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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  The Only All-In-One Vehicle Youll Need! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By JoyRen - November 13 - 8:36 pm

  We have one child and another on the way. We owned a Cherokee & a G35. We decided the two cars were unnecessary. We had been looking at XC90, Pilot, Odyssey, X5, ML, etc. We werent planning on buying until the Spring or Summer, but after visiting the MB showroom we were so impressed by the R and the fantastic end of year incentives, we bought it. It costs me less per month than my G35 did! The R is wonderful and a perfect replacement for both my old cars. Home Depot trip? Drop all the seats and I have more room than in the jeep (I use a heavy duty blanket to protect). We love road trips and have big families. Perfect for long excursions. MB Safety. My family loves the R.

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  Almost perfect - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By rickkiboi - October 19 - 6:26 pm

  I love this vehicle! Also own an 02 C240 & an 06 ML350. This is an all- out luxury people mover! Comfortable and roomy front and 2nd row seating, 3rd row is great too if youre 6ft and under. Performance is very good, and is great if you learn to use the "finger- shifter" on the steering wheel. Very fun to drive short or long distance. Fuel economy is not bad considering its weight and very quiet smooth ride. At first sight some say "mini-van." This is truly a cross between an SUV and wagon...havent meet an R-Class owner yet who deems this a "MV." The more you look, the more you like. Interior appointments are that of the ML than say a sedan. Clearly Mercedes built!

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  First 1000 Miles ( True Highway Cruiser) - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Happy Owner - September 13 - 6:16 pm

  We just completed our first road trip in our new Mercedes R500. Our experience with the vehicle has been outstanding. We traded in a 2004 Acura MDX because we needed more rear seat space and the R500 clearly delivers. It motors the six of us comfortably and safely. We actually went to the dealership to look at the new GL 450 but were impressed with the size and quality of the R500. Our R500 drives and handles solidly and is good in town and on the highway. Since picking up our R500 we have averaged 17.1 mpg in combined driving and got just over 20 mpg on the highway in Sport Mode. We have only seen one other Mercedes R- Class on the road since purchasing ours almost two weeks ago.

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  A Tour DeForce - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Kirk Bryan - September 4 - 9:50 pm

  I bought this with 70,000 miles and it drives like new. The comfort is incredible. The multicontour seats fit like a glove. The armrests and steering wheel are in the perfect position. The head rest doesnt push my head down to my chest like all the new cars do. The sound system is the best I have ever heard. I keep finding more features to use. The mileage better than most smaller v6 SUVs. None of the problems some people talk about. Too bad the economy forces me to sell it.

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  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!!!!

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  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.

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  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!

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  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.

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  Terrific Vehicle - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Jeff - January 9 - 10:33 pm

  This vehicle is better than advertised. Its ride is very smooth with power when its needed. It handles well and has a tighter turning radius than expected. For the size of vehicle, the MPG is pretty good. Seats are very comfortable, especially the 2nd row seats -plenty of room. Our R-Class has plenty of options and it will take some time to learn, but it hasnt been too hard so far. Price was somewhat high, but not too far above some SUVs and lower than luxury SUVs. Meets our needs for a family of 5 extremely well and I highly recommend it for other families of similar size.

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  Enjoyed this car very much - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Brian in Fort Wayne - December 24 - 1:40 am

  Leased this car for 27 months and I was initially skeptical that I would like this car/suv/wagon. I very quickly learned to really like this vehicle. Quiet, roomy, decent performance and mileage.