The Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251) R 280 CDI V6 G-TRONIC, produced from 2007 to 2009, represented a unique offering in the luxury vehicle segment. Positioned as a spacious, versatile, and technologically advanced grand tourer, the R-Class aimed to blend the practicality of a sport utility vehicle with the refinement of a passenger car. The R 280 CDI V6, equipped with a diesel engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission, served as a mid-range option within the R-Class lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and luxury features. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines were popular, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-class |
| Generation | R-class (W251) |
| Type (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 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 238 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp |
| Power per litre | 63.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.950 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| 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 (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.1 l (10.67 US qt | 8.89 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2195 kg (4839.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2840 kg (6261.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4922 mm (193.78 in.) |
| Width | 1922 mm (75.67 in.) |
| Height | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2980 mm (117.32 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The R 280 CDI V6 was powered by the OM 642.950 engine, a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings during the mid-2000s, known for its robust construction and relatively smooth operation. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler further enhanced performance and efficiency. The engine produced 190 horsepower and a substantial 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque. The G-TRONIC transmission, a 7-speed automatic, was specifically designed to handle the engine’s torque output and provide smooth, responsive shifts. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The R 280 CDI V6 G-TRONIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided ample torque for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The 7-speed automatic transmission was well-matched to the engine, providing smooth gear changes and helping to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the gasoline-powered R 350, the R 280 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving style. However, it lacked the outright acceleration of the higher-horsepower gasoline variants. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as engaging as the available manual transmissions found in some other R-Class models. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfortable highway driving, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R 280 CDI V6 typically came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its luxury positioning. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, rear seat entertainment, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Distronic adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology. The R 280 CDI often sat in the mid-range of the R-Class lineup, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The R-Class (W251) featured a robust chassis designed to handle the vehicle’s weight and provide a comfortable ride. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear employed an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration aimed to deliver a balance of handling precision and ride comfort. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The R 280 CDI, due to its weight, benefited from the stability provided by the well-tuned suspension and effective braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The R-Class, in general, received mixed reviews upon its launch. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology, but some found its styling unconventional and its size cumbersome. The R 280 CDI V6 was generally well-regarded for its fuel efficiency and torque, making it a popular choice in Europe. Compared to the R 350 gasoline variant, the R 280 CDI offered superior fuel economy, but slightly less performance. Against competitors like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7, the R-Class offered a unique blend of space and luxury, but often lacked the brand cachet of its German rivals.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.950 found in the R 280 CDI, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. On the used car market, the R 280 CDI V6 represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV segment. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with a complex vehicle like the R-Class, and ensure that all scheduled maintenance has been performed. The R-Class, while not a commercial blockbuster, remains a distinctive and interesting vehicle, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and willingness to experiment with new vehicle concepts.
