Mercedes R-Class

The Mercedes R-Class has been one of the brand’s less popular cars, and the current economic and environmental climate will do little to bolster sales of the oddball luxury people carrier. Nevertheless, some mid-life revisions are planned to prolong the car’s lifespan.

These spy photos from the US, show a car disguised mainly around the front bumper, grille and lights, as well as the rear bumper and tail-lights. The sides of the metallic green mule are fully exposed, showing a typically minor Mercedes facelift that focuses on the smaller details of the styling.

The recent refresh given to the B-Class – the car that was revealed alongside the R-Class three years ago – is probably the best clue to the update. That car featured tweaked new bumpers, additional chrome detailing, new alloys and LED lights.

Expect the same treatment for the R, with the front end brought more in line with other Mercedes models. A 'Blue Efficiency' model should also make an appearance, adding stop-start technology to cut the engine when idling, reducing emissions.

The revised R-Class should hit showrooms in 2009, maintaining the current engine lineup: the R280 CDI, R320 CDI and R500 petrol in SE and Sport trim levels, with the R320 available as a seven-seater.