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:

    Activating RACE START
    Depress the brake pedal with your left foot, and keep it depressed. Turn the drive program selector clockwise until the RS lamp lights up. The multifunction display shows the RACE START Conf ...

    Fastening seat belts
    WARNING According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed ...

    Important safety notes
    ! When loading the vehicle, make sure that you do not stack the load in the cargo compartment higher than the lower edge of the side windows. Do not place heavy objects on top of the cargo com ...