The New York International Auto Show is to provide the stage for another world premiere from Mercedes Benz, 51 years after hosting the unveiling of the legendary SL gullwing. Now it is the turn of the new Mercedes Benz R Class to make its world debut at the traditional show.

The unique vehicle concept at the heart of the Mercedes model founds a new and highly promising 'Sports Tourer' market segment. 'Our developers had no role model to follow when they created this totally new vehicle. But they did have a guiding principle: dynamic space', says Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler AG, responsible for Research and Technology and Development within the Mercedes Car Group.

The R Class Grand Sports Tourer 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. It 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.

'The new R Class is 'inspired by and built in America' and is therefore very much at home in the U.S. market', says Dr Thomas Weber. 'Here we expect to achieve some 60 percent of our unit sales after the market launch in autumn 2005.' Deliveries to customers in Europe will begin in early 2006.

According to Dr Weber, it takes three Ds to sum up the unique character of the R Class: Dimensions, Design and Dynamism. 'Dimension refers to the synthesis of exceptional spaciousness, premium comfort and high variability. The design reflects power, confidence and individuality. And the R Class is as dynamic as it looks – thanks to powerful engines, a seven-speed automatic transmission and permanent all wheel drive.'

Measuring 5157 millimetres from nose to tail, the body of the new Mercedes Benz R Class is akin to a luxury saloon in size but is considerably more spacious inside. There are 920 millimetres between the first and second rows of seats. Moreover, the second-row seats can be adjusted individually fore and aft, thereby increasing the seat spacing to as much as 990 millimetres. The maximum distance between the second and third rows of seats (depending on seat position) is 920 millimetres.

Families who are keen on sports and recreational activities and who are looking for a versatile car that can adapt to all manner of transportation tasks quickly and easily are also catered for by the new R Class as only Mercedes knows how: the four seats in the rear fold flat individually, allowing the load capacity to be expanded to as much as 2057 litres (VDA measuring method), a figure which clearly eclipses the load space offered by estate cars. Loading and unloading is particularly straightforward, courtesy of the level load floor measuring over 2.20 metres in length and the generously proportioned EASY PACK tailgate, which is available with remote-control opening and closing as an optional convenience enhancing feature.

Engine outputs range from 165 kW/224 hp up to 225 kW/306 hp, clearly signalling just what the new R Class is capable of in terms of dynamic performance and motoring enjoyment. The powerful V8 gasoline engine under the bonnet of the R 500 propels it from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 240 km/h (provisional figures). Also to be found in the engine line up (from the beginning of 2006) is a new six cylinder power unit with third-generation common rail, direct injection technology. The V6 engine places its class beating peak torque of 510 Newton metres on tap from as low down as 1600 rpm. The fuel consumption figures returned by the R 320 CDI are no less astounding: 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres (combined consumption).

A seven speed automatic transmission, permanent all wheel drive, the electronically controlled 4ETS traction system and ESP® team up to offer peerless driving safety. These systems all make up part of the standard specification of the new R-Class, as does air suspension at the rear axle.

In addition, some of the very latest Mercedes safety innovations are available as optional extras: PRE SAFE®, the multi-award-winning anticipatory protection system, detects critical handling situations and immediately springs into action to prepare occupants and vehicle alike for an imminent collision. Precautions include pulling the driver's and front passenger's seat belts taut, adjusting the front passenger seat to the optimum position and automatically closing the sliding sunroof. Another Mercedes first for improving standards of occupant safety still further is the NECK PRO crash-responsive head restraints (optional).

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz

The new Mercedes-Benz R 63 AMG: A new combination of dynamism, power and comfort

Affalterbach, Feb 09, 2006

Mercedes-AMG is unveiling the brand-new R 63 AMG at the Chicago Auto Show (February 10 to 19, 2006). This particularly dynamic interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class is powered by the new AMG 6.3-litre V8-engine. With an output of 375 kW/510 hp, 630 Newton metres of torque and permanent four-wheel drive, the Grand Sports Tourer by AMG offers an unprecedented combination of unrivalled sportiness, spaciousness and top-class comfort for up to six passengers.

