2010 Mercedes-Benz R Class vs. Its Competition

Martin Padgett Editorial Director

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.