Mercedes-Benz R-Class

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 shares its chassis with the 2006 M-Class. The R-Class slots between the ML-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.

See Wikicars' comprehensive  Review.

Recent Changes

 * Debuting at the 2010 New York Auto Show for the 2011 MY, the R-class receives a comprehensive mid-cycle facelift that cures the aesthetic shortcomings of the slow-selling luxo family hauler. The most immediate change is up front, where the R-Class eschews the ovoid headlamps in favor of squarer items and a sharper, more chiseled schnoz. Out back, the changes are minor and are limited mostly to a change in the graphic design of the rear clusters.

Styles and Major Options
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)

Pricing
Add more fields as necessary.

Gas Mileage
Add more fields as necessary.

As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Engine and Transmission
Specifications, details, graphs, pictures and other information regarding the powertrain is placed in this section.

Performance
Acceleration

0-60 km/h: 3.4 seconds (R500)

0-80 km/h: 5.2 seconds (R500)

0-100 km/h: 7.4 seconds (R500)

Braking

Stopping distance: 33.1 metres from 80 km/h. (R500)

Reliability

 * RECALL ALERT: On Nov 5, 2010, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall affecting approximately 2,300 MY2011 E-Class, GL-Class, M-Class and R-Class due to improperly lubricated O-ring that will result in a leaky fuel filter.

Safety
This section should reference points on safety ratings and features of the vehicle.

Photos


Add Photos of the vehicle here.

Please make sure not to use copyrighted photos.

Colors
List the colors that the particular  is offered in.

Main Competitors
Create links to other   pages in this section.

Hybrid Models
If there are hybrid versions of this vehicle manufactured, then please elaborate a little bit on it here.

Unique Attributes
If there are any features of this vehicle that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class, then mention those unique attributes here.

Interior
This section should include information on the interior's design, build quality, ergonomics, space (head and legroom, front and rear), features, stowage compartments and overall comfortability and livability. Add pictures wherever applicable and keep information in a third-person point of view.

Resale Values
Add more fields as necessary.

Criticisms
"It's not a wagon, it's a 4x4. And not a very good one. You're better off buying a condom". - Top Gear

Generations
Fill in as many as appropriate. Add more if necessary and pictures wherever applicable.

Please make sure NOT to use copyrighted pictures.

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.

Worldwide
If the vehicle is sold in other markets worldwide, then this is the section to mention that information. Also, mention if the  goes by another name in these other markets.

Design quirks and oddities
Refer to any pop-culture tidbits about the vehicle in this section.

Awards
List out notable awards that the model has recieved while in production. Boldface the company or organization that gives out the award, and Italicize the name of the award.