Mercedes W212 E250 CGI Review

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Mercedes W212 E250 CGI Review

Mercedes-Benz W212 E250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: The Art of Modern Luxury and Efficiency

Introduced in 2009, the Mercedes-Benz W212 E-Class redefined the brand’s standards for comfort, safety, and technology while carrying on the legacy of its predecessor. Unlike the more rounded designs of the W210 and W211, the W212 featured sharper, more angular lines, giving it a more modern stance. The E250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY stands out as one of the series’ most popular and balanced models, offering a unique blend of performance and fuel efficiency.

Design and Transformation

While the W212 E-Class retained the W210’s “four-eyed” headlight tradition, it had more distinct and dynamic lines. The more prominent front grille and sculpted headlights gave the car a modern and powerful look. The Avantgarde trim enhances this elegance with a sporty touch, featuring a lower sport suspension, stylish 17-inch alloy wheels, and chrome accents. This version projects a more pronounced and dynamic character.

Engine and Driving Dynamics: CGI Technology

At the heart of this model is the 1.8-liter supercharged (Kompressor) gasoline engine with Mercedes-Benz’s efficiency-focused CGI (Charged Gasoline Injection) technology. Producing 204 HP and 310 Nm of torque, this engine delivers satisfying performance despite its small displacement. The high torque available from low RPMs gives the car agility, especially in city driving. The BlueEFFICIENCY package promises both a powerful and economical drive by reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission smoothly transfers the engine’s power to the rear wheels.

Interior and Technology: Luxury and Safety

The W212’s interior is significantly more technological and refined than its predecessor. It offers a more modern instrument cluster, an advanced COMAND infotainment system, and a cabin adorned with high-quality materials. One of the most important areas where Mercedes-Benz pioneered with this model is safety. New technologies like Attention Assist (Driver Drowsiness Detection) and Pre-Safe made the W212 one of the safest cars of its era.

Mercedes-Benz W212 E250 CGI Evaluation

The W212 E250 CGI is an ideal car for those seeking a modern classic. It combines performance and efficiency with its engine technology while perfectly representing Mercedes’ superior standards of comfort and safety.

Pros:

Powerful and Efficient Engine: The small-displacement engine stands out for its balance of performance and fuel economy.
Supreme Comfort: High ride quality and a quiet cabin make long journeys a pleasure.
Advanced Safety Features: It offers many innovative safety features for its time, such as Attention Assist.
Modern Design: Its design is more current and timeless compared to its predecessor.

Cons and Points to Consider:

Transmission: While smooth, the 5G-TRONIC transmission is an older technology compared to the later 7G-TRONIC, which can affect fuel efficiency and gear shift speed.
Electronic Systems: Some electronic and sensor faults can occur in the W212 series. It’s important to be cautious, especially with high-mileage vehicles.
Maintenance Costs: Due to its CGI engine technology, turbocharger, and injection systems, maintenance can be more expensive and require more specialized expertise compared to the previous Kompressor engines.

Mercedes-Benz W212 E250 CGI (204 HP) Technical Specifications

This table provides detailed technical data for the 5G-TRONIC transmission version of the W212 E250 CGI, produced from 2009 to 2011.

Feature Category	Feature	Value
General Information	Brand	Mercedes-Benz
	Model	E-Class (W212)
	Production Years	2009 – 2011
	Body Type	Sedan
	Doors	4
	Seats	5
Engine Specifications	Engine Type	M 271.860 (Inline 4-Cylinder, Turbocharged)
	Engine Displacement	1796 cm3
	Maximum Power	204 HP @ 5500 rpm
	Maximum Torque	310 Nm @ 2000-4300 rpm
	Compression Ratio	9.3:1
	Fuel System	Direct Injection
	Fuel Type	Gasoline (A-95)
Performance	Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	7.8 seconds
	Maximum Speed	248 km/s
Fuel Economy	City	10.6 l/100 km
	Extra Urban	5.7 l/100 km
	Combined	7.5 l/100 km
Dimensions & Weight	Length	4868 mm
	Width	1854 mm
	Height	1470 mm
	Wheelbase	2874 mm
	Curb Weight	1580 kg
	Luggage Volume (Minimum)	540 liters
	Fuel Tank Capacity	66 liters
Chassis & Drivetrain	Drive System	Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
	Transmission	5G-TRONIC (5-speed Automatic)
	Front Suspension	Multi-link
	Rear Suspension	Multi-link
	Tire Size	225/55 R16
	Drag Coefficient (Cd)	0.27

My Assessment of the Mercedes-Benz W212 E250 CGI

The W212 E-Class is a significant milestone in the evolution of Mercedes-Benz. It represents a clear shift away from the classic lines of the W210 and W211, embracing the brand’s new generation of design and engineering. The E250 CGI variant, in particular, offers one of the best examples of this transition with its advanced engine technology.

Engine and Driving Experience:

At the heart of this car is a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine with CGI (direct gasoline injection) technology, a departure from the supercharged engines of previous generations. The 204 HP and 310 Nm of torque provide a much livelier and more agile character than older models. The acceleration time (7.8 seconds) clearly supports this claim. The driving feel, unlike the mechanical weight of the W210 and the instant response of its Kompressor, offers the linear and powerful acceleration of a modern turbo engine. While the 5G-TRONIC transmission is reliable, its shifts are not as quick as the newer 7G-TRONIC. This positions the car as a comfortable executive sedan rather than a sports car.

Cabin, Comfort, and Technology:

The W212’s interior is a major leap forward from its predecessor. The material quality, craftsmanship, and design are all elevated. The modern dashboard design and the central infotainment system make the car feel advanced for its time. Mercedes’ classic comfort is also present in this chassis; the seats are supportive on long journeys, and cabin insulation is excellent. Furthermore, safety technologies like Attention Assist (driver drowsiness detection), which were innovative for its era, make the car a secure option even today.

Buying and Ownership Advice:

Performance and Efficiency: The 204 HP turbo engine, thanks to its small displacement, offers noticeably better fuel economy than previous Kompressor models, especially on highways.
Maintenance Costs: The CGI engine, with its direct injection and turbo system, requires more specialized and potentially more expensive maintenance than older, simpler engines. It is crucial to look for cars with a complete service history from a reputable mechanic or dealership.
Potential Electronic Issues: Like many cars of this era, the W212 series can experience electronic or sensor-related faults as it ages. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is vital to check for any potential issues.
Retained Value: While not as popular as diesel variants, clean and well-maintained examples of the W212 E250 CGI hold their value well in the used car market.

Conclusion:

The Mercedes-Benz W212 E250 CGI is a fantastic car that combines luxury, comfort, and technology in one package. It successfully transitioned Mercedes’ reputation for quality into a more modern platform. Its blend of powerful yet efficient performance makes it an attractive choice for both daily and long-distance driving. If you find a well-maintained example, it will reward you with a joyful driving experience for many years to come.