The Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC T-modell (estate) represents a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality within the S212 facelifted E-Class range, produced from July 2014 to July 2016. Positioned as a mid-to-upper tier offering, this variant combined a powerful diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a sophisticated automatic transmission, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable long-distance cruiser. It built upon the foundation of the W212 platform, known for its balance of luxury and engineering, and offered a practical wagon body style favored in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 350 BlueTEC V6 (258 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | July, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.2-7.3 l/100 km (32.7 – 32.2 US mpg, 39.2 – 38.7 UK mpg, 13.9 – 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.5-5.9 l/100 km (42.8 – 39.9 US mpg, 51.4 – 47.9 UK mpg, 18.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg, 46.3 – 44.8 UK mpg, 16.4 – 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 160-168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 319.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.858 |
| 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.) |
| 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 | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2610 kg (5754.07 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350 BlueTEC was the OM 642.858 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel lineup, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system operating at extremely high pressures (typically around 2,000 bar) for optimized fuel atomization and combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with intercooling further enhanced performance and efficiency. The engine also employed a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to significantly reduce NOx emissions, meeting stringent Euro 6 standards. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering, provided smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission was known for its adaptability, offering both comfort and sport modes, and contributing to the vehicle’s overall refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings or even the lower-powered diesel variants. The substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1600 rpm, provided effortless acceleration and strong pulling power, making it ideal for highway cruising and towing. While not overtly sporty, the engine delivered a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 6.5 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the rear-wheel-drive E 350 models, the 4MATIC version offered increased confidence and control. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement compared to the available six-speed manual option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC T-modell typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a high-quality audio system, and a multi-function steering wheel. Leather upholstery was standard, along with wood or aluminum trim options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring), a premium Burmester sound system, and rear seat entertainment. The T-modell (estate) body style itself was considered a premium offering, providing significantly more cargo space than the sedan version.
Chassis & Braking
The S212 E-Class featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized a multi-link independent setup with coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link independent setup as well. Air suspension was available as an option, providing adjustable ride height and improved comfort. The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Brake Assist were standard safety features. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and practical wagon body style. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures averaging around 38 mpg (US). Compared to the E 250 BlueTEC (a lower-powered diesel variant), the E 350 offered significantly more performance. However, it was more expensive to purchase and maintain. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 350, the BlueTEC offered superior fuel economy and torque, but lacked the same level of outright acceleration. The wagon body style was particularly popular in Europe, where practicality and cargo space were highly valued.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.858 found in the E 350 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its longevity. However, potential issues can include DPF clogging (requiring regular regeneration or cleaning) and occasional problems with the AdBlue system. On the used car market, the E 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC T-modell remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a comfortable, capable, and fuel-efficient luxury wagon. Its combination of performance, practicality, and refinement continues to appeal to a discerning clientele.
