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:

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  Once in a Benz, always in a Benz - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By HappyBenzowner - January 11 - 11:23 am

  My first luxo-liner. Executive jet indeed it is. This is billiard table smooth on the highway. Nothing like it around town. Must haves are the panorama roof, and navigation and PDC (Parktronic). I can live without 4matic and heated seats. Less complexity and weight. People say "what is it?" And it gets the same mileage as my 06 Honda CRV did. Get one today!! Youll never go back to the "others."

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  Love this vehicle! - 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Mara - January 7 - 4:56 am

  We were looking for passenger room, and better fuel economy than our Suburban, and were very interested in a diesel. This vehicle looks sharp, seats 6-7 very comfortably, and I couldnt be happier driving it! We average 28 mpg with highway driving, and about 23 in town. With the back seat down, there is good storage space, and when using the back seat for passengers, no one complains about the comfort back there, as they did in the Suburban. We are thrilled with this vehicle!

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  Good Buy - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Joy M. - November 21 - 5:53 am

  This is my MB and I am just loving every bit of it. This machine is comfortable and have ample of room inside to fit 6 Adults to sit comfortably. The gas mileage is very good considering the fact that it is V8. The most comfortable part of this vehicle is that it was very minimal engine noise and the drive (specially in the freeway)is very smooth and comfortable.

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  Absolutely Love It - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Dee Peake - November 10 - 4:53 am

  After doing a great deal of research, and test driving equivalent vehicles we decided to purchase our R500. My family has quickly fallen in love with this vehicle. The leg room in the second row is unmatched by any other vehicle. I traded in a sportier Jag for the roomier family friendly vehicle. I have not regretted it for a minute, the R500 is luxurious without being pretentious. Highly recommend it. We purchased the extended warranty to just to be safe but we have not had the smallest of issues.

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  Ultimate Wagon - 2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Roy - October 11 - 10:00 am

  We have owned this car (staton wagon) for approx 1-1/2 years. Through this time it has been found to be totally reliable, with zero repairs needed and only oil changes along with scheduled maintenance. We live in Alberta where the the winter weather can be vary from intermittent freeze thaw, providing ice and snow and slush. With the vehicle weighing 5100 lbs, all wheel drive, traction and brake control; it handles all these conditions at posted speed limits while sitting back in luxury. At -40 deg there is no need for block heater, as this car starts every time. Also for a 5100 lb car it still gets 30+ mpg. Compared to North American cars this one has ample head room for me being 64" tall.

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  Perfect Family Car For a GUY - 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By feelit - September 21 - 9:02 am

  This is a long, wide, sea monster of a car with a brutish grin. All it needs are fins! I wanted something (1) low to the ground, so it wouldnt tip over, (2) with all wheel drive to drive on ice, (3) great crash test scores, (4) a large trunk, (5) third row seats, and (6) was fun to drive. The R350 excelled in all of this. I was torn between the Odyssey Touring Elite and the R350 but decided to go with the R350 for the safety. The snob appeal certainly helped. Odysseys have been plagued, with airbag failures (either deploying when they shouldnt or failing to deploy in crashes). There are several complaints filed with the NHTSA regarding this for 2011 and 2012 alone. The R350 had none.

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  R350 is a great car. - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Scott - September 1 - 3:26 am

  This is our first MB and we are very happy with it. Excellent ride quality, beautiful interior, smooth drivetrain, and extremely comfortable seats. I had difficulty getting my wife interested in a wagon much less a MB. But, after taking her to the dealership she quickly reconized that this is a great family vehicle. The 6 cylinder is adequate and fun to drive but not fast.

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  R320 CDI - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By diesel dad - August 21 - 12:36 am

  Most bang for your buck for a Mercedes by far. Had ours for a month and quite pleased other than the lumbar adjustment is a little lacking with its the manual lever (akin to something on a 80s Honda). The bluetooth module is also $500 bucks from the dealer and really should be included as well as the available seat adjustments on other models. Another gripe is the navigation; really not as intuitive compared to other less prestigious manufacturers. The diesel has good acceleration and is unbelievably quiet but youll pay a little extra for it up front and at the pump but hey its four wheel drive. Im one of those that love the looks and interior styling and hope they dont change it.

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  Great vehicle - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Nik - August 12 - 11:20 am

  Have had the car for a little over a month, cant speak highly enough about it. The build quality is great, it drives great (feels like a much smaller car). The driving position is "commanding" enough. The panaromic sunroof makes the third seat feel unrestricted. Great job MB

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  R bluetech is worth to try - 2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Adam - July 28 - 8:33 pm

  Bluetech was really new at the time of my purchase and I was not sure if what they were saying were true or not. After driving the vehicle almost a year now, I dont have any complain at this time. I would recommend my friends and family to try bluetech and I am sure they will save some money and have comforts in this vehicle. Love it and sometimes it is good to hear your inner voice. Try. You will love it.