounded variant within the range.
