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:
Servicing the brakes
If the red brake warning lamp lights up in
the instrument cluster and you hear a
warning tone while the engine is running,
the brake fluid level may be too low.
Observe additional warning me ...
Driving
Important safety notes
WARNING
Make sure absolutely no objects are
obstructing the pedals' range of movement.
Keep the driver's footwell clear of all
obstacles. If there are any floor ...
Pedestrian recognition
WARNING
Pedestrian recognition may be impaired or
inoperative if:
- pedestrians are partially or entirely obscured by objects, e.g. parked
vehicles.
- the silhouette of the pedestrian in the N ...
