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:

Defrosting the windows
Windows fogged up on the inside ► Activate the cooling with air dehumidification function . ► Activate automatic mode . ► If the windows continue to fog up, activate the defr ...

Notes on selecting, mounting and replacing tires
- Only mount tires and wheels of the same type and make. - Only mount tires of the correct size onto the wheels. - After mounting new tires, run them in at moderate speeds for the first 60 mil ...

2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
Last year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the seven-seat GL-Class, an SUV that will inevitably find its way into the sort of neighborhoods where one Banana Republic just isn't enough. For 2008, Mercedes ...