Mercedes-Benz R-Class – everything you need to know
Comfort and luxury
So you’re looking for comfort? Look no further! The Mercedes-Benz R-Class does not disappoint. It is by far one of the most comfortable models the German automaker has ever built. It is a pure mile-eater. Know that there the R-Class received a subtle facelift in 2011 with new headlights, a different grille and new bumpers. The interior also received an extensive update at that time.
R-Class in two length variants
Mercedes-Benz sold the R-Class in two length variants: the base version and an extended-wheelbase version. The R-Class was sold in the United States and Canada only with long wheelbase. The R-Class with both standard and extended wheelbase was sold internationally until the end of 2013, with the exception of China, where the long-wheelbase R 320 and R 400 were sold until 2017. The R-Class comes with five, six or even seven seats.
Engines Mercedes-Benz R-Class
The range of motorcycles is extremely diverse, but on the other hand it is also nice and clear. In fact, Mercedes-Benz supplied only gasoline and diesel engines. If there is 4Matic in the name it refers to a four-wheel drive variant. The gasoline types are the R 300 (234 hp), R 350 (272 hp), R 350 4Matic (272 hp), R 350 4Matic BlueEfficiency (306 hp), R 500 4Matic (387 hp) and the R 63 AMG 4Matic (510 hp). Diesel can be had with an R 300 CDI (248 hp, also with 4Matic), R 320 CDI (224 hp, also with 4Matic) and the R 350 CDI 4Matic (265 hp). All engine variants are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission called the 7G-Tronic.
Market was not cooperating
Although sales of the R-Class got off to a good start, sales soon thereafter went downhill. This was due in part to the economic recession of late 2008, early 2009. As a result, sales quickly declined. But there was another reason: the popularity of MPVs such as the R-Class and then Chrysler Pacifica was declining rapidly with the rise of crossovers and SUVs. So the demand for MPVs also declined sharply. That does not mean, however, that the R-Class is a bad car. On the contrary, it is a well-built, extremely comfortable family car. Only time and market were not on their side, as economic setbacks worldwide caused people to hold back.
Advantages and disadvantages of Mercedes-Benz R-Class
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a hefty car, though, so parking is not always convenient. It is also certainly not the lightest car. So count on the necessary road tax. The internal combustion engines are not very economical either. So you really have to be enamored with the design and comfort to choose an R-Class. Did we mention that it is also a spacious car? Because that is absolutely the case!
Manufacturing
The R-Class was produced in Vance, Alabama until 2015. Production was moved to Mishawaka, Indiana for smaller production until 2017. A sequel never appeared. Those who now want a hefty, comfortable family MPV with a star, will rely on the V-Class. Want to know more about any R-Class problems or concerns? Then check ProblemCar’s Mercedes-Benz R-Class Forum.
