Mercedes R-Class
The Mercedes Benz R-Class is a full sized MPV, and the first foray into this class by the legendary German automaker. It’s ultra stylish as you’d expect, but is also seriously comfortable and can seat up to 6 people. Marketed as a ‘luxury family tourer’, the Merc will always get you to where you need to go, and does so in total extravagance.
It actually debuted back in 2001 as a concept car, but production didn’t begin until 2005. Since then it has been updated several times, and although sales haven’t been as strong as some other models of Mercedes, it’s still a lavishly viable option. With all the features you’d anticipate on a high quality people carrier, the R-Class also has a 4x4 system as standard, so it kind of blends the best characteristics of MPV and SUV, which is just excellent.
Considerably sleeker and sportier than regular people carriers, the R-Class has a wonderfully clean shape that isn’t bulky in the slightest. It’s fluid, quite slender and has classic Merc characteristics. The fantastic designs are carried over to the inside too, and it’s sumptuous, finished to a high standard and very comfortable. Despite its low profile, there’s actually a lot of cabin space, and the seating is arranged in a 2+2+2 layout that maximises this space fully with no lack of head or leg room. The cockpit is well laid out, with no lack of equipment, and everything comes to hand easily, plus the driving position is nice and high.
You buy a people carrier and expect it to be practical, and the R-Class excels in this area. If the rear seats aren’t in use, they fold away to reveal a huge amount of boot space. Put them all down and it becomes akin to a van that’ll eat up pretty much anything. A wealth of storages areas in the cabin and the fact it’s easy to get in and out of make it an ideal choice for families with money to spend and even executives.
While it might be quite tricky to navigate around town or car parks due to its length, there are all sorts of driver aids like parking sensors to make it easier. Out on the road it sits pretty and has some fantastic levels of grip thanks to its advanced 4x4 system. Good handling, a smooth ride and impressive performance from some big engines (especially the R500 model), it’s everything you’d want from an MPV that regular ones don’t provide.
Being a high class Mercedes, it’s not surprising to discover the R-Class is grossly expensive, but then again it is aimed at wealthier individuals. But who says they get to have all the fun? Buying a pre owned one from Motors.co.uk is the best way to get the most amount of bang for your buck and drive away in an awesome bargain. High quality and low prices make it the perfect place to hook a used Mercedes R-Class with ease.
Clearly then, the Merc is a fantastic MPV that gives you supreme styling, unrivalled comfort and a truly magnificent driving experience. It more than justifies spending a bit extra, because they enjoyment you’ll get out of it is immeasurable. For high flying executives or families who aren’t short on cash, it’s the one to go for. But going down the second hand route means everyone else can get one too.