The Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204) facelift C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from 2011 to 2014, represented a significant evolution of the popular compact executive car. This variant, equipped with a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 204 horsepower and paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, aimed to balance performance with improved fuel efficiency. It occupied a mid-range position within the W204 lineup, offering a step up from the base C 200 models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance C 350 or C 63 AMG. The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a refined and technologically advanced vehicle with a focus on everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W204, facelift 2011) |
| Type | C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY (204 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7-9 l/100 km (27 – 26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.6 l/100 km (46.1 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.9 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 150-161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2000-4300 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.860 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 475 l (16.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4591 mm (180.75 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2008 mm (79.06 in.) |
| Height | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Front overhang | 775 mm (30.51 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1056 mm (41.57 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.84 m (35.56 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 295 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY is the M 271.860 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key example of Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to downsize and turbocharge for improved efficiency. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes torque delivery across a broad rev range, making it suitable for everyday driving. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission is a seven-speed unit known for its smooth shifting and efficiency. It offers a range of driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Manual, allowing the driver to tailor the transmission’s behavior to their preferences. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both fuel economy and responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the C 350, the 204 horsepower and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque provided adequate performance for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6.8 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth gear changes, and the engine’s torque curve meant that strong acceleration was available from relatively low engine speeds. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other C-Class models, the automatic prioritized ease of use and comfort over outright driver engagement. The automatic also offered slightly different gear ratios, impacting fuel economy and acceleration characteristics.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system with a CD player and auxiliary input. Upholstery was generally a combination of fabric and synthetic leather, although full leather options were available. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, and various driver assistance features like parking sensors and lane keeping assist. Trim levels could vary depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options for convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The W204 C-Class featured a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, with stabilizer bars helping to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering system was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY 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 larger engines available in the C-Class range. Compared to the C 350, the C 250 offered significantly better fuel economy but less acceleration. Against the diesel-powered C 220 CDI, the C 250 provided a more responsive driving experience but at the cost of higher fuel consumption. The C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY appealed to buyers who prioritized efficiency and comfort over outright performance.
Legacy
The M 271.860 engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the timing chain. Early examples of this engine experienced some issues with oil leaks and turbocharger failures, but these were largely addressed in later production years. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes to ensure smooth operation. Today, the W204 C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its combination of comfort, efficiency, and technology makes it a popular choice in the used car market, although potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance issues associated with the engine and transmission.
