
With the arrival of the Lincoln MKT, the Mercedes-Benz R-Class finally has some direct competition.
We prefer the MKT's looks, though the huge grille is divisive and its handling isn't as settled.
The MKT's turbocharged V-6 option gives it a rush of power the R-Class can't quite match, and its dashing interior exudes Sinatra-era style.
If you're shopping utility at this price point, it wouldn't hurt to look at the less roomy, but much sexier Audi Q7.
It too can be had with a diesel engine and all-wheel drive, and it's a lot easier on the eyes, if not the wallet.
Still not enough flash for your dollar? We suggest the Cadillac Escalade, either the short-body version or the mammoth ESV edition.
It's trucky and handles even less happily than the R-Class, and it's not as easy to get to the third-row seats, but it steers better and its throbbing, thirsty V-8 strikes some hot-sounding muscle car notes.
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Quick Specs | |||
You wanted a Mercedes minivan? The 2010 R-Class crossover is as close as you'll get, down to the driving feel. |
The 2010 Audi Q7 tames the SUV bad-boy image with subtler looks, diesel fuel economy, and good on-road performance. |
The 2010 Escalade Hybrid provides performance, functionality, and luxury, but uses far less fuel. |
Supremely spacious and stunning from some angles, the 2010 Lincoln MKT gets truly arresting with its EcoBoost turbo V-6. |
MSRP From | |||
$49,300 | $46,900 | $61,420 | $44,200 |
Gas Mileage | |||
14 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||
Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas/Ethanol V8 | Gas V6 |
EPA Class | |||
4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | N/A | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle |
Style Name | |||
4MATIC 4-Door R 350 | quattro 4-Door 3.6L Premium | 2WD 4-Door Base | 4-Door Wagon 3.7L FWD |
Drivetrain | |||
All-Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||
6 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
Passenger Doors | |||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||
4 Door | 4 Door SUV | 4 Door | Station Wagon |
Transmission | |||
Automatic | Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
2010 Mercedes-Benz R Class vs. 2010 Audi Q7 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R Class vs. 2010 Cadillac Escalade | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R Class vs. 2010 Lincoln MKT |