New Merc, new experience?
R-Class combines saloon, estate and SUV
Mercedes said that "it takes the acknowledged strengths of established vehicle categories, such as sporty saloon, estate, MPV and SUV, and fuses them to create a new car with a character all of its own."
PR blurb continues: "The novel concept of the grand sports tourer caters to the needs of modern-minded people looking for a car that offers tremendous versatility combined with athletic performance. Quite apart from boasting ample spaciousness, exemplary standards of safety and impeccable comfort for up to six passengers, the new R-Class also enthrals with its beguiling styling, prestigious flair and, last but by no means least, its dynamism out on the road. In a nutshell: the grand sports tourer offers a whole new motoring experience."
Engines
Powered by V6 and V8 engines with up to 376lb-ft of torque and up to 306bhp, the R500 gets from a standstill to 62.5 mph in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 149 mph (provisional figures).
Also in the engine line-up is a new six-cylinder power unit with third-generation common-rail, direct-injection technology, whose credentials include improved fuel consumption, even lower exhaust emissions and an audible improvement in refinement. The V6 engine generates its peak torque of 376lb-ft from as low as 1,600 rpm. Mercedes reckons you'll get 31.7 mpg from the entry-level R320CDI.
All engine models are mated as standard to Merc's 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, with direct select. This electronic transmission control system allows Mercedes engineers to dispense with the conventional automatic selector lever in the centre console and to replace it instead with a lever on the steering column. Additional gearshift buttons on the steering wheel enable drivers to manually pre-select the seven forward gears.
Permanent all-wheel drive is harnessed to the usual electronics -- 4ETS traction system and ESP on all models, which also get air suspension at the rear axle. Other highlights include three rows of seats, individual climate control, and a panoramic roof.
Mercedes-Benz first unveiled the concept in 2002 and it's now reached series-production status. The R-Class launches first in North America in autumn this year, with European deliveries starting early in 2006; the UK will get it in spring 2006.
...for a mini-bus! 
Dr Strangelove said:
it has something of the Astra Van of 5 years ago about it
That's what I thought. But surely this must be a nice car in the flesh.
www.discountpartcenter.com/photos/04-20-04-02-2005-Mercedes-Benz-R-Class.jpg
Ooh look "Column Shift" - that's something new then
At least the rear 3/4 view is better than the front one
Trying to be everybody's darling never resulted in great cars, as every individual characteristic is compromised by another one. Sad, really, that Merc goes down the route of "whishi-whashi" cars, not really bad at anything, but not really good at anything either....
However, that development already started with the step from G-Wagen to M class...so, nothing new there....
Do we want this then? Looks pretty much like the 2002 concept . . .
For???? Alhtough I suppose that thing is the size of a small house!
There will be women all over the country saying
Ooh Look darling, isn't that New Mercedes just so delightfully big and expensive. I just need to have one so I can take Mercedes and India to school. It will make Tuesday's mother just soooo jealous.
oagent said:
Thats even faster than the Sprinter LWB.
Damn i bet UPS have placed their fleet order already.
Surely a diesel would be more economical for most van buyers?
"Also in the engine line-up is a new six-cylinder power unit with third-generation common-rail, direct-injection technology, whose credentials include improved fuel consumption, even lower exhaust emissions and an audible improvement in refinement. The V6 engine generates its peak torque of 376lb-ft from as low as 1,600 rpm. Mercedes reckons you'll get 31.7 mpg from the entry-level R320CDI."
I guess so.
Is it me or do I see less new diesels on the highways?
Just watch!
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