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15th
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Summary
The Mercedes-Benz R350, which falls somewhere between an SUV and a minivan, has yet to find its way into the hearts and minds of consumers, with just 515 units being delivered in 2012. In spite of its gargantuan size, it's supposedly easy to manoeuver and quite agile, and has been described as such by numerous automotive journalists.
Pros
Prestigious people-hauler, exceptionally quiet ride.
Cons
Expensive maintenance, dull interior, uninspired silhouette
Price
The MSRP starts at $58,900. If you like to garnish your vehicles as you would a pizza, beware that additional toppings can run the price up above the $75,000 range.
Fuel Economy
Ratings for this vehicle are 11.7 L/100 city and 8.2 L/100 km highway.
New and Improved
No major changes, certain option packages have been modified.
Exterior Styling
What we have here is a minivan trying to hide its true nature by using regular side doors instead of sliding-doors. The Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC has a linear, uninspiring shape. The Mercedes badge on the front grille might be the only reason that it can be excused for trying to masquerade as something else than what it seems to be, a minivan.
Cargo Capacity
The R350 BlueTEC cargo volume ranges from 295 litres to 2,385 litres with reclined seats.
Drivetrain
Turbocharged 3.0 litreV6 that produces 210 hp and 400 lb-ft torque.
Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: 5/5
Frontal collision test score: 5/5
Airbags: 6
Tip
If you've considered buying a used R Class vehicle you better be prepared for the high maintenance costs. With so few models on the road, the supply of used and re-conditioned parts will certainly be scarce.
Comparable Models
'Green' models: Toyota Highlander hybrid
Others: Audi Q7, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Acura MDX
References:
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013
Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)
The Mercedes-Benz R350, which falls somewhere between an SUV and a minivan, has yet to find its way into the hearts and minds of consumers, with just 515 units being delivered in 2012. In spite of its gargantuan size, it's supposedly easy to manoeuver and quite agile, and has been described as such by numerous automotive journalists.
Pros
Prestigious people-hauler, exceptionally quiet ride.
Cons
Expensive maintenance, dull interior, uninspired silhouette
 |
| Photo: Mercedes-Benz |
Price
The MSRP starts at $58,900. If you like to garnish your vehicles as you would a pizza, beware that additional toppings can run the price up above the $75,000 range.
Fuel Economy
Ratings for this vehicle are 11.7 L/100 city and 8.2 L/100 km highway.
New and Improved
No major changes, certain option packages have been modified.
Exterior Styling
What we have here is a minivan trying to hide its true nature by using regular side doors instead of sliding-doors. The Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC has a linear, uninspiring shape. The Mercedes badge on the front grille might be the only reason that it can be excused for trying to masquerade as something else than what it seems to be, a minivan.
Cargo Capacity
The R350 BlueTEC cargo volume ranges from 295 litres to 2,385 litres with reclined seats.
Drivetrain
Turbocharged 3.0 litreV6 that produces 210 hp and 400 lb-ft torque.
Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: 5/5
Frontal collision test score: 5/5
Airbags: 6
Tip
If you've considered buying a used R Class vehicle you better be prepared for the high maintenance costs. With so few models on the road, the supply of used and re-conditioned parts will certainly be scarce.
Comparable Models
'Green' models: Toyota Highlander hybrid
Others: Audi Q7, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Acura MDX
 |
| Photo: Mercedes-Benz |
References:
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013
Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)