Mercedes is testing the AMG version of the R-Class!!!!!!!!!!!
I don't like it at all
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Mercedes is already testing the ulta high-performance AMG version of its R-Class, the production version of which was unveiled at the New York motor show just last month. Based on the underpinnings of the latest generation M-class sport utility vehicle, the regular R-Class comes with permanent four wheel drive and, as standard, a seven-speed automatic gearbox with column-mounted shift - features that the hot AMG version is likely to retain.
It's rumoured that like the current S-Class, which comes in S55 and S65 AMG forms, the R-Class, actually longer than an S in length, will also get two AMG derivatives. First, pictured here, is the R55 with the familiar 476bhp, 5.5-litre supercharged V8 as used in several other Mercedes AMG models. Second would be a new 6.3-litre V8, reportedly under development for use in the next-generation S-Class, developing closer to 600bhp and dubbed R63 AMG.
The R-Class is set for launch in autumn 2005, with right-hand-drive models following early 2006. We'd expect R55 AMG versions in both left- and right-hand-drive to become available during spring 2006, and the 6.3-litre versions sometime afterwards.
And here's another Mercedes the MLK
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Sitting below the M-Class in the Mercedes model range and competing head-on with the BMW X3 and Audi Q3 when it arrives in 2006 is this, the MLK, caught during testing at Germany's Nurburgring race circuit.
Like the latest M-Class, this model will have unitary body construction, rather than a separate ladder chassis and, like the BMW X3, will probably tilt more towards the 'sport' than 'utility' end of the SUV market. In fact, this model shares its architecture with the forthcoming new C-Class compact executive saloon, albeit with four-wheel-drive, which would see the MLK measure around 4.5 metres in length, or about 250mm shorter than the latest M-Class.
Engines are likely to mirror those used in the forthcoming C-Class replacement which is due to go on sale during 2007. So too is the MLK, which appears to be being developed alongside the C-Class rather than being derived from its platform sometime afterwards.
An alternative suggested model name for the MLK car is X-Class, but we think it's unlikely that will be used because of its closeness to BMW's X3 and X5 models. MLK, meanwhile, would suit the baby ML in the same way that the SLK and CLK's model names mimic larger, more expensive Mercedes models.
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