With the R 63 AMG, Mercedes-AMG has once again demonstrated its expertise in the design of unique high-performance cars. Following on from the unveiling of the Vision R 63 AMG at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September 2005, and the positive response to this show car, the series-produced model is now being launched. The market launch of the R 63 AMG in the USA will commence in the third quarter of 2006.

Like the series-produced version of the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class, which is now appearing in the showrooms of company-owned Mercedes-Benz outlets and dealerships, the new R 63 AMG is available with a short or long wheelbase. With its highly sophisticated technology, avantgarde appearance and luxurious interior, the six-seater is the epitome of the sporty and dynamic trendsetter.

AMG 6.3-litre V8-engine guarantees dynamic performance

With an output of 375 kW/510 hp and 630 Newton metres of torque, this large, newly developed, naturally-aspirated AMG eight-cylinder unit ensures effortless, dynamic progress. The R 63 AMG with the short wheelbase accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds (R 63 AMG with long wheelbase: 5.1 seconds) and has a maximum speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission with steering wheel gearshift buttons, a DIRECT SELECT shift lever and three driving modes.

A combination of four-wheel drive with a 40:60 percent torque distribution to the front and rear axles, plus an AMG sports suspension with AIRMATIC air suspension, level control and the Adaptive Damping System, ensures outstanding handling safety and a dynamic or comfort-oriented style of driving – at the touch of a button, depending on the driver's wishes. Extremely short braking distances are guaranteed by the large AMG high-performance braking system.

Exterior and interior with typical AMG exclusivity

Newly designed front and rear aprons in the typical AMG look, the two twin chrome-plated tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system and sporty, dark-tinted rear lights communicate sheer dynamism. The performance potential of the R 63 AMG is clearly indicated by the '6.3 AMG' lettering on the front wings. 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design with 265/45 R 20 wide-base tyres give the side view its characteristic, eye-catching look. The R 63 AMG is the first Mercedes-Benz vehicle to offer 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels as an optional extra.

The interior of the R 63 AMG impresses with spaciousness, exclusive appointments and an extremely high perceived value. A sporty touch is provided by AMG sports seats in the front, nappa leather upholstery with Alcantara inserts for all the seats, decorative trim in black aluminium, the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with gearshift buttons and the AMG instrument cluster with an AMG main menu and 'RACETIMER'.

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz

New Mercedes-Benz R-Class wins 'Auto Trophy 2005'

Readers of the publications 'Auto Zeitung' have voted the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class Germany's best MPV, awarding it the 'Auto Trophy 2005'. The award was accepted by Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler AG, responsible for Research and Technology and Development within the Mercedes Car Group, in Berlin yesterday evening.

Over 90,000 voters took part in the poll. The Mercedes-Benz R-Class picked up the most votes in the 'MPV' category, earning it the award for this segment.

The readers' choice applauded the unique concept behind the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class which only made its world premiere in New York in spring this year. It combines the advantages of familiar vehicle types such as sporty saloon, estate, MPV and SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) to create a car with a new, unique character. Offering generously spacious first-class comfort for six passengers, a highly flexible design, powerful engines, four-wheel drive and dynamic driving pleasure, the R-Class provides an all-new motoring experience.

Powerful engines, with outputs ranging from 165 kW/224 hp to 225 kW/306 hp, ensure outstanding performance. The 224-hp six-cylinder diesel powerplant accelerates the R 320 CDI 4MATIC from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and allows a top speed of 222 km/h. The combined fuel consumption is 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres. All models feature the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT as standard. In addition to permanent all- wheel drive, other standard features on board include the electronically controlled 4ETS traction system and ESP®, rear air suspension and a wealth of exceptional safety systems.

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz

New AMG components for the R-Class, the Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes-Benz: The new R-Class with powerful AMG look

Dynamism made by AMG: powerful AMG bodystyling and expressive 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with size 255/50 wide-base tyres are now available for the Mercedes-Benz R-Class. The distinctive AMG components are suitable for all three models and both body variants of the new Grand Sports Tourer.

