Mercedes is already testing the ulta high-performance AMG version of its R-Class, the production version of which was unveiled at the New York motor show just last month. Based on the underpinnings of the latest generation M-class sport utility vehicle, the regular R-Class comes with permanent four wheel drive and, as standard, a seven-speed automatic gearbox with column-mounted shift - features that the hot AMG version is likely to retain.

It's rumoured that like the current S-Class, which comes in S55 and S65 AMG forms, the R-Class, actually longer than an S in length, will also get two AMG derivatives. First, pictured here, is the R55 with the familiar 476bhp, 5.5-litre supercharged V8 as used in several other Mercedes AMG models. Second would be a new 6.3-litre V8, reportedly under development for use in the next-generation S-Class, developing closer to 600bhp and dubbed R63 AMG.

The R-Class is set for launch in autumn 2005, with right-hand-drive models following early 2006. We'd expect R55 AMG versions in both left- and right-hand-drive to become available during spring 2006, and the 6.3-litre versions sometime afterwards.

"Vision R 63 AMG": World premiere at the 61st Frankfurt Motor Show

Stuttgart, 09/05/2005 - At the Frankfurt Motor Show IAA Mercedes-AMG is presenting the "Vision R 63 AMG", a new near-series interpretation of the Grand Sports Tourer Mercedes-Benz R-Class. Powered by the all-new AMG V8 engine with an output of 510 hp and a maximum torque of 630 newton metres, the "Vision R 63 AMG" represents sporty driving pleasure, spaciousness and comfort for up to six occupants.

The AMG engine provides the performance characteristics of a sports car. The "Vision R 63 AMG" accelerates to 100 km/h in approximately five seconds and has a electronically limited maximum speed of 250 km/h. Power is transferred by an AMG Speedshift automatic transmission with steering wheel gearshift paddles.

Furthermore the AMG-version of the R-Class features newly designed front and rear aprons as well as bi-xenon headlamps with titanium-coated reflectors. 21-inch light alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design with wide-base tyres all-round lend a striking effect to the side view of the almost 5.20-metre long Grand Sports Tourer

Following the successful start to the year with a clear rebound against the first quarter 2009, Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with its model offensive on the U.S. market. Taking center stage at today’s Mercedes press conference on the 2010 New York International Auto Show was the world premiere of the new-generation R-Class. The original SUV tourer has been extensively updated – including a completely redesigned front end. A further highlight was the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. The racing version of the SLS AMG boasts stunning design and throroughbred racing technology, and makes its debut to coincide with the market launch of the road-going version. On top of that are three attractive new E-Class models for the U.S. market – the debut of the E 350 BlueTEC marks the arrival of another incredibly clean and efficient driveline variant of the successful sedan, which holds a 35 percent share of its market segment in the U.S. and remains the undisputed number one in its class. In May, the U.S. market will also welcome the new E-Class Cabriolet and the E-Class Wagon, which comes to market as the E 350 4MATIC with permanent all-wheel drive.

“Thanks to our successful model offensive, we are able to offer a uniquely wide range of tailor-made products designed to meet the needs of a demanding customer base,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Head of Marketing and Sales for Mercedes-Benz Cars. “A significant proportion of this success is down to the innovative vehicle concepts with which Mercedes-Benz has repeatedly established and opened up new market segments,” he continued. “These include the R-Class, the original SUV tourer, which we have now extensively redesigned and upgraded.”

The most important exterior feature of the new-generation R-Class is the completely redesigned front end. It underscores the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle that boasts an impressive array of inner values. These include the spaciousness of modern SUVs, as well as the comfort, exclusivity and prestige of Mercedes-Benz sedans. At the same time, the latest generation offers the interior versatility central to the R-Class vehicle concept, while also delivering the tough characteristics and all-wheel drive features of Mercedes-Benz SUVs.

New R 350 BlueTEC – one of the world’s cleanest diesels

When it comes to the engine range, Mercedes-Benz engineers placed particular emphasis on efficiency and environmental sustainability. With the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is offering one of the cleanest diesel models worldwide. The V6 engine generates an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and 400 lb-ft (540 Nm) of torque. The diesel is equipped with AdBlue© exhaust treatment and, despite performance improvements, consumes only 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers (combined EU cycle), which is 0.3 liters less than its predecessor. It already fulfills the emissions requirements for the EU6 standard due for introduction in 2014. All gasoline and diesel versions of the R-Class fulfill the EU5 standard. In the U.S., the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC achieves 18/24 mpg city/hwy. and meets emissions standards in all 50 states.

New R 350 CDI 4MATIC – refined performance with reduced consumption

The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC (not available in the U.S.) combines the performance of a V8 model with the low consumption figures of an economic V6. It needs only 8.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (NEDC combined), thus bettering its predecessor by 0.8 liters – despite its significantly improved performance. While the peak output previously stood at 165 kW (224 hp), the modified V6 diesel now delivers 195 kW (265 hp) and an exceptional torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft). The sportiest version of the R-Class with a diesel engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km in 7.6 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).

Dr. Joachim Schmidt: “The new-generation R-Class is the most modern and versatile SUV tourer on the market. This amazing combination of safety, comfort and sporting character with outstanding functionality and exceptional efficiency is something you can find only at Mercedes-Benz.”
Successful E-Class family – now also complete in the U.S.

At the end of the first quarter 2010, Mercedes-Benz continues to consolidate its position as the leading luxury brand in the U.S. A major part of this success belongs to new models like the GLK and the new E-Class Sedan and Coupe. The sedan is the most successful model in its class, commanding a 35 percent share of its market segment, which is double the figure at this time last year.

“We want to continue this success story, which is why the next few weeks will see us launch three new E-Class models onto the U.S. market,” says Ernst Lieb, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. “In summer, with the new E 350 BlueTEC, we are introducing another incredibly clean and efficient driveline variant of the successful sedan. Plus, we are also completing the E-Class family with the cabriolet, which goes on sale May 10, and the E-Class Wagon, which we are offering as the E 350 4MATIC with permanent all-wheel drive.”