🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

R-Class

Variant:

R320 CDI 4matic

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

W251

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class R320 CDI was positioned as a premium, versatile, multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering SUV-like capabilities with luxury and passenger comfort, targeting families or individuals seeking a spacious and refined alternative to traditional SUVs or minivans.

Competitors:

Competed with other premium large SUVs and MPVs such as the BMW X5, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, and potentially luxury minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica or Toyota Sienna in specific markets, though its unique blend of attributes set it apart.

Distinguishing Features:

Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, powerful and efficient CDI diesel engine, available three-row seating, luxury interior appointments, and the 'Grand Sports Tourer' concept.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Covers all aspects of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R320 CDI 4matic owner's experience and operation.

Specific Systems:

Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lighting, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information, Maintenance Information.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual of this era).

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Covers basic operation and fluid information related to the diesel engine and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Chassis:

Details on brakes, steering, suspension operation, and tire inflation.

Electrical:

Instrument cluster indicators, lighting systems, basic functionality of locks and security.

Interior:

Climate control operation, seating adjustments, safety restraint systems, entertainment system basics.

Basic Operation:

Startup procedures, driving techniques, parking brake operation, gear selection.

Maintenance:

Engine oil checks and refill, battery care, air filter inspection, fuel recommendations, cleaning instructions.

Safety:

Seat belt usage, child seat installation guidelines, airbag system information, child safety locks.

Troubleshooting:

Explanation of dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic customer assistance procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information covering daily operation, maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic fault codes typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (requires PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Quality:

Digital compilation of factory manual, maintaining original factory print quality and clarity.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format)

Paper:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.0L V6 Turbodiesel (OM642)

Displacement:

2987 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approx. 208 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 384 lb-ft @ 1600-2600 rpm

Fuel Type:

Diesel

Injection System:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI)

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific MB-Approval specifications (e.g., MB-Approval 229.51 or 229.52 are common for diesel engines of this era).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts).

Filter Part Numbers:

Likely requires two engine air filters. Common part numbers may include A6420942404 or equivalent.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed automatic (7G-TRONIC)

Optional Gearbox:

Not applicable for R320 CDI 4matic in 2008; 7G-TRONIC was standard.

Drivetrain:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific MB-Approval transmission fluid (e.g., MB-Approval 236.14).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9-10 liters for a complete refill/torque converter fill, but service refill is typically less. Refer to manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 198.9 inches (5052 mm)

Width:

Approx. 77.0 inches (1956 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 126.6 inches (3215 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4900-5100 lbs (2223-2313 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 13.2 cu ft (374 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 38.2 cu ft (1082 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 72.4 cu ft (2050 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely received 4 or 5 stars in NHTSA frontal and side impact tests for its model year. Specific data should be verified.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (ASR)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags for all rows, active front head restraints.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchor points.

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)

Features:

Standard or optional features often included a color display, AM/FM radio, CD player, navigation system (requiring DVD maps), and possibly auxiliary audio input.

Connectivity:

Early Bluetooth phone connectivity and potentially SiriusXM satellite radio integration.

Features:

Parking assist sensors (front and rear), cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control.

Optional Features:

Bi-Xenon headlamps, cornering lights, adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC), rearview camera.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Service indicator (ASSYST PLUS) will prompt based on actual usage.

Major Service Intervals:

Major services typically occur at 30,000-40,000 mile intervals, including transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, brake fluid flush, and cabin air filter replacement. Refer to the manual's 'Maintenance Booklet' for specific intervals based on service 'A' and 'B'.

Engine Oil Specification:

Requires a low-SAPS (Sulfated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulfur) synthetic engine oil meeting MB-Approval 229.51. Common viscosity grades are 5W-30 or 0W-30.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Mercedes-Benz Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) meeting MB-Approval 236.14 is required for the 7G-TRONIC transmission.

Coolant Specification:

Antifreeze/coolant meeting MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (typically a blue or green silicate-containing coolant).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (specifically MB-Approval 331.0 or a high-quality DOT 4 fluid).

Common Problems:

Potential issues include: Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging if primarily used for short trips, glow plug failure, EGR valve issues, and occasional air suspension problems (if equipped with AIRMATIC). The 7G-TRONIC transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting if not properly maintained. AdBlue system issues may also arise on diesel models.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering innovation, and safety, consistently producing high-quality vehicles.

R Class Introduction:

The R-Class (W251) was introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, intended to bridge the gap between SUVs and minivans with a focus on luxury and practicality. It was built on Mercedes' long-wheelbase platform shared with models like the GL-Class and ML-Class.

Production Years:

2005-2013 (for W251 chassis)

Manufacturing Location:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (for North American market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2008 R320 CDI are not as prominent as some other Mercedes models, the R-Class as a whole received recognition for its practicality and luxury. Awards for general Mercedes-Benz safety and engineering are consistent.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

The R320 CDI offered competitive fuel economy for its size and class due to the diesel engine, often achieving over 25 MPG highway. EPA ratings for 2008 were approximately 17 MPG city / 23 MPG highway.

Emissions Standards:

Meets U.S. EPA emissions standards for diesel vehicles of its model year.