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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  Fabulous vehicle - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Elyse Ettinger - June 8 - 11:30 pm

  This car is a terrific alternative to the E class wagon I had previously. The interior space could not be better designed or equipped. The ride is similiar to the S class, but the vehicle design is much better for families. My only suggested improvement is the mileage needs to be improved, but otherwise, absolutely no complaints. I have gotten numerous compliments on the exterior design in the few weeks I have had it. Kids are loving the dual screen DVD players, no arguing who gets to pick the movie! The sun roof just goes on and on-very nice!

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  RClass gets the nod from this bimmerfile - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By DRW - May 13 - 11:10 pm

  My wife and I love our X5 but with two kids (3 and 4)we were busting at the seams. We drove a Honda minivan first and then the R350 on a whim -- in our view, the R offers 85% of minivan functionality but feels 250% more refined. So, we snaped one up on an manufacturer subsidized lease, (monthly pmts less than a Honda!) and immediately packed up the family for a trip to the NC mountains where we drove 40 miles up and down hills with switchbacks that would have made me sweat even in my BMW 330i. The R inspired confidence and never lost composure even when late braking on decreasing radius turns going down a steep grade! To me, this represents a level of active safety that few can match.

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  Quietest Diesel Yet! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Diesel Lover - May 6 - 12:43 pm

  The look is very similar to the Chrysler Pacifica. The diesel engine is quiet, but the 7 speed transmission can be a little slushy and stumbled changing gears during easy acceleration (needed a reprogram). Everything seems to be tied to the computer, from the radio to the taillights. Needs to be able to readily accept a trailer hitch and harness. Some of the driver controls need better ergonomics such as the seat adjustment, clock, radio. AND there are counterintuitive RED lights to indicate a climate control function is operating. Bluetooth should be standard in a car of this class. Parktronic is essential due to poor sightlines.

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  Poor Warranty from Mercedes Benz - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By nvbusa - April 30 - 8:05 pm

  Who would ever think you would need to replace a bumper seal?? My R350 apparently did and MB will not cover it. Poor craftsmanship I say. The seal went causing rain water to run into the seal and in the trunk, where the computer is causing it to short out. Now I am stuck with a $2,500.00 repair bill. My first and last Mercedes. Since they will NOT cover such a repair. Its not like a wear and tear item that I should have replaced. Not to mention the other 4 times it was towed in for electrical and computer issues. Leaving my wife and kids stranded on the highway. Mercedes Benz VERY POOR warranty choice.

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  2006 R500, Unfortunate Disaster, 74K miles - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By moffaman - April 26 - 4:48 am

  I bought this car certified and have had problem after problem beginning with a water issue that caused electrical problems. Which, despite the knowledge of this problem Mercedes didnt want to admit it existed. They never fully addressed the problem until my warranty coverage was up, then they insisted we put the $7K claim through MY insurance. A few months later I had to spend $3,200 more to fix a rear suspension problem....now 60 days later Im looking at $2,500 for a differential. I havent even touched on the problems with the steering column, or the window switches that dont work because the entire panel simply fell out of the drivers side door one day.

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  Our second lemon! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Our SECOND LEMON!!! - April 23 - 2:40 am

  First we had R350. Gave that back w/in 1st mo.-too many probs w/transmission, thumping noise in rear when going over bumps, back hatch, & electrical probs. Upgraded 2 R500. Trans/electrical/back hatch (even after replacment)/srs sys/ nav sys & more! Car has keyless go-it started without a key twice! Several times after backing up, verifying car was in drive position, I pressed gas to go forward but car went backwards. Automatic trans.& rolls backwds like manual going up hills. Auto shifting between gears is jerky. It lurches forward when stepping on brake. Its been lemon lawed. People say "bad luck". No-bad car! Roadside assist. Came out 2 me 3 different times in 3 bad r350 loaners! Save yourself trouble

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  Huge gas saving - 2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By R Class Limo - April 20 - 7:06 pm

  Mercedes built and Mercedes quality! So far I have driven this vehicle 20K miles (city & highway) and am getting an average of 25 mpg. Why we are not adopting diesel technology here in the USA is beyond me, makes much more sense than the Hybrid which can never be economical for the larger vehicle until the battery technology is radically improved. Mercedes service is expensive, they sell the bluetec additive at $50/gal, the same solution (same ISO#) can be bought at Pilot truck stops for $6/gal?

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  Great luxury family car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By R350 new owner - April 19 - 1:40 am

  The interior is one of the most luxurious; the exterior needs to grow on you (my wife loves). The $5000 off invoice unadvertised special makes it the best buy. Handling and noise level are great. Maybe some of the options should be standard. Overall, great family car to drive if you dont want a minivan or the full size SUV.

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  You Bought a What? - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By guyspat - March 28 - 4:16 am

  Telling friends and family about this car is difficult but once they see it or ride in it they are impressed. In fact, I get looks of disbelief when I tell them that it is a diesel.

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  Keep it around - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By brubon - February 20 - 12:50 pm

  This is the best Mercedes on the highhway for comfort and drivability. Plenty of room inside for 6 adults comfortably, and as fuel efficient as my old Acura MDX...and its a V8. Great vehicle.