The Mercedes-Benz E 400d 4MATIC Coupe (C238, post-facelift) represents a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency within the E-Class range. Introduced in 2020 as part of the C238’s mid-cycle refresh, this variant combined a potent diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a sophisticated nine-speed automatic transmission. Production continued through 2023, positioning the E 400d as a premium offering aimed at buyers seeking a refined grand tourer experience. It sat at the top of the non-AMG E-Class Coupe lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade over the E 220d and E 300 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C238, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | E 400d (330 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.7-7.4 l/100 km (35.1 – 31.8 US mpg, 42.2 – 38.2 UK mpg, 14.9 – 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 175-194 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3-8.6 l/100 km (28.3 – 27.4 US mpg, 34 – 32.8 UK mpg, 12 – 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0-5.3 l/100 km (47 – 44.4 US mpg, 56.5 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2-6.5 l/100 km (37.9 – 36.2 US mpg, 45.6 – 43.5 UK mpg, 16.1 – 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 165-172 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 370.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 330 Hp |
| Power per litre | 112.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1200-3200 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1200-3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 656.929 |
| Engine displacement | 2925 cm3 (178.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 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 | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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 | 4835 mm (190.35 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 850 mm (33.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1112 mm (43.78 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.283 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.61 m (38.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
INTRODUCTION
The C238 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, particularly the facelifted version launched in 2020, represented a significant step forward in the brand’s two-door luxury offerings. The E 400d 4MATIC, introduced with this refresh, was positioned as the performance leader within the coupe range, excluding the AMG variants. Built on the W213 E-Class sedan platform, the C238 aimed to deliver a more dynamic and stylish alternative to its four-door sibling. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refined engine options, solidifying the E-Class Coupe’s position in the premium grand touring segment. This variant was primarily sold in Europe and other markets where diesel engines remained popular, offering a compelling combination of power, efficiency, and long-distance comfort.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 400d 4MATIC is the OM 656.929, a 2.9-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a significant departure from the older V6 diesels used in previous E-Class generations. The OM 656 features a stepped combustion process, a near-to-wall combustion strategy, and a two-stage turbocharging system. This configuration allows for both high power output and excellent fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,700 bar, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The engine is paired with Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel economy and responsive acceleration. The 9G-TRONIC features a torque converter lockup clutch that engages early and often, minimizing slippage and improving efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 400d 4MATIC delivers a refined and effortless driving experience. The 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1200 rpm, provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5 seconds, making it a genuinely quick coupe. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless gear changes and contributing to a relaxed cruising experience. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the E 400d offers ample power for overtaking and spirited driving. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the E 300, the E 400d offers a substantial performance increase, while the manual transmission options available on lower trims are absent, emphasizing the luxurious and effortless nature of this variant.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 400d 4MATIC typically came well-equipped as a premium trim level. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The interior featured Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a large touchscreen display and voice control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and various interior trim options. The dashboard layout was characterized by a flowing design with integrated dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The C238 E-Class Coupe utilizes a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension features a four-link independent setup, while the rear employs a multi-link independent suspension. Both ends are equipped with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The E 400d 4MATIC typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Brake Assist. The steering system is a speed-sensitive power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 400d 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful and refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. The fuel economy, while not exceptional for a diesel, was considered respectable given the car’s performance. Compared to the E 300, the E 400d offered a significant performance advantage, justifying its higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power and torque. Against competitors like the BMW 8 Series and Audi A8 Coupe, the E 400d offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology.
Legacy
The OM 656 engine family, including the version used in the E 400d, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. While long-term reliability data is still accumulating, early indications suggest that the engine is durable and capable of high mileage. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. On the used car market, the E 400d 4MATIC Coupe holds its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a luxurious and capable grand tourer with a diesel engine. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and refinement ensures its continued desirability for years to come.
