| Dynamic space
The new R-Class, the Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes-Benz
Stuttgart, Jul 19, 2005
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, Dynamism and Dimensions. The new R-Class is being launched first in North America, in autumn 2005; deliveries to customers in Europe will commence at the beginning of 2006.
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.
It was back in 2002 that Mercedes-Benz first unveiled the revolutionary new vehicle concept to the public; less than three years later the study has evolved to reach series-production status.
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 symbolize strength and energy - attributes which characterize more than just the shape of the Grand Sports Tourer. The headlamps are equally expressive. Set well to the outside, they reinforce the powerful-looking, broad stance of the bodywork. The arching roof line is a further typical styling element of the new R-Class, providing a sweeping link between the A-pillar and D-pillar and lending the car a sleek, coupe-like silhouette. The pronounced, muscular shoulders of the body add yet more dynamism to the Grand Sports Tourer and reveal its true nature.
Dynamism: V6 and V8 engines with up to 510 Newton meters of torque
Engine outputs range from 165 kW/224 hp up to 225 kW/306 hp, clearly signaling just what the new R-Class is capable of in terms of dynamic performance and motoring enjoyment. The powerful V8 power plant under the bonnet of the R 500 propels it from standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 245 km/h.
Also to be found in the engine lineup is a new six-cylinder 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 meters on tap from as low down as 1600 rpm. The combined fuel consumption of the R 320 CDI is 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers.
Powered by the new 200-kW/272-hp V6 petrol engine, the R 350 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 230 km/h.
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