The Mercedes-Benz E 400 V6 3.0, produced from April 2013 to July 2014, was a high-performance variant of the W212 E-Class facelift. Positioned as a premium offering within the E-Class range, it bridged the gap between the more mainstream models and the full-fledged AMG performance versions. This model represented a return to a larger displacement six-cylinder engine for the E-Class in many markets, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. It was primarily sold in markets where larger engines were preferred, including North America and parts of Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 400 V6 3.0 (333 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.4-10.8 l/100 km (22.6 – 21.8 US mpg, 27.2 – 26.2 UK mpg, 9.6 – 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8-6.2 l/100 km (40.6 – 37.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 45.6 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.5-7.9 l/100 km (31.4 – 29.8 US mpg, 37.7 – 35.8 UK mpg, 13.3 – 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 175-185 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 194.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 280.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.820 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.1 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.3 l (10.88 US qt | 9.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.28 m (37.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19Rear wheel tires: 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 265/35 R18; 275/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19Rear wheel rims: 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 9J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz E 400 V6 3.0 (W212 facelift) debuted in April 2013 as part of the refreshed W212 E-Class lineup. This generation, internally designated as the W212, received a significant facelift, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and revised engine options. The E 400 occupied a position above the E 350 and below the AMG-tuned E 63, offering a compelling blend of performance and luxury. It was built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other Mercedes-Benz models of the era. The E 400 was intended to appeal to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the standard E-Class models, without the outright sportiness – and associated cost – of the AMG variants.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 400 lay the M276.820 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine was a significant departure from the earlier V6 offerings, utilizing direct injection and twin turbocharging to deliver a substantial 333 horsepower and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. The twin-turbo setup consisted of two smaller turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, providing quicker response and reduced turbo lag. The engine featured a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The M276 engine family was known for its efficiency and smooth power delivery. The E 400 was exclusively paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was renowned for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. It featured a torque converter lock-up clutch that engaged in most gears, minimizing slippage and improving fuel economy. The transmission also offered manual shift capability via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The E 400 V6 3.0 offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the E 350. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power throughout the rev range, with strong acceleration from low speeds and effortless cruising at highway speeds. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in around 5 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission played a crucial role in maximizing the engine’s output, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. While not as aggressively tuned as the E 63 AMG, the E 400 offered a well-balanced chassis and responsive steering, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads. The gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall seventh gear for relaxed highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 400 typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system featured a central display screen controlled by a rotary dial and buttons. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. Exterior styling cues included unique wheels, chrome accents, and subtle badging to differentiate it from other E-Class models.
Chassis & Braking
The E 400 utilized a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension featured a multi-link design with coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Air suspension was available as an option, providing an even more comfortable ride and the ability to adjust the ride height. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control were standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The E 400’s chassis was tuned to handle the increased power output of the V6 engine, offering a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 400 V6 3.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful and refined engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Compared to the E 350, the E 400 offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable and less aggressive than the E 63 AMG. Fuel economy was respectable for a V6-powered luxury sedan, averaging around 29-31 mpg on the highway. However, some critics noted that the E 400 lacked the distinctive character and exhaust note of the AMG models. Compared to competitors like the BMW 535i and Audi A6 3.0T, the E 400 offered a similar level of performance and luxury, with a focus on refinement and comfort.
Legacy
The M276 engine family, including the 3.0-liter V6 used in the E 400, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and coolant flushes. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its durability, provided it is properly maintained. On the used car market, the E 400 V6 3.0 represents a good value for buyers seeking a well-equipped and powerful luxury sedan. While not as sought-after as the AMG models, the E 400 offers a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and reliability, making it a desirable option for discerning buyers.
