The Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI, produced from 2006 to 2009 as part of the W211 facelift generation, represented a significant offering in the mid-size executive car segment. This variant, equipped with a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 horsepower and paired with a 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with comfortable performance. Positioned as a core model within the W211 range, it served as a popular alternative to the more powerful E 320 CDI and the gasoline-powered E 350, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and refinement. The W211 facelift, introduced in 2006, brought styling updates, improved interior quality, and advancements in technology compared to the pre-facelift models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W211, facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 CDI (170 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1-9.6 l/100 km (25.8 – 24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.6 l/100 km (43.6 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7-7.1 l/100 km (35.1 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 184-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 646.953 |
| Engine displacement | 2148 cm3 (131.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4856 mm (191.18 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width (including mirrors) | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1483 mm (58.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2854 mm (112.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1133 mm (44.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 220 CDI is the OM 646.953, a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes common rail direct injection, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine’s DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to its responsive nature. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed torque converter automatic, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque characteristics. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ mode for driver preference. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI Automatic provided a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 170 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque delivered adequate performance for most situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.2 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 139.81 mph. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as quick-shifting as some modern automatics. Compared to the more powerful E 320 CDI, the E 220 CDI felt less urgent in acceleration, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, resulting in a relaxed cruising experience. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided balanced handling, although it wasn’t as engaging as some sportier alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, and parking sensors. The W211 facelift also introduced improved interior trim materials and a more modern dashboard design. Depending on the market, different trim packages (e.g., Elegance, Avantgarde) offered varying levels of equipment and styling.
Chassis & Braking
The W211 E-Class featured an independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. A transverse stabilizer bar was fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The E 220 CDI was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over outright sportiness. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI was well-received in Europe and other markets where diesel engines were popular. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some noted that the performance wasn’t as exhilarating as that of the more powerful E-Class models. Compared to the E 320 CDI, the E 220 CDI offered a more affordable entry point into the E-Class range, but at the expense of some performance. Its fuel economy was significantly better than the gasoline-powered E 350, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers.
Legacy
The OM 646 engine family, including the 2.2-liter variant used in the E 220 CDI, proved to be relatively reliable, although some issues with the fuel injectors and turbocharger were reported. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while generally dependable, could require servicing over time. Today, well-maintained W211 E 220 CDI models can still be found on the used car market, offering a comfortable and economical option for those seeking a mid-size executive car. Their longevity and relatively low running costs continue to make them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
