2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is largely unchanged. 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 7 passengers. R-Class is also about 12 inches longer in wheelbase and 15 inches longer overall than the M-Class.

Two models are offered, both with standard all-wheel drive. The R350 has a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. The R350 BlueTEC has a 210-horsepower 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 and run-flat tires. All R-Class models have a 7-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. 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 7-passenger capacity. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags. A sunroof is standard, 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 an 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 Acura MDX, Acura ZDX, Cadillac SRX, Land Rover LR4, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Lexus GX 460, Lexus RX, and Lincoln MKT. The BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Porsche Cayenne add a gas/electric hybrid model to their lineups for 2010.