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:
Problems with the rear window
defroster
The rear window defroster has deactivated
itself prematurely or cannot be activated.
•► Switch off any consumers that are not
required, e.g. reading lamps or interior
lighting.
When the ...
Selecting the ideal shift range
Press the selector lever to the
left towards D– and hold it in position.
or
Pull the left-hand steering wheel
paddle shifter and hold it in position.
The automatic transmission shifts to the ...
Load index
Tire data is vehicle-specific and may
deviate from the data in the example.
In addition to the load bearing index, load
index 1 may be imprinted after the letters
that identify speed r ...