The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a luxury crossover vehicle offered in two trims, the R350 and the R500. Originally debuted at the 2001 North American International Auto Show as the Vision GST (Grand Sports Tourer) concept vehicle, the R-Class will be built on the same platform as the new M-Class, and manufactured in Alabama on the same assembly line as the M. Mercedes-Benz will initially offer the long-wheelbase edition in the United States, and will later add a short wheelbase version. Dealerships should get delivery of the R-Class this fall, and production will be limited to around 25,000 vehicles in the US with another 25,000 destined for Europe. The new R-Class is expected to cost $72,000 for the R350 and $80,000 for the R500. AMG-massaged R55 and R63 models are rumored to be in the pipeline as well.
Designed for a smooth, cushy ride, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class features a 7-speed automatic transmission, an Airmatic suspension system with air springs and variable ride height and 4Matic four-wheel-drive as standard. Power comes from either of two gasoline engines; a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 245-horsepower or a 5.0-liter V8 with approximately 305-horsepower. The upcoming R55 AMG should produce about 370 horsepower, and the R63 AMG could generate as much as 500 horsepower. Mercedes-Benz will also offer a diesel model, the R320, with a 224 horsepower engine, but it's unclear if this version will be sold in the US.
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class will surely perform in the way that every luxury crossover is intended: make rich people feel comfortable on their way to the store, work, or the country club.
Photos by Erik Hanson
