Engine: 5.0-liter overhead cam 24-valve V8

Engine Options: 268-hp 3.5-liter V6; 216-hp 3.2-liter diesel V6; 302-hp 5.0-liter V8; 503-hp 6.2-liter V8

Transmission: 7-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 7-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual-stage front airbags, front, middle and rear side-impact airbags, full-cabin curtain-style head protection airbags; electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with EBD, tire pressure monitor

Optional Safety Equipment: Parktronic parking aid

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Vance, Alabama

Model Tested: Mercedes-Benz R500 ($50,500)

Standard Equipment: dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, burl-walnut trim, power windows, remote keyless entry, cruise control, eight-speaker stereo with AM/FM/WB/CD, COMAND LCD information display and control system, rain-sensing wipers, multi-function steering wheel controls, eight-way power seats, folding second- and third-row bucket seats, integrated garage door opener; load-leveling rear suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and tires

Options as Tested: DVD-based navigation system ($1,650); Keyless Go starting ($1,100)

Destination Charge: 775

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 302 @ 5600

Torque: 339 @ 2700

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 14/19

Wheelbase: 126.6 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 203.0/77.5/65.2 inches

Track Front/Rear: 65.5/65.3 inches

Turning Cycle: 40.7 feet

Seating Capacity: 6 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.8/60.3/39.8 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: 40.4/59.6/36.2 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 37.2/52.8/32.4 inches

Trunk Volume: 85 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent, double wishbone, coil springs

Ground Clearance: 5.8 inches

Curb Weight: 4917 pounds

Towing Capacity: pounds

Tires: P255/55R18

Brakes: vented disc/vented disc with ABS, EBD

Fuel Capacity: 21.1 Gallons