For an easy reach of all the articles dedicated to the New York International Auto Show, we've compiled all the links heading to them in one single post. Roll down and start reading. Enjoy!

1. The Mercedes-Benz R-Class: spacious, prestigious and exceptionally comfortable - Versatility at its best

2. World premiere of the new-generation R-Class and model offensive on the U.S. market


3. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3: Spectacular racing car for the sporting customer

4. The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3

Copyright © 2010, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Download the complete text >> The new SLS AMG GT3

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OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

New York, USA, Mar 31, 2010 – Coinciding with the market launch of the SLS AMG on 27 March 2010, Mercedes-AMG is presenting a GT3 variant. This racing version of the gullwing model stands out with its spectacular design and thoroughbred motor sports technology. Developed to comply with the GT3 specifications of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), the SLS AMG GT3 is designed as a racing sports car for customers competing in sprints and long-distance races. These race series for near-series GT cars are noted for their very varied participants and great excitement. Not least because of their comparatively favourable cost structure, they are enjoying increasing worldwide popularity.


AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz, is entering a new business sector with the new SLS AMG GT3: the development, production and marketing of sports racing cars intended for customer use. Sales of these customer cars are expected to commence in autumn 2010, and homologation of the GT3 variant will be completed in time for the 2011 racing season.

"Thanks to uncompromising lightweight construction and superior handling
dynamics, the SLS AMG provides an outstanding basis for a highly competitive racing car. This exciting GT3 version is our response to strong customer demand for a car designed for these attractive motor sports series. Once again, it demonstrates AMG's huge experience gained in more than 40 years of motor sports, and its great expertise in the development of unique high-performance cars," says Volker Mornhinweg, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new SLS AMG GT3 is an emphatic continuation of AMG's commitment to motor sports. AMG has been a pioneer in the motor sports world ever since its foundation in 1967. The new racing version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is developed and produced by AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for the DTM racing team on behalf of Mercedes-Benz Motorsports. The HWA team is one of the most successful in international motor sports, as witness nine driver championships in the DTM and ITC, as well as two championship titles in the FIA GT Championships.

The SLS AMG GT3 is set to write another chapter in this success story, and harks back to the 300 SL racing sports car of 1952 which first established the "gullwing" legend. Its historic victory in the "Carrera Panamericana" long-distance race also made Mercedes-Benz a household name in North and Central America, and demonstrated the know-how and expertise of the Stuttgart-based automobile company.

Spectacular racing car looks and top-class performance

The purist design and breathtaking contours of this gullwing model are effectively emphasised by specific modifications to the bodywork. The new components made mainly from carbon-fibre are an unmistakable testimony to the outstanding racetrack performance and extensive aerodynamic development work.

At the front the GT3 racing car has a new front apron with larger air intakes: the wide aperture below the characteristic radiator grille with a large Mercedes star and a wing-shaped transverse fin supplies the engine oil cooler and brake discs with cooling air. The two air intakes below the vertically arranged bi-xenon headlamps have the same function. Downforce at the front axle is provided by four externally mounted "flics" and the carbon-fibre front splitter: this blends into the smooth underbody cladding which ends with the rear diffuser.

The bonnet has a central aperture to dissipate the engine heat. The hot air is vented in the wheel arches from side vents in the front wings. Particularly lightweight polycarbonate is used to glaze the side and rear windows, and this is also available for the windscreen.

The front and rear wings have been widened to make space for the large racing tyres. With a width of 1990 millimetres, the body of the GT3 is a good 50 millimetres wider than that of the standard SLS AMG. The new side skirts have apertures for cooling the rear brakes. The smooth underbody is visible at the lower edges of the side skirts. The standardised filler pipe for the fast-refuel system is accommodated in the B-pillar. The 120-litre fuel tank is centrally located behind the driver.

Wide rear apron of carbon-fibre

Viewed from the rear, the SLS AMG GT3 impresses with its sheer width. The boot lid is surmounted by a wide carbon-fibre rear aerofoil, which has multiple adjustments and allows a perfect setup for the type of racetrack concerned. The new rear apron features two apertures designed to vent the rear wheel arches. The carbon-fibre rear diffuser is another eye-catching feature: as an extension to the smooth underbody, it gradually rises in the rear axle area and generates a downforce thanks to its shape. The overall aerodynamic concept of the SLS AMG GT3 was refined and finalised in extensive wind tunnel and racetrack tests.

