The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) facelift, specifically the E 220d variant equipped with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was produced from September 2015 to March 2017. This model represented a blend of luxury, open-air driving enjoyment, and relatively efficient diesel power within the broader E-Class Cabriolet range. It occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, offering a step up from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance variants like the E 400. The A207 generation, introduced in 2010, benefited from a significant facelift in 2013, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and more efficient engine options, culminating in the E 220d 9G-TRONIC.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A207, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220d (170 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2015 |
| End of production | March, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.4 l/100 km (57.4 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3000-4200 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.911 |
| 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 | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25 l (6.6 US gal | 5.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm (42.56 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.15 m (36.58 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Front tires | 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 235/45 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 220d Cabriolet utilized the OM 651.911, a 2.1-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup for many years, known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. It featured a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine was also equipped with a bi-turbocharger system – a smaller turbocharger for quick response at low engine speeds and a larger turbocharger for increased power at higher speeds. An intercooler further enhanced performance by cooling the compressed intake air. The engine produced 170 horsepower at 3000-4200 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-2800 rpm. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a nine-speed unit, was a key component. Its wide gear ratio spread allowed for both relaxed cruising and responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220d 9G-TRONIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports car, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The 9G-TRONIC transmission contributed to smooth gear changes and helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful E 400 variants, the E 220d prioritized fuel economy and relaxed cruising over outright performance. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement compared to the available six-speed manual option (though the manual was less common in the US market). The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, meaning that while acceleration was respectable, it wasn’t particularly brisk.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220d Cabriolet came standard with a generous array of features, befitting its luxury positioning. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a power-operated soft top. Optional extras included features like the AIRMATIC suspension system (providing adjustable ride height and damping), advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control), and upgraded interior trim options. The standard dashboard configuration featured analog gauges combined with a central infotainment screen. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilized a robust chassis designed to provide both comfort and handling. The front suspension featured a multi-link independent setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear employed an independent multi-link suspension with a stabilizer bar as well. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220d 9G-TRONIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright punch of the more powerful variants. Compared to the E 350 or E 400 models, the E 220d offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the BMW 4 Series Convertible and Audi A5 Cabriolet, the E 220d offered a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and practicality.
Legacy
The OM 651 engine family, including the 2.1-liter variant used in the E 220d, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the OM 651 is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, the E 220d Cabriolet represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and fuel-efficient open-top experience. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and adherence to Mercedes-Benz’s service intervals, is crucial for ensuring the continued reliability of this powertrain. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be a reliable unit, though some early models experienced software glitches that were addressed through updates.
