Having transitioned from a 2004 Toyota Sienna LE to a 2010 Mercedes Benz R350BT, it became immediately clear that these are vehicles in different categories. While the Sienna is undeniably a minivan, the R-Class, in my experience, leans more towards a super-sized station wagon, cleverly incorporating two additional seats in what would typically be the trunk space. The Sienna boasts effortless drivability with light steering, a feature appreciated by some for its ease, though it sacrifices steering feedback. It offers a smooth ride and surprising acceleration when needed. However, let’s delve into the specifics of the Mercedes Benz R-Class, weighing the pros and cons based on real-world ownership.
The Upsides of Owning a Mercedes Benz R-Class
1. Exceptional Value for Money: One of the most compelling aspects of the Mercedes Benz R-Class, particularly on the used market, is the significant value it offers. You get a substantial amount of vehicle for your investment, often at a price point that undercuts comparable luxury SUVs or minivans.
2. Powerful and Efficient Diesel Engine: For highway cruising and confident passing, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, the diesel engine option (like the one in my R350BT) proves to be more than adequate. The torque and fuel efficiency of the diesel powerplant are genuinely impressive for a vehicle of this size.
3. Immense Spaciousness: Space is where the R-Class truly shines. The interior is incredibly roomy, offering comfortable seating for up to seven adults. Whether it’s legroom, headroom, or shoulder room, the R-Class provides an abundance of space for all occupants, making it ideal for families or anyone who frequently transports multiple passengers.
4. Rarity and Distinctiveness: In a market saturated with SUVs and crossovers, the Mercedes Benz R-Class stands out due to its relative rarity. It’s not a vehicle you see on every corner, adding a touch of exclusivity and individuality to your ownership experience. This unique presence on the road can be appealing to those who prefer to drive something a bit different.
5. Aesthetically Pleasing Design: While subjective, the R-Class possesses a distinctive and arguably handsome design. Its long, wagon-like silhouette combined with Mercedes-Benz styling cues creates an elegant and sophisticated appearance that sets it apart from more boxy minivans or generic SUVs.
6. Car Wash Efficiency (Surprisingly): This might seem like a humorous point, but the sheer size of the R-Class means you genuinely get your money’s worth at a car wash! It’s a big vehicle, and the thorough cleaning you receive feels more substantial as a result.
7. Impressive Fuel Economy (Diesel Models): Particularly for the diesel models, the fuel economy is surprisingly good for a vehicle of this size and weight. In my experience, the diesel R-Class achieves similar mileage to my previous Toyota Sienna, which is remarkable considering the difference in vehicle type and engine performance.
8. Standard Rear Auto-Leveling Suspension: The inclusion of standard rear auto-leveling suspension is a significant benefit, especially when carrying passengers or cargo in the rear. This feature ensures a comfortable and level ride, regardless of load, enhancing both ride quality and handling.
9. The Legendary Mercedes-Benz Bottle Opener: A quirky but appreciated feature is the industry-leading beer bottle opener integrated into the R-Class as a standard feature. It’s a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s attention to detail and perhaps a nod to the practicality of a vehicle designed for road trips and family adventures.
The Downsides to Consider
1. AdBlue Requirement (Diesel Models from MY2009 onwards): For diesel models starting from the 2009 model year, the Mercedes Benz R-Class requires AdBlue, a diesel exhaust fluid necessary for reducing emissions. This adds a minor extra step in maintenance and fluid management compared to older diesel models or gasoline vehicles.
2. Limited Trunk Space: Despite its overall size, the trunk space in the R-Class can be considered small, especially when all seven seats are in use. The third-row seats, when deployed, significantly eat into cargo capacity. This might be a drawback for those who frequently need to haul large amounts of luggage or gear.
3. Run-Flat Tires (RFT) on Some Diesel MY2009 Models: Some 2009 diesel models came equipped with run-flat tires (RFT). While RFTs offer the benefit of being able to drive for a short distance after a puncture, they often come with a harsher ride and can be more expensive to replace. However, this is easily remedied by switching to a set of regular tires and carrying a TIREFIT kit or spare tire.
Nitpicking – Minor Annoyances:
4. No One-Touch Closing for Panoramic Roof Shades: A minor inconvenience is the lack of one-touch closing for the panoramic roof shades. It requires holding the button until fully closed, which can be a slight annoyance for some.
5. Parktronic System Can Be Slow: The Parktronic parking assist system can sometimes feel a bit slow in its response time compared to more modern systems. This isn’t a major issue, but it’s worth noting for those accustomed to quicker parking assistance technology.
6. AdBlue Swishing Noise (Diesel Models): In diesel models, if the AdBlue tank is around half-empty, you might occasionally hear a swishing noise from the fluid moving around in the tank. This is normal but can be noticeable to some drivers.
7. Slower Acceleration in “C” Mode: In “Comfort” (C) mode, the acceleration can feel noticeably slower compared to “Sport” (S) mode. This is by design to prioritize fuel efficiency and smoother driving in Comfort mode, but it’s something to be aware of if you prefer quicker acceleration at all times.
8. Not a Flat Load Floor When Seats Folded: When the rear seats are folded down, they do not create a completely flat load floor. There is a slight step or incline, which might be a minor inconvenience when loading very long or bulky items.
9. High Trunk Floor: The trunk floor is positioned a bit high, which can make lifting heavy items into and out of the trunk slightly more challenging compared to vehicles with lower load floors.
10. HID Headlights as DRL in Canadian Models: For Canadian models, the HID headlights function as Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which some owners find a bit annoying as it reduces the lifespan of the HID bulbs.
The Verdict: Test Drive and Experience It Yourself
Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Mercedes Benz R-Class is the right vehicle for you is to take it for a test drive. Experiencing the R-Class firsthand will address any questions or doubts you might have and allow you to appreciate its unique qualities.
The Mercedes Benz R-Class remains one of the most understated models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It’s a vehicle that truly reveals its greatness to those who spend time driving and owning one. Only then can you fully appreciate its blend of spaciousness, luxury, and unexpected practicality.
Happy car shopping, and remember, you might be subtly encouraged to share pictures of your new car if you decide to join the R-Class owner community!
Best regards,
A fellow R-Class enthusiast.
