The Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC, produced from 2020 to 2023 as part of the W213 facelift generation, represents a significant blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency within the E-Class lineup. This variant, equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system (EQ Boost), occupied a premium position, bridging the gap between the more accessible four-cylinder models and the high-performance AMG variants. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a refined driving experience with strong acceleration and advanced technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W213, facelift 2020) |
| Type | E 450 (367 Hp) EQ Boost 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9-11.5 l/100 km (21.6 – 20.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1-6.4 l/100 km (38.6 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9-8.3 l/100 km (29.8 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 181-189 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.9 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power | 22 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 367 Hp @ 5500-6100 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-4500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4500 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 2999 cm3 (183.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.4 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Kerb Weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Length | 4935 mm (194.29 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2939 mm (115.71 in.) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 450 is the M 256 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine represents a departure from Mercedes-Benz’s traditional V6 configuration, offering improved efficiency and smoothness. It features direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and an intercooler. The M 256 engine is notable for its “hot-side-inside” configuration, placing the turbocharger and exhaust manifold within the V-shape of the engine block, reducing exhaust gas routing length and improving thermal efficiency. The EQ Boost system adds a 48-volt integrated starter-generator (ISG) that provides an additional 22 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. This system enables features like extended coasting, smoother start/stop operation, and a slight power boost during acceleration. The engine is paired with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy and provide responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The E 450 4MATIC delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The combination of the inline-six engine and the EQ Boost system results in strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission provides seamless gear changes, contributing to a comfortable ride. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the E 350 (four-cylinder), the E 450 offers significantly more power and a smoother, more refined feel. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG E 53, the E 450 provides ample performance for everyday driving and spirited excursions. The EQ Boost system is largely transparent to the driver, providing a subtle but noticeable enhancement to acceleration and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 450 typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The MBUX infotainment system with its voice control (“Hey Mercedes”) was also standard. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, augmented reality navigation, massaging seats, and a head-up display. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The E 450 was generally positioned as a mid-to-high trim level, offering a balance of luxury, performance, and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The W213 E-Class features a multi-link independent suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The E 450 typically came with larger stabilizer bars compared to the base models, reducing body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The E 450 also incorporates ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist systems. The steering is a speed-sensitive power steering system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 450 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its smooth and powerful engine, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 28-30 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the E 350, the E 450 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power and refinement. Against competitors like the BMW 540i and Audi A6 3.0T, the E 450 held its own, offering a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology.
Legacy
The M 256 engine family, introduced with the E 450, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still accumulating, early reports suggest that the engine is generally robust. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. On the used car market, the E 450 4MATIC commands a premium over the lower-trim models, reflecting its higher performance and more luxurious features. The EQ Boost system, while relatively new technology at the time of its introduction, has not presented significant reliability concerns. The W213 E-Class, and particularly the E 450 variant, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s engineering and design, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology that continues to appeal to buyers today.
