This is the first look at the Vision GST concept, the precursor to the car Mercedes hopes will challenge the new Range Rover for luxury 4x4 sales.

The new Grand Sports Tourer is described as a six-seater 4x4 S-class and is scheduled to arrive in 2004.

Sitting on the new E-class platform, the GST should deliver with top performance, thanks to a 360bhp 5.5-litre AMG-tuned V8.

The concept rides on air suspension, which can be stiffened or softened at the touch of a button.

The GST also features Mercedes' new brake-by-wire system, as used in the SL roadster, which sends an electronic signal from the pedal to the brakes for shorter stopping distances.

A new safety system that detects the threat of collision and activates the seatbelt pre-tensioners before impact, will also be part of the hi-tech kit.

Access to the 4x4 is made easier thanks to the absence of B-pillars and rear-hinged back doors. The roof is constructed of electro-chromic glass, which occupants can darken or lighten. The first two rows of seats can be electrically adjusted, while a DVD/games system entertains passengers.

The four-wheel-drive concept is set to make its debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January. The final go-ahead for production has yet to be given, but Mercedes is building a working version, so the signs are good.

Don't expect the package to come cheap - initial estimates put the 4x4 at around £50,000.

 

I can't imagine seeing one of those drive past me...

 

Hehe... I do.

 

You live in Chicago where there's lotsa $$$$$$$$$$$

 

here are some better pictures

 

it looks kinda funny hehe...like a spider in the front

-briancl

 

damn that is nasty...who styles benz and bmw now a days?

 

MBSpy is a great site, I go there all the time.

 

did mb steal the design from the '02 civic si?

 

As always crappy from the rear, nice from the front and sides.

 

Looks more like a minivan than a SUV.