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:

    Installing the towing eye
    Vehicles with a trailer tow hitch: if possible, secure the towing device on the trailer tow hitch. – Remove the towing eye required for frontal or rear coupling from the vehicle tool kit. The ...

    Body: high energy absorption in the event of a front impact
    The extremely robust occupant compartment of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, together with the front and rear deformation zones, forms an effective basis for the occupant protection system. The focus o ...

    Transfer case
    This section is only valid for vehicles with 4-wheel drive (4MATIC). Power is always transmitted to both axles. Performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. The brake ...