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:
Adjusting the seats
Vehicles without Memory function: the
seats can be adjusted within three minutes
of a front door being opened.
The time period starts over again if, within
these three minutes, you:
• open or ...
Important safety notes
WARNING
Only use roof racks approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model to avoid
damage
to the vehicle.
Follow the manufacturer's installation
instructions. Otherwise, an improperly
a ...
Cargo tie-down rings
Observe the following notes on securing
loads:
• secure the load using the cargo tie down
rings.
• do not use elastic straps or nets to secure
a load, as these are only intended as an
anti-sli ...