2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

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Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

The exterior styling of the 2008 Mercedes R-Class is distinctive for its mix of minivan and SUV features. Car and Driver calls it "a charmer. Such an interesting loaf to the eye, with a rakish hoodline sweeping up into the windshield that swoops over the top and trails off toward the tail, all in one continuous flourish."

 Edmunds seconds that take, calling the R-Class an "oddly handsome, stylish people mover," adding that it is "a genuine genetic mix of minivan and sport-utility vehicle."

Though most auto reviewers find the R-Class something between a minivan and SUV, they also find it attractive and polished. USA Today calls the SUV "a looker, snagging the gaze of many folks who aren't quite sure what it is," with its "swoopy styling that's in vogue." MSN praises the SUV because its "different styling elements make the R-Class distinctive from anything on the road."

However, a vocal minority finds the 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class styling unappealing. Edmunds finds that the R "seems to come up short" in styling, when compared to other luxury vehicles with its "ungainly and excessive" look. New Car Test Drive says that the rear side doors are "very, very long," making getting in and out of the back seat easier, "but can cause problems in tight parking areas."