The Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC V6 BA3 Final Edition, produced from 2011 to 2012, represents a specific iteration of the iconic G-Class (W463) following the 2008 facelift. This variant was positioned as a mid-range offering within the G-Class lineup, bridging the gap between the base G 300 CDI and the higher-performance G 55 AMG. It combined a diesel engine with a comfortable automatic transmission and the renowned off-road capabilities for which the G-Class is celebrated. The “Final Edition” designation signified a limited production run marking the end of this particular engine configuration within the W463 series before further updates.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class (W463, facelift 2008) |
| Type | G 350 BlueTEC V6 BA3 Final Edition (211 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.6 l/100 km (17.3 US mpg, 20.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 295 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (398.28 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.970 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt, 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk space (min) | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk space (max) | 1580 l (55.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal, 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4212 mm (165.83 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1931 mm (76.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front/Rear track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Front/Rear overhang | 783 mm / 820 mm (30.83 in. / 32.28 in.) |
| Ride height | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Approach/Departure/Ramp-over angle | 36° / 27° / 23° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| Front/Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The G 350 BlueTEC V6 BA3 Final Edition is powered by the OM 642.970 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine is a common-rail direct injection diesel, utilizing piezo injectors for precise fuel delivery. The engine benefits from a variable geometry turbocharger and an intercooler, contributing to its torque output of 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) available from 1600-2400 rpm. The “BlueTEC” designation indicates the inclusion of advanced emissions control technologies, including a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system using AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce NOx emissions, ensuring compliance with Euro 5 standards. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed torque converter automatic, was paired with this engine. This transmission offered smooth shifting and contributed to improved fuel efficiency compared to older automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 211 horsepower and 540 Nm of torque provided by the G 350 BlueTEC offered a balance between usability and capability. While not as overtly powerful as the G 55 AMG, the diesel engine delivered strong low-end torque, making it well-suited for off-road driving and towing. The 7G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, was tuned for comfort rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.1 seconds. Compared to the manual transmission options available in other G-Class variants, the automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. However, it did slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Final Edition” trim included a number of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These typically included leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. Exterior features often included unique badging identifying it as a “Final Edition” model. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded navigation system, and various interior trim options. The interior design was functional and robust, reflecting the G-Class’s utilitarian origins, but with a degree of luxury appropriate for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The G 350 BlueTEC retained the G-Class’s traditional body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional durability and off-road capability. The suspension consisted of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, offering substantial wheel articulation. Braking was handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for a vehicle of this weight. The G-Class’s robust chassis and capable suspension allowed it to navigate challenging terrain with ease. The steering system was a recirculating ball system, providing a direct feel but lacking the precision of more modern steering technologies.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 350 BlueTEC V6 Final Edition was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of off-road capability, comfortable ride, and relatively good fuel economy for a vehicle of its size and type. Compared to the G 300 CDI, the G 350 offered increased power and refinement. Compared to the G 55 AMG, it provided a more economical and practical option, albeit with less outright performance. Fuel economy figures of around 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) were respectable for a vehicle of this class, particularly considering its off-road capabilities.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.970 found in the G 350 BlueTEC, is known for its durability and reliability. While the diesel particulate filter and SCR systems require periodic maintenance, the engine itself is generally robust. Today, the G 350 BlueTEC V6 Final Edition is a sought-after model among G-Class enthusiasts, particularly those looking for a blend of classic G-Class character and modern diesel technology. Its limited production run and unique “Final Edition” designation contribute to its collectibility. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, reflecting the enduring appeal of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
