The Mercedes-Benz R-Class Long (V251) R 280 V6, produced from 2007 to 2009, represented a distinctive offering in the luxury vehicle segment. Positioned as a spacious, six or seven-seat vehicle, the R-Class aimed to combine the practicality of a minivan with the prestige and driving experience associated with Mercedes-Benz. The “Long” designation indicated an extended wheelbase version, primarily sold in markets outside of North America, offering increased rear passenger legroom and cargo capacity. The R 280 V6 variant, equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, served as a mid-range option within the R-Class lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-Class |
| Generation | R-Class Long (V251) |
| Type (Engine) | R 280 V6 (231 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) | 10.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.2 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 260 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 272.945 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.1 l (10.67 US qt | 8.89 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2810 kg (6194.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2385 l (84.23 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 | 5157 mm (203.03 in.) |
| Width | 1922 mm (75.67 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The R 280 V6 was powered by the M272.945 engine, a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine featured a 60-degree V-angle, three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust), and a dual overhead camshaft design. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The M272 engine family was known for its relatively smooth operation and refined power delivery. The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was standard. This transmission offered a wide range of gear ratios, contributing to both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. The transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch, further enhancing efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The R 280 V6 offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. With 231 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.2 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine provided sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The 7G-TRONIC transmission shifted smoothly and responsively, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Compared to the more powerful R 350 models, the R 280 V6 prioritized fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it lacked the all-weather capability of the available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R 280 V6 typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced driver-assistance features like Distronic adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology. The R 280 V6 often served as a stepping stone into the R-Class range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The R-Class Long featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The R 280 V6 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, making it well-suited for long-distance journeys. The long wheelbase contributed to a stable and predictable ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class, in general, received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior and luxurious appointments, but questioned its unconventional styling and somewhat awkward proportions. The R 280 V6 was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and refinement. Compared to the R 350, it offered lower running costs but less exhilarating performance. Against competitors like the Acura MDX and BMW X5, the R-Class offered a unique blend of space and luxury, but its polarizing design limited its appeal.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class was discontinued after a relatively short production run. While it didn’t achieve mainstream success, it remains a unique and interesting vehicle. The M272 V6 engine, used in the R 280 V6, is generally considered to be a reliable unit, although regular maintenance is essential. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also known for its durability. Today, the R 280 V6 can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices, offering a luxurious and spacious vehicle for those willing to embrace its unconventional design. Its long-term reliability is generally good, provided it has been well-maintained, making it a potentially attractive option for buyers seeking a comfortable and refined grand tourer.
