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:

Belt height adjustment
You can adjust the seat belt height on the driver's seat and the front-passenger seat. Adjust the height so that the upper part of the seat belt is routed across the center of your shoulder. ...

Ashtray in the rear-compartment centerconsole
Close the ashtray when it is not in use and before you fold the rear seats forward. You can otherwise damage the ashtray. ► To open: briefly press marking 2. Ashtray 2 opens. ► ...

Switching on/off
The three blue indicator lamps in the buttons indicate the ventilation level you have selected. If the battery voltage is too low, the seat ventilation may switch off. •► Make sure tha ...