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Mercedes-Benz R-class W251 R 280 CDI V6 (190 Hp) G-TRONIC
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz R-class:
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a mid-size luxury MPV introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2005 for the 2006 model year. Following the success of the smaller A- and B-Class MPVs, Mercedes in collaboration with coachbuilder Stola presented a concept vehicle, Vision GST , at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show and a second one, Vision R presented at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show, subsequently introducing the production version at 2005 New York International Auto Show. The R-Class was manufactured in Vance, Alabama until 2015 when its production was shifted to Mishawaka, Indiana for a smaller volume production until 2017....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W251 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz R-class (W251). With 440 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2195 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.7 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251) was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, as a Mercedes-Benz vehicle of its era, it was engineered with a strong emphasis on passive and active safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS, and ESP, providing a high level of occupant protection.
R 280 CDI V6 (190 Hp) G-TRONIC Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Offers decent torque for strong pulling power, making it suitable for highway driving, though acceleration is not brisk.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel economy for a vehicle of this size, especially on longer journeys, making it a cost-effective option.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional interior space and passenger comfort, especially in 6-seater configurations.
- • Smooth and refined ride quality, ideal for long journeys.
- • High-quality interior materials and luxurious appointments.
- • Powerful engine options, including strong diesels and a rare AMG variant.
- • Available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability.
Cons:
- • Divisive exterior styling that didn't appeal to all buyers.
- • Large footprint makes it challenging to maneuver and park in urban areas.
- • High fuel consumption for petrol models, especially the V8s.
- • Some known reliability issues with early M272/M273 engines (balance shaft) and 7G-Tronic transmissions.
- • Steep depreciation from new, though this makes it a good used value.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W251: 2006 - 2010).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | R-class |
| Generation: | W251 |
| Modification (Engine): | R 280 CDI V6 (190 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production: | 2007 |
| End of production: | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 190 Hp Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 63.6 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 440 Nm |
| Engine Model/Code: | OM 642.950 More details about the engine OM 642.950 |
| Engine displacement: | 2987 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5 kg/Nm, 200.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2195 |
| Max. weight: | 2840 |
| Max load: | 645 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1950 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 550 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2100 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4922 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1922 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1659 mm mm [15mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2980 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.8 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz R-class. How does it handle on the road?