Mercedes M Class Grand Edition & R Class On Sale Now

The new-generation R-Class has the appearance of being cast from a single mould. The completely redesigned front end with its restyled bonnet, wings, radiator grille, headlamps and bumper gives the entire vehicle a harmonious, dynamic and powerful presence. On request, the front end of the R-Class can be further enhanced by a chrome clasp with integrated daytime driving lights in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. Light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke, 5-twin-spoke or 10-spoke design with sizes from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres (17 to 21 inches) and the revised rear end with its new bumper cladding, modified tail lights and integrated exhaust tailpipes likewise increase the attractiveness of the model-year 2010 R-Class. In addition to the fresher exterior, it is the inner values of the R‑Class that impress. These include the economy of space of modern MPVs combined with the high quality and prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz saloon cars. At the same time the latest generation offers the interior variability of its predecessor, while scoring with the robustness and all-wheel drive attributes of the Mercedes-Benz SUVs.

All the models feature numerous details as standard that make for safe and relaxed driving on both long-distance journeys and on short trips into town. These include the anticipatory occupant proitection system PRE-SAFE®, eight airbags, crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre pressure warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also augmented by efficient, user-friendly telematic systems such as Audio 20, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS. THERMATIC automatic climate control is also standard equipment, as is an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment devices.

In addition to the extensive standard features, the R-Class has numerous assistance ­systems which ensure ride comfort and safety at the highest level, and underline the leading position of the model series in this market segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System ADS or Blind Sport Assist, which is available for this model series for the first time and can make lane-changes much safer. The LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system makes for easy and convenient operation of the telematics, while a reversing camera allows confident parking and manoeuvring in awkward spaces. The rear seat entertainment system enables passengers in the rear to enjoy their own onboard entertainment programme.

The exterior of the M-Class Grand Edition is distinguishable by numerous attractive features. These include 48.3 cm (19-inch) light-alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design with tyre size 255/50 R19, blue-tinted thermal insulation glass all-round, dark-tinted headlamps and LED technology for the daytime driving lights and sporty, darkened tail lights. Aluminium roof rails and an extensive chrome package with an AMG radiator grille and underguards at the front and rear round off the additional features. Standard equipment also includes PARKTRONIC and a metallic paint finish. On request the Grand Edition can be further enhanced with a paint finish in chromite black or diamond white, and 50.8 cm (20-inch) bicolor light-alloy wheels with 265/45 R20 tyres, options which are only available for this M-Class model. A bonnet with the powerdomes typical of sporty Mercedes-Benz models is standard equipment for the V8 models ML 450 CDI 4MATIC and ML 500 4MATIC, and is available as an optional extra for the other variants.

Two variants of the M-Class are available to cater to the different requirements of off-road drivers: in addition to the basic 4MATIC version with its electronically controlled off-road driving modes, the "Offroad-Pro Engineering package" can be ordered to make the M-Class capable of mastering even the most difficult terrain. Like all 4MATIC models, the M-Class has a special driving mode which counters critical behaviour when towing a trailer right from the outset, thereby decisively contributing to handling safety.

Credits: wilswong