2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Review
As family-haulers go, the Mercedes-Benz R350 Bluetec is a nice rig — perhaps too nice for the sippy-cup-and-Cheerios gang. Even though the R350 doesn't fit nicely into a defined category such as minivan, SUV or crossover, it's nonetheless a practical car for the high-earning, minivan-averse family.
The R350 caters to families with its roomy cabin, compliant ride and available convenience features, but it sacrifices some utility in the name of style.
I tested the diesel-powered R350 Bluetec, and a gas V-6 engine is also offered. The diesel version starts at $51,740, but options made the as-tested price balloon to around $67,000. The R-Class' price range overlaps two of Mercedes' SUVs: the five-seat M-Class and the seven-seat GL-Class. The R-Class is available with seating for six or seven. To see a side-by-side comparison of these three models, click here.
See also:
Switching on/off
The three red indicator lamps in the button
indicate the heating level you have selected.
If the battery voltage is too low, the seat
heating may switch off.
One or more of the indicator lamp ...
Selector lever
Overview of transmission positions
Selector lever in AMG vehicles with P button
P Park position with parking lock
R Reverse gear
N Neutral
D Drive
Transmission position and drive
...
Releasing the electric parking brake
automatically
The electric parking brake is released
automatically when the following conditions
are simultaneously fulfilled:
• the engine is running.
• the automatic transmission is in position D or R.
...