But does a reasonably sized market exist for an ultra-expensive station wagon with minivan passenger capability and SUV pretensions? Mercedes-Benz obviously thinks so. When the Vision GST concept was originally unveiled Professor Jürgen Hubbert, Board of Management Member of DaimlerChrysler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars & smart stated, "With the Grand Sports Tourer DaimlerChrysler is systematically advancing its product offensive, while also defining a new and promising market segment in the premium market area. The GST establishes a new vehicle class that combines the features of various car concepts to form a new independent profile."
The GST is just another example of the rapidly expanding variety of multipurpose vehicles that will be available to consumers in the near future. It looks sensational and will no doubt offer creature comforts never before enjoyed in the sport wagon cum SUV class. But what are they going to do about the name?
Specifications:
- Price Range (est):$80,000 - $120,000
- Body Type: 5-door wagon/SUV crossover
- Layout: Front engine, 4WD
- Base Engine (est): 302-hp, 339 lb-ft of torque, 5.0-L, 24-valve, SOHC V8
- Opt Engine (est): 360-hp, 391 lb-ft of torque, 5.5-L, 24-valve, SOHC V8
- Transmission (est):5-spd auto with manual mode
- Performance (est 0-100 km/h):under 7 seconds (AMG)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Cargo Cap: N/A
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Fuel Economy: N/A
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/120,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors:BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, Chrysler Pacifica, Porsche Cayenne
- Web Site: www.mercedes-benz.ca
