An Automotive Decathelete

The R-Class crossover was launched in 2005 as an entirely new type of Mercedes-Benz that combines the defining advantages of several distinct vehicles – the sure-footedness of a four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle, the performance and comfort of a sports sedan and the versatility of a luxury wagon.


With a sharp focus on design, comfort, space and performance, the R-Class is designed as a spacious, roomy vehicle with space for up to seven adults. Its standard sunroof or an optional Panorama sunroof further contributes to its openness.


In comparison to other Mercedes-Benz models, the R-Class is about the same length as the flagship S-Class sedan. As an indicator of comfort and roominess, cabin space in the R-Class represents 65 percent of its total volume, and there’s up to 40 inches between the first and second seat rows, with more than 30 inches between the second and third rows.

The R-Class allows occupants to create their own sense of space with features such as reading lights, armrests, air vents and cup holders as well as seat adjustments for each seat and two separate-source audio plugs. This individualization is further enhanced with the optional MP3 media interface and dual-screen video entertainment system.

A Unibody Chassis Worthy of a Sports Sedan

The R-Class boasts a strong unibody platform and four-wheel independent suspension with double control arms in the front and four-link air suspension at the rear. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering delivers impressive on-road driving performance and comfort, and ample braking is provided by large four-wheel disc brakes, with vented discs and double-piston calipers up front.