It seems that Mercedes is finally listening to their customers and taking appropriate steps to increase the sales of their R-Class.

Next year, the cheapest R-Class you can get will be the 268hp R350, which has a V6 no AWD and cost you about $43,000. Originally, the cheapest R350 started at around $48,000. Other R models will retain standard AWD.

In the past, spotting a 500 HP AMG R63 has been difficult, probably due to its $80,000 price tag. Spotting one now will be even harder. All 2008 R-Class models will get the body cladding of the 2007 AMG (pictured above) and 18″ wheels, but not the performance mods. No AMG R-Class will be offered in 2008.

The most expensive R next year will be the 221hp R320 CDI at just over $46,000. While I have never understood the R-Class and its purpose, it is nice to see that Mercedes is making the more affortable and getting rid of the AMG model. Why did they think in the first place that Soccer moms would need a high performance R-Class.

via Autoblog

Even greater interior adaptability, two wheelbase lengths, rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive and new engine variants – the Mercedes-Benz R-Class now opens up even more possibilities, especially when it comes to seating arrangements. The line-up, which includes the familiar configurations with up to six individual seats, has been augmented to include a five-seat version and a seven-seat variant. Plus new, distinctive bodystyling at the front and rear end lends the SUV Tourer added appeal.

Mercedes has created a very cool and interesting mini-site for the R-class to tell people how great the car is. They have also gathered six writers that talk about the car. Very cool site!

While I’ve always been doubtful of the R-class and it strategic position in the Mercedes line-up, I have also always said that it is a superb car, I mean minivan, or is it an SUV. Whatever it is, the folks over at AutoExpress have taken it for a spin to see what it offers its unknown target market. And just like any other Mercedes product, they said positive things about it, even though the fuel economy and the usual high price-tag was a negative. Here is a nice quote that sums it up.

However, the R63 is a hugely capable machine combining effort- less pace and comfort. Buyers with deep pockets will soon forgive the high price and poor fuel economy.

Even if the Soccer-moms don’t like because of the large doors, there are other moms that do, and we can clearly see why.

It seems like every model in the Mercedes portfolio has a AMG version, that of course is far from being bad, to the contrary, Mercedes is setting a standard by making every model a sport rocket you can enjoy, but also at the same time keep it comfortable and safe. Now the safe part gets a bit distorted as you are racing down the highway and around sharp corners, but the ability to drive the kids to soccer practice and to floor it on the way back is just phenomenal. That is what the guys over at MotorTrend found out as well when they tested the usually quiet and conservative R-class.

Read the MotorTrend review