Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC gains standard ECO start/stop
Mercedes-Benz has added its ECO start/stop system as standard to the S 350 BlueTEC, reducing official fuel consumption to 6.2 litres per 100km without raising the price.
Mercedes-Benz has made its ECO start/stop function standard on the S 350 BlueTEC, further improving the efficiency of this luxury diesel saloon. This update, which applies to vehicles produced from April 2011 onwards, brings the official combined fuel consumption down to 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres according to the NEDC cycle. The manufacturer confirmed that the list price in Europe remains unchanged at €76,517, including 19% VAT.
Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC Now Features ECO Start/Stop as Standard
Engine and Performance Details
The S 350 BlueTEC is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, producing 190kW (258hp) and 620Nm of torque from a displacement of 2987cc. This powertrain offers strong performance while keeping fuel consumption and emissions in check. The automatic transmission ensures smooth progress, which is expected in the S-Class range.
How the ECO Start/Stop System Works
The ECO start/stop system is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, particularly in urban environments. When the car comes to a complete stop, such as at traffic lights, the system automatically switches off the engine. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the engine restarts instantly. Mercedes-Benz has engineered the system so that all comfort and vehicle systems remain fully operational during these stop phases, ensuring that occupants do not experience any loss of convenience or functionality.
Technical Innovations for Greater Efficiency
The improvement in efficiency goes beyond the start/stop feature. Mercedes has introduced twin-wire-arc-sprayed (TWAS) coating technology to the cylinder walls of the V6 diesel engine. This advanced process, previously used by AMG on its high-performance V8 engines since 2005, reduces internal friction and weight. By lowering mechanical resistance within the engine, TWAS helps to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Following positive results in AMG models, Mercedes is now rolling out this technology to its diesel engines, starting with the S 350 BlueTEC.
Emissions and Regulatory Context
The addition of the ECO start/stop system and TWAS technology results in lower CO2 emissions for the S 350 BlueTEC. This supports Mercedes-Benz in meeting increasingly strict European fleet emissions targets. Although the exact CO2 figure for this model is not specified, the reduction in fuel consumption directly benefits the car’s environmental credentials. Lower emissions are a significant consideration for both manufacturers and buyers as regulations become more demanding.
No Price Increase for Buyers
Despite the addition of new technology, Mercedes-Benz has kept the S 350 BlueTEC’s European list price steady at €76,517, including 19% VAT. This approach ensures that customers benefit from greater efficiency and improved environmental performance without facing an increased purchase price. In a segment where running costs and environmental impact are becoming more important to buyers, the S 350 BlueTEC offers a competitive proposition.
Position Among Luxury Saloons
The S 350 BlueTEC’s improvements reflect a wider trend in the luxury saloon market. Competitors such as BMW and Audi have also introduced more efficient diesel models in response to consumer demand and regulatory pressure. For example, Audi’s A3 1.6 TDI achieved 99g/km CO2, though it competes in a smaller and less powerful segment. The S-Class’s changes help Mercedes remain competitive among high-end vehicles, where efficiency is increasingly valued alongside luxury and performance.
- BMW and Audi are also introducing lower-emission diesel models.
- The S 350 BlueTEC’s efficiency improvements help Mercedes keep pace with rivals.
- Luxury saloons are under pressure to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Specification Summary
| Engine | 3.0-litre V6 diesel (2987cc) |
|---|---|
| Power | 190kW (258hp) |
| Torque | 620Nm |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC combined) | 6.2L/100km |
| CO2 emissions | Not stated |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Price (Europe) | €76,517 incl. 19% VAT |
Conclusion
By making the ECO start/stop function standard and introducing advanced engine technology, Mercedes-Benz has enhanced the efficiency of the S 350 BlueTEC without increasing its price. These changes strengthen the S-Class’s position in the luxury saloon market at a time when efficiency and emissions are under increasing scrutiny. Buyers benefit from lower running costs and improved environmental credentials, while Mercedes continues to innovate to meet changing expectations and regulations.
