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:

Trip computer "From start" or "Fromreset"
The values in the From Start submenu refer to the start of your journey, while those in the From Reset submenu refer to the last time you reset this submenu. ► Press the button on the s ...

Displaying service messages
Switch on the ignition. Press or on the steering wheel to select the Service menu. Press or to select the ASSYST PLUS submenu and press to confirm. The service due date a ...

Activating/deactivating Blind Spot Assist
You can use the Blind Spot Asst. function to activate or deactivate Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist. •► Press on the steering wheel to select the DriveAssist menu. •► ...