2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class gains a new diesel powerplant. This slow-selling wagon is the larger of Mercedes' two midsize SUVs. It shares its basic design with the M-Class and offers seating for up to seven passengers. R-Class is also about 12 inches longer in wheelbase and 15 inches longer overall than the M-Class.

Two models are offered. The R350 has a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine. The rear-wheel-drive R350 model has been dropped. The R320 BlueTEC replaces the R320 CDI. R320 BlueTEC is AWD only and has a 210-hp 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 and run-flat tires. All R-Class models have a 7-speed automatic transmission. Seating is available as a 2-2-2 arrangement, with folding 2nd-row bucket seats and a folding 50/50 split 3rd-row bench. A 2nd-row bench is available for seven-passenger capacity. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front and rear side airbags. A sunroof is newly standard for 2009, along with Mercedes' PRE-SAFE safety system that senses an impending collision and tightens the seatbelts and moves the front passenger seat to a safer position. PRE-SAFE also closes an open sunroof if a rollover is detected. DVD entertainment is also available, as is a new audio unit with voice control that combines a wireless cell-phone link, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, HD radio, 6-disc CD/DVD changer, MP3 connectivity, and a hard drive that can store 4 gigabytes of digital music files.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.

Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Infiniti FX and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The Chrysler Aspen adds a gas/electric hybrid model, and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and R-Class add a new diesel powerplant, as does the Volkswagen Touareg 2.