The 60 degree vee–angle eliminates the need for a balance shaft, improving refinement while reducing mechanical complexity.

[3] In combination with a new smaller and more efficient Variable Valve Timing mechanism on all 4 camshafts, the precise combustion control allows a quicker and smoother re–start of the engine for the stop–start system.

This VVT can alter cam timing up to 40 crank degrees with a higher speed than before, and enables limiting the intake charge combined with a normal combustion stroke, thus making the operating process an Atkinson cycle in partial throttle conditions for better fuel efficiency.

[1] Mercedes–Benz claims that the new engine, in conjunction with the demand–controlled ancillaries and the stop–start system, can produce up to a 24% improvement in fuel economy while increasing power and torque over the M272.

Retaining most of the above characteristics, turbocharged smaller displacement DELA 30 variant was introduced in 2013 for C400 (W205) and subsequently offered on other models without the name Blue Efficiency.

A detuned version of this engine was introduced on C300, and used also by E300 and S300 from model year 2013 to 2015, producing 248 hp (185 kW; 251 PS) and 251 lb⋅ft (340 N⋅m) of torque.