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:

Active Blind Spot Assist
Important safety notes Active Blind Spot Assist uses a radar sensor system to monitor the side areas of your vehicle which are in back of the driver. A warning display in the exterior mirrors d ...

R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: low fuel consumption MPV
As with all BlueEFFICIENCY models from Mercedes-Benz, the R-Class features a whole range of measures to reduce fuel consumption. In addition to the direct-injection diesel engine and the low-frict ...

Redialing
The on-board computer saves the last names or numbers dialed in the redial memory. •► Press the button on the steering wheel to select the Tel menu. •► Press the button to switch to ...