Used Mercedes-Benz R350

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz R350

From 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• An R350 4MATIC owner praises its comfort, spacious cabin and confidence-inspiring AWD, describing the six-seat version as suitable for four adults and two children.[2]one source
• The third-row seats fold away; they may be too small for adults but suit children well.[2]one source
• The owner sometimes found the 272 hp 3.5-litre petrol engine short on response, particularly when accelerating hard to overtake.[2]one source
• Across nine R-Class reviews, comfort scored 4.7 out of 5 and handling 4.1, while reliability received only 3.4.[3]one source

Typical faults

• On pre-2007 M272 engines, the balance-shaft gear's insufficiently durable alloy can wear; the reported repair required engine removal.[1]one source

  M272

• An owner of a 2006 car had both rear air springs rebuilt and noted that trapped sand can abrade their rubber.[1]one source

  2006–2006

Which engine and version to take

• Among M272 versions, prefer a post-2006 car: the source says the factory had introduced a balance shaft made from a harder alloy.[1]one source

What to avoid

• Avoid pre-2007 M272 cars without proof that the balance-shaft gear issue was addressed, as replacement can require engine removal.[1]one source

What to check at the inspection

• For an M272, verify the build year and documentation for balance-shaft or gear replacement; the source says the factory corrected the defect after 2006.[1]one source
• Inspect the rear air springs and compressor and check the springs for dirt: one owner repaired both springs and serviced the compressor.[1]one source
• During the test drive, accelerate while turning and listen for front-end clicking: one owner reported this when a displaced boot led to CV-joint damage.[1]one source
• Test the 3.5-litre engine under overtaking acceleration, as one owner sometimes found it lacking in this situation.[2]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]forum.onliner.by — Mercedes-Benz R-class (W251) - отзывы, эксплуатация, ... · forum
2. [2]domkrat.by — "Только R-class!" Отзыв владельца Mercedes R-class · press
3. [3]auto.ria.com — 9 отзывов о Mercedes-Benz R-Class · press

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