The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with luxury and performance, and the 2014 E250 BlueTEC sedan amplified this reputation by adding exceptional fuel efficiency to the mix. This model achieved an impressive EPA-estimated 45 miles per gallon on the highway and 28 mpg in city driving, setting a new benchmark for midsize luxury sedans. The introduction of the first diesel E-Class with optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive further solidified its position as a leader in fuel economy within its class and across the automotive industry. Even when equipped with 4MATIC, the E250 BlueTEC maintained remarkable figures of 42 mpg highway and 27 mpg city, outperforming any other diesel sedan in highway fuel economy estimates. This leap in efficiency is primarily attributed to the innovative BlueTEC technology integrated into the heart of this Benz.
The High-Tech Heart of the BlueTEC Benz: A Four-Cylinder Masterpiece
The centerpiece of the 2014 E250 BlueTEC is undoubtedly its high-efficiency turbodiesel engine. This all-aluminum, in-line four-cylinder engine showcases advanced engineering with its four valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts featuring vane-type variable valve timing. This sophisticated design allows it to generate 195 horsepower and a substantial 369 lb-ft of torque. To counteract the inherent vibrations of an in-line four-cylinder configuration, Mercedes-Benz engineers incorporated two Lanchester balance shafts. These shafts rotate at twice the crankshaft speed within low-friction roller bearings, effectively smoothing out engine operation. Drivers immediately experience the benefits of this advanced two-stage turbocharging system: virtually no turbo lag, immediate throttle response, and a consistently broad torque curve across the entire engine speed range, translating into noticeably enhanced performance. Crucially, the robust 369 lb-ft of torque becomes readily available from as low as 1,800 rpm, ensuring effortless acceleration and responsiveness in everyday driving situations for this Bluetec Benz.
BlueTEC: Refining Diesel to New Standards
The BlueTEC system in this Benz represents a significant advancement in diesel engine technology. The direct fuel injection system operates at an immense pressure of 2,000 bar, or 28,400 pounds per square inch. This ultra-high pressure injection is instrumental in achieving greater power output while simultaneously reducing exhaust emissions. The elevated fuel pressure empowers the four piezo injectors to make even finer adjustments in fuel delivery, adapting instantaneously to variations in engine load and speed. This level of precision in fuel management positions this four-cylinder diesel engine at the forefront of passenger vehicle diesel technology, making the BlueTEC Benz a leader in its segment.
AdBlue Injection: Ensuring Clean Emissions in the BlueTEC Benz
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in the BlueTEC system’s AdBlue injection. To ensure the E250 BlueTEC Benz complies with stringent exhaust emission regulations across all 50 U.S. states, the system employs AdBlue to achieve emissions levels comparable to state-of-the-art gasoline engines. AdBlue, a water-based urea solution, is stored in a dedicated small tank and is easily accessible for refills through the fuel filler door. It is precisely metered into the exhaust stream in minute quantities, meaning refills are only required during routine scheduled maintenance. When AdBlue is introduced into the pre-cleaned exhaust gas, it releases ammonia (NH3). This ammonia then triggers a chemical reaction in a downstream catalytic converter, converting harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water. This process, known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), is recognized as the most effective method of exhaust gas after-treatment currently available, highlighting the eco-conscious engineering of the BlueTEC Benz.
4MATIC Four-Wheel Drive: Enhanced Traction for the BlueTEC Benz
Modern all-wheel-drive systems are increasingly refined and sought after, particularly in the luxury vehicle market. The optional 4MATIC system available on the E250 BlueTEC Benz provides year-round traction and stability benefits on both dry and wet roads with minimal impact on vehicle weight or fuel efficiency. This advanced Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC system is seamlessly integrated with the 7-speed automatic transmission, fitting within the standard vehicle body and utilizing the existing front suspension architecture. Further advancements in the system focus on minimizing energy consumption, improving fuel efficiency by reducing the power needed to drive the additional gears and shafts. Mercedes-Benz anticipated a balanced adoption rate of around 50/50 between rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC for the E250 BlueTEC Benz nationwide, with significantly higher 4MATIC preference in northern states where all-wheel drive is highly valued for passenger cars.
Intelligent Drive: Leading Safety Technology in the BlueTEC Benz
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes real-world safety, striving for accident-free driving. The E-Class, including the E250 BlueTEC Benz, embodies this philosophy with over 30 standard and optional active and passive safety systems under the umbrella of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive. The Driver Assistance Package, available as an option, further enhances safety with features like:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: A radar-based cruise control system providing semi-autonomous steering assistance, functional from 0-124 mph depending on road conditions.
- PRE-SAFE Brake with pedestrian detection: Utilizes radar and stereo cameras to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, automatically adjusting braking force and even applying full brakes if necessary.
- PRE-SAFE PLUS: Employs rear-facing radar to detect potential rear-end collisions and proactively prepares the vehicle to mitigate passenger injury risk in such events.
- BAS PLUS with Cross Traffic Assist: Uses stereo cameras to monitor cross-traffic scenarios and provides appropriate brake assistance to the driver.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Protection: Provides corrective one-sided braking interventions to help maintain lane position and avoid collisions in blind spots.
These advanced safety technologies underscore the commitment to driver and passenger protection in the BlueTEC Benz.
E250 BlueTEC: The Accessible Entry to the BlueTEC Benz Experience
The E250 BlueTEC Benz sedan serves as the price-leading model within the E-Class range, offering an attractive entry point to the luxury and efficiency of a clean diesel powertrain. Priced competitively at $51,400 (excluding destination and delivery), it provides exceptional value. The broader 2014 E-Class portfolio included a range of models, with the E250 BlueTEC Benz positioned as a compelling option for those seeking fuel economy without compromising luxury or performance. Beyond the E-Class sedan, Mercedes-Benz also offered BlueTEC clean diesel technology in other 2014 models, such as the GL350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (V6), ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (V6), and GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, demonstrating the widespread application of BlueTEC across the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The BlueTEC Benz represents a harmonious blend of performance, luxury, and environmental consciousness, making it a standout choice in the luxury sedan market.
