The Mercedes-Benz C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from 2011 to 2014, was a key variant within the W204 C-Class facelift range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option, it offered a compelling blend of performance and economy for the European market, and to a lesser extent, other regions. This model represented Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to diesel technology, offering a sophisticated and relatively powerful four-cylinder diesel engine paired with the advanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a premium compact executive car with lower running costs than its gasoline counterparts.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W204, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | C 250 CDI 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 (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6-6.4 l/100 km (39.2 – 36.8 US mpg, 47.1 – 44.1 UK mpg, 16.7 – 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.1-4.5 l/100 km (57.4 – 52.3 US mpg, 68.9 – 62.8 UK mpg, 24.4 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.8-5.2 l/100 km (49 – 45.2 US mpg, 58.9 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20.8 – 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 125-136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 132.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 324.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-1800 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-1800 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 | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 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 (12%) | 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 (Back) track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Front overhang | 775 mm (30.51 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1056 mm (41.57 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.84 m (35.56 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, part of the W204 C-Class range following the 2011 facelift, represented a significant offering in the compact executive segment. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, this variant aimed to provide a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and refinement. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines held a substantial market share, and offered as an alternative to the gasoline-powered C 250 and C 350 models. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation signified Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions through various technologies.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY lay the OM 651.911, a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel strategy, known for its robust construction and advanced technology. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine was also equipped with a twin-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 204 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 500 Nm (368.78 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1600 and 1800 rpm. This torque output provided strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine also incorporated a particulate filter to reduce emissions. Paired with the engine was the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was renowned for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. It offered a range of driving modes, including a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The abundant torque from the diesel engine meant that strong acceleration was available from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. While not as overtly sporty as the C 350, the C 250 CDI provided ample power for most drivers. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth gear changes, minimizing disruptions during acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other C-Class models, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in urban traffic. Fuel economy was a key strength of this variant, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 4.8 to 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers (49-45.2 US mpg). This made it a particularly attractive option for drivers covering long distances.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system with a color display. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leather, a high-quality synthetic leather. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered options for enhanced interior trim, exterior styling, and driver assistance systems. The overall interior design reflected Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and quality, with a focus on comfort and ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, strong torque output, and refined driving experience. Compared to the gasoline-powered C 250, the CDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for high-mileage drivers. However, the gasoline engine provided a slightly more responsive and engaging driving experience. Compared to the C 350, the C 250 CDI offered a more sensible balance between performance and economy, appealing to a wider range of buyers. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more susceptible to issues with the fuel injection system and particulate filter over time.
Legacy
The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY remains a popular choice in the used car market today. Its combination of fuel efficiency, reliability, and comfort makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium compact executive car. The OM 651 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of reliable service. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the diesel particulate filter and fuel injectors, and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz’s diesel engine development, showcasing the brand’s commitment to efficiency and refinement.
