Mercedes R-Class
After what seems like the longest run-up in automotive history, Mercedes-Benz has finally launched the production version of its GST Grand Tourer. The R-Class - as it is officially now known - is claimed to combine all the best bits of a saloon, estate, MPV and SUV and fuse them to create something with a character all of its own. The word "revolutionary" features prominently in the M-B press blurb, but basically, it's a large vehicle with a high-spec MPV-style body on the same underpinnings as the newly-launched new M-Class off-roader.
The R measures 5157mm long, and its one-box design ensures plenty of space for up to six occupants, seated in three rows of seats. There's masses of headroom and the width allows for lots of shoulder-room. Each passenger has an individual seat, with arm-rests for second-row occupants, and options will include multi-zone air conditioning, a centre console to fit between the rear seats with extra stowage compartments and cupholders, a CD/DVD system with colour screens and headphones for rear seat passengers, a full-length panoramic glass sunroof and remote-control opening and closing of the rear tailgate. Each of the four rearmost seats fold flat, giving a load capacity of up to 2057litres, and a flat load floor over 2.2m long.
A series of engines from 224 bhp to 306 bhp will be offered, including a new 3.5 V6 petrol (272 bhp, 510 Nm), the 3.2 CDI diesel, which returns 31.7mpg and the 5.0 V8 (302 bhp, 339lb ft), which can accelerate 0-60 in 6.9 seconds. All versions will come with seven-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive with traction control and ESP, plus air suspension at the rear. All-round Airmatic self-levelling suspension is optional, along with adaptive damping and ride height control. Safety kit includes Mercedes' Pre-Safe crash-sensing system, which tightens seatbelts, closes the sunroof and primes the airbags if it thinks a crash is inevitable, plus front, side and window airbags. Adaptive head restraints for extra whiplash protection are optional.
Pricing hasn't yet been announced, but styling options will include a chrome trim package, a sports pack with special instruments, pedals, 19-inch wheels and alcantara sports seats, and leather upholstery and wood trim. The R-Class goes on sale in the USA this autumn, with UK sales following spring 2006.
