The Mercedes-Benz R-Class five-door wagon is the top choice of auto enthusiasts looking for the features and convenience of a mini-van with the luxury features of a higher level brand. The R-Class is categorized as a large MPV/full-size CUV, and has front engine power with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. R-Class vehicles are built upon a Mercedes-Benz W251 platform and have several engine size options from 3.0-liter V-6 to 6.2-liter V-8.
Since 2005, the Mercedes-BenzR-Class lineup is assembled in the Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant as well as in Mexico City, Mexico. This vehicle was the first ever full-sized multi-purpose model produced by Mercedes-Benz, and it is loaded with the amenities expected from this manufacturer. Fuel economy is... View more rated highly, at 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. The vehicle offers plenty of room for six adults, as well as a comfortable and quiet ride. R-Class vehicles come in several variants, including the R-500 and R-63 AMG. Despite their power attributes, these two models were discontinued after the 2007 model year due to low sales .
Mercedes Benz-R-Class vehicles perform their tasks quite well, but they are pricier than other brands, at an MSPR of $50,240 to $51,740. They can seat up to seven adults, and have a cargo capacity of up to 85 cubic feet, with maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. There were two variations in the R-series lineup: the R350s and R500s. The 500-series was discontinued due to slow sales, despite its larger V-8 5000cc engine with 306 horsepower, compared to the 350-series engines starting with a V-6 3500cc engine producing 272 horsepower. Both had respectable take-off power, with the R-500 registering 0-100 kph in 7 seconds, and the R-350 moving from 0-100kmh in just 8.4 seconds.
In 2009, the R-Class includes a new R-320 Bluetec turbodiesel engine to replace the diesel R-320 CDI. This change makes the R-Class vehicles compliant for emissions with all 50 states in the U.S. Other new changes include making the sunroof standard and the addition of an iPod interface and voice controls for certain features. The R-Class models have new audio, a navigation head unit with HD radio, real-time traffic updates and Bluetooth. The rear doors are still large and somewhat bulky swing-outs, but they offer greater room for passengers entering and exiting the vehicles.
For interior design and comfort, look for luxury all the way: leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, bird's-eye maple inserts, power driver seat, dual-zone climate control, upgrade options for leather upholstery, burl walnut trim, satellite radio and a surround-sound 12-speaker system from Harmon Kardon. The rearview camera makes backing and parking easier and safer. Front seats are full power with heat, and keyless entry is available. Safety features are numerous, including head restraints, airbags, rollover-sensing stability control, and antilock disc brakes. View less