AMG bodystyling for the Mercedes-Benz R-Class consists of front and rear aprons, painted in the body colour. The design is typically AMG, the new-look front bumper with enlarged air intakes ensuring a muscular look. The two diagonal struts and two horizontal louvres in the front apron give the R-Class an even broader, lower-slung appearance. In conjunction with bi-xenon projection-beam headlamps the AMG front apron also features integral circular fog lamps, ringed in chrome.

The AMG rear apron continues the muscular design, and the black inlay and chromed scratch protection in brushed stainless steel create a unique look. The scratch protection not only protects the rear apron when loading luggage, but is also an attractive design element.

In visual terms, AMG bodystyling for the Mercedes-Benz R-Class is based on the design of the 'Vision R 63 AMG' show car, a particularly dynamic interpretation of the new R-Class which was exhibited for the first time at this year's International Motor Show in Frankfurt. Beneath the bonnet the new AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine provides the performance to match the look, with a peak output of 375 kW/510 hp.

19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels for a perfect look and optimum handling

Size 8.5 x 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, each embossed with AMG lettering on one wheel spoke, are the perfect complement to the new AMG bodystyling for the R-Class. With their classic 5-spoke design and sterling silver paint finish, the AMG wheels feature size 255/50 R 19 tyres all round. The wide track not only means that they fill the wheel arches, lending the side view a distinctly sporty feel, but they also further enhance the new R-Class' handling.

AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels can be ordered immediately and will be launched on the market from February 2006. The AMG components are available for both body variants with short or long wheelbase and are suitable for both the R 320 CDI diesel variant and the R 350 and R 500 petrol models.

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz

Unique in design, dimensions and dynamism: The new R-Class, the Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes-Benz

The new R-Class, the Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes-Benz, reaffirms the role of Mercedes-Benz as the visionary and trendsetter amongst automotive brands. The unprecedented vehicle concept 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, a car that is all about the three Ds: Design, Dimensions and Dynamism. The model range in the new R-Class has two body variants: the Grand Sports Tourer with a wheelbase of 2980 millimetres was developed specifically for Europe and other markets. The longer version, predominantly aimed at the US market but which is also available for European customers, has a wheelbase of 3215 millimetres. There is a choice of three engines with six and eight cylinders, including the latest V6 diesel unit with a muscular 510 newton metres of torque and a fuel consumption of 9.3 litres per 100/km.

The 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. To put it in a nutshell: the Grand Sports Tourer provides a wholly new motoring experience.

The design provides a visual expression of the poised, assured and dynamic character of the new R-Class. The front end is dominated by a striking radiator grille whose long, horizontal louvres symbolise strength and energy - attributes which characterise more than just the shape of the Grand Sports Tourer. The arching roof line provides a sweeping link between the A-pillar and D-pillar and lends the car a sleek, coupé-like silhouette.

First-class space and comfort for six passengers

Measuring 4922 or 5157 millimetres from nose to tail, the body of the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class has the dimensions of a luxury saloon but is considerably more spacious inside. This is due primarily to the sophisticated vehicle concept and a dimensional design that has been ingeniously planned right down to the finest detail. Up to six passengers can be accommodated in three seat rows in the R-Class – each of them with a window seat. Anybody settling down in one of the individual seats will soon notice another characteristic of the R-Class: space travel on wheels.

The seat spacing, an important criterion when it comes to freedom of movement and spatial comfort, amounts to 860 or 920 millimetres between the first and second rows, equivalent to the level found in luxury saloons. The kneeroom is 119 and 175 millimetres. Likewise, the figures for headroom (rear: up to 1027 millimetres) and shoulder room (front 1530 millimetres, rear up to 1514 millimetres) take the levels of space and comfort aboard the Mercedes-Benz R-Class into a new dimension.

