Okay, maybe not - but there's always room for another 'Benz, even if it is an SUV-, wagon-, car-like thing. At least that's what the DaimlerChrysler folks are thinking and hoping and plotting, which is why they came to the 2005 New York International Auto Show with the new 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class which looks kinda like that Grand concept tourer they trotted out in Detroit a few years ago.

Gulp. That is what it is. Originally introduced at the 2001 North American International Auto Show as the Vision Grand Sports Tourer, DaimlerChrysler has brought it full circle and will now produce an actual vehicle, similar to the concept, for the US and Europe. Pricing was not announced, but unconfirmed reports list prices in the low $70,000 range. Dealerships should start seeing the R sometime in the fall of 2005.

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is yet another luxury crossover option in a crowded field, one that will either go a long way toward improving Mercedes' fading reputation for quality (see: Consumer Reports) or fall by the wayside, just another forgettable crossover compromise. It matters because of its styling, Mercedes-Benz technology such as a seven-speed transmission, three rows of seats, and what officials tout as a spacious, well-designed interior. It's not all bad. If you're going to build another luxury SUV, you may as well build one like the R-Class - an intriguing vehicle that has a free flowing and spacious interior design. Combined with two very capable engines - the 268-horsepower V6 for the R350 and a 302-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 for the R500, Mercedes should have no trouble selling their allotment in the United States. Ultimately, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class will do what every luxury crossover is intended to do: make rich people feel comfortable AND powerful, on their way to the store, work, or the country club.

Yawn.

--By Brian Chee