The black exhaust tailpipes emit a thrilling and very characteristic AMG eight-cylinder sound. The rain light prescribed by the rulebook is integrated into the boot lid – it must remain permanently switched on if the weather conditions are poor.

Near-series AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine

As prescribed by the FIA GT3 rules, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine is practically
identical to that in the standard model. Thanks to its lower weight, the GT3 will easily better the already outstanding acceleration of the standard model – 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h; depending on the final drive ratio, the top speed will exceed 300 km/h.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine also has a dry sump lubrication system in the racing model. Using vacuum and pressure pumps, as well as an external oil tank, makes it possible to dispense with a conventional sump. This technology ensures reliable engine lubrication even under the high lateral acceleration forces encountered on the racetrack.

Dry sump lubrication also allows a low installed position for the V8 engine – one of the key technological highlights of the SLS AMG. Installing the eight-cylinder engine in the lowest possible position behind the front axle as a front-mid engine, and combining it with the transmission in a transaxle arrangement, produces a very favourable weight distribution.

Six-speed racing transmission with sequential gear-changes

Unlike in the standard model, power in the SLS AMG GT3 is transferred by a six-speed racing transmission with sequential gear-changes. Thanks to its compact construction, this race-tested transmission has advantages in terms of packaging – after all, the GT3 version has a smaller ground clearance than the standard model. The driver shifts the gears using two shift paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission is mounted directly on the rear axle, and connected to the V8 engine via a flexurally and torsionally rigid torque tube. This has decisive advantages with respect to handling dynamics, as this sophisticated solution enables the entire powertrain to be configured with far less free play. In conjunction with the traction control system, a multi-disc locking differential integrated into the transmission ensures outstanding acceleration. A drive shaft rotates at the engine speed within this torque tube. As in the standard model, and also the Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM racing cars, the shaft is made from carbon-fibre.

The vehicle concept of the SLS AMG is predestined for top-class racetrack performance, with a long wheelbase, a low centre of gravity and a wide track. Its strengths include precise over/understeer characteristics, first-class agility, low inertia during fast changes of direction and high physical limits when cornering.
Very few modifications were required for perfect racetrack performance: the lowered, lightweight aluminium suspension with double wishbones all-round has the ideal kinematics. Multiple adjustments allow the best possible adaptation to the relevant racetrack characteristics and prevailing weather conditions. Not only the spring and damper setups, but also the track width and camber, the suspension height and the stabilisers at the front and rear axles can be adjusted.

The rack-and-pinion steering system with speed-sensitive servo assistance is
basically the same as in the standard SLS AMG. The more direct steering ratio makes for even more agile handling on the racetrack.

AMG motor sports braking system with composite technology

The AMG motor sports braking system ensures extremely short braking distances, outstanding fade-resistance and great sensitivity: race-tested composite technology is used for all the brake discs. In this system, the grey cast-iron discs are mounted on an aluminium bowl via stainless steel connections in a radially and axially floating arrangement. This sophisticated technology allows perfect heat conduction, and therefore reliable fade-resistance. The SLS AMG GT3 also features precisely configured cooling ducts: apertures in the front apron and in front of the rear wheels supply the brake discs with cool air when on the move. All four brake discs are ventilated, grooved and perforated. Six-piston fixed calipers at the front and four-piston fixed calipers at the rear in anthracite with a white AMG logo allow generous brake lining surfaces. An anti-lock braking system with a special racing configuration is standard. For space reasons, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite braking system optionally available for the standard model is not compatible with the 18-inch wheels prescribed by the FIA rulebook.

The size 12 x 18-inch (front) and 13 x 18-inch (rear) AMG light-alloy wheels with central locking are shod with racing tyres in size 287 x 682 mm (front) and 315 x 708 mm (rear). Depending on the conditions, untreaded slicks, intermediates or rain tyres are used. The classic multi-spoke design assists ventilation of the braking system. Rapid pitstops and wheel-changes are assured by the pneumatic jacking system integrated into the underbody: four pneumatic jacks lift the GT3 racing car by around 190 millimetres to allow very rapid wheel-changes by the pit crew.

Interior with racing bucket seat and racing steering wheel

Opening the gullwing doors of the SLS AMG GT3 reveals a functional interior with a racing car atmosphere. The driver is seated in a racing bucket seat, his safety assured by a six-point seat belt and the HANS system (Head and Neck Support), which fixes his helmet in a defined position during an accident to minimise the risk of injury. Additional safety is provided by the steel rollover cage, which also serves to reinforce the aluminium spaceframe.

