(continued)
In comparison to other Mercedes-Benz models, the R-Class is the same length as
the flagship S-Class sedan. As an indicator of comfort and roominess, cabin
space in the new R-Class represents 65 percent of its total volume, and there’s
up to 40 inches between the first and second seat rows, with more than 30 inches
between the second and third rows.
The R-Class cockpit features a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with
brushed aluminum accents on the lower spokes. The instrument binnacle is
designed with large chronometer gauges, and the console houses climate control
and a modular COMAND unit that integrates audio with the optional navigation and
telephone. The audio system includes AM/FM/weatherband radio and a single-slot
CD as well as an auxiliary plug for MP3 players.
Where’s the Shift Lever?
Unlike most vehicles, there’s no shift lever dominating the center console of
the new R-Class. Thanks to the latest electronic control technology, a small
stalk on the right side of the steering column now serves the purpose. Shifting
the seven-speed automatic will be simpler than ever -- lift the stalk up for
reverse, push down for drive, and push a button on the end for park. Once
underway, pushing one of the shift buttons on either side of the steering wheel
provides Touch Shift manual gear changes.
Chassis like a Sports Car
The new platform makes use of power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and
four-wheel independent suspension with double control arms in the front and a
new four-link suspension at the rear. Ample braking is provided by large
four-wheel disc brakes with vented discs and double-piston calipers up front.
The R350 has 17-inch seven-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235/65 R17 tires,
and the R500 comes with 18-inch wheels fitted with 255/55 R 18 tires. Either
model can be ordered with an AMG sport package that includes 19-inch wheels and
tires.
Mercedes-Benz Safety
The new R-Class features unit body construction with front and rear crumple
zones that help protect occupants during a collision by absorbing and dispersing
crash energy. More than 60 percent of the body structure is now formed from
high-strength steel, and its “dual-phase” steel alloy even falls into the
very-high-strength category, contributing to the protection provided by the
passenger cell.
Every body panel in the new R-Class is zinc-galvanized and coated on both sides
with rust-preventing zinc pigments. A six-section plastic undercladding provides
protection against stones, water and dirt, eliminating the need for any
conventional PVC undercoating. Substantial wheel-well cladding (1/8-inch thick)
also helps protect against stones and gravel.
The new R-Class comes with two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front
passenger, window curtain side airbags that span all three rows of seats, and
adaptive belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all six seating positions.
The R-Class also comes with a number of Mercedes-Benz active-safety innovations.
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