So what's the final verdict? Styling preferences aside, I find it difficult
to recommend a vehicle that is so difficult to live with. After all, anytime you take a car somewhere, unless for the proverbial Sunday drive, it's to arrive at a destination, which will require parking. Being that this behemoth is one of the widest vehicles on the planet, complicated by extremely long rear doors that open ultra-wide, well, it's pretty well the most inconvenient vehicle I've had to test in eons. What a shame, because it has so many other redeeming features. But don't just take my word for it. Please, take it for a ride. But when you're out on the road enjoying its exceptional power, fine ride, decent handling, and impressive creature comforts, do your due diligence and take it shopping before you charge up the platinum card.
Specifications:
 |
| Think about the R long and hard before committing to it. There are plenty of alternatives out there, including Benz's own E-Class wagon. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Specifications:
- Price Range (R350 - R500 MSRP): $64,400 - $75,950 (fully loaded at $118,306)
- Body Style: 5-door, crossover SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Base Engine: 268-hp, 258 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Optional Engine: 302-hp, 339 lb-ft of torque, 5.0L, 24-valve, SOHC V8
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic with manual mode
- Acceleration (3.5L / 5.0L 0 - 100 km/h): 8.0 / 6.7 seconds
- Exterior Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 5,157 / 2,168 / 1,661 / 3,215 mm (203.0 / 85.4 / 65.4 / 126.6 in)
- Seating Capacity: 7
- Cargo Volume (rear seats upright/folded): 266 / 2,044 L (9.4 / 72.2 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (R350 city/hwy): 14.4 / 10.3 L/100 km
- Fuel Economy (R500 city/hwy): 18.1 / 12.2 L/100 km
- Direct Competitors: Audi Q7, Cadillac SRX, Saab 9-7X, Volvo XC90
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
- Web Site: www.mercedes-benz.ca
Article Gallery