A racing steering wheel with a diameter of 330 millimetres allows perfect vehicle control. Thanks to the open upper section of the rim, the driver always has a clear view of the central display. This keeps him informed about all the relevant parameters such as speed, engine rpm, operating temperatures, lap times and the selected gear. The steering wheel also has a quick-locking feature which allows much easier access and egress. Switches on the steering wheel boss enable the driver to activate additional functions such as the radio link to the pits, headlamp flasher or the drink function. Further controls are mounted on the centre console, for example the start/stop function for the AMG V8 engine, the traction control system, reverse gear and – if the worst should happen – the integrated fire extinguisher system. The brake balance adjustment control is mounted on the tunnel of the torque tube.

The near-series specification of the GT3 version is reflected in the dashboard, whose powerfully arching wing section gives an impression of width. Strikingly integrated into the dashboard, the air vents galvanised in "Silver Shadow" have adjustable, cruciform nozzles reminiscent of an aircraft's jet engines.

Deliveries of customer vehicles will commence in spring 2011

The new SLS AMG GT3 was developed to comply with the international FIA GT3 race rules, and is entitled to take part in all GT3 race series – which of course includes the popular 24-hour race in Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) or the Nürburg-ring. Interested customers are able to order the GT3 from autumn 2010, and delivery will take place in time for the start of the 2011 racing season. Homologation will be completed in March 2011.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

New York, USA, Mar 31, 2010 – 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.”

The E-Class Wagon – elegance meets functionality

The E-Class Wagon combines the elegance, comfort and outstanding safety of the sedan with a unique level of functionality. Alongside the maximum load volume (70 cu. ft. / 2,000 liters), the key features of this versatile vehicle include its straightforward usability. One touch of a button is all it takes to open the tailgate automatically. Two simple movements are enough to fold the rear seat backs completely – freeing up all 6.5 ft. (two meters) of load space. And the third seat row is folded out in just three easy steps, converting the E 350 4MATIC to the only seven-seater in its class.

SLS AMG GT3 – stunning race version of the super sports car

Mercedes-Benz is bringing a particular highlight to New York with the world
premiere of the new SLS AMG GT3, coinciding with the U.S. market launch of the SLS AMG. Volker Mornhinweg, Chairman of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “With the GT3 racing version, we are opening up a whole new area of business for AMG, encompassing the development, production and sales of customer sports vehicles.” Thanks to its lightweight construction and superior dynamics, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG offers an excellent basis for a competitive race car. “With the stunning GT3 version, we are responding to strong demand from our customers for a vehicle to compete in this attractive motorsports series,” continued Mornhinweg.

With the GT3, AMG is once more demonstrating its unique experience gathered from more than 40 years of motorsports and its outstanding expertise in the development of unique, high-performance vehicles. The racing version of the new “Gullwing” is being developed and produced by AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is contracted by Mercedes-Benz Motorsport to manage the company’s DTM team and is one of the most successful teams in international motorsport. Sales are scheduled to begin fall 2010, with homologation of the GT3 version due for completion in time for the 2011 racing season.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Stuttgart, Germany, Mar 31, 2010

The new generation of the R-Class now features an enhanced self-assured appearance, highlighting the unique personality of this versatile vehicle. The overall impression in particular has benefitted significantly from the completely redesigned front section, which borrows elements both from Mercedes-Benz saloons and SUV models. In addition to the fresh exterior, the "twenty-ten" model year R-Class also impresses with a number of distinctive interior features. These include the economy of space found in the latest MPV's, as well as the comfort, high-class appeal and prestige associated with classic Mercedes-Benz saloons. At the same time, the latest generation offers the same level of interior diversity for which its predecessor was renowned, and also boasts the robustness and all-wheel-drive properties of Mercedes-Benz SUV's. The R-Class will be celebrating its world premiere on 31 March 2010 at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).


Engine line-up: economical drive systems

In addition to the modern petrol variants adopted from the preceding model, with their customary effortless power delivery and high drive comfort, a range of optimised diesel engines is now also available to enhance the appeal of the R-Class. With a fuel consumption figure of 7.6 l/100 km*, compared with its predecessor the R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model requires around 7 percent less fuel while offering the same power output and enhanced performance. The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the high performance of a V8 model with the low fuel consumption of an economical V6 variant. It consumes 8.5 litres* of diesel per one hundred kilometres, thereby undercutting its predecessor by 0.8 litres – yet is able to offer significantly enhanced performance. While previously the maximum performance topped out at 165 kW (224 hp), the V6 diesel engine now boasts 195 kW (265 hp) as well as massive torque of 620 Newton metres. Making its debut in the R-Class, this powerful package enables the sportiest of all of the R-Class models with diesel engine to achieve effortlessly superior levels of performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds, while the top speed is 235 km/h.

