The Mercedes-Benz E 350d 4MATIC, produced between July 2016 and April 2018, represents a significant iteration of the W213 E-Class generation. Positioned as a mid-to-high-range offering within the E-Class lineup, this variant combined a potent diesel V6 engine with Mercedes-Benz’s advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and the sophisticated 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable executive sedan. The W213 E-Class, launched in 2016, marked a substantial leap forward in technology and design compared to its predecessor, the W212, and the E 350d 4MATIC was a key component of that evolution.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class (W213) |
| Type | E 350d V6 (258 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2016 |
| End of production | April, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6-7.8 l/100 km (30.9 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.4 l/100 km (46.1 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-6.3 l/100 km (39.2 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.873 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4923 mm (193.82 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2939 mm (115.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1619 mm (63.74 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1143 mm (45 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350d 4MATIC is the OM 642.873 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s well-regarded OM642 family, known for its robust construction and refined operation. The OM 642.873 features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine produces 258 horsepower at 3400 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2400 rpm. This broad torque curve provides strong acceleration in various driving situations. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component of the powertrain. This transmission offers a wide range of gear ratios, contributing to both fuel efficiency and responsive performance. It features a torque converter lockup clutch that engages in most gears, minimizing slippage and improving efficiency. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350d 4MATIC delivers a refined and confident driving experience. The abundant torque from the V6 diesel engine provides effortless acceleration, making overtaking and merging onto highways easy. The 9G-TRONIC transmission shifts smoothly and intelligently, selecting the appropriate gear for the driving conditions. While not as overtly sporty as some of its gasoline-powered siblings, the E 350d offers a composed and stable ride. The 4MATIC system provides excellent grip, inspiring confidence in corners and on slippery surfaces. Compared to the E 200d or E 220d models, the E 350d offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration. However, it doesn’t quite match the outright performance of the E 43 AMG or E 53 AMG models. The gear ratios in the 9G-TRONIC are tuned for both efficiency and performance, with lower gears providing strong off-the-line acceleration and higher gears optimizing fuel economy during cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350d 4MATIC typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position in the mid-to-high range of the E-Class lineup. Standard features often included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-resolution infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, massaging seats, and advanced parking assist systems. Interior trim options varied, with choices ranging from wood veneers to aluminum accents. The dashboard layout was characterized by a dual-screen display, showcasing the infotainment system and instrument cluster. The overall interior ambiance was one of understated luxury and technological sophistication.
Chassis & Braking
The W213 E-Class, including the E 350d 4MATIC, utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension components are tuned to balance ride comfort and handling performance. The E 350d 4MATIC is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control are standard safety features. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size for the E 350d 4MATIC was typically 225/55 R17, although larger wheel and tire combinations were available as options.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350d 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Critics noted that the diesel engine provided a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 350, the E 350d offered superior fuel efficiency and a broader torque curve, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. However, the gasoline engine provided a slightly more responsive and engaging driving experience. The E 350d 4MATIC also faced competition from other luxury sedans, such as the BMW 530d xDrive and the Audi A6 TDI quattro. In terms of reliability, the OM642 engine family has a generally good reputation, although diesel engines can be more susceptible to issues related to the fuel injection system and particulate filter.
Legacy
The E 350d 4MATIC, as a representative of the W213 E-Class, has established a reputation for being a well-built and reliable luxury sedan. The OM642 engine, while requiring proper maintenance, is known for its durability. On the used car market, these models continue to be sought after by buyers looking for a comfortable, efficient, and technologically advanced vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, particularly the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the emissions control system. The W213 E-Class, and the E 350d 4MATIC in particular, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s engineering and design, offering a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and efficiency.
