MERCEDES BENZ E-Klasse T-Modell (S 212) 2009-2012 Photos, engines & full specs

Mercedes-Benz introduced a new generation of the E-Class in 2009 and shook the customers with the new headlight design, but calmed them with the technologies that came with the car.

The E-Class wasn't the most reliable car in its class nor the fastest, but the whole package helped the German automaker sell more than half a million in less than three years since the launch of the model. Also, since the carmaker was known for its spacious station wagons, it was necessary to offer one on the market, and that came in 2009 for the Europeans in 2010 for the U.S. customers.

With a new design language at the front that showed four rectangular headlights, the 2009 E-Class range was unusual. While most other manufacturers have chosen single headlamps, Mercedes-Benz was bolder in terms of design. That was unusual for the German automaker. From its profile, the station wagon sported the same sculptured fenders and door panels as its sedan cousin. Also, the darkened B- and C-pillars left the impression of a shooting brake, amplified by the raked-forward tailgate. The carmaker installed standard LED taillights at the back for a distinctive appearance.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new styling for the dashboard, with sharper lines and an extended cover for the infotainment screen that sat atop the center stack. The front bucket seats were separated by a wide center console that hosted a storage compartment under the armrest. The carmaker added a split-folding bench at the back that could extend the trunk area up to 1,950 liters (68.9 cu-ft).

Under the hood, the carmaker offered a wide choice of Euro 5 diesel and gasoline engines. Some versions were available with a manual transmission, while a seven-speed automatic was on the options list. Moreover, the E-Class T-Model was provided with either rear- or an all-wheel drive system.