IN THIS FEATURE A real multi-tasker? 4x4 for the road Not the cheap option

How about the SUV argument? Well, the powertrain underneath that swooping bodywork has been donated by the next-generation M-Class off-roader, so we're talking full-time four-wheel drive. Also, there's plenty of ground clearance and the driving position is quite commanding in true SUV fashion. It's not meant to be an off-roader, but it will do a better job of getting you out of a sticky situation than a saloon or estate car. So the R-Class has a credible foot in the SUV camp, too.

Sporty saloon? Well, that's a much bigger ask of a car with a significantly higher centre of gravity than, say, a BMW 5-Series. And before passing judgement here, we will have to wait for the full 4Car road test on a European-spec car, because the versions we drove at launch in Switzerland were American-spec, complete with Illinois license plates. And in American specification, the R-Class doesn't steer or handle as well as it should for a European audience. Steering response and feedback is pretty dire and the car's agility is well off the pace. We're told that the European R-Class will gain steering tuned for better feedback and faster-feeling response, thicker anti-roll bars and more aggressive settings for the dampers and springs. So there's hope yet that the R-Class will tick this box, too.

Individual chairs give plenty of stretch-out space

Performance certainly won't be an issue for buyers specifying the 5.0-litre V8 R500. This ageing but reasonably potent 306bhp engine will get the R-Class to 62mph in just 7.0secs and on to a top speed of 152mph. Power is directed through the standard-fit 7G-TRONIC automatic gearbox, which is smooth and responsive. Drivers can opt to select gears manually with F1-style buttons on the steering wheel, a feature that is, frankly, more useful on the lesser powered V6 R350. And for those looking for Hammer Horror performance, AMG will introduce a hyper-power V8 version later this year. That's a car we're likely to see at Frankfurt Motor Show this September.