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:

Convenience opening feature
You can ventilate the vehicle before you start driving. To do this, the key is used to carry out the following functions simultaneously: • unlock the vehicle • open the side windows • open the hi ...

Panic alarm
- To activate: press button 1 for at least one second. An alarm sounds and the exterior lighting flashes. - To deactivate: press button 1 again. or - Insert the SmartKey into the ignit ...

Entering a destination by address
Introduction When entering an address as the destination, you have the following options: • entering the state/province, city/ZIP code and street • entering the state/province, city/zip code ...