The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C238) E 450 V6, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a sophisticated blend of performance and luxury within the fifth generation of the E-Class Coupe. Positioned as a premium offering in the lineup, it slotted above the E 300 models and below the more performance-oriented AMG variants. Built on the W238 platform, the C238 Coupe aimed to deliver a more dynamic and stylish alternative to the E-Class sedan, appealing to buyers seeking a grand touring experience. This variant was primarily marketed in North America, Europe, and Asia, catering to customers desiring a powerful, yet refined, coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C238) |
| Type (Engine) | E 450 V6 (362 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Power | 362 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.823 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.1 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4826 mm (190 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1112 mm (43.78 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
| Front tires | 245/45 R18 |
| Rear tires | 245/40 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 450 V6 lies the M276.823 engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its smooth power delivery and efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated valvetrain (DOHC) to optimize combustion. The twin turbochargers, strategically positioned, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine produces 362 horsepower at 5500-6000 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque between 1800-4500 rpm. This power is channeled through Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The 9G-TRONIC is designed for both fuel efficiency and responsive shifting, offering a wide range of gear ratios to suit various driving conditions. The transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch to minimize slippage and improve efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 450 V6 Coupe delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. The combination of the powerful V6 engine and the smooth-shifting 9G-TRONIC transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the E 450 offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is programmed to prioritize comfort in normal driving modes, with seamless gear changes. Sport mode sharpens the shift points and provides more aggressive downshifts. Compared to the E 300 models with their four-cylinder engines, the E 450 provides a significantly more effortless and refined power delivery. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although it can be less forgiving in slippery conditions than all-wheel-drive options available on other E-Class models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 450 V6 Coupe came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The interior featured Mercedes-Benz’s dual 12.3-inch digital displays, providing a customizable instrument cluster and infotainment system. Optional extras included advanced driver-assistance packages, upgraded leather options, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The C238 E-Class Coupe utilizes a sophisticated chassis design, featuring a multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Optional air suspension was available, offering adjustable ride height and damping for enhanced comfort and control. The E 450 V6 Coupe is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system incorporates ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution for enhanced safety. Steering is handled by a precise and responsive electric power steering system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 450 V6 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its powerful engine, smooth transmission, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 23 mpg combined. Compared to the E 300 models, the E 450 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power and refinement. However, some critics noted that the rear-wheel-drive configuration could be a disadvantage in inclement weather. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the M276 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C238) E 450 V6 has established itself as a desirable used car option. The M276 engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a reliable powertrain. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is also known for its durability. As a result, well-maintained examples of the E 450 V6 Coupe continue to command respectable prices in the used car market. The vehicle’s blend of luxury, performance, and technology ensures its continued appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand touring coupe.
