The Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY V6 4MATIC, produced between August 2011 and January 2013, represented a compelling mid-range offering within the W212 E-Class lineup. Positioned above the E 250 and below the more powerful E 550, this variant combined a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable executive sedan. The W212 generation, produced from 2009 to 2016, was a significant evolution of the E-Class, introducing a more sophisticated design and a host of advanced technologies.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212) |
| Type | E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY V6 (252 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | August, 2011 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9-6 l/100 km (39.9 – 39.2 US mpg, 47.9 – 47.1 UK mpg, 16.9 – 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 174-176 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 252 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 3500-4500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 3500-4500 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 | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 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 | 4868 mm (191.65 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 322 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC was the M 276.952 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine featured a 60-degree V-angle and employed direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a relatively high 12:1 compression ratio. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 200 bar, allowed for precise fuel metering and improved combustion efficiency. The engine produced 252 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 3500 and 4500 rpm. The ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, including an Eco Start/Stop system which automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle was stationary. The engine was longitudinally mounted, powering all four wheels through Mercedes’ 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting and adaptive learning capabilities, adjusting shift points based on driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The E 300 4MATIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 3.5-liter V6 provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth and seamless gear changes, although it could sometimes feel slightly hesitant during quick downshifts. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the more powerful E 550, the E 300 felt less urgent in its acceleration, but it offered a more balanced and fuel-efficient driving experience. Against the diesel-powered E 350 CDI, the E 300 traded some low-end torque for a smoother, quieter engine character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a suite of 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 to their preferences. The dashboard layout was typical of the W212 E-Class, featuring a classic analog instrument cluster combined with a central infotainment screen.
Chassis & Braking
The E 300 4MATIC utilized a four-wheel independent suspension system, with coil springs and multi-link designs at both the front and rear. Air suspension was available as an option, providing a more comfortable ride and adjustable ride height. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESP) were standard safety features. The E 300’s suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and balanced performance. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle in its class, with combined figures ranging from 7.4 to 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers (31.4 to 31.8 US mpg). Compared to the E 250, the E 300 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the E 550. The diesel-powered E 350 CDI offered superior fuel economy and low-end torque, but some buyers preferred the smoother and quieter operation of the V6 gasoline engine.
Legacy
The M 276 engine family, including the 3.5-liter variant found in the E 300, proved to be relatively reliable. Common issues, when they arose, often related to oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets or occasional problems with the fuel injectors. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was also generally durable, although regular fluid changes were essential for maintaining its smooth operation. Today, well-maintained W212 E 300 4MATIC models represent a good value on the used car market, offering a comfortable and capable luxury sedan at an affordable price. Their combination of performance, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and refined vehicle.
