Overview & Reviews

Part minivan, part station wagon, part "what were they thinking?" the Mercedes-Benz R-Class was several cars rolled into one. Although the R-Class wasn't quite as roomy as a minivan and only featured six standard seats (a seventh seat was optional), it was essentially a luxury family hauler for those who would never have considered owning a traditional minivan. Of course, the R-Class wasn't as versatile as a real minivan. Its large, wide-swinging traditional rear doors, for instance, weren't as family-friendly in a tight parking lot as a minivan's sliding doors.

Still, the R-Class was roomy, luxurious and available with a wide variety of engines, not to mention just about all of Benz's latest techno toys. Almost all R-Class models also came standard with all-wheel drive for extra traction in inclement weather. For those wanting a versatile used luxury vehicle that deftly sidesteps the perceived stigma of a minivan (or an SUV, for that matter), the Mercedes-Benz R-Class might make sense.

Used Mercedes-Benz R-Class Models
Produced from 2006 through 2012, the Mercedes-Benz R-Class was a large crossover wagon that during its run offered a wide choice of engines ranging from a diesel V6 to a powerhouse AMG V8. Most R-Classes came with all-wheel drive, as a rear-drive model was offered for just a single model year.

The most recent version of this model came in a choice of R350 (gas V6) and R350 Bluetec (diesel V6) trims. Both came with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. A 2+2+2 seating arrangement (for a total capacity of six people) was standard, with a 2+3+2 configuration optional. The R350 was powered by a 3.5-liter 302-horsepower V6, while the R350 Bluetec had a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. The latter made only 210 hp but delivered an impressive 400 pound-feet of torque along with highway fuel economy in the low- to mid-20s.

Both trims came standard with 19-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat and Bluetooth connectivity. Upgrades included a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a power liftgate, adaptive xenon HID headlights, a rear seat entertainment system, a navigation system and an iPod interface. Oddly, leather upholstery was not available on the R-Class -- Mercedes' admittedly nice MB-Tex premium vinyl was standard across the board.

In reviews, we noted that the R-Class was certainly roomy and boasted excellent interior materials. But while the rear doors provided a huge opening to ease getting in and out, they were very long and could result in plenty of dings in the mall parking lot. On the road, the R-Class was a bit like driving your own personal high-speed train: big, heavy and with an eerie way of making high speeds seem completely reasonable. Handling wasn't an especially strong point, as the R-Class didn't inspire much more confidence than a typical large luxury crossover. Neither engine produced especially impressive acceleration.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class was introduced for 2006 in R350 and R500 guises that could only be had with six seats and all-wheel drive. Through 2011, the original R350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 that produced 268 hp and achieved worse fuel economy than the later V6. The R500 and its 5.0-liter V8 might have provided a welcome amount of extra grunt, but it actually produced the same 302 hp as the later V6 while swilling fuel at the rate of 14 mpg combined. All R-Class models had a seven-speed automatic transmission.

For 2007, the R320 CDI and R63 AMG debuted. The R320 CDI was similar to the later Bluetec diesel in terms of output, but it wasn't certified for sale in California-emissions states. The R63 AMG high-performance-tuned model was essentially a minivan on steroids, boasting a monstrous, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 that made 503 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes estimated that the R63 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The R63 also handled better than the other R-Class trims thanks to firmer suspension tuning and larger wheels and tires.

Soft sales brought the demise of the two most powerful Mercedes-Benz R-Class models, as the R500 and R63 AMG were discontinued for 2008, the same year that a rear-wheel-drive R350 joined the lineup and optional seven-passenger seating (with a middle seat in the second row) debuted. The following year saw the 50-state-compliant R320 Bluetec diesel engine replace the R320 CDI, new audio and navigation systems debut and the short-lived rear-wheel-drive R350 leave the lineup.

For 2010, the diesel model became the R350 Bluetec and received a smidge more torque. The biggest changes took place for 2011, when a styling refresh saw a larger grille debut and the oddly shaped front lights give way to cleaner units that looked more like those used on other Benz models. New mirrors, wheels, taillights and bumpers rounded out the exterior remake, while new headrests, new wood accents and a revised instrument display updated the cabin.

The last year of production for the R-Class was 2012, which may be the most desirable for the gas-powered V6, as that year brought a new 3.5-liter gas V6 with more power (302 hp) and slightly better fuel economy than the older engine. That year also saw a few more standard features thrown in, including a navigation system and satellite radio.

User Reviews:

• 

  Great Crossover SUV - 2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By happymercedes - August 22 - 1:06 pm

  My family and I were set to look for a vehicle that was comfortable and fun to drive. This Crossover SUV is a blast. The interior feels like mercedes didnt miss a beat. It is luxurious and spacious. You feel like you are riding on air. We fit seven adults with comfort. Other so called seven passenger crossovers could merely fit my two young kids in the back. We test drove the Lexus, Infiniti,BMW, none had the comfort and amenities of this car. The Lexus line is cheap! It looks like Toyota just slapped on the lexus name and raised the price tag. BMW and Audi were small, not even close in comfort. This car is sporty, fun to drive and can fit 7 adults comfortably. I highly recommend this car!!!!

