Mercedes S350L BlueTEC Review: 737-Mile Range, Luxury

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long defined automotive excellence, and the S350L BlueTEC variant elevates this legacy with its innovative diesel powertrain. This long-wheelbase model combines extraordinary fuel economy, vast torque reserves, and a cabin rivaling private jets, making it ideal for discerning drivers prioritizing comfort and efficiency over outright speed.

Powertrain Excellence: Diesel Innovation at Its Finest

At the heart of the S350L BlueTEC lies a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine, delivering 240 horsepower and a substantial 455 pound-feet of torque. This setup propels the hefty sedan from 0 to 60 mph in approximately seven seconds, matching the urgency of many rivals while sipping fuel at unprecedented rates for its class.

Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the powertrain ensures seamless power delivery. The diesel’s low-end grunt shines on highways, where it maintains cruising speeds effortlessly at low RPMs, often below 2,000 revolutions per minute even at 85 mph. Real-world tests confirm ranges exceeding 700 miles on a single tank, with one notable drive achieving 737 miles between fill-ups—transformative for long-haul travel.

• Engine Specs: 3.0L V6 turbodiesel, 240 hp, 455 lb-ft torque
• Transmission: 7-speed automatic with 4MATIC AWD
• 0-60 mph: ~7.0 seconds
• EPA Estimates: 20 city / 31 highway mpg
• CO2 Emissions: ~0.93 lb/mile

Mercedes’ BlueTEC technology, incorporating selective catalytic reduction, minimizes emissions while maximizing efficiency, proving diesel’s viability in luxury segments.

Interior Opulence: A Sanctuary on Wheels

Step inside the S350L BlueTEC, and you’re enveloped in a realm of sumptuous materials and cutting-edge amenities. The extended wheelbase amplifies rear passenger space, offering limousine-like legroom and reclining seats with massage functions.

Seats feature infinite adjustability, active bolstering, and ventilation, cradling occupants like bespoke armchairs. The cabin’s noise insulation is exemplary; at highway speeds, decibel levels hover around 66 dB, quieter than many gasoline counterparts. High-quality switchgear, milled from aluminum, and a vast array of driver aids—from night vision to adaptive cruise—create an environment of effortless sophistication.

Compared to hybrids like the S400, the diesel variant offers similar luxury at a lower price point, saving up to $37,000 while delivering superior real-world economy—10.5 km/L in mixed traffic versus the hybrid’s 6 km/L.

Driving Dynamics: Composed Grandeur

Despite its 4,961-pound curb weight, the S350L BlueTEC exudes poise. The Airmatic air suspension absorbs imperfections with aplomb, maintaining a planted stance on motorways and through corners.

Steering is weighted yet precise, with all-wheel drive enhancing stability. It’s not an AMG sports sedan—skidpad grip measures 0.79 g, and braking from 70 mph takes 181 feet—but for a luxury liner, it prioritizes serenity over sharpness. The diesel’s torque enables confident overtakes, and throttle mapping fosters smooth progression, ideal for executive cruising.

• Highway poise with minimal body roll
• Effortless torque for passing
• Adaptive suspension shrugs off bumps
• Quiet diesel with refined NVH levels

Reviewers praise its ‘languid majesty,’ flowing through twisty roads with nonchalance rather than aggression—precisely what a flagship limousine demands.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs: The Efficiency Champion

The S350L BlueTEC redefines luxury sedan economy. EPA ratings of 20/31 mpg translate to real-world figures often surpassing 26 mpg combined, outpacing hybrids in extended tests. Its massive range eliminates frequent stops, a boon for cross-country drives.

In Europe, similar models achieve up to 37.2 mpg with aero optimizations and low-rolling-resistance tires. Maintenance benefits from diesel durability, though U.S. availability was limited post-2012 due to market shifts.

Safety and Technology: Ahead of the Curve

Mercedes equips the S350L with a suite of innovations: Pre-Safe braking, blind-spot monitoring, and night view assist. The rigid chassis and AWD bolster crash protection, earning top safety accolades.

Infotainment evolves with intuitive controls, though the diesel’s value shines in bundling these features without hybrid premiums.

Competitive Landscape: Standing Tall

It undercuts pricier V8s and hybrids while offering unmatched range and torque, positioning it as a rational flagship choice.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Epic fuel range, torquey diesel, ultra-lux cabin, smooth ride
• Cons: Heavy braking, less agile than sportier rivals, limited U.S. diesel market

FAQs

What is the fuel range of the Mercedes S350L BlueTEC?

Owners report over 700 miles per tank, with peaks at 737 miles on highways.

Is the S350L BlueTEC faster than the S400 Hybrid?

Yes, with 0-60 in 7.0 seconds versus the hybrid’s slower times, thanks to superior torque.

How quiet is the diesel engine inside?

Exceptionally refined at 66 dB highway cruise, quieter than many gas S-Class models.

Does it have all-wheel drive?

Standard 4MATIC enhances traction and stability.

Is it more efficient than gasoline S-Class variants?

Significantly, with 31 mpg highway versus 25 mpg for the S550.

Final Verdict

The Mercedes S350L BlueTEC masterfully fuses diesel thrift with S-Class splendor, delivering peerless range, comfort, and value. For those valuing efficiency in luxury, it’s a standout, even years after its debut.