2006-2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: Road Test

Both basic models--R350 and R500--accelerate briskly, but the V8 delivers more thrust in all conditions. Even though the transmission is compelled to upshift and downshift more frequently in the R350 than the R500, its shifts are silky smooth. Some testers have noted that the transmission in one test R350 periodically suffered jerky gear changes at low speeds. The R320 CDI suffers brief delay in power delivery from a standing start, but then accelerates briskly. Fuel economy is comparable to other Mercedes-Benz models. A test R350 averaged 17.6 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Gasoline engines require premium-grade fuel. The R320 CDI demands low-sulfur diesel fuel. In terms of ride quality, the R-Class is admirably comfortable and rewardingly composed. The available air suspension has Comfort, Sport, and Automatic settings. In Sport setting, the ride becomes uncomfortably choppy, while Comfort mode leads to some wallow and float. R-Class models handle more like station wagons than SUVs. Steering is impressively linear and accurate, though some drivers may prefer a weightier feel. Able to take corners with impressive grip and balance, the R-Class suffers no excess body lean. Strong stopping power is matched by outstanding brake-pedal modulation. Quietness is a virtue, led by luxury-car levels of road- and wind-noise suppression. The V6 engine is heard more than the smooth V8, but is otherwise no less refined in sound or feel. The turbodiesel engine in the R320 CDI sounds louder in this installation than in E- and M-Class models, with clatter that's intrusive during acceleration and noticeable at idle and while cruising. Dashboards contain an upscale blend of businesslike gauges and sophisticated but easy-to-use dashboard controls. Large, well-marked climate dials deserve special acclaim. Using the short column lever to change gears may seem strange initially. That lever falls easily to hand, but returns to the same position after each shift. So, the driver must monitor gear selection as indicated on the instrument-panel screen. Mercedes' navigation system absorbs most audio functions, and requires multiple steps for some basic tasks. Mounted low, the display screen requires a long glance away from the road to read. Interior materials are notably rich in look, feel, and quality. Roomy front seats are supportive for cruising and cornering, though the Comfort Package's 10-way seats have a tacked-on control pod that intrudes on leg space and also looks out of place. Entry/exit is easy via large doors and no-stress step-in height. Rear space is plentiful, too. Six-footers have abundant second-row head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space. Blending fine support and soft padding, the second-row seats slide forward and tilt up for entry/exit to the third-row seat, which is roomy enough for two six-foot adults. Actually, it's more comfortable than rear seats in most midsize SUVs, though larger passengers may wish for more shoulder room. Extra-large rear doors ease entry/exit to the second row, but third-row access requires some awkward maneuvering. Second- and third-row seats recline and fold easily to lay flush with the floor, providing nearly 8 feet of storage space. Unfortunately, the available second-row console protrudes above seatbacks. Liftover is low for easy cargo loading. Deep door pockets and multi-chambered first- and second-row consoles provide abundant small-item storage.

Value for the Money
R-Class models earn our Recommended rating for the way they combine Mercedes-Benz luxury and driving dynamics with minivanlike utility. Though not inexpensive, new or used, the R-Class' ability to transport six adults in executive-jet comfort is unparalleled in this class.