The Mercedes-Benz R-Class Long, specifically the R 350 V6 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC variant with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, was a luxury crossover produced between 2011 and 2013 as part of the V251 facelift generation. Positioned as a premium, spacious alternative to traditional SUVs, the R-Class aimed to blend the practicality of a minivan with the driving experience of a luxury car. The “Long” designation refers to the extended wheelbase, providing enhanced rear passenger space. This particular R 350 configuration represented a mid-range offering within the R-Class lineup, slotting between the base R 300 and the higher-performance R 500 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-Class |
| Generation | R-Class Long (V251, facelift 2010) |
| Type | R 350 V6 BlueEFFICIENCY (306 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | September, 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 235 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 3500-5250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.958 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2160-2205 kg (4761.98 – 4861.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2880-2990 kg (6349.31 – 6591.82 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720-785 kg (1587.33 – 1730.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 633 l (22.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (maximum) | 2385 l (84.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5157 mm (203.03 in.) |
| Width | 1922 mm (75.67 in.) |
| Width (including mirrors) | 2183 mm (85.94 in.) |
| Height | 1674 mm (65.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3215 mm (126.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1661 mm (65.39 in.) |
| Rear track | 1651 mm (65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 922 mm (36.3 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1020 mm (40.16 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The R 350 BlueEFFICIENCY utilized Mercedes-Benz’s M 276.958 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of the M276 family, known for its lightweight construction thanks to extensive use of aluminum alloys. It featured direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a compression ratio of 12:1. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies such as optimized engine management and reduced friction components. The engine produced 306 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque between 3500 and 5250 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and all-wheel-drive configuration were standard. Power was delivered to all four wheels via Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and efficiency. This transmission offered a manual shift mode for more driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The R 350 4MATIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness. The 306 hp V6 provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds. However, it wasn’t as quick as the R 500, which featured a larger V8 engine. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to relaxed cruising, with well-spaced gear ratios. While the automatic transmission was generally responsive, it could occasionally feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in various weather conditions, but the R-Class’s size and weight meant it wasn’t particularly agile in corners. The suspension, while comfortable, could exhibit some body roll during spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its luxury positioning. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a power liftgate. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and parking assist. Interior trim options included various wood veneers and aluminum accents. The R-Class offered a flexible seating configuration, with options for five or seven passengers, and the rear seats could be folded flat to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The R-Class Long featured a robust chassis designed to handle its weight and provide a comfortable ride. The front suspension utilized coil springs and a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link spring suspension, with an optional air suspension system available for enhanced ride comfort and load leveling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, measuring 330mm in diameter. The braking system was assisted by ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class, despite its innovative concept, struggled to gain widespread acceptance in the market. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and luxurious features, but many found its styling unconventional and its size cumbersome. The R 350 4MATIC offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy, achieving around 23.3 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the R 300, the R 350 offered noticeably more power and a more refined driving experience. However, the R 500 provided even greater performance at the expense of fuel economy. Reliability reports for the R-Class were mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the air suspension system and electronic components.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class was discontinued after the 2013 model year, largely due to slow sales. While it didn’t achieve mainstream success, it remains a unique and interesting vehicle. The M 276 V6 engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and examples of the R 350 continue to appear on the used car market. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its longevity. Today, the R-Class is appreciated by those seeking a spacious, luxurious, and relatively uncommon alternative to traditional SUVs and minivans. Its blend of comfort, features, and all-wheel-drive capability make it a viable option for families and those who prioritize a refined driving experience.
