The Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC V6 (S212 facelift) was a diesel-powered station wagon (estate) produced from April 2013 to July 2014. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the S212 E-Class range, it offered a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. This variant was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel engines and estate bodies were highly popular, offering a premium alternative to gasoline-powered options and competitors like the Audi A6 Avant and BMW 5 Series Touring. The “facelift” designation refers to styling and technological updates applied to the S212 generation in 2013, enhancing its appeal and modernity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 300 BlueTEC V6 (231 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7-7.4 l/100 km (33.6 – 31.8 US mpg, 40.4 – 38.2 UK mpg, 14.3 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5-5.4 l/100 km (47 – 43.6 US mpg, 56.5 – 52.3 UK mpg, 20 – 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.7-6.2 l/100 km (41.3 – 37.9 US mpg, 49.6 – 45.6 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 150-162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 122.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 287.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 1550-2400 rpm (398.28 lb.-ft. @ 1550-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.852 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 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 | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2550 kg (5621.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 600 l (21.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1855 l (65.51 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 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 | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1182 mm (46.54 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.28 m (37.01 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 |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 300 BlueTEC V6 utilized the OM 642.852 engine, a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine employed a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The valvetrain was a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its strong torque output. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was standard. This transmission was lauded for its smooth shifts and efficiency, offering both automatic and manual shift modes. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize fuel economy while still providing adequate acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 231 horsepower and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the E 300 BlueTEC V6 provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 7.4 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine offered ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 300, the BlueTEC offered significantly better fuel economy and a broader torque curve, making it more relaxed to drive in everyday situations. Compared to higher-output diesel variants like the E 350 CDI, the E 300 BlueTEC prioritized efficiency over outright performance. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to a smooth and refined driving experience, with well-spaced gear ratios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 300 BlueTEC V6 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-range to upper-mid-range trim. Standard features included automatic climate control, a high-quality audio system, leather upholstery, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, advanced navigation system, premium sound system, and various driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood veneers and aluminum accents. The estate body style itself provided a significant amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport larger items.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized a multi-link independent setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension was also a multi-link independent design, often equipped with optional air suspension for improved ride comfort and load leveling. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, along with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to enhance safety and control. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, providing a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 300 BlueTEC V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, refined engine, and comfortable ride. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 300, the diesel variant offered superior fuel economy, making it a more cost-effective choice for high-mileage drivers. Compared to the more powerful E 350 CDI, the E 300 BlueTEC offered a slightly lower price point and a more balanced driving experience. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more complex to maintain than gasoline engines. The estate body style was a major selling point, offering a practical alternative to the sedan.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.852 found in the E 300 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable. Well-maintained examples continue to provide reliable service today. However, as with any diesel engine, proper maintenance is crucial, including regular oil changes and AdBlue refills. On the used car market, the E 300 BlueTEC V6 represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of luxury, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The S212 E-Class, in general, is considered a well-built and comfortable vehicle, and the BlueTEC variant remains a popular choice for those seeking a refined and economical estate car.
