Mercedes-Benz announced a facelifted version of its R-Class. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class offered with the choice of rear-wheel-drive, in addition to the company’s 4Matic system.
The R-Class line-up, which includes the configurations with up to six individual seats, has been expanded to include a five-seat version and a seven-seat variant. The “SUV tourer” continues to be offered in two wheelbase lengths.
On the outside, the facelifted crossover is distinguishable by the a new body styling package at the front and rear, circular fog lamps and 18-inch light-alloy wheels for all V6 versions. The top-of-the-range R 500 4MATIC is fitted with 19-inch wheels. R-Class customers can also choose from three new paint colors: calcite white, sanidine beige or periclase green.
The engine line-up now includes a new V6 gasoline powerplant in the R 280, which develops 170 hp and propels the R-Class from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds. It delivers 22 mpg. The R 280 CDI 4MATIC, fitted with a latest-generation common-rail diesel engine developing 190 hp, is even more fuel efficient, offering 25 mpg.
The R 500 4MATIC model also features a new engine. The updated 5.5-liter V8 pumps out 388 hp ??? an increase of 82 hp over the previous model, while fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 7 percent.
Mercedes now offers three new entry-level R-Class models ??? the R 280 CDI, the R 280 and the R 350 ??? all of which are V6 versions with rear-wheel drive and a choice of a short or long wheelbase. Thanks to the reduction in weight and the lower powertrain losses due to friction, the latter on account of the rear-wheel-drive configuration, these models return even lower fuel-consumption figures.