With the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is offering one of the cleanest diesel models in the world. The V6 engine achieves an output of 155 kW (211 hp) and substantial torque of 540 Nm. Compared with its predecessor, this model also manages to achieve reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions while providing enhanced performance. Equipped with highly-effective AdBlue© emission control, the compression-ignition engine consumes an average of 0.3 of a litre less, at 8.4 litres* of diesel per one hundred kilometres, generating in the process the same level of emissions as a comparable petrol engine. As a result, this model currently already meets the emission values planned for 2014 according to the EU6 standard. All other petrol and diesel versions of the R-Class meet the EU5 standard.

*NEDC combined consumption

Key technical data+:

Simply stunning: the design of the R-Class

The latest generation of the R-Class features a new, self-assured appearance. The overall impression is virtually seamless and encapsulates the unique personality of this highly versatile vehicle. The focus of the designers was the completely revised front section which, by emphasizing the width and making use of a horizontally structured bonnet, affords the entire vehicle a look which is as harmonious as it is powerfully dynamic. In addition to the bonnet, the vehicle's wings, radiator grille and surround, headlamps and bumpers with chrome underguard have all been completely redesigned. As an optional extra, a chrome insert with integrated LED daytime driving lights in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps is available to enhance the look of the R-Class even further.

The side view features coupé-like lines - a pleasant contrast to regular large-capacity vehicles - and is characterised by the modified exterior mirror housings and the wheel design. Wheels are available in 5-spoke, 5-twin spoke or 10-spoke designs, and in sizes ranging from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres (17 to 21 inches). The design idiom of the front is continued consistently through the rear area which, with its new bumper covering, modified tail lamps and integrated tailpipe trim, has also been given an accentuated wide look. The 2010 model year R-Class looks particularly refined in the new "diamond white" paint finish.

Wellness program: a relaxed environment both for longer journeys or everyday use

If there was a versatility test for car interiors, the R-Class would certainly be the favourite to take first place. A wide variety of options are available when it comes to seat variations in particular: designed for a relaxed, safe driving environment, the saloon offers five seats as standard in both the normal and long wheelbase versions, but four, six or even seven seat configurations are also possible. The R-Class comes with partially power-adjustable seats for driver and front passenger as standard, while as an option front passengers can also enjoy the luxury of actively ventilated and heated multicontour seats with full power adjustment and memory function.

The R-Class also reveals another benefit in the form of its large, versatile luggage compartment: in the standard-wheelbase versions the luggage compartment holds up to 1950 litres, while the long-wheelbase version boasts 2385 litres. In all five-seat variants there is a separate stowage compartment beneath the load compartment floor, while the optional EASY PACK tailgate which can operated remotely by means of a switch or key also makes access to the luggage compartment easier. As such the R-Class is the most variable and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car product range.

The bright, classic interior - which seems even more spacious when fitted with the optional panoramic glass sunroof - makes use of new materials and colour combinations which enhance the high-class appeal and quality of this unique long-distance saloon. At the same time they underline the sense of wellbeing which is typical of the Mercedes-Benz interior. Available interior appointments include the upholstery combination of "Aspen" fabric and breathable, soft-touch ARTICO man-made leather.

Two-tone interior appointments are a new addition to the range: this is where the base colour almond beige can be combined with the contrasting colour mocha brown. Alternatively, the base colour alpaca grey combined with contrasting dark basalt grey is also available. Both colour combinations are used on the dashboard, steering wheel, centre console, seats, door linings and floor coverings. When choosing ARTICO or leather appointments at the same time, the piping is finished in a contrasting colour. Single-tone nappa leather appointments are also available as standard in conjunction with the AMG Interior Sports package. In addition to aluminium trim with a dark longitudinal-grain and chrome trim in silver shadow, luxurious wood trim in high-gloss brown eucalyptus, high-gloss brown burred walnut or high-gloss anthracite poplar can also be ordered.

