Mercedes-Benz | Brief Test of Three Mercedes-Benz Eco-Friendly Cars (2)

Mercedes-Benz Blue Efficiency Models

Brief Test of Three Mercedes Eco-Friendly Cars (2)

Mercedes-BenzJapan is steadily introducing environmentally friendly vehicles to the market under the banner of "Blue Efficiency." These include clean diesel, hybrid, and small, lightweight engines. Among them, the E250CGI Blue Efficiency Avantgarde was the first imported car to be certified as eligible for eco-car tax breaks.

By Fumio OgawaPhotos by Junki Kono

Mercedes-Benz E250CGI Blue Efficiency
The E-Class, With Newfound Charm

While the S-Class is a hybrid, what about the E-Class? The E 250CGI Blue Efficiency and its Avantgarde variant are powered by a small 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, a displacement that might surprise even those familiar with Mercedes' tradition of naming cars after their approximate displacement in tenths of a liter. The 'I' in CGI stands for Fuel Direct Injection, which enhances combustion efficiency and balances environmental performance with power through multi-hole injectors and in-cylinder fuel injection. Furthermore, the 'C' in CGI signifies 'Charged,' meaning forced induction via a turbocharger. This setup achieves power output comparable to a 2.5-liter engine while reducing fuel consumption by over 20 percent, which is the meaning behind the '250' in the car's name.

With a body measuring 4870mm in length and weighing just under 1.8 tons, one might worry if a 1.8-liter engine would lack power. However, upon driving, it proves to be both powerful and agile. Delivering its maximum torque of 31.6kgm from 2000rpm, it offers surprising power even at low revs. From 3000rpm, it clearly enters the turbo's operating range, providing a sensation of shifting into a second gear of acceleration.

More Agile Handling Than Existing E-Class Models

It's not just fast in a straight line; it also offers driving enjoyment through corners. While I thought I knew the E-Class's excellent handling, the E250CGI Blue Efficiency Avantgarde feels lighter and more natural than the E350 or E550 models I've experienced. It seems to harmonize well with the engine, providing a delightful driving sensation that belies its size.

Which should you buy, the E-Class or the C-Class? Those in the automotive journalism world occasionally enjoy this debate. Given Mercedes' emphasis on hierarchical structure, the C-Class is youthful and active, while the E-Class conveys a sense of investment through its ride comfort and interior quality. However, I must admit that the new E-Class, which couldn't quite surpass the allure of the S-Class, didn't particularly capture my interest. Then came the E250CGI Blue Efficiency Avantgarde, which made me reconsider the E-Class. This is a model with new appeal. Moreover, with its reasonably spacious interior on a 2875mm wheelbase and its practicality, it's a fitting model to conclude 2009, especially with its relatively accessible price of 6.34 million yen.

Mercedes-Benz E250CGI Blue Efficiency / Avantgarde
Body | Length 4870(4880) x Width 1855 x Height 1470(1455)mm
Engine | 1.8L Inline 4-cylinder DOHC + Turbocharger
Max Output | 150kW [204ps] / 5500rpm
Max Torque | 310Nm [31.6kgm] / 2000-4300rpm
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive
Transmission | 5-speed AT
Price | 6.34(6.98) million yen

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