The Mercedes-Benz S 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, part of the V222 S-Class Long wheelbase generation, was produced from February 2014 to February 2016. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S-Class lineup, it blended luxury with relatively efficient diesel power and standard all-wheel drive. This variant aimed to provide a comfortable and refined experience for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and all-weather capability without sacrificing the prestige associated with the S-Class nameplate. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, offering increased rear passenger legroom, a key feature for markets where chauffeur-driven travel is common.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Long (V222) |
| Type | S 350 BlueTEC V6 (258 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | February, 2014 |
| End of production | February, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4-7.7 l/100 km (31.8 – 30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.6 l/100 km (46.1 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9-6.4 l/100 km (39.9 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 156-168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.861 |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| 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) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2750 kg (6062.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 780 kg (1719.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 5246 mm (206.54 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1494 mm (58.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3165 mm (124.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The S 350 BlueTEC utilized the OM 642.861 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its robust construction and relatively quiet operation for a diesel. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine also incorporated a variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The “BlueTEC” designation signified the inclusion of advanced emissions control technologies, including a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, ensuring compliance with stringent Euro 6 standards. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission was standard, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission was known for its efficiency and ability to adapt to driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S 350 BlueTEC offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its higher-performance S-Class siblings, such as the S 550. While not a sports sedan, the 258 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for comfortable and confident cruising. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 6.5 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was programmed for smoothness and fuel efficiency, often prioritizing higher gears at lower speeds. This resulted in a relaxed driving experience, but could sometimes feel slightly hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and safety. Compared to rear-wheel-drive S-Class models, the 4MATIC system added a slight weight penalty but offered superior grip.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 350 BlueTEC Long came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable front seats with memory function. Standard technology included Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system with a large central display screen, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system. Safety features were also abundant, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded leather options. The Long wheelbase model specifically focused on rear passenger comfort, often equipped with reclining rear seats and individual climate control.
Chassis & Braking
The V222 S-Class featured an advanced chassis design with an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners. The S 350 BlueTEC was often equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s AIRMATIC air suspension system, which provided a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride. This system automatically adjusted the suspension damping and ride height based on road conditions and driving style. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability program (ESP) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 350 BlueTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as that of the more powerful S-Class models. Compared to the S 550, the S 350 BlueTEC offered significantly better fuel economy (around 40 mpg combined) but lacked the S 550’s raw power and acceleration. Against other diesel-powered luxury sedans, such as the BMW 730d and Audi A8 3.0 TDI, the S 350 BlueTEC was competitive in terms of performance, fuel economy, and luxury features.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the version used in the S 350 BlueTEC, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its longevity. In the used car market, the S 350 BlueTEC Long represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and comfortable sedan with reasonable running costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of a complex vehicle like the S-Class, including the potential for costly repairs to the emissions control system and air suspension.
