2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

With a more streamlined profile than most sport utility vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz 2008 R-Class combines some of the attributes of a minivan and tall wagon, with a roomy, luxurious interior that has seating for up to seven. It still retains some of the rugged running gear of an SUV.

R-Class models either come with rear-wheel drive or the 4MATIC road-oriented all-wheel-drive system that includes special functions for downhill driving and starting out uphill (Hill Start Assist). This system normally has a 50/50 torque split but can bring more power to the front or rear wheels as needed. The four-wheel independent suspension and rack-and-pinion steering afford a smooth ride and sharp, carlike handling.

The R350 comes with the 268-horsepower, 3.5L V6 engine that's used throughout much of the Mercedes-Benz line. Also available is the R320 CDI model, which includes a 3.0L, direct-injection, turbocharged diesel V6 engine making 215 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. With ratings of 18 mpg city, 24 highway, the diesel enables the larger and heavier R-Class to get fuel economy that rivals gasoline-powered minivans.

All R-Class models come fully equipped as luxury touring vehicles, with standard dual-zone climate control, heated mirrors, Birdseye maple trim, a SmartKey locking and entry system, and an eight-speaker, MP3-compatible sound system with auxiliary input. There's also an optional panoramic sunroof that extends over rear occupants. An adaptive damping system (ADS) is also optional.

All the safety features that would be expected in a large people mover are standard. The first and second rows get side air bags, but there are also side-curtain air bags extending to all three rows. Stability control and anti-lock brakes with brake assist are also standard.

Top options include a harman/kardon Logic7 sound system, tri-zone climate control, the Parktronic parking aid, Distronic smart cruise control. DVD-based navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment package.
For 2008, rear-wheel-drive is available on the R350, allowing for a slightly smaller entry price of $41,900. The high-performance R500 and R63 AMG versions have been discontinued. Newly optional on all R-Classes is three-passenger second row seating, making it possible to seat seven. Outside, standard AMG body touches and 18-inch wheels add a sporty panache.
Unique body style; very roomy interior with space for up to seven; comfort and luxury.
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a roomy vehicle and an unusual, luxurious alternative to either a minivan or sport utility vehicle. Overall, it's one of the best vehicles for transporting a large number of people (up to seven) in comfort. A newly available rear-wheel-drive version and the discontinuation of the high-performance R500 and R63 AMG versions render the R-Class strictly a luxury people-mover. The R320 CDI, with its efficient turbo-diesel engine, promises to be as efficient as a minivan at the pump.