FOR THE second time within the space of just one month, Mercedes-Benz is lifting the wraps on another brand new model series, the new R-Class, which is making its world debut at the New York International Auto Show.

This groundbreaking vehicle concept reaffirms the role of Mercedes-Benz as the visionary and trendsetter amongst automotive brands, since the R-Class founds a new and highly promising market segment. It takes the acknowledged strengths of established vehicle categories, such as sporty Saloon, Estate, MPV and SUV, and fuses them to create a new car with a character all of its own, a car that is all about the three Ds: Dimensions, Design and Dynamism.

The new R-Class is being launched first in North America in autumn 2005. Deliveries to customers in Europe will begin early in 2006 with UK arrivals around spring 2006. The novel concept of the Grand Sports Tourer caters to the needs of modern-minded people looking for a car that offers tremendous versatility combined with athletic performance.

Quite apart from boasting ample spaciousness, exemplary standards of safety and impeccable comfort for up to six passengers, the new R-Class also enthrals with its beguiling styling, prestigious flair and, last but by no means least, its dynamism out on the road. In a nutshell: the Grand Sports Tourer offers a whole new motoring experience.

Measuring 5157 mm from nose to tail, the body of the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class is akin to a luxury saloon in size but is considerably more spacious inside. This is due primarily to the sophisticated vehicle concept and a dimensional design that has been ingeniously planned right down to the finest detail: around 64% of the vehicle's overall body length is available for the occupants, proportions that conventional notchback saloons are simply unable to match.