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.

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Important safety notes
WARNING When opening or closing the door windows, make sure that there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the opening/closing procedure. The door windows are equipped with automatic ope ...

115 V power socket
WARNING The 115V AC socket operates at high voltage. Use the 115V AC socket in the vehicle with the same caution and prudence that you exercise when using power outlets at home. Keep any fluid ...

Trip computer "From start" or "From reset"
The values in the From start submenu are calculated from the start of a journey, while the values in the From Reset submenu are calculated from the last time the submenu was reset (). Press th ...