Mercedes S350L BlueTEC Review: 700+ Mile Range And Luxury

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long set the standard for luxury sedans, and the S350L BlueTEC variant elevates this legacy with its innovative diesel powertrain. This long-wheelbase model combines remarkable fuel efficiency, effortless performance, and an interior that redefines sophistication, making it ideal for executives and long-distance travelers seeking both economy and extravagance.

Powertrain Excellence: BlueTEC Technology Unveiled

At the heart of the S350L BlueTEC lies a 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine producing 240 horsepower and a substantial 455 pound-feet of torque. This setup propels the hefty sedan from 0-60 mph in approximately seven seconds, rivaling many petrol counterparts while sipping fuel at an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The BlueTEC system employs selective catalytic reduction (SCR), injecting ammonia from a 27-liter tank to neutralize nitrogen oxides, achieving Euro-6 compliance ahead of many markets.

Paired with a smooth seven-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters, the power delivery feels seamless and responsive. Despite the vehicle’s near-2-tonne weight, it accelerates with authority, especially on inclines or during overtakes, thanks to the diesel’s low-end torque. Real-world tests confirm ranges exceeding 700 miles on a single tank, with one report noting 737 miles between fill-ups on interstate runs.

• Engine Specs: 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel, 240 hp, 455 lb-ft torque
• Transmission: 7-speed automatic with 4MATIC AWD standard in some markets
• Fuel Economy: Up to 31 mpg highway (est.)
• Emissions: 185 g/km CO2, Euro-6 compliant

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Meets Capability

Mercedes equips the S350L with adaptive air suspension that adjusts to road conditions, ensuring a plush ride over imperfections while maintaining composure in corners. The chassis feels planted on motorways, with precise steering and minimal body roll, defying its size. All-wheel-drive variants enhance traction, making it confident in varied weather.

Braking, while requiring 181 feet from 70 mph in tests, benefits from strong pedal feel suited to grand touring rather than track duties. The diesel’s refinement shines: it’s nearly silent at idle and highway speeds, with engine noise subdued even under load, outperforming some petrol S-Class models in quietness.

Interior Opulence: A Sanctuary on Wheels

Step inside the S350L’s extended cabin, and you’re enveloped in premium materials: supple leather, milled aluminum switchgear, and wood veneers. Seats offer infinite adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions via Drive-Dynamic technology. Rear passengers in the long-wheelbase version enjoy limo-like legroom, making it perfect for chauffeured duties.

The cabin is a tech haven with a dual-screen COMAND system, night vision assist, and an array of driver aids including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping. Noise insulation creates a library-quiet environment, where the diesel’s hum is barely perceptible.

• Spacious rear seating with reclining options
• Advanced climate control for all zones
• Burmester audio system for immersive sound
• Ambient lighting with multiple hues

Efficiency and Ownership: Value in Luxury

The S350L BlueTEC undercuts hybrids in real-world economy, achieving 26 mpg in mixed driving versus 24 mpg for the S400 Hybrid. Ammonia refills every 20,000 km align with services, keeping maintenance straightforward. Priced lower than V8 models, it offers savings—up to $37,000 less than hybrids in some regions—without sacrificing prestige.

CO2 output at 0.93 lb/mile underscores its environmental edge for a luxury liner. Long-term ownership benefits from Mercedes’ durability, though diesel specifics like AdBlue management require attention.

Safety Innovations: Ahead of the Curve

The S-Class pioneered features like PRE-SAFE, which tightens belts and closes windows pre-collision. The S350L adds radar-based blind-spot monitoring, attention assist, and torque vectoring for stability. Crash tests affirm its fortress-like structure, with five-star ratings across boards.

Market Positioning: Against the Elite

In a segment dominated by BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the S350L stands out for diesel efficiency without compromising luxury. It edges hybrids on range and torque, appealing to efficiency-focused buyers. While not as razor-sharp as AMG variants, its grand tourer poise suits most.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is BlueTEC technology?

BlueTEC uses SCR to inject ammonia into exhaust, converting NOx to nitrogen and water, enabling low emissions with diesel power.

How fuel-efficient is the S350L BlueTEC?

Expect 20/31 mpg city/highway (EPA est.), with real-world ranges over 700 miles.

Is the S350L suitable for rear passengers?

Yes, the long-wheelbase design provides ample legroom and comfort features like recliners.

What’s the maintenance like for the diesel?

Standard Mercedes intervals, plus AdBlue top-ups every 20,000 km.

Does it come with all-wheel drive?

4MATIC AWD is standard on many S350 BlueTEC models.

Final Verdict: A Smart Luxury Choice

The Mercedes S350L BlueTEC masterfully fuses diesel thrift with S-Class splendor, delivering unmatched range, comfort, and tech. Ideal for those prioritizing efficiency in premium motoring, it remains a compelling used buy today.