2011 mercedes benz R350 bluetec rear controls2

The R-class's face-lift definitely makes it blend better with the rest of the M-B lineup, although this type of vehicle is still an anomaly for the brand. That said, it's a very capable people hauler, especially for minivan-resisters who crave some luxury and badge prestige. The rear doors are very large and make ingress and egress incredibly easy, especially for loading small children. Those doors have nothing on a minivan's sliders, though, for both practicality and convenience, particularly in the tight quarters of a parking lot.

The BlueTec engine adds an element of economy for just $1500 more than the gasoline-powered R350. Over some 600 journalist-driven miles, the trip computer reported an average of 24 mpg, which is quite impressive.

Rusty Blackwell,Copy Editor

2011 Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTec

Base price (with destination):$52,615

Price as tested:$68,260

Standard Equipment:

3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V-6 engine

7-speed automatic transmission

19-inch alloy wheels

4-wheel disc brakes with ABS

Self leveling air suspension

Power tilt/sliding glass sunroof

Dual-zone automatic climate control

Comand system

In-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer

Bluetooth connectivity

Cruise control

Rain-sensing wipers

Electronic stability program

Trailer stabilization system

Anti-slip regulation

Tire pressure monitoring system

Options on this vehicle:

Premium 2 package -- $6050

Harman/kardon Logic7 surround sound system

Keyless Go

Rearview camera

Sirius satellite radio

4GB hard drive

Power steering column

Power liftgate

iPod/MP3 media interface

HD digital radio

Auto-dimming mirrors

Voice control

Rear seat entertainment system -- $1950

Three zone automatic climate control -- $1450

Panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade -- $1090

Lighting package -- $985

Headlamp cleaning system

Bi-Xenon headlamps

LED daytime running lights

Parktronic -- $800

Heated front seats -- $750

Steel greay exterior paint -- $720

Mbrace -- $660

Blind spot assist -- $600

Wood/leather multifunction steering wheel -- $590

Key options not on vehicle:

7 passenger seating -- $690

Trailer hitch -- $550

Fuel economy:

(city/hwy/combined)

18 / 25 / 22 mpg

Engine:

Size:3.0L DOHC turbocharged diesel V-6

Horsepower:210 hp @ 3800 rpm

Torque:400 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm

Drive:Four-wheel

Transmission:7-speed automatic

Curb weight:5203 lb

Wheels/tires:19 x 8.0-inch aluminum wheels