The Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC V6 (252 hp) with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, produced from July 2013 to July 2014, represents a significant iteration of the W212 E-Class facelift. This variant occupied a key position in the E-Class lineup, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury aimed at buyers seeking a refined diesel-powered sedan. It was positioned as a step up from the E 250 BlueTEC, offering considerably more power and torque, while remaining more accessible than the range-topping E 550 models. The W212 facelift, introduced in 2013, brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency across the entire E-Class range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 350 BlueTEC V6 (252 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.4-6.7 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.1 US mpg, 44.1 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.6 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.7-5.1 l/100 km (50 – 46.1 US mpg, 60.1 – 55.4 UK mpg, 21.3 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.3-5.6 l/100 km (44.4 – 42 US mpg, 53.3 – 50.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 138-148 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| 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), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 342.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 252 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.852 |
| 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 | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2440 kg (5379.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 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%) | 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 (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| 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 | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350 BlueTEC was the OM 642.852 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,100 bar. This high-pressure injection, coupled with a variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for efficient combustion and strong torque output across a broad rev range. The engine also featured a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue to minimize NOx emissions, ensuring compliance with stringent Euro 6 standards. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission was a key component, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. Its wide gear ratio spread contributed to both improved fuel economy and enhanced acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 BlueTEC 9G-TRONIC delivered a distinctly refined driving experience. The 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque, available from just 1600 rpm, provided effortless acceleration in everyday driving situations. While not as overtly sporty as some of its gasoline-powered siblings, the E 350 offered ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 9G-TRONIC transmission was programmed for comfort, with smooth upshifts and downshifts. Compared to the six-speed automatic found in earlier W212 models, the 9G-TRONIC reduced engine speeds at highway speeds, further enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing noise. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds was respectable for a large luxury sedan. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox, but it catered to the target audience who prioritized comfort and convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueTEC typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position in the E-Class range. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a host of safety technologies such as adaptive brake assist, lane keeping assist, and collision prevention assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, advanced navigation system, massaging seats, and a head-up display. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. The E 350 BlueTEC was often specified with the Avantgarde or AMG Line trim packages, which added sportier styling cues and enhanced equipment levels.
Chassis & Braking
The W212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design, with a multi-link independent suspension at all four corners. The E 350 BlueTEC typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all wheels, providing ample stopping power. Many examples were also equipped with optional air suspension, which offered adjustable ride height and damping, further enhancing ride comfort. The steering was a precise and well-weighted rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, but still provided a secure and controlled feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel economy. Compared to the E 250 BlueTEC, the E 350 offered a significant performance upgrade without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Against the E 550 models, it provided a more affordable entry point into the E-Class range while still delivering a luxurious and capable driving experience. Some critics noted that the steering lacked a bit of feel, but overall, the E 350 BlueTEC was considered a well-rounded and appealing option in the luxury sedan segment.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.852 found in the E 350 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. In the used car market, the W212 E 350 BlueTEC remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, efficient, and well-equipped luxury sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of a diesel engine, including regular DPF regeneration and AdBlue refills. Overall, the E 350 BlueTEC represents a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury that continues to appeal to discerning drivers today.
