New 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

Boasting three rows of seats for up to seven, the versatile 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class large luxury crossover wagon can be used as a people mover and cargo hauler.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is available in all-wheel drive and consists of R350 (formerly R320) gas and diesel trim levels. The R350 is powered by a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, while the R350 diesel is equipped with a 210-horsepower, 3.0-liter Bluetec turbo-diesel V-6, which is 50-state compliant and in its second year after replacing the diesel-powered R320 CDI. Both engines are coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission with auto-manual mode. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings range between 14-18 mpg in the city and 19-24 mpg on the highway, with the Bluetec engine getting better fuel efficiency.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class faces competition from Lexus RX and Cadillac SRX in the luxury crossover wagon segment and is 203 inches long, which is eight inches longer than the Cadillac SRX and nearly 17 inches longer than the Lexus RX. The R350 sits on standard 18-inch wheels, while the R350 diesel rests atop standard 19-inch wheels. Privacy glass and a load-level rear air suspension with normal, comfort and sport modes are standard. Options include roof rails, a Class II trailer hitch and power liftgate.

Inside, a glass panel sunroof with power blinds to protect occupants from the sun is standard, while a double-sized panoramic sunroof with a 5-foot, seven-inch glass panel can be had as an option. High-tech features include an audio and video multimedia system, navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system and satellite radio. With second- and third-row seats folded flat, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class offers 85 cubic feet of cargo volume.

New for 2010, a Post-Safe system automatically unlocks the doors and shuts off the engine and fuel system after an accident. Additional standard safety technologies include a collision-mitigation system, side curtain airbags for all three rows, door-mounted side-impact airbags for front occupants, a rollover sensor that activates seat belt pretensioners and side curtain airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R-Class large luxury crossover wagon offers a clean, efficient Bluetec diesel engine option and the versatility to carry both passengers and cargo.