What's New for 2007: Two new, very different models. The R320 CDI ($44,000) is equipped identically to the base R350, except that it's powered by a high-tech, 3.2-liter diesel V6 with 216 horsepower and a substantial improvement in mileage. The R63 AMG ($87,400) is a hot rod for large families. It's equipped with a 503-hp, 6.2-liter V8 hand built by a single technician at Mercedes' AMG racing subsidiary, other mechanical enhancements and a long list of ultra-luxury features. The retail price of existing R-Class models was reduced nearly $5,000.

So the 2007 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is now available in four models. Each is distinguished primarily by its engine, and all are equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive and load-leveling rear suspension.

The R350 ($43,000) is powered by 268-hp, 3.5-liter gasoline V6. Standard equipment includes leather seating, birds-eye maple trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, folding second- and third-row bucket seats, rain-sensing wipers, multi-function control buttons on the steering wheel, an eight-speaker stereo with AM/FM/WB/CD, an integrated garage door opener and lots of cup holders.

The R500 ($50,500) has a 302-hp V8 engine. It also adds a six-disc CD changer, heated front seats, burl walnut trim, three memory buttons for seats, mirrors and steering column, TeleAid emergency communication, additional chrome exterior trim, tinted front and side glass, speed-sensitive steering and 18-inch wheels with 255/50 tires.

Options include turning bi-xenon headlights ($900), Keyless Go automatic starting ($1,100), Airmatic suspension ($1,400), and three-zone automatic climate control ($1050). The Premium package ($4,225) includes the Panorama sun roof, with a five-and-a-half-foot glass section in two panels, the rear-seat DVD entertainment package, navigation system, a power tailgate, and TeleAid. The AMG Sport package ($4,500) includes Mercedes' Airmatic air suspension, and it delivers the look and feel of the R63 AMG without the crazy powerful engine.

Safety features include multi-stage front airbags and both side-impact and head-protection curtain airbags for all seats. Active safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Mercedes newest electronic stability program (ESP). A tire-pressure monitor comes standard.