The Mercedes-Benz S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, part of the V221 S-Class long-wheelbase facelift introduced in 2009, represented a significant evolution in luxury and efficiency for the flagship sedan. Produced from 2011 to 2013, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the S-Class lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It was positioned as a step up from the S 350 models, while remaining more accessible than the ultra-luxury S 600 and performance-oriented S 63 AMG. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation signified Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions without sacrificing the driving experience expected of an S-Class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Long (V221, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY V8 (435 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9-13.4 l/100 km (18.2 – 17.6 US mpg, 21.9 – 21.1 UK mpg, 7.8 – 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3-7.4 l/100 km (32.2 – 31.8 US mpg, 38.7 – 38.2 UK mpg, 13.7 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4-9.6 l/100 km (25 – 24.5 US mpg, 30.1 – 29.4 UK mpg, 10.6 – 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219-224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 217.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 350 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 435 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.932 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2655 kg (5853.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 5226 mm (205.75 in.) |
| Width | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2120 mm (83.46 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3165 mm (124.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Front overhang | 888 mm (34.96 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1173 mm (46.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, launched as part of the V221 S-Class facelift, built upon the already impressive foundation of the pre-facelift models. The facelift brought revised styling, enhanced safety features, and, crucially, a new generation of engines focused on improving fuel efficiency. The V221 generation S-Class, produced from 2005 to 2013, was a technological tour de force, introducing innovations like PRE-SAFE brake assist and active body control. The long-wheelbase version, as featured in the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, added an extra 130mm of rear legroom, catering to buyers who prioritized rear passenger comfort. This model aimed to deliver the quintessential S-Class experience – luxurious, powerful, and technologically advanced – with a greater emphasis on reducing its environmental impact.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY lies the M278.932 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine represented a significant departure from the naturally aspirated V8s that had previously powered the S-Class. The use of twin turbochargers, along with direct fuel injection and a high compression ratio of 10.5:1, allowed for a substantial increase in power and torque while simultaneously improving fuel economy. The engine utilizes a multi-point direct injection system, precisely metering fuel into each cylinder for optimal combustion. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” moniker also encompassed other technologies, such as optimized aerodynamics and a lighter engine construction. The engine is mated to Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to both performance and comfort. The 7G-TRONIC featured a torque converter lock-up clutch that engaged in most driving situations, further enhancing efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY delivered a refined and effortless driving experience. The 435 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for both relaxed cruising and spirited acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in around 4.8 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan. The 7G-TRONIC transmission played a crucial role in maximizing the engine’s output, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the S 350, the S 500 offered a noticeably more responsive and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the S 63 AMG, the S 500 provided a satisfying balance between performance and comfort. The long wheelbase and sophisticated suspension system ensured a smooth and composed ride, even over rough road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable steering wheel and seats. Standard safety features included ABS, ESP, multiple airbags, and Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE system. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their S-Class to their exact preferences. These included features like a rear entertainment system, massaging seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior design was characterized by its elegant simplicity and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY featured a fully independent suspension system, with air suspension and adaptive damping control as standard. This system allowed the car to automatically adjust its suspension settings based on road conditions and driving style, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS and ESP were standard, enhancing safety and stability. The long wheelbase and wide track contributed to the car’s stability and handling. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing a confident feel behind the wheel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. The improved fuel economy compared to previous S-Class models was also a significant selling point. Compared to the S 350, the S 500 offered a more rewarding driving experience, while remaining more affordable than the S 600 and S 63 AMG. Some critics noted that the twin-turbo V8 lacked the character of the naturally aspirated engines it replaced, but the overall consensus was that the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY represented a compelling package.
Legacy
The M278 engine family, as featured in the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While some early examples experienced minor issues with the turbochargers, these were generally addressed through software updates and improved manufacturing processes. Today, well-maintained S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY models remain desirable on the used car market, offering a luxurious and capable grand tourer at a relatively affordable price. The V221 S-Class, and the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY in particular, is remembered as a pivotal model in Mercedes-Benz’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation, luxury, and efficiency.