Model range: the R-Class with a personal touch

The nine basic variants already provide an opportunity to tailor the R-Class according to personal vehicle preferences in each case. All models boast numerous features as standard which help to make travelling both on long journeys as well as on short urban trips even safer and more relaxed. These features include the unique anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, a complete restraint system with eight airbags, crash-active NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre pressure loss warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also enhanced thanks to high-performance telematics systems such as the Audio 20, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS with an extremely user-friendly interface.

The THERMATIC automatic climate control system is fitted with a combination
filter to hep further reduce pollutants which may be contained in the outside air entering the vehicle. As an optional extra, a THERMOTRONIC system providing separate rear air conditioning is available to meet all interior air conditioning requirements. The spacious glove compartment now comes with an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment devices. Connection options can also be extended further with an optional Media Interface (UCI).

To complement the extensive standard equipment, the R-Class provides a variety of assistant systems which push ride comfort and safety to the highest level and contribute to the vehicle's leading position in this market segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive
Damping System (ADS), or Blind Spot Assist, which can make changing lanes significantly safer. The modern LINGUATRONIC voice control system makes using the telematics systems even easier and more convenient, while a reversing camera provides for smooth, easy parking or manoeuvering in blind spots. As soon as the driver engages "R" gear, the image from the camera is shown on the high-resolution COMAND APS display. Rear passengers, meanwhile, can enjoy their own entertainment programme thanks to the Rear Seat Entertainment System. Seat heating can also be ordered for the second row of seats to increase comfort even further in winter.

Valuation: neutral surveys confirm high resale opportunities

Experience shows that Mercedes-Benz models belong to the most stable vehicles on the market in terms of values and they therefore offer a significant financial advantage. This was confirmed once again last year by a neutral third-party when specialist magazine "Auto Bild" selected the "2010 Value Champions" in different vehicle categories based on surveys conducted by Saarbrücken-based market research institute Bähr & Fess Forecast. The "Value Champion" among MPV's, the R 300 CDI, emerged ahead of the field in this market segment and according to the forecasts would retain a value of 47.5 percent after four years. The R-Class already held this leading position in the expert analysis of residual values last year.

2010 R-Class: model range and appointment variants*

Diverse, comfortable and fully equipped

The new R-Class enhances the merits of this unique vehicle category even further. In addition to the fresh exterior, the "twenty-ten" model year R-Class also impresses with a number of interior features in particular. These include the economy of space found in the latest MPV's, and the comfort, high-class appeal and prestige of the S‑Class. At the same time, this latest generation offers the superior interior diversity for which its predecessor was renowned, and also boasts the robustness and
all-wheel-drive properties of Mercedes-Benz SUV's.

With a total of 9 base versions, the R-Class provides the most comprehensive model range in the premium long-distance saloon segment. Together with the significantly more appealing body design, the complete range of standard equipment and the numerous individualisation options, the R-Class can be tailored specifically to meet individual requirements. It also offers a high degree of variability, standard or long wheelbases, 4MATIC rear or permanent all-wheel drive, and high-performance yet economical engines, which in some cases come with BlueTEC or BlueEFFICIENCY technology – if there was such a thing as a vehicle versatility test, then the R-Class would certainly be the favourite to take first place.

An overview of the models:

Standard wheelbase:
R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY
R 350 CDI 4MATIC
R 300
R 350 4MATIC

Long wheelbase:
R 350 CDI 4MATIC
R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
R 300
R 350 4MATIC
R 500 4MATIC

* The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the international Mercedes-Benz model range and may vary from country to country.

A full complement of equipment for the highest level of comfort and comprehensive safety

All models boast numerous features as standard which help to make travelling both on long journeys as well as on short urban trips even safer and more relaxed. The following is an extract of the standard equipment:

