TORONTO, ON – For the 2008 model year, the Mercedes-Benz R-Class boasts AMG body styling as standard equipment, which includes lower front and rear under-bumper aprons with integrated chrome foglamps and 18-inch alloy wheels. For 2008, the highly flexible R-Class offers seven-passenger seating in addition to the standard six-passenger configuration with second row captain’s chairs.

The R-Class was launched in 2006 as an entirely new type of Mercedes-Benz that combines the defining advantages of several distinct vehicles – the sure-footedness of a four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle, the performance and comfort of a fine sports sedan and the versatility of a luxury wagon.

With a sharp focus on design, comfort, space and performance, the R-Class is designed as a roomy vehicle with space for up to seven adults in a spacious interior. An optional Panorama sunroof further contributes to its openness.

In comparison to other Mercedes-Benz models, the R-Class is about the same length as the flagship S-Class sedan. As an indicator of comfort and roominess, cabin space in the 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 2008 R-Class line features the V6-powered R350 and the diesel-powered R320 CDI. The diesel-powered R-Class delivers impressive performance, low exhaust emissions, great fuel economy and low noise levels. Boasting 215 hp and a whopping 398 lb-ft. of torque, the six-cylinder R320 CDI features the pulling power of a V8 with the fuel economy of a much smaller engine.

Its innovative diesel engine is changing consumers’ dated perceptions about diesels. Thanks to its CDI electronic fuel injection, even the characteristic diesel engine sound is muted. In addition, Mercedes-Benz’ pioneering role in modern diesel engine developments is expanding the company’s already broad product portfolio in the Canadian market.

The R-Class cockpit features a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with brushed aluminium 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, entertainment, and telephone. The audio system includes AM/FM/weatherband radio and a single-slot CD as well as an input jack for MP3 players.

The R-Class allows occupants to create their own sense of space with features such as reading lights, armrests, air vents and cup holders as well as seat adjustments for each seat and two separate-source audio plugs. This individualization is further enhanced with the optional iPod integration kit and dual-screen video entertainment system.

The R-Class sport utility boasts a strong unibody platform and four-wheel independent suspension with double control arms in the front and four-link suspension at the rear. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering delivers impressive on-road driving performance and comfort, and height-adjustable AIRMATIC air suspension is optional. Ample braking is provided by large four-wheel disc brakes with vented discs and double-piston calipers up front.

Unlike most vehicles, there’s no shift lever dominating the centre console of the 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 standard seven-speed automatic is 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 the back of the steering wheel provides Touch Shift manual gear changes.

Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the three brands within the Mercedes Car Group in Canada; Mercedes-Benz, smart, and Maybach. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada employs approximately 990 people in 19 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of 18 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 39 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 17,567 vehicles in 2006, the best year ever reported for Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.

Contact:

JoAnne Caza 416-847-7550 caza@mercedes-benz.ca

Arden Nerling 416-847-7556 nerling@mercedes-benz.ca

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at: www.media.mercedes-benz.ca