Review: Mercedes-Benz R 320 CDI SEL

If ever there was a "star choice" model it has to be the R 320 CDI. The powerful three-litre V6 is a superb oil burner - smooth, quiet and good for an average 31mpg. On the road it handles the long-wheelbase R's bulk with little strain. There's a gruff engine note under hard acceleration, but at all other times the 224bhp unit with its 376lb/ft of torque is subdued and flexible. Maximum pulling power is available from just 1600rpm and peaks at 2800rpm - that gives the four-wheel drive monster brisk overtaking ability and an impressive 8.8 seconds for the 0-62mph sprint.

Mercedes will not sell many crossover R-Class people carriers, but a trend is being set for others to follow. Big, bulky and as spacious as an aircraft hangar, it's hardly a thing of beauty, but the R-Class is impeccably built and on the cusp of an entirely new sector.

The UK market is expected to consume no more than 2500 in a year, and of them 70% will be long-wheelbase versions, with 60% powered by Mercedes' outstanding R320 CDI turbo diesel. All R-Class models have 4Matic four-wheel drive and 7G-Tronic automatic seven-speed gearboxes. It's a match made in heaven and creates a six-seat luxury express which is part SUV, part 4x4 performance coupé and part estate.

Full review here

MercBasher - 3/12/2006 9:03:02 PM

+1 Boost

What's with the lacklustre sales of the R Class in the US. M-B is offering dealer incentives of $5,000 per vehicle, and some R class vehicles are for sale at almost $10K off MSRP. What gives?, this is a newly introduced vehicle.

Is it because the thing is butt-ugly, or because its like the Chrysler Pacifica only twice the price?

driverAlex - 3/16/2006 8:26:15 PM

+1 Boost

I truely dislike this car. I find it unattractive from virtually every angle, especially from the front, and its WAY overpriced considering its competition is predominantly the Chrysler Pacifica, Subaru B9 Tribeca, and the like. The reason no German Giant or Japanese Luxury brand has any competition for the R-Class is b/c there IS NO MARKET FOR IT. Who wants to be seen in a minivan these days? I think that MB could improve on the car slightly by slapping on some roof rails, and redesigning the grill to resemble the CLS. Otherwise, MB should cut its losses and discontinue this ugly, overpriced, sport utility mini van.