Amazing versatility of the R-Class It is a vehicle for all occasions, with an incredible range of configurations, allowing it to be equally at home cruising down the highway, acting as a family runabout, providing comfortable accommodation for a full load of adults or being used to carry loads of sporting gear or personal effects. The R-Class has versatility as its core component and, of course, the kind of sophistication and reliability that come as standard on any vehicle carrying the name Mercedes-Benz. Depending on the owner’s particular requirements, the car can be configured as a five-seater with particularly generous luggage space or as a seven seater, with three rows of seating. It is car that suits people who may need it for many different purposes: during the week it may act as the main form of transportation for a busy executive and colleagues to zip from meeting to meeting, while at weekends it might be called upon to be the family sports vehicle, loaded up with golf clubs, tennis racquet and water skiis. Most spacious Whatever the demands of the owner, the R-class is designed to be able to cope effortlessly, making the transition between different configurations with speed and seamlessness. It is the most spacious Mercedes-Benz of all – and this is a marque known for engineering excellence that ensures every model has plenty of space for passengers to stretch out in comfort. But at first glance, spaciousness is not the word that immediately springs to mind. R-Class models have a sleek and powerful build with racy angled headlights, large grille and aerodynamic styling. From the front, it looks as muscular and sporty as some of the more speed-oriented Mercedes-Benz models. The rear view gives away its versatility: the addition of the fifth door allows many different permutations. Depending on the owner’s needs, it can be fitted with five, six or seven seats; whichever option is chosen, the load area measures a spacious 1.9 metres by 1.2 metres. To make loading even more simple, there is the option of fitting an Easy Pack tailgate that opens and closes the rear door by remote control, using an electrohydraulic method. It is designed to save precious time, particularly important in Hong Kong where speed is of the essence and every second counts. Storage space In addition to the amazingly spacious interior and storage space, the R-Class packs a punch beneath the bonnet. The high-torque engines and 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission ensure a speedy and smooth ride; the chassis, with its partial air suspension, gives an extra comfort level. For owners who want a feather-cushion ride there is the optional AIRMATIC package with air suspension all round, plus the Adaptive Damping System. On the 280 and 350 models, AMG bodystyling and 18-inch alloy wheels (luxury version)/19-inch alloy wheels (sports version) come as standard Zung Fu will also be bringing in the R280L to Hong Kong, with an attractive price of $648,000. Everyone has different tastes and preferences when it comes to colour and upholstery, which is why Mercedes-Benz goes to great lengths to ensure a great variety of choice. The paint finish is unique to Mercedes-Benz and offers colours such as tanzanite blue and chromite black; interior choices include leather (luxury version) or Alcantara/Artico man made leather (sports version). If a sporty look is preferred, there are nine different kinds of alloy wheels to choose from as option extras, ranging from 18-inch to 21-inch. Optional extras The list of other options is too long to list here – Mercedes-Benz is renowned for allowing individuals to customise their cars for their particular needs. A reversing camera, for example, might suit people who have to park in Hong Kong’s confined spaces and tightly-spaced parking lots; a surround sound system by harman/kardon would be suitable for the music aficionado; an electronic panoramic sun roof would be perfect for people who like to let light into their driving life. Rest assured that whatever you are likely to ask for has already been provided as an option by Mercedes-Benz. The R-Class is a vehicle for all kinds of purposes and its versatility can be enhanced still further with the addition of optional extras. The choice is yours. click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge