2009 Mercedes-Benz R-Class facelift spied

By George Skentzos | December 08th, 2008

Mercedes-Benz is giving its slow-selling R-Class MPV another go, with a heavily disguised prototype snapped in the US.

Current speculation suggests the extent of its styling changes are intended to make it appear more like its current B-Class people mover sibling.

Ambitiously classified as an SUV Tourer, the R-Class has always been a rather awkward addition to the Mercedes line-up – a car for the sake of competition.

Not exactly what you could call an affordable family car, the R-Class is aimed at a market which barely exists – with the current generation starting from $80,385.

Grammar Nazi

I’m afraid this one’s going to need slightly more than a facelift. How about some lipo-, excercise, a drop in $$, a re-think in strategy, and a bit more marketing support.

I think a Kluger is even more of an exciting proposition than this one.
Matty B

I think the only thing the R Class needs is the Axe.
rick

80 grand for that ugly thing?
Crouchy

Ahh i saw one of these in the flesh for the first time the other day.

Cant say i was impressed.
Spitfire

As much as I admire and aspire to Mercedes ownership this thing leaves me cold.
FRUGAL_ONE

VERY nice, its only the same coin as a LandCruiser but much more comfortable and safer too.

FORST CLASS all the way for jnr. and the family!

Cheers,

F-0
varzim

i own a 320 CDI LWB for 2 yers now and can tell you first hand the vehicle is fantastic in all aspects. We wanted something different,unlike anything else on the road and the R-Class did it for us. All the “nay” sayers probably never had the chance to even test drive the car; – I’m sure they would change their minds and realize “why” it costs the 80k +