Families who are keen on sports and recreational activities and who are looking for a versatile car that can adapt to all manner of transportation tasks quickly and easily are also catered for by the new R-Class as only Mercedes knows how. The four seats in the rear fold flat individually, allowing the load capacity to be expanded to as much as 1950 or 2385 litres (VDA measuring method). Loading and unloading is particularly straightforward, courtesy of the level load floor and the generously proportioned EASY-PACK tailgate.

Powerful petrol engines and a new V6 diesel with the latest common-rail technology

Engine outputs range from 165 kW/224 hp up to 225 kW/306 hp, clearly signalling just what the new R-Class is capable of in terms of dynamism and motoring enjoyment. The powerful V8 powerplant under the bonnet of the R 500 propels it from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.9 or 7.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 245 km/h. Also to be found in the engine line-up is a new six-cylinder diesel 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 places its class-beating peak torque of 510 newton metres on tap from as low down as 1600 rpm.

Powered by the new 200-kW/272-hp V6 petrol engine, the R 350 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 8.3 or 8.4 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 230 km/h.

All engine models are partnered as standard by the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, which itself comes with a noteworthy new feature in the form of DIRECT SELECT. This electronic transmission control system has allowed 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, just as in a Formula One racing car.

Permanent all-wheel drive, the electronically controlled 4ETS traction system and ESP® team up to offer top-notch driving safety and keep the new R-Class safely on course, even in very bad road conditions. These systems all make up part of the vehicle's standard specification, as does air suspension for the rear wheels. Mercedes customers also have the option of AIRMATIC all-round air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System ADS, which automatically lowers the suspension by 20 millimetres at high speeds to reduce wind resistance.

State-of-the-art safety features such as PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints

The latest technology offers passengers in the Grand Sports Tourer the safety to be expected of a Mercedes. PRE-SAFE®, the multi-award-winning anticipatory protection system which is available as an option, detects critical handling situations and immediately springs into action to prepare occupants and vehicle alike for an imminent collision. Precautions include pulling the driver's and front passenger's seat belts taut, adjusting the electrically adjustable front passenger seat with memory function to the optimum position and automatically closing the sliding sunroof. These preventive protection measures improve the seating position of the vehicle's occupants prior to impact, thereby enhancing the restraining effect of the seat belts and airbags.

Adaptive front airbags and front sidebags as well as windowbags can all be found on the standard specification list of the new R-Class, and all passengers enjoy the added reassurance of belt tensioners and belt force limiters. A further Mercedes first for improving standards of occupant safety still further is NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints (optional).

Equipment: valuable extras in package form

The specially developed panoramic sunroof (optional), whose glass panels extend over virtually the entire surface of the roof, ensures a cooling supply of fresh air for the interior whilst letting in a pleasant amount of extra light, which all adds up to a matchless open-air motoring sensation for the occupants. The efficient air conditioning system makes long journeys aboard the new R-Class all the more comfortable. In addition to the standard-specification THERMATIC dual-zone climate control featuring a separate control panel for the rear, Mercedes-Benz is also able to offer a newly developed multi-zone THERMOTRONIC system as an option. Equipped with over a dozen sensors as well as an auxiliary booster blower, the system is able to faithfully maintain the temperatures set by the driver, the front passenger and the occupants in the rear.

A CD radio with eight loudspeakers, light-alloy wheels, speed-dependent power steering and front seats which are electrically adjustable for height, cushion angle and backrest angle are also included in the list of standard equipment. Mercedes-Benz offers a number of packages comprising quality extras for the new R-Class.

This allows customers to appoint and upgrade their Grand Sports Tourer to suit their personal taste. In addition to the AIRMATIC package, options include a styling package for the exterior and a sports package.

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Mercedes-Benz E 420 CDI go on sale - New R-Class starting from €51,504 – order books open for E 420 CDI

The Mercedes-Benz portfolio is being further enriched by the addition of the new R-Class. Its unprecedented concept takes the strengths of established categories of vehicle, such as saloon, estate, MPV and SUV, and unites them all into a single car with a revolutionary new character all of its own. Courtesy of its generous levels of spaciousness, exemplary comfort, powerful engines, four-wheel drive and dynamic handling characteristics, the Grand Sports Tourer is able to offer an all-new motoring sensation.

