Mercedes Benz

R-Class

A larger than life multi-purpose vehicle, the Mercedes R-Class combines performance and space to offer the versatility of a family vehicle with the excitement of an executive model. Packed to bursting with quality design features and technology, it can be deceptively powerful.

Test Drive

Mercedes-Benz R-Class 320L CDi SE

All Mercedes fans are familiar with the A-Class, the B-Class and the C-Class, but not that many people know much about the R-Class and to be perfectly blunt, they are missing out.

You see, the latest sports tourer from Mercedes-Benz is quite a vehicle. Part estate car, part saloon and even part multi-purpose vehicle, versatility is certainly the name of the game here and believe me, this car is very versatile.

Boasting awesome power and incredible driving finesse, the R-Class is great fun to drive and is crammed to the roof with state-of-the-art technology and class-leading safety features.

There are three rows of seats and back row occupants are actually treated to some space in this vehicle unlike in other models where a crow bar and tin opener are essential tools needed to get passengers in and out.

These rear seats are easily folded flat and that increases the already impressive load capacity considerable.

First impressions once you take your seat behind the wheel are very good and the list of creature comforts are immediately apparent with a multi-functional steering wheel with levers coming off in all directions.

That means without taking your hands from the wheel you can control functions such as the gear changes, cruise control, wipers, indicators and much more.

In and around town the driver is treated to excellent all-round visibility and despite its size, the R-Class is deceptively agile and nimble in built-up traffic. Then out on the open road the vehicle bursts into life and the seven-speed automatic transmission adds to the overall smoothness of the ride.

Mercedes has fitted a plethora of safety features which includes anti-lock brakes, electronic traction, stability programme, tyre pressure monitors, a reinforced bodywork and numerous airbags, along with an excellent security package to keep unwanted attention at bay.

All in all, a great vehicle and one that has put the Mercedes R on the map… or should that be aah!