Mercedes-Benz new E 350 BlueTEC (sedan and wagon) is now available with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Adoption of the torque converter equipped 9G-TRONIC transmission cuts the combined cycle fuel consumption of the Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC to just 5.3l/100kms – that’s less than a Toyota Yaris, but we’re talking 185kW for the Benz’ six-cylinder turbo-diesel.
And here’s some really good news – arrival of the nine-speed automatic brings no price change for the E 350 BlueTEC.
The nine-speeder also makes the Mercedes-Benz E Class even quieter at cruising speeds. For example, at 120km/h in ninth gear, the engine is running at only 1350rpm.
As well, shift times are reduced and in manual ‘S’ mode, response is improved.
The new transmission is no larger than Benz’ current seven-speeder and uses a similar design two-piece housing. But in the 9G-TRNIC this is made from light-weight aluminium and the previous plastic oil pan is replaced by an even lighter unit made from magnesium alloy.
Mercedes-Benz has been making automatic transmissions for more than 50 years and around 22 million ‘Benz passenger cars fitted with autos have been produced at the company’s main plant in Stuttgart, Germany.
