The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S212) E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, was produced from August 2011 to January 2013. This variant occupied a mid-to-upper position within the S212 wagon lineup, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency. It represented a key offering for buyers seeking a practical, yet refined, estate car. The S212 generation, introduced in 2009, aimed to modernize the E-Class while maintaining its reputation for engineering excellence and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S212) |
| Type | E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY V6 (306 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | August, 2011 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6-9.7 l/100 km (24.5 – 24.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6-5.8 l/100 km (42 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1-7.2 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 165-169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 3500-5250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.952 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2435 kg (5368.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 665 kg (1466.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4895 mm (192.72 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Rear track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1180 mm (46.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 322 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is the M 276.952 3.5-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicates the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, such as optimized combustion chamber design and reduced internal friction. The M276 engine family was a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz, offering a lighter weight and improved efficiency compared to its predecessors. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was paired exclusively with this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel economy and performance. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages in most gears, further enhancing efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The 306 horsepower and 272.9 lb.-ft. of torque provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.4 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine delivered a smooth and linear power delivery, making it easy to modulate throttle response. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to this smoothness, with well-timed shifts. Compared to the E 350’s manual transmission option (available in some markets), the automatic prioritized comfort and ease of use over outright performance. Compared to the more powerful E 550 models, the E 350 offered a more balanced driving experience, with less emphasis on raw power and more on refinement and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY T-modell came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin. The standard dashboard configuration featured a central display screen for infotainment and vehicle settings.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class wagon utilized a sophisticated suspension system designed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The front suspension featured coil springs and an independent multi-link setup, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link design with air suspension available as an option. The air suspension system allowed for adjustable ride height and damping, further enhancing comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, particularly given the vehicle’s size and performance. Compared to the E 350 CDI diesel variant, the gasoline E 350 offered a different driving experience, with a more responsive engine and a higher-revving character. However, the diesel model typically achieved better fuel economy. The E 350 also faced competition from other premium wagons, such as the BMW 5 Series Touring and the Audi A6 Avant.
Legacy
The M 276 engine family, including the 3.5-liter variant found in the E 350, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes and inspections of the cooling system. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally durable, but may require fluid changes and occasional servicing. In the used car market, the S212 E 350 BlueEFFICIENCY T-modell remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and luxurious wagon. Its combination of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. While newer E-Class wagons offer more advanced technology and features, the S212 generation represents a well-engineered and refined vehicle that has stood the test of time.
