It's what's inside that counts
Once inside, however, most passengers are unlikely to complain about their surroundings. We're hard pressed to recall a minivan so luxuriously appointed - a situation for which we can thank the optional Premium Package 2.
The $8000 package includes such gizmos as parking sensors, a rear-view camera, a Harmon-Kardon surround-sound system, and three-zone automatic climate control. Our R320 was also fitted with Tele Aid ($650), keyless entry and ignition ($1130), and a rear-seat entertainment package ($1000). The latter, which adds a pair of eight-inch LCD screens to the front seatbacks, lets second-row passengers watch DVDs or play video games. Third-seat passengers can enjoy the panoramic sunroof ($1050), which lets them enjoy their surroundings to the fullest.
Even without these luxuries, the R320's interior is still well built, using materials that are nicely grained and relatively soft to the touch.
Bluetec Buzz
Still, those aspects of the R320 have not significantly changed over the past six years - it's what's under the hood that has. Though much of the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 is carried over from the outgoing R320 CDI, the 2009 model is the first application of Mercedes' latest Bluetec emissions system. In the R320, ML320, and GL320 Bluetec SUVs that means using an active approach at controlling nitrous oxide exhaust emissions.
After passing exhaust gasses through two catalytic converters and a particulate filter, a liquid urea solution (which Mercedes calls AdBlue) is injected into the exhaust. As a result of the urea's ammonia, nitrous oxide molecules are then converted to water and nitrogen. According to Mercedes, the process is capable of converting up to 88 percent of all nitrous oxide emissions.
Owners shouldn't worry too much about the process. Contrary to the images its name may imply, the urea within AdBlue carries no scent, and owners won't have to fuss with it, anyways - dealers will top-off the tank during scheduled maintenance sessions.
The Diesel Drive
The BlueTec system may be a new addition to the 3.0-liter V-6, but its torque and economy are more notable. Although the V-6's power drops to 210 hp for 2009, it still produces a whopping 389 lb-ft of torque at 1650 rpm.
That's a considerable amount of pulling power, and it does well moving the 4940-lb R320. It's also able to deliver some impressive fuel economy: The EPA rates the R320 at 18/24 mpg city/highway, but we averaged between 22 and 24 mpg in our daily commutes around town.
What the engine doesn't deliver, however, is the 'sport' implied by 'sports tourer.' Mercedes claims the R320's 0-60 mph time is a mere 8.6 seconds, but the crossover doesn't feel fast, even in 'sport' mode. Perhaps that's just as well - we most enjoyed our time in the R-class when both the seven-speed automatic transmission and the Airmatic suspension were set in 'comfort' modes ...next page >>