The 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-class R350 BlueTEC has a 3.0liter BlueTEC turbo diesel V6 engine with seven-speed automatic transmission. It also includes a 4MATIC all-wheel drive with the standard electronic stability system. In terms of performance and handling, the R350 BlueTEC is supported by paddle shifters, four-wheel independent suspension with rear level control and four-wheel electronic traction system. The interior is packed with lavish amenities like spacious three-row seating, a premium leather four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, power front seats with lumbar support for the driver, power tilt, a sliding sunroof, privacy glass, COMAND navigation system, 6-disc DVD/CD changer, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Traffic systems, Gracenote Media Database, enhanced voice control and hands-free Bluetooth technology for mobile phone connectivity.
In terms of the safety and security standards that Mercedes-Benz is known for, reviews are also positive. Safety systems in place are 12-way airbag protection, PRE-SAFE, POST-SAFE, advanced tire pressure monitoring, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system, NECK-PRO front head restraints, hill-start assist and brake assist, trailer stability assist, anti-theft alarm system, and emergency tensioning devices. There are also additional packages that can be bought on top of the base model. The Premium 1 package comes with iPod/MP3 media interface, power liftgate, rear-view camera, automatic dimming mirrors, power front seats that feature driver seat memory, power tilt and telescoping steering column and a household type 115V power outlet. The Premium 2 Package includes everything in the first premium package plus KEYLESS-GO system and a Harman/kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound with Dolby Digital. There is also a Lighting Package that upgrades the base model with bi-xenon headlamps and heated headlamp washer. Without any additional packages or accessories, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-class R350 BlueTEC is sold at $53,840. That is comparatively expensive compared to many of the crossover SUVs on the market today.