• 

  A totally misunderstood car - 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By rowner - August 21 - 12:44 pm

  I just purchased my second "R" diesel, a 2011, black and almond. Many magazine reviews for this car since its introduction categorizes it as some version of a minivan. Believe me, it is not a minivan by any measure of comparison. It is an SUV, pure and simple! Having owned a MB-GL diesel, a gas ML, and a 2008 R diesel, I can say it is the best of the three models. It has more usable room, weighs less, handles better, accelerates faster, uses less fuel, is more passenger friendly and more comfortable than its MB stablemates. Plus it is $10,000 cheaper than the comparable GL. My 08 R had 50,000 miles on it, all w/o a single mechanical issue or problem.

• 

  The wife loves it! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By IH82BL8 - August 19 - 11:10 am

  This is our 3rd MB. The wife didnt want a minivan, and our ML was out growing our family. We got a great deal, $12000 off sticker! The R350 was the perfect choice for our family. Its large enough to fit 6 very comfortably and its very luxurious. Its a large vehicle but it drives like a sedan. Ive got a sports sedan and I even enjoy driving the R350. The NAVI is not as user friendly as the Japanese built cars but we are slowly getting used to it. We love the HK stereo and the panoramic roof. The wife appreciates the auto tailgate. The rear doors are a little too big at tight parking spaces. No regrets at all!

• 

  Faulty Cam gears - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By frustrated43 - August 12 - 1:38 pm

  $6,000.00 repair bill to replace Faulty cam gears. The metal that the cam gears were made of is too soft. You will have problem in or around 65,000 miles and MB will not help you with it other then taking your $6,000. This is the worst vehicle I have ever owned in my 30 years of car ownership.

• 

  This car is a nightmare - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By XPress - July 16 - 2:20 am

  The uniqueness of this car is what makes it attractive. The ride and drive characteristics are great. The unusual appearance gets stares & questions. After 1 year and more than 22,000 miles, I feel qualified to relate all that is not right with this car. Multiple visits to more than one dealers service department makes this a thumbs down choice for reliable transportation. Car is in the service dept now for the 9th time and is still there after 13 days (the service manager says they need it for at least another week). The problems are recurring; i.e., transmission shifts hard, repeated warning lights (SRS, low coolant,check engine), body panels ill fitting (wind noise), door hard to close. I cannot recommend

• 

  Not your mothers minivan! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By jenlong - June 10 - 10:53 pm

  Weve been driving this beauty around for about a month and couldnt be happier. The R350 is a pleasure to look at, a pleasure to sit in and just plain fun. The kids love it, I love it and its just surpassed my every expectation...which were high. I come from a long line of MB owners and have come to expect quality and performance, I got them both here. Its not just pretty to look at, it does its fair share of hauling and stopping and starting in style. I compared it to the Volvo XC90 and just couldnt handle the Jeep like feel of the Volvo. This feels like a luxury car that can also handle lots of people. We love it.

• 

  Recommendable - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By jp - June 7 - 5:26 pm

  I had leased it for 2 years. Overall good performance especially for family. Lots of space. Very quiet ride. Would have been happy with some more juice! Good value compared to the very expensive models. Sleek front look, but not so with the rear look. I guess, you can be the judge. Had some minor issues, no big deal.

• 

  R350 engine problems - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Andrew - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Not many potential buyers know that the R350 with the v-6 engine has a faulty balancing camshaft gear that is prone to failure. The gear is failing impacting the timing of the engine. In order to repair it the entire engine needs to be taken out of the car and apart. Cost over $5,500. All V-6 M272,and V-8 M273 engines between 2004 and 2009 have the potential problem that results in the extensive repairs. MB USA is not honoring the repairs and there is a class action complaint in process. Think twice about buying a used Mercedes Benz. You may be for a $5,500 surprise even if the car has 50,000 miles on it.

• 

  R350 - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By AT - May 2 - 12:16 am

  This is our first MB and we love this vehicle. It is very roomy, comfortable, and large enough for 6 men to drive and ride. The cargo space is more than adequate with the third row seats folded down. Folding and unfolding the third row is quicky and very easy. The V6 is enough for this heavy vehicle which handles surprising sporty. The nav system is very hard to get used to but once mastered is a must have. Also, must have Parktronic to park as it is very, very long. Have had dash rattle issues that were quickly resolved by the dealership. No mechanical issues whatsoever. A pleasure to own.

• 

  Great Family Vehicle - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By CADriver - April 21 - 4:10 pm

  We previously owned a mini-van and were looking at both station wagons and mini-vans when we found the R350. It had the smoothest ride of any car I have ever driven, and was not much more expensive than a Honda Odyssey, our second choice. We immediately took it on a 2,000 mile trip from Southern California to Oregon for a week of camping. We were impressed with how much gear we could fit in the back while also carrying two adults and two children. Everyone at the campground was coming by to check out the car because of its impressive exterior styling.