Benz Faqs

The R-Class is what Mercedes-Benz likes to call a “sports tourer.” It’s lower and more polished than an SUV or minivan but larger and more comfortable than a wagon. It handles more like a vehicle than an SUV, thanks to its car-like construction.

The R-Class is designed to appeal to affluent buyers who want the convenience of an SUV or minivan but don’t want to sacrifice style or good driving dynamics.

In addition to the V6-powered R350 and V8-powered R500 models that debuted last year, two new versions join the line for 2007. Their engines are diametrically opposed in purpose: A new, 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder diesel motivates the R320 CDI and should return excellent fuel economy, while the hand-built 6.3-liter V8 of the new R63 AMG cranks out a lofty 507 hp for scintillating performance and abysmal fuel economy.

The new diesel engine uses special technology (called common-rail direct-injection) to maximize power and efficiency and minimize the stink and smoke associated with older diesel engines. While its output is modest at 221 hp, the engine provides ample torque at 398 pound-feet.

This enables strong low-end power that you can feel while driving around town. While EPA estimates for the R320 CDI were not released as of publication time, a 201-hp version of the same engine in the 2006 E-Class is rated at 27 mpg city/37 mpg highway.

The R350 and R500 continue unchanged for 2007. The former comes powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 hp. The latter is fitted with a 5.0-liter V8 that features twin spark plugs and three valves per cylinder, and it generates 302 hp.

Both engines are fitted to a seven-speed automatic transmission with touch-shift “manual” capability that is operated via an electronic gear selector mounted on the steering column. Expect fuel economy similar to last year’s EPA ratings of 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway for the R350 and 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway for the R500.

A four-wheel independent suspension with a double-wishbone design up front and a four-link array at the rear provides handling qualities superior to those of most SUVs and minivans. A four-wheel electronic air suspension with adaptive damping ($1,400 with the R350 and $1,200 with the R500) delivers a smoother, more-controlled ride. It’s standard on the R63 AMG and includes revised damping and AMG shock absorbers for a sportier feel. Standard features are plentiful, and opulent options are available.