Mercedes S250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY

It has been known for some time that Mercedes was considering adding a four-cylinder engine to its largest and most luxurious saloon, the S-Class. There is now no doubt, as the Mercedes-Benz S250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY will be unveiled in Paris.

Thanks to the well-known 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 204 CV, Mercedes has become the first manufacturer to get below 6 litres per 100 km in the large luxury saloon segment. It is also the first four-cylinder unit in the successful history of the S-Class.

The official average consumption stands at just 5.7 L/100 km, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 g/km. Technologies such as start-stop, which comes as standard equipment, contribute to these figures. With a maximum output of 204 CV and 500 Nm of torque, this small engine allows the S-Class to go from 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 240 km/h.

The gearbox is a 7-speed automatic called 7G-TRONIC PLUS. The difference from the conventional 7G-TRONIC is that the PLUS reduces torque converter slip and optimises operation for greater efficiency.

One of the disadvantages of four-cylinder engines compared with the V6, V8 and V12 fitted to the S-Class is the level of vibration it generates. I have myself tested the E250 CDI and the E350 CDI, and the difference is noticeable, the former’s engine being rougher and harsher. To avoid this problem, Mercedes has installed a system that dampens vibrations by controlling the stiffness of the engine mounts, preventing them from being transmitted to the cabin.

The price is still unknown for Spain, although in Germany it is already on sale from 71,876 €.