2011-2013 Mercedes-Benz S-class (W221 facelift ) S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY (435 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC

The Mercedes-Benz S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC, produced from 2011 to 2013, represents a significant iteration of the W221 S-Class generation following its 2009 facelift. Positioned as a high-performance, luxury variant within the S-Class lineup, it aimed to deliver enhanced fuel efficiency without sacrificing the power and refinement expected of the flagship Mercedes-Benz sedan. This model combined a potent 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a seven-speed G-TRONIC automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It sat near the top of the W221 range, below the even more powerful S 600 and S 65 AMG models, but above the naturally aspirated S 350 and S 400 Hybrid.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY is the M278.932 engine, a 4.7-liter (4663 cc) V8. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers with intercooling to achieve a high level of performance and efficiency. The engine produces 435 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 516.29 lb-ft of torque between 1800 and 3500 rpm. The compression ratio is 10.5:1, and each cylinder features four valves. The engine’s architecture is longitudinal, meaning it’s mounted lengthwise within the chassis. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation signifies a suite of technologies aimed at reducing fuel consumption, including optimized aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and friction reduction within the engine itself.

The G-TRONIC automatic transmission is a seven-speed unit known for its smooth and responsive shifts. It features a torque converter and electronically controlled gear changes. The transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the engine’s power delivery, providing both comfortable cruising and quick acceleration. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The system operates fully automatically, requiring no driver intervention.

Fuel Injection and Valvetrain

The M278 engine employs a sophisticated direct injection system. This system injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for more precise control over the fuel-air mixture and improving combustion efficiency. The valvetrain utilizes variable valve timing and lift, further optimizing engine performance and fuel economy across a wide range of operating conditions. This technology allows the engine to adjust the timing and lift of the intake and exhaust valves based on engine speed and load, maximizing power and efficiency.

Driving Characteristics

The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY delivers a driving experience characterized by effortless power and refined comfort. The twin-turbocharged V8 provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.8 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 5 seconds. The G-TRONIC transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a relaxed and refined driving experience. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, inspiring confidence in various driving conditions.

Compared to the naturally aspirated S 350, the S 500 offers significantly more power and acceleration. While the S 350 prioritizes fuel economy, the S 500 strikes a balance between performance and efficiency. Compared to the higher-end S 600, the S 500 offers a slightly less powerful engine, but at a lower price point. The S 500’s power delivery is more accessible than the S 600’s, making it feel more responsive in everyday driving situations. The gear ratios in the G-TRONIC transmission are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The interior featured high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, reflecting the S-Class’s status as a flagship luxury sedan.

Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather upholstery, and various driver-assistance features. Customers could also personalize their S 500 with a range of exterior color options and interior trim choices. The dashboard configuration was typical of the W221 facelift, featuring a central display screen and analog gauges. The overall interior ambiance was one of understated elegance and technological sophistication.

Chassis & Braking

The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY features a sophisticated chassis designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension system utilizes air suspension with adaptive damping, allowing the ride height and damping characteristics to be adjusted based on driving conditions. The front suspension is a multi-link design, while the rear suspension is an independent multi-link setup. The car’s curb weight is approximately 4409.25 lbs (2000 kg).

The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size is 255/45 R18, mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Market Reception & Comparison

The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Critics also noted the car’s improved fuel efficiency compared to previous S-Class models. However, some reviewers pointed out that the car’s complexity could potentially lead to higher maintenance costs.

In terms of fuel economy, the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY achieved approximately 24 US mpg (9.8 l/100 km) in combined driving. This was a significant improvement over the fuel economy of the previous-generation S 500. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the air suspension system and electronic components. Compared to the S 350, the S 500 offered a more engaging driving experience, while the S 600 provided even more power and luxury at a higher price.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY remains a desirable used car today, appreciated for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The M278 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and inspection of the air suspension system. The G-TRONIC transmission is generally durable, but may require servicing at higher mileages. The 4MATIC system is also generally reliable, but requires periodic maintenance to ensure proper operation. The W221 S-Class, including the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and remains a benchmark for luxury sedans.