Visibility for rear seat passengers is good but not as good as some other vehicles in this segment - the Lexus RX 330 comes to mind. Speaking of the back seat, the 60/40split seat folds down to provide a huge carrying space – 2,050 litres. The rear seatbacks can be lowered (very easily) without removing the rear seat head restraints.
Mercedes' new 7-speed automatic transmission is standard. Seven forward speeds is a first in any SUV. The "direct select" shift lever is not at all like any shift lever in any automobile you've ever driven. Mounted on the steering column, it has only drive, neutral and reverse positions. Park is activated via a button on the tip of the shift lever. The driver can control gear selection via a button on the right underside of the steering wheel. This takes some getting used to but it's quite effective... once you've figured it out.
