2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

Diesel Power
If you wish more good diesel engines were available in the U.S. and you don't try a 2012 R350 BlueTEC you're part of the problem. This great engine proves the viability of the right diesel in the right machine.

Second-Row Seating
We can't tell you what a joy it is to see second-row seats with such comfort and adjustability. Anything that can be done to reduce acrimony and complaint from the back is a good thing in our eyes.

Interior design and amenities in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class are top notch. The cabin is spacious, as are the second- and third-row seats. Rear-seat passengers have seat adjustments, cup holders and an optional dual-screen DVD player. Elegant wood trim along with the well-integrated monitor of the COMAND system goes a long way toward keeping Mom and Dad sane.

Some may find the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class' angular hatch unappealing, particularly taken in context with the elegant swooping rooflines of other Mercedes models. Then again, when the kids' (and your neighbors' kids') and their hockey gear is loaded up, you may not mind so much.

The upgraded V6 in the 2012 R350 4MATIC helps alleviate some issues with power relative to weight load in the previous model. Also a little extra horsepower never hurts. The diesel remains an outstanding option for fuel economy without feeling bereft of all acceleration and engine response.

3.5-liter V6
302 horsepower @ 6,500
258 lb-ft torque @ 2,400-5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21

3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel
210 horsepower @ 3,400 rpm
400 lb-ft torque @ 1,600-2400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/23

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 4MATIC has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $52,700, while the R350 BlueTEC diesel has an MSRP of just under $54,000. Fully loaded the R-Class can top $60,000. Be sure to visit kbb.com to see our Fair Purchase Price, which shows what others in your area paying. It's tough to find vehicles that compete directly with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 4MATIC as most are either more truck-like or more car-like than the R-Class. In its price range you'll find SUVs such as the Lexus' GX 460. The R-Class' resale value hasn't held up as well as other Mercedes models, but the growing demand for economy, along with the scarcity of diesel-powered autos in the U.S. might help float used R350 prices in the coming years. To help make sure that the new-car deal you're considering is a good one, be sure to check out kbb.com's Fair Purchase Price, to see what others in your area paying for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class.

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