Mercedes-Benz R 300 CDI arrives

German prestige carmaker Mercedes-Benz has launched its new-look R-Class peoplemover in Australia. The ML-based lowboy three-rower is now offered in a single specification to, says Mercedes: "simplify the purchase decision for customers".

Only one powertrain, a V6 turbodiesel engine mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, is offered. The 3.0-litre V6 outputs 140kW/440Nm and has a fuel consumption rating of 9.3L/100km.

The major change to the new model, however, is its freshened front end.

Boasting a new face that borrows design cues from Benz' SUV range, the R 300 CDI sports new headlight clusters (with LED daytime driving lights), a revised grille, plus a new bonnet and front quarter panels, all of which provide the luxury peoplemover with a more 'mature' look according to its designers.

The rear end of the vehicle has also come in for a minor visual update, with new look LED/fibre optic brake lights surrounded by a new rear bumper section that integrates the exhaust outlets.

"R-Class is a mature car now with a great personality," said Horst von Sander, Mercedes-Benz Australia's managing director.

"It has now gained a certain level of acceptance, something it didn't have when it launched."

Priced at $92,200, then new Mercedes-Benz R 300 CDI comes in at around $10K more than its predecessor, but now features more than $13K worth of added features according to the company.

Mercedes has increased the standard specification of the sole R-Class model, adding things like 20-inch alloy wheels, COMAND infotainment system with reversing camera, EASY-PACK remote tailgate operation, Keyless go, Linguatronic voice control and seven seats.

The R-Class also gets a raft of safety systems as standard, including Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE accident anticipation system, along with eight airbags as standard.

While Mercedes-Benz Australia offers only a diesel model at present, it did hint that a petrol-powered R-Class could return the mid-term future. Furthermore, a long wheelbase model is scheduled to arrive in 2011, in the form of the R 350 CDI. It will offer more bootspace and more equipment and a pricetag around $110,000 say insiders.

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