A green wagon

With the addition of a new diesel engine, this AWD crossover proves to be more efficient and convenient than ever. But is it a car or a truck? Well, the R320 is equally one and the other. While most people call it a crossover utility vehicle (CUV) and Mercedes defines it as a "sports tourer", I rather felt like I was driving a large wagon. The R320 might pass for a car if it were not for the fact that you have to climb to get on board.

The R320 feels more like you're driving a wagon than a crossover.

Cute
One of the main strengths of this Mercedes lies in the fusion of slender lines that create a big car persona. Some journalists and regular folks do not agree with me on this point, but I think that this utility vehicle displays well-executed styling as well as a very German-like presence. I also notice a bit of British flair.

Convenient
The R320 CDI 4MATIC does not balk at running errands or playing the role of a family taxi. It fulfills its duties with typical English poise, calmly and safely. Its versatility and liveability allow the owner to act as a handyman or as a chauffeur. The R320 craves the attention and is proud to show off at the restaurant or the theatre. It never goes unnoticed. Inside, the second row offers plenty of room for adults or tall teenagers, while the third row should only be used by occasional passengers.

Austere
The interior proves to be remarkably well built. However, the black shades give it a somber and sober look (my daughter found it "sad"). I agree: brighter colors would considerably liven up the interior. In terms of configuration and comfort, I must point out the great automatic climate control system and especially the power-operated third-row side windows. The latter create a silent yet effective air flow that pleasantly cools the inside of the R320 and allows the driver to leave the air conditioning off. That's a plus with such a big vehicle, particularly on hot days.

Dark shades create a rather austere interior.

Ride and handling
Obviously, the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system significantly benefits the heavy R320 on wet or snow-covered roads. At 2,295 kilos (5,060 lbs), this vehicle is certainly not a ballet dancer, but because of its relatively short height (compared to regular SUVs), body roll is limited. The R320 offers surefooted and predictable handling on byroads as well as a solid stance on highways. In city traffic, it maneuvers quite well despite its elongated profile. Occupants enjoy a fairly good level of comfort, although a slightly softer suspension and/or seats would have been appreciated on Quebec roads.

Despite its massive stance, the R320 offers surefooted handling.

How about this diesel?
First of all, the new diesel engine achieves fairly high fuel economy. I averaged 11 L/100 km mostly by running errands. Secondly, despite the vehicle's weight, the AWD hardware and the reputation of diesel powerplants, the R320 CDI delivers convincing acceleration. I reached 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds (0.6 seconds slower than the automaker's figures) and sprinted from 80 to 120 km/h in 7.2 seconds with the manual mode (3^rd gear) and in 7.5 seconds with the automatic mode. What caught my attention was the way the R320 delivers these performances.

In normal driving, you almost feel like the vehicle is stationary; it's the engine's torque that makes it move forward. However, when you need extra power to pass another vehicle, the R320 CDI is catapulted as soon as you dip into the throttle. My driving partner and I found this behavior a little uneven and disconcerting, especially compared to the E-Class CDI Bluetec that really impressed us with its smoothness during a previous road test. This might be attributable to the programming of the 7-speed automatic transmission (otherwise very sleek) and to the weight of the vehicle.

Function over fun
Convenient but not exciting: this perfectly sums up my impressions of the R320 CDI 4MATIC after one week of driving. This Mercedes will satisfy buyers who look for an all-around people hauler and the prestige associated with the three-pointed star. Safe and spacious, the R320 also benefits, in CDI trim, from a precious ally: a powerful yet fuel-efficient diesel engine.


Diesel engine
AWD
Liveability
Versatility
            Rear side windows (power-assisted opening)


Austere interior
Engine/transmission combo lacks consistence




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