'R' for 'Revamp'

As we predicted some months ago, Benz is also introducing a new entry-level model, the R 280 CDI -- powered by a 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 and driving through the rear wheels only.

The engine develops 140kW of power and 440Nm of torque. Fuel consumption, based on combined cycle testing, is just 8.9lt/100km.

Among the standard features of the R 280 are the Pre-Safe occupant safety system, brake assist, active head restraints, ESP, eight airbags, MP3-compatible six-disc CD audio system, climate control and a five dual-spoke alloy wheel design with diameter measuring 18 inches. Price is $78,900.

The R 280 seats seven in what is now the standard seating configuration for all R-Class models, following the launch of the new model year range.

Previously a six-seater in a '2+2+2' configuration, the R-Class retains the two-place third row seat, but the second row seat will now accommodate three people, for a '2+3+2' layout.

As far as significant changes go, the new seating layout shares equal billing with the engine upgrade for the R 500 4MATIC.

A 5.5-litre V8 already sold locally in E, CLS and S-Class models, has been shoehorned into the R 500. Displacing an extra half a litre, the new engine puts out 285kW of power and 530Nm of torque. By comparison, the old 5.0-litre engine produced 225kW of power and 460Nm of torque, so the new engine represents a quantum leap in output.

Even with the extra power and torque, the larger engine is also more economical, recording a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 12.9lt/100km (versus 13.3 for the 5.0-litre engine).

The only other published change for the R 500 is the inclusion of bi-xenon headlights as standard. Pricing for the R 500 4MATIC is $124,900.

Slotting in below the R 500 4MATIC and priced at $91,900 and $94,900 respectively, the R 350 4MATIC and R 320 CDI 4MATIC can now choose from two option packs.

Now pay attention class, because this part's tricky. As Benz is marketing these grades, buyers can -- for the price advertised -- choose one of these two luxury packs 'as standard', which would normally mean 'for no extra cost'.

In reality, the option pack cost is built into the price of the vehicle and buyers can choose to do without either of these options, in which case, the retail price of the vehicle is reduced by $8000.

That makes these two packs 'delete options' and Benz seems to be expecting that the majority of these vehicles will be sold with one or the other of the option packs fitted, which seems logical. Benz buyers tend not to scrimp on convenience and comfort.

The first option pack comprises full burr walnut trim, leather upholstery and multi-zone climate control. Buyers opting instead for the second option pack, will obtain aluminium sports pedals, sports instrumentation and sports trim ('Artico' and Alcantara combination) for the front sports seats.

Both the R 350 and R 320 can be specified in the optional long-wheelbase body style, which costs $3000. This body is standard for the R 500 4 MATIC flagship.

All 2008 R-Class models are offered with additional option packs, the 'Vision' pack and the 'Premium' pack. Both of these combine popular features that can be specified by buyers for a significant saving over the cost of specifying the features individually.

For example, the Vision pack is priced at $4800, but combines goodies worth $7000. The constituent items in the pack are: bi-xenon headlights with cornering lights, active light function and headlight cleaning; tilt and slide powered glass sunroof; Harman / Kardon Logic7 440 Watt audio system with 12 speakers and added amplifier.

The Premium pack provides $9300 retail worth of extras for an option price of $4900. Features included in that price are Distronic intelligent cruise control; heated and ventilated 'luxury' front seats; 'Keyless-Go' automatic security and drive system.

The new models will be in the showrooms by the time the motor show opens in Sydney during October.