Mercedes-Benz R-class W251 R 300 V6 (231 Hp) G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2130 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 222 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.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
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 300 V6 (231 Hp) G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Provides adequate power for most situations, but acceleration is noticeably more leisurely compared to the R 350.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is surprisingly similar to the more powerful R 350, offering little advantage in efficiency for the reduced power.

Best Use Case: Mixed

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(Long (V251): 2008 - 2010).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:R-class
Generation:W251
Modification (Engine):R 300 V6 (231 Hp) G-TRONIC
Start of production:2009
End of production:2010
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:231 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:77.1 Hp/l [235mm less]
Torque:300 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 272.945 More details about the engine M 272.945
Engine displacement:2996
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Coolant:10.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Compression ratio:11.3:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:15.2-15.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.8-9.0 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.1-11.3 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.7 sec
Maximum speed:222 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.2 kg/Hp, 108.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.1 kg/Nm, 140.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2130
Max. weight:2790
Max load:660
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 [235mm less]
Width:1922 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1674 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2980 mm mm [235mm less]
Front track:1661 mm
Rear (Back) track:1651 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size255/55 R18
Wheel rims size18
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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