The R-Class is an MPV/SUV crossover automobile offered by DaimlerChrysler in 2006 model year under the Mercedes-Benz brand. A concept was first seen at the 2001 Detroit Auto Show as the Vision GST (Grand Sports Tourer) concept, and the final production vehicle was shown at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. DaimlerChrysler assembles R-Class vehicles destined for the United States, and possibly other countries as well, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The R-Class is built on the V251 chassis. The R-Class slots between the M-Class and the G-Class.

Although described by the manufacturer as a "Sports Cruiser" many sources and casual observers have noted that the vehicle is remarkably similar to a minivan in form.

The R-Class is offered in two wheelbases.

Models:

• R 350 - 3.5 L V6, 272 PS (268 hp SAE/200 kW)
• R 500 - 5.0 L V8, 306 PS (302 hp SAE/225 kW)
• R 63 AMG - 6.3 L V8, 510 PS (503 hp SAE/375 kW) (prototype presented at 2005 IAA)
• R 320 CDI - 3.0 L V6, 224 PS (221 hp SAE/165 kW) (to be introduced in mid 2006)

R63 AMG

The AMG version of the W251, the R63 AMG, was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show as a 2007 model. It features a 6.2 L M156 V8 engine producing 503 hp (375 kW) and 465 ft·lbf (630 N·m) of torque. Mercedes-Benz's 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission is standard.

References

• "2006 Volkswagen C1: Link with Maserati provides platform", an article under "Sketchpad" in the "News" section of the March, 2003 issue of Motor Trend, on page 31

External links

• Mercedes-Benz International
• Experience the R-Class - the Grand Sports Tourer

Mercedes-Benz vehicles | Crossover SUVs | MPVs

Mercedes-Benz W251 | Mercedes-Benz Classe R | Mercedes-Benz R-Klasse | メルセデス・ベンツ・Rクラス