New Models Make 2006 a Banner Year for Trucks, SUVs and Crossovers

2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class - Might be the Safest SUV

Mercedes-Benz

Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada

has had enough of getting kicked around by rival BMW, and with a host of new cars and SUVs plans to take back its previous leadership in the German premium sales race. And one look at the new M-Class should concern Bavaria, as this svelte cruiser not only looks as streamlined as any competitor but follows through with an upscale interior to match. The brand's reliability has improved drastically, according to J.D. Power, and inclusion of top-drawer safety features is second to none. Performance? A new 268-hp 3.5L V6 is joined by an optional 302-hp 5.0L V8, both shifted by a manual-mode 7-speed automatic.

2006 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Preview - Good Things Come in Small Packages

A

Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada

new trend sees premium brands producing smaller and more efficient cars, which still feature the convenience items and luxurious surroundings we've come to appreciate them for. The latest on this list is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, which is a compact minivan cum SUV boasting an amazingly roomy interior from a tiny footprint. The B200 will feature a 2.0L inline-4 with 134-hp and 136 lb-ft of torque while the B200 Turbo will sport the same displacement making 193-hp and 206 lb-ft of torque. Considering its extremely light weight, the B should perform well, with space optimization and fuel economy remaining priority one.

2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class - What a Luxury Wagon Should Be

The

Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada

new R-Class is wagon-like, but its height and SUV-like persona allow it entrance into this year's truck and SUV buyer's guide. Taking a cue from its Chrysler sibling Pacifica, this classy four-wheel drive crossover will offer well-heeled families comfortable, safe, quick transportation in a dignified package. Capable of carrying six occupants, the R's roomy interior is also flexible, allowing all seats aft of the driver and front passenger to fold flat into the floor. The R350 sports a new 268-hp 3.5L V6 while R500 models get a 302-hp 5.0L V8. Both are mated to a sophisticated manual-mode 7-speed automatic.