AIMS: Benz R-Class update

The Sydney show offered the opportunity for Mercedes-Benz to show off its latest, updated R-Class wagon.

The big kid on the block now comes with a new front end featuring LED daytime running lights setting off redesigned headlights, grille and bumper.

Benz designers have aimed to give the seven-seat R-Class "SUV" a wider, more "expressive" look from the front with stronger bonnet contours and a wider, higher-set and more steeply angled grille.

In profile, the R-Class revamp includes bigger side mirror housings, supported by slimmer stems, while up back there are new bumper claddings, LED/fibre optic taillights, a diffuser and integrated tailpipe trim all designed to emphasise the horizontal.

Initially, the new-look R-Class is limited to the short wheelbase, 140kW/440Nm R 300 CDI four-wheel drive version. This will be followed by the R 350 CDI long-wheelbase a little later, with petrol variants on hold until the local company sees the powertrain possibilities available from head office next year.

Standard equipment on the new R 300 CDI SWB includes 20-inch wheels, bi-Xenon headlights, reversing camera, and electronic traction control with downhill descent control.

In the most recent tally, diesel R-Class models outperformed petrol variants by accounting for around seven of every 10 sales.

Manufacturer's List Price, excluding dealer delivery and on-road costs:
Mercedes-Benz R 300 CDI SWB: $92,200

For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims

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