Beijing, January 19, 2010 – Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd. today announced the launch of the two newest upgraded members of its Grand Sports Tourer in China, the R 350 Grand Edition and the R 500 Grand Edition. Priced at RMB 848,000 and RMB 1,212,000 respectively, these two models bring the R-Class heritage of versatility, comfort and safety at an exceptional value. The R 350 Grand Edition and R 500 Grand Edition are equipped with an even more unique AMG bodystyling and an array of enhanced features, thus providing high-end Chinese customers with stunning and luxurious options that offer an irresistibly dynamic and sporty driving experience. With two R-Class models having just served as vehicles for the media during the prestigious Dakar Rally 2010, the R-Class continues to epitomize the best in all-around performance.

Tailor-made for top elite, the Grand Edition models offer an enhanced AMG sports package while retaining the groundbreaking automotive design of the R-Class, thus further elevating the elegance, luxury and passion of the Grand Sports Tourer lineup. The AMG ergonomic steering wheel with gearshift paddles enables drivers to perform a range of functions without distracting their attention from the road or overall driving experience. Meanwhile, the R 500 Grand Edition features exclusive 20-inch five-spoke AMG bicolor light-alloy wheels, creating a remarkably stylish visual impact. Other eye-catching details include chrome-framed LED daytime running lights integrated into the front bumper, which exude vibrant energy, while tinted rear lights in a dark sporty design strengthen the dynamic appearance.

Beyond their stunning design, the Grand Edition models also take the Grand Sports Tourer lineup to an even more breathtaking level with a selection of distinctive and exclusive features. The interior is highlighted by decorative poplar wood trim with chrome applications as well as a "Grand Edition" badge – a special touch that further accentuates its allure and exclusiveness. Another hallmark is the thermally insulated blue windows, which not only offer invaluable sun protection, but also demonstrate the flawless combination of pure functionality with eye-catching style.

Moreover, the R-Class meets the needs of all customers by combining superior comfort, dynamic handling, and hallmark Mercedes safety into the ultimate vehicle in all-around performance. Additionally, a high level of adaptability allows it to effortlessly navigate any terrain, regardless of adverse road or weather conditions. Its outstanding endurance was exemplified during the recent Dakar Rally, as two R-Class vehicles effortlessly carried journalists throughout the challenging race, stretching for almost 10,000 kilometers across the mountains and deserts of South America. Especially thanks to its 4MATIC permanent four-wheel drive system with superior handling, the spacious R-Class easily and safely overcame tough obstacles – including off-road terrains, dunes, mud, and rocks – to epitomize the exceptional performance that helped it become the "versatile all-rounder."