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:

Overall evaluation
This function is shown if you have stored at least one lap and stopped the RACETIMER. •► Press on the steering wheel to select the AMG menu. •► Press the button repeatedly until ...

Problems with the seat heating
If one or all of the indicator lamps in the seat heating button are flashing, the seat heating has switched off automatically. The vehicle's electrical system voltage is too low because too many e ...

Refrigerant of the air-conditioning system
The air-conditioning system is filled with R134a refrigerant and a special PAG lubricant. Never use refrigerant R 12 (CFC) or mineral lubricants. Otherwise, you could damage the air-conditio ...