Is it a van? An SUV? Or just a big station wagon? Those are some reactions from people when they see that experience as a 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class for the first time.

The Mercedes Benz R-Class is a crossover with features borrowed minivans, SUVs, and even the coaches. Debut in 2005 as a 2006 model, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is currently in the first generation, and underwent a refresh last year, when it received a new grille, hood and other front-end design elements. The back had a similar treatment, while the interior received an update, especially the dashboard and center console design elements. Changes for this model year include a more sophisticated engine technology and additional features.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a people carrier and able to sit comfortably with six people including the driver. Seating for up to seven passengers is an optional feature. Two models are offered: the Mercedes-Benz R350 4Matic and the Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC. Both come with many standard features like sunroof and premium faux-leather (MB-Tex) with respect to the seats. Two premium option packages to add navigation and high-end sound systems, while the Sport Package adds 20-inch wheels.

Body style: crossover

Engines: 3.5-liter V-6, 3.0-liter diesel V-6

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Models: Mercedes Benz R350 4Matic, Mercedes Benz R350 BlueTEC 4Matic

The most significant change to the Mercedes-Benz R-Class for model year 2012 is the 3.5-liter V-6 to the R350 4MATIC model. More powerful yet more fuel efficient, the new engine generates 302 horsepower and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission for EPA-rated fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a stylish minivan-esque crossover capable of hauling six or seven people and their cargo. Changes to the exterior are minimal since the R-Class underwent an extensive refresh in 2011, which primarily included a new hood, grille, headlights, front bumpers, prominent character lines on the sides, rear bumpers, taillights, and exhaust pipe tips. 

Like the exterior, the interior of the Mercedes Benz R-Class underwent extensive revision last year. Instrument cluster, dash, and center stack layout were redesigned to be geometrical with the center stack controls better organized than last year's design.

As expected, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class interior is a quiet and luxurious place though spacing is not quite as large as it should be for a vehicle of this size. Both engines pull the R-Class strongly though the R350 BlueTEC is slightly quicker due to the diesel engine. The crossover never lets you forget it's a large vehicle, but handling is surprisingly stable for a vehicle of such size. The Mercedes Benz R-Class is ultimately a long-distance cruiser, so interior noise is kept at a minimal while road and wind noise are well controlled. We strongly recommend the optional rearview camera and other optional safety equipment like parking sensors especially if you'll be regularly encountering tight parking spots and such areas.

Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the 2012 Mercedes Benz R-Class is equipped with a huge assortment of active and passive safety equipment. Standard eight airbags include front row airbags; front and rear row side-impact airbags; and head-protection curtains airbags. Other safety technologies include antilock brakes system (ABS); electronic stability program (ESP) and stability control systems. Active safety systems include optional blind spot warning equipment and rearview camera. Mercedes-Benz’s own telematics system, known as mbrace, comes standard.

Mercedes Benz R350 4Matic: 16 mpg city/ 21 mpg highway

Mercedes Benz R350 BlueTEC 4Matic: 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway