The prototype of a new, cross-country and recreational model of the new R-Class had its official premiere in March 2005 in New York. This utterly new model utilizes numerous design solutions of the new ML model and, similarly to the latter, is produced in the USA. It is distinguished by very attractive styling and combines many features of a luxurious limousine, a spacious minivan, and a versatile off-road vehicle. The following petrol engines have been designed for this R-Class model: a 3.5-liter 272 hp V6 engine, a 5.0-liter 306 hp V8 unit, and a new 3.0-liter 224 hp diesel plant. In all its variants, it has at its disposal a four-wheel drive and a new, 7-speed automatic gearbox. According to official announcements, its sale in the USA will start in the fall of 2005, while buyers in Europe will have to wait for this interesting vehicle until the beginning of 2006.