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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  I Love it but the gas! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Busy Mom - January 4 - 8:00 pm

  I bought this vehicle to accommodate my family of 5 and that it has done! Elegant look, smooth ride, and the space/seating capacity keeps the kids from fighting. The only issue I have had with this crossover is the gas mileage. It seems I am always at the gas station! We have to stop between our frequent team practices, and I often have to stop for gas several times during the week for work and extra curricular activities. This is a real drag. And we now have to plan a gas stop into our travel time when planning out our routines. This is no fun and it takes the pleasure out of driving this family dream machine.

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  R350 - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Potomac,MD - October 12 - 8:26 pm

  Too bad some missing basics are extra cost options. The MB DVD navation system rates a 1 compare to Lexus which I rate as an 8. I got a great discount for a brand new model. My guess is that with gas prices being as high as they are, this model will be a slow mover. Ride is much firmer than I expected. Again I compare to the Lexus GX470. My wife hates the way it looks from the outside. She loves the interior. These are all first impressions. Im sure well both grow to love this car. BTW, the state of MD registers this "car" as a "truck".

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  The Reign of Diesels - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Oilburner - July 2 - 1:16 pm

  There is some turbo lag until 2000rpms. Transmission shifts sluggishly when using comfort mode. Sport mode is a notable improvement. Past 2000rpm, the R Diesel launches into a breath depriving shove! It will surprise nearby motorists. 398ft-lbs does make a difference. Try test driving the V8 gas version, see for yourself. Suspension and handling is typical MBenz firm but no a racer. Transmission shifter takes a while to get used to. Tried it on cold icy highway conditions. Computer stability and traction programs do work in a very subtle way.

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  Upgrade to 5.0 litre - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Dan - June 16 - 10:30 pm

  Drove both versions before deciding on the 5.0 liter. The 3.5 was sluggish, and lacked responsiveness when it was called upon for sudden acceleration. Not as prominent in larger engine. Some body roll on corners, but not too bad. Steering isnt that responsive. Comfortable ride, reliable car. Shifting is smooth unless car is called upon to accelerate (as noted above). Gear shifter is unique (one day, someone will put this car into reverse by accident thinking that theyre putting it into park). A pleasure to ride in, better than a standard SUV. Quiet ride. Controls all in good spots. Good in snow.

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  Underrated Great Family Crossover - 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By yetialan - April 21 - 10:46 am

  Pro’s: I had an BMW X3 and drove the X5 along with the MDX the MB had the smoothest ride, best safety features (BMW doesn’t have third row curtin airbags), 3 rows of seating and the greatest comfort in the third row. Pricing was excellent got almost 16K off a brand new 08 and low 66 month 2.9% financing. Everything top of the line quality, metal feels thick strong and confident on the road. MB originally wanted to sell these in 06 for 60-80K. This was built to be a great cruiser like the s class. Feels like the s class and the panoramic roof is incredible. Cons: Navi not easy to use

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  Almost perfec except for the engine noise - 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Kenny - February 10 - 4:00 pm

  This is an excellent crossover, which Mercedes named it the "Grand Sports Tourer" uniquely classified-like no other. Lets start with exterior and will work our way to the interior. Got the Premium Package 1 includes: panorama sunroof, automatic rear pop- out windows, dual shade sunvisors, pwr tailgate, TeleAid, harman/kardon Logic7 sound system, rear audio controls, Sirius satellite radio, hands-free communication system - bluetooth adapter..awesome clarity. Superb ride and comfort but the engine while inside the cabin was a bit loud and more noticeable but overall the R350 gets two thumbs up from me.

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  Excellent Car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Hybro - June 2 - 7:30 pm

  This Is an amazing car and we just love our Mercedes Benz R500. You wont believe how comfy it is.

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  Lemon - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Matt - May 28 - 5:03 am

  We leased the car in Feb. We have had nothing but problems. The lifters in the engine had to be replaced because the engine knocked.They didnt fix it and they wanted to replace the blocks. The transmission wouldnt shift right. They had to replace the fuel lines which took forever becuase they came from Germany. They finally are taking the car back. I dont think all Mercedes vehicles are bad but you get lemons in anything. We bought this one because our last Mercedes S400 was totalled in a flood after we owned it for a month. We must be destined not to own a Mercedes . Still liked the styling of the car, the comfort and versitility.

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  Luxury on the road - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Purchased used - January 19 - 8:20 am

  We purchased a lease return vehicle, replacing a Volvo XC90. The MB is pure luxury in nature. Although the controls are more complicated, the features are second to none. Everyone remarks about the car when were out and about. At first I thought it was overpriced, but the feel while in the car shows that it is indeed well designed and confortable. We have two 15 year old boys that are 6 feet tall, and the room in the 2nd row sold us on the vehicle. They have lots of room and dont realize they are in a car, even on long trips. Heated 2nd row seats were also a selling point as we live in a cold climate, but have only had front heated seats available before. We are very happy with it.

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  Very good family vehicle but... - 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
  By Van - September 17 - 11:36 pm

  The R500 is a very good family vehicle. It does seat 6 normal sized adults comfortably. The ride is smooth and quiet similar to Lexus (of which Ive owned two). For the size of the car, it handles very well and has plenty of pep with the 5L engine. On the other hand, the build quality is suspect. In the first week we had it, we had to replace an O-ring. Now, were having problems with the automatic lift gate - sometimes it closes completely, sometimes it doesnt. Weve sometimes had to close it 5 or 6 times before it will shut all the way. Now the car is starting to pull to the right - prob. an alignment problem. Also, one of the bulbs on the tailgate light has burned out.