R350 Bluetec in the Market

One look at Mercedes' 2010 sales numbers is all you need to understand the R-Class' niche status. In a year when the automaker's midsize M-Class and full-size GL-Class SUVs sold around 30,000 and 20,000 copies, respectively, approximately 3,000 R-Class models left the lot. It's a stark example of the SUV's staying power in the U.S. market.

That said, if you're considering a luxury SUV but might be willing to step outside the SUV box, you'll probably find more to like in the R-Class than you think. It's an eminently sensible SUV alternative — especially if you never venture off-road.

    See also:

    DISTRONIC PLUS displays in the multifunction display
    General notes You can select the distance display in the Assistance menu  of the onboard computer. Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated •► Select the Distance Display functio ...

    Smaller tank, same range
    Because the new Mercedes CLS models consume significantly less fuel, it has been possible to reduce the filling volume of the fuel tank in the four and six-cylinder models to 59 litres. The 80-lit ...

    Maximum load rating
    WARNING Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver's door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can ove ...