Mercedes calls its R-Class a grand sport tourer. We'd call it a minivan, without a hint of disparagement. The R-Class is stylish and luxurious, with plenty of function. In seats six adults more comfortably than almost any vehicle on the market, with plenty of entertainment options for those inside, and it easily converts to carry a lot of stuff rather than people. It's more satisfying to drive than most other minivans, and it can accelerate faster than some luxury sedans. All-wheel drive makes it great for the wintry conditions, and it will easily fit in most garages.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from California; with Jeff Vettraino reporting from Detroit.