7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever on the steering column and shift paddles on the steering wheel
Airbag system: adaptive airbags and side airbags for driver and front passenger, windowbags across all three rows of seats
Adaptive brake lights warn traffic behind by flashing in an emergency braking situation
Permanent 4MATIC all-wheel drive (on the models R 350 CDI 4MATIC, R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, R 350 4MATIC and R 500 4MATIC
Heated and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors
Courtesy lights in the doors
AUX-IN connection (in glove compartment)
Brake Assist (BAS)
Stainless steel front door sill panels with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering
Electric power windows (4 windows)
ESP® with tyre pressure loss warning and trailer stabilisation
Headlamp Assist
Tinted glass
Belt force limiters on all seats
Belt tensioners on all seats
Bicolour tail lamps with LED and fibre-optic elements
ISOFIX child seat attachment system
THERMATIC automatic climate control with 2 climate zones
Comfort multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather
Steering column, adjustable for height and reach
Crash-active NECK-PRO head restraints for driver and front passenger
Speed-sensitive steering (R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and R 350 BlueTEC:
electrohydraulic steering)
PRE-SAFE®
Wheels and tyres:
235/65 R 17 tyres for R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY models; 10-spoke light-alloy wheels
255/55 R 18 tyres for 350 CDI 4MATIC, R 300 and R 350 4MATIC models;
10‑spoke light-alloy wheels
255/55 R 19 tyres for the R 500 4MATIC model; 5-spoke light-alloy wheels
Rain sensor for the windscreen wipers
TIREFIT tyre repair set with electric compressor
Headlamps with H7 projector beam technology, daytime driving lights and front fog lamps with integrated into the bumper with chrome rings
Audio 20 CD telematics system
Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC
4ETS traction system (on all 4MATIC models)
Ambient lighting in the exterior mirrors
Central display in instrument cluster
Central locking with remote control
Brushed aluminium trim with longitudinal-grain, chrome trim in silver shadow

Other attractive equipment options* can help to make the R-Class experience even more impressive:

AIRMATIC package, air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS),
vehicle level adjustment via a switch in the centre console, automatic lowering on motorways
DISCTRONIC proximity control
Electric folding left and right exterior mirrors with programmable automatic function
Electric power vent window for the third row of seats
Audio 50 APS telematics system with 6-disc CD changer
Bi-xenon headlamps (darkened) with dynamic range adjustment, headlamp cleaning system and LED daytime driving lights on a chrome insert
EASY-PACK tailgate with remote control
EASY-PACK load compartment cover
Anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection
PARKTRONIC parking aid
Rear-seat entertainment system
Rear air conditioning system (standard in conjunction with THERMOTRONIC)
Programmable garage door opener integrated into the rear-view mirror
LINGUATRONIC
Electrically adjustable steering column
Air suspension with self-levelling at the rear (standard on R 500 4MATIC)
Media Interface (UCI)
Memory function for front seats, mirrors and steering wheel
Centre console for the middle row of seats
Multifunction wood/leather-trimmed steering wheel
Heated multifunction steering wheel
Actively ventilated multicontour seats for driver and front passenger
Multi-zone THERMOTRONIC
COMAND APS multimedia system:
LINGUATRONIC
Radio with twin tuner
6-disc CD changer
DVD audio/video player
high-resolution 16.5-centimetre (6.5-inch) colour display
4 GB of storage for MP3 files (Music Register)
Storage card slot (SD cards)
Hard-disc navigation with automatic consideration of traffic congestion
Compass function
Electric panoramic sliding glass sunroof with interior electric roller sunblind, convenience closing feature and double sun screens
Wheels and tyres:
265/45 R 20 tyres, 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels
265/45 R 20 tyres, AMG 5-spoke high-sheen light-alloy wheels
265/40 R 21 tyres, AMG 5-spoke titanium silver light-alloy wheels
Tyre pressure monitoring system, selective wheels with pressure sensors
and antennas
Reversing camera (in conjunction with COMAND APS)
Heated windscreen washer system
Headlamp cleaning system
Dark-tinted rear side windows and rear window
Rear sidebags
Heated rear seats
Harman Kardon® Logic7® sound system with eleven loudspeakers and surround sound
Remote control auxiliary heating
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function
Wood trim in "high-gloss brown eucalyptus", "high-gloss brown burr walnut", "high-gloss anthracite poplar" (standard on R 500 4MATIC) or "aluminium with dark longitudinal-grain"
KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system

*extracts

Popular equipment options have been combined into attractive packages:

Exterior Chrome package:
chrome beltline trim strips, door handles in the vehicle colour with chrome insert, rub strips with chrome insert, chrome-look underguard at the front and chromed tailpipe trims

Exterior Sports package:
comprising Chrome package, 20-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and
blue-tinted glass all round

Interior Sports package:
Interior Light package, front sports seats, Alcantara/ARTICO man-made leather upholstery combination with contrasting stitching and brushed stainless steel sports pedals

Interior AMG Sports package:
Nappa leather AMG sports seats, fully power-adjustable at the front, AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with shift paddles, floor mats with "AMG" lettering, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, Interior Light package and also Multicontour Seat package