Market Position:
Premium Grand Tourer/Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) offering luxury, space, and performance for families.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other luxury SUVs and CUVs from brands like BMW (X5), Audi (Q7), and Volvo (XC90), differentiating with its unique wagon-like profile and advanced Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Key Features:
Spacious interior with optional third-row seating, advanced safety features, powerful yet efficient diesel engine, sophisticated ride and handling characteristics, high-quality interior materials.
Coverage Areas:
Full Vehicle Service and Repair
Page Count:
Extensive (digital format, equivalent to several thousand printed pages)
Manual Type:
Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Body & Chassis, Diagnostic Procedures, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Component Removal/Installation, Repair Procedures, Diagnostic Tree Flows, Electrical Component Testing, System Adjustments, Torque Specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes and filter replacements to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, advanced electronic diagnostics, and body panel repairs.
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2009 model year)
Active Safety Features:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), All-Season Traction Control (4MATIC)
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags for all rows, active front head restraints, front seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) APS system with CD/DVD changer, AM/FM radio, and optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional: Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC), Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC), Lane Keeping Assist (in some advanced packages).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, optional Media Interface for external devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions, refer to manual for precise 'ASSYST PLUS' intervals).
Major Service Interval:
Varies, but key items like transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant are typically serviced around 30,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's service computer.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.51 (for diesel engines), SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Antifreeze)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (or equivalent MB specification)
Common Issues:
AdBlue system faults (for diesel), diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration issues, EGR valve problems, potential turbocharger issues, air suspension component wear, electrical gremlins common in complex systems.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
A 642 180 00 09 (example, always verify with VIN)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
A 251 830 02 35 (example, always verify with VIN)
Brand Heritage Summary:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive innovations, dating back to the invention of the automobile itself.
Model Evolution Summary:
The R-Class (X164) was introduced in 2005 as a unique 'Grand Sports Tourer', blending elements of an SUV, minivan, and wagon. The R320 CDI (diesel) variant provided excellent torque and fuel efficiency, particularly popular in markets valuing diesel power.
Production Years:
2006-2013 (for the X164 generation globally, R320 CDI particularly prominent early in the lifecycle)
Manufacturing Locations:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA