Power for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class comes from two gasoline engines. The R350 offers a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 268 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque at 2,400 rpm, thanks in part to variable valve timing. Mercedes officials claim that the R350 develops 87 percent of its maximum torque at 1,500 rpm for excellent off-the-line response. The R500 comes with a 5.0-liter V8 rated at approximately 302 horsepower. The AMG models that will follow, the R55 AMG and the R63 AMG, are likely to boost performance to 370hp and 500hp respectively. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class features a 7-speed automatic transmission driving all four wheels through a standard 4Matic four-wheel-drive system. Another performance item on the R-Class is the four-wheel traction control system with three open differentials - front, rear and center.

Mercedes achieves a smooth, cushy ride with an Airmatic four-wheel-independent air suspension that includes double wishbones up front and a four-link rear suspension setup. Variable ride height comes standard, and an available Adaptive Damping System can smooth the ride through two main settings - comfort and sport. Braking is handled by 13-inch disc brakes all around on the R350, and 13.8-inch discs on the front of the R500. As with most luxury crossover vehicles today, the R-Class offers ABS, stability control, and brake assist technology.