The all-new 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class models are indeed grand sport tourers. All six seats are window seats. No center seating here. They feature lots of interior layout flexibility for people and cargo, and plenty of torque for hauling. They're big but garageable. The R500 is not a fuel economy champion at a projected 21 mpg on the highway, it seems to have more overall utility than one of the giant SUVs, and gets better mileage than most of them. It's very cool to look at, and even more fun to drive whenever and wherever there's lots to see and enjoy.
New Car Test Drive correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from California.
dual-zone air conditioning, leather upholstery, power steering, power disc brakes, suspension, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, console, cruise control, message center, trip computer, eight-speaker AM/FM/WB/CD system, COMAND information display and control system, birdseye maple wood trim, eight-way power seats, folding second- and third-row bucket seats, rain-sensing wipers, multi-function steering wheel, integrated garage door opener; load-leveling rear suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and tires
Options as tested (MSRP):
Premium package
Destination charge:
($775)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$61,275
Layout:
all-wheel drive
Engine:
5.0-liter sohc 24-valve V8
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
302 @ 5600
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
339 @ 2700-4750
Transmission:
7-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
N/A
Wheelbase:
126.6 in.
Length/width/height:
203.0/77.5/65.2 in.
Track, f/r:
65.5/65.3 in.
Turning circle:
N/A
Seating capacity:
6
Head/hip/leg room, f:
39.8/60.3/39.8 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
40.4/59.6/36.2 in.
Head/hip/leg room, r:
37.2/52.8/32.4 in.
Cargo volume:
85 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
N/A
Suspension, f:
independent, double A-arms, coil springs
Suspension, r:
independent, 4-link, coil springs
Ground clearance:
5.8 in.
Curb weight:
4845 lbs.
Tires:
P255/55R18
Brakes, f/r:
13.8/13.0 disc/disc with ABS, EBD
Fuel capacity:
25.1 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of July 12, 2005.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
1-800-4MERCEDES -
www.mercedes-benz.com
