The Good
The 2006 R-Class offers impressive comfort with its spacious cabin and smooth ride, appealing to practical buyers needing family transport. Its Mercedes-Benz pedigree and available V8 engine provide a touch of luxury and performance, satisfying emotional desires. The design is distinctive, offering a unique alternative to traditional minivans and SUVs. Reliability can be good with proper maintenance.
The Bad
The 2006 R-Class can suffer from air suspension issues, leading to costly repairs. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system and sensors, are also common. High maintenance costs associated with Mercedes-Benz vehicles are a concern. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems should also be watched closely. Rust can also be an issue depending on geographic location.
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
* R350: 3.5L V6
* R500: 5.0L V8 - Horsepower:
* R350: Approximately 268 hp
* R500: Approximately 302 hp - Fuel Economy (Estimated):
* R350: 16-18 mpg city / 21-24 mpg highway
* R500: 14-16 mpg city / 19-22 mpg highway - 0-60 Times (Estimated):
* R350: 8.0 - 8.5 seconds
* R500: 6.5 - 7.0 seconds - Towing Capacity:
* Up to 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped) - Trim Level Features:
* R350: Standard features include leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, power front seats, sunroof, and premium sound system.
* R500: Adds features such as a more powerful engine, premium leather, upgraded sound system, and sometimes optional features like rear-seat entertainment systems and advanced driver-assistance features.
* Common Options:
* Navigation system
* Rear-seat entertainment system
* Air suspension
* Heated seats (front and rear)
* Parking sensors
* Power liftgate
* Keyless Go
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.0L V8 |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Have?
How long will the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESP), traction control, and a full complement of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Optional safety features sometimes included blind-spot monitoring, although this was less common in 2006.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific details, though the R-Class generally performed well in crash tests for its era. Keep in mind that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2006, so even a good rating then might not be comparable to a modern vehicle's safety performance. The availability of options varied depending on the trim level and specific packages chosen by the original buyer.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Prices and Market Value
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Cost of Ownership
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Fuel Efficiency
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Compare to Other Wagon?
Alternatives to consider include the Acura MDX for its reliability and overall value, the Volvo XC90 for its safety and comfort, and more modern minivans like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna for their practicality and fuel efficiency. For those prioritizing luxury and willing to accept higher running costs, the R-Class might still hold some appeal. However, for most buyers, the alternatives offer a better balance of performance, features, reliability, and cost.
Ranks #679 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 679 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class a Good Wagon?
Shanan McDaniel on May 30, 2022
You get out what you put in!I bought my car almost 2 years ago with 130,000 miles on it. It's in excellent condition, inside and out. I've put about 5,000 in it for repairs,(new battery, tire sensors, and such) but I keep in mind that I only paid 5.600 for the car in first place. I believe I got an awesome deal even though the nearest dealership charged me 410.00 to replace 6 spark plugs. I have to agree with the other comments about the low visibility when the headlights are in lowbeam. Overall, I love my car, and I feel safe driving it. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone who appreciates cars and realizes that you have to take care of them!!
Tanweer on June 17, 2019
One of the vehicles I owned with no problems!This car is very practical for my family! For example 3 rows or seating, and fuel efficiency is good to about this car! NO problems in the winter time starts right up and ready to tackle the snow with AWD
AGCGartner on September 22, 2018
Just love the way it looks on the outside.The seating takes up to 7 or 6 comforably. Love the sky roof. That it can be like a cargo van with all the seats flatened. It is tighter in space than a regular van but it looks classy!
Lazy kid on July 16, 2017
Great carAwesome very awesome very very awesome car I love it my kids love my wife love it everybody love it...
ted on June 7, 2017
Low quality vehicleGreat vehicle, but visit mechanic shops more than I go to the gym. Problem since I bought it used 3 years ago: - power door lock driver side - battery (changed 2 years ago and now is sputtering again) - crankshaft position monitor $250 - power steering rack and pinion $1100 - hydraulic suspension, air compressor $1600 (6 months ago) - lower and upper control arms $1300 (last month) - tie rods - trunk hydraulic (last month) - AC stuck on heater mode (just turned that in the shop today) - engine oil leak - TPMS does not work properly Good car when everything works. Goes 135 mph smoothly. Recommendation: don't buy this vehicle unless you can get a really good extended warranty that is willing to pay up.
family man on April 3, 2014
Awesomest 3rd rowWe were shopping for a car that could fit 4-5 adults but didn't care for a Minivan. None of the SUVs we tried had a 3rd row designed for an adult. In the R class I can sit comfortably in the third row and I'm 6ft tall. In addition the panoramic sunroof is unbelievable for the 3rd row passenger. We got a great deal on the used car and look forward to taking on some great road trips this summer!
CHRISTINA K. on November 30, 2013
TRUE LEMONI'VE ONLY HAD MY R350 FOR 13 MONTHS AND IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP MORE THAN IT HAS BEEN IN MY GARAGE. THERE HAS ALREADY BEEN $12'000 DOLLARS IN REPAIRS DONE TO MY CAR, FROM THE BALANCE SHAFT, REAR AIR RIDE SUSPENSION, POWER STEARING PUMP,CAM SHAFT, SINGLE LIGHTS CONSTANTLY NEEDING TO BE CHANGED, BREAKS, ROTORS, CADILLAC CONVERTERS, TO NAME A FEW. NOT TO MENTION TAFEL MOTORS IN LOUISVILLE KY SAID THAT MY MOTOR ON MY AIR RIDE WILL BE GOING OUT SOON. YOU WOULD THINK HEY WHY GET RID OF IT NOW BECAUSE ITS ALMOST A REBUIT CAR. BUT OH NO THERE IS SO MUCH MORE THAT CAN GO WRONG WITH THE CAR, I HAVE NO DOUBT IN MY MIND. SO MY ADVICE TO YOU IS NEVER BUY A R350 THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP WILL NOT EVEN SELL THESE CARS ANYMORE DUE TO ALL THE TROUBLE THEY HAVE, SO I WONDER WHY JAMES MOTOR COMPANY IN LEXINGTON, KY WOULD HAVE SOLD THIS LEMON TO ME. I'M JUST SAYING. WE HAVE TO HAVE SOME TYPE OF RIGHTS, THAT CAN BACK CUSTOMERS WHEN THEY PURCHASE LEMONS.
HippieAnnie on January 25, 2013
Love this carWe have our 2006 R-350 for 3 1/2 years have had no big issues at all it rides and drives great. It is very nice to have additional seating when family come to visit. We drive quite a bit on the hwy and it averages 22-24 mpg. Which we don't think is too bad. We have 76000 miles on it and plan keeping it for some time.
Bobo on January 23, 2013
least reliableDo not buy, stay away, not reliable. to expensive to fix. Break down often. only gives you aroun 12-14 miles per gallon aroung town
JIM on September 10, 2012
Very disappointed in my 1st MercedesHave owned 6 Lexus, 3 Infinitis and an Acura MDX. Mercedes quality and features are sub par to all of them. Likes: stabile high speed driving, 7 speed auto trans, fuel economy and sound system. Dislikes: poor interior design, $56k vehicle without memory seats or leather, very poor low beam headlights, maddening computer, replaced noisy ac pulley 3 times, very poor resale value, rattles and squeaks at 20k miles.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.