At the same time, the new E 420 CDI boasting greater power and torque than any other V8 diesel passenger car in this segment will be joining the production line-up too. The new 231-kW/314-hp drive unit delivers quintessential diesel-powered motoring pleasure, underlining at the same time the unrivalled diesel expertise on hand at Mercedes-Benz.

The new R-Class caters to sophisticated people looking for a versatile car that is also fun to drive. The Grand Sports Tourer succeeds in combining maximum com-fort for up to six passengers, exemplary safety, captivating design and a prestigious character, whilst ensuring a dynamic, enjoyable driving experience.

This is thanks to lively engines spanning a power spectrum from 165 kW/224 hp up to 225 kW/306 hp. The 224-hp six-cylinder diesel unit under the bonnet of the R 320 CDI powers it from standstill to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 222 km/h. Fuel consumption for the combined cycle is just 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres. All engines are partnered by the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT. This enables the driver to control the transmission electronically using a stalk on the steering column or gearshift buttons on the steering wheel. Also on the standard specifications list are permanent four-wheel drive and rear air suspension as well as the electronically controlled 4ETS traction system and ESP®, which together maximise driving safety and help to keep the new R-Class on course in adverse driving conditions.

First-class spaciousness and excellent safety

The levels of spaciousness inside the new Mercedes model clearly outclass any luxury saloon. Comfortable individual seats await the six passengers, with the four seats in the rear furthermore able to fold up quickly and easily. This expands luggage capacity to a maximum of 2385 litres (VDA measuring method), far more than an estate car is able to offer. The flat luggage compartment floor measuring over 2.20 metres long together with the large EASY-PACK tailgate make light work of loading and unloading. This turns the new R-Class into the perfect choice for sporting, active families looking for a versatile means of transport.

Adaptive front airbags, front sidebags plus windowbags all come as standard on the new R-Class, while every passenger also benefits from belt tensioners and belt force limiters. Customers may also opt for the extra peace of mind offered by PRE SAFE®, the multi-award-winning preventative occupant protection system. This system is capable of detecting situations where there is a risk of an accident occurring, whereupon it automatically closes the sliding sunroof and adjusts the front passenger seat into a position offering greater safety. As a precautionary measure, the front seat belts are also pulled taut to restrain the occupants as effectively as possible prior to an impending collision. Crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints which reduce the risk of whiplash injuries are also available as a further Mercedes innovation for even greater occupant safety.

Mercedes-Benz E 420 CDI with more power and torque than any other V8 passenger car diesel engine in its segment

The new eight-cylinder drive unit at the heart of the E 420 CDI bestows it with levels of dynamism and smoothness that place it at the very forefront of its market segment, whilst generating a degree of driving pleasure previously unheard of in a diesel-powered vehicle. The new 231-kW/314-hp V8 engine delivers its peak torque of 730 Newton metres as low down as 2200 rpm, enabling the new E 420 CDI to race from 0 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds and on to a governed top speed of 250 km/h. The combined fuel consumption is 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres. Exhaust emissions comply with the stringent EU 4 limits, the additional particulate filter comes as standard. The standard specification of the new top-of-the-range diesel model from Mercedes-Benz also includes the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and AIRMATIC air suspension.

Alongside an aluminium crankcase, cooled exhaust-gas recirculation and an electrically operated intake air throttle, the prime technical highlight of the new eight-cylinder powerplant from Mercedes is its third-generation common-rail direct injection technology. The system's injection pressure has now been increased to 1600 bar, and instead of the solenoid valves fitted previously it now features piezoelectric injectors with a response time of just 0.1 milliseconds.

Prices start at €51,504 for the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class (R 350) and at €61,364 for the new Mercedes-Benz E 420 CDI.

by DaimlerChrysler

by Mercedes-Benz