The Benz boys have become quite bold of late, daringly diving into new niche waters. First we had the CLS four-door coupe, and now it's the R-class 'Sports Tourer'. Some will conclude this is really just the world's most expensive MPV. Whether it actually defines a new class or not, expect a raft of similar models from BMW and the other high-end marques if it succeeds.

Brand-speak aside, what we've got here is a six-passenger vehicle with flexible seating arrangements, all-wheel drive, and a distinctive silhouette. Looking a bit like a bigger Chrysler Pacifica, it has the full gamut of 21st Century Benz styling motifs, including complex headlamps, lots of chrome, and flamboyant sheet metal.

A few quick and easy adjustments are all it takes to configure the interior of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class to suit changing space requirements and transport tasks. Interior architecture is defined by the three rows of two seats, all of which are comfortable, and most of which fold down for when you decide to bring garden mulch or cinderblocks home in your $70k car... The interior is beautifully wrought, thoughtfully detailed, and made with the kind of care Mercedes cars were once famous for. Lounging room is terrific in the first two rows, and still more than adequate in the back. Luggage space is very restrictive with a full passenger load, though it becomes enormous with the seats folded.

The R500 version we tested is a very pleasant drive. Basically a lowered ML-class off-roader, it uses the same powertrain (302bhp V8 coupled to the new 7-speed automatic) and all-wheel drive system. The R's lower centre of gravity pays dividends in less acute roll angles and a more composed ride. It's an amazing highway cruiser, with lots of glass (including an enormous sunroof over the first two rows), perfect airflow management, low road noise, and a long wheelbased gait that is incredibly relaxing.

The R500's V8 moves it along smartly, accompanied by an aggressive yet cultured soundtrack. There wasn't a test R350 six-cylinder available, but indications are that it would struggle a bit in the mountains' thinner air, though be perfectly adequate at lower altitudes. Mercedes would have a total knockout if they'd bring over the turbodiesel version that will be the big seller in Europe, which runs almost as hard as the V8 and yet achieves astounding fuel economy.

It will be interesting to see if buyers embrace the Mercedes R-class as they have the ML SUV. While it's much better resolved for the uses most of us put such vehicles to, will it carry enough street cred in a market that's often driven more by style than substance? Either way, kudos to Mercedes-Benz for taking a chance and being first in the pool.

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Mercedes-Benz R-Class UK range overview

- Mercedes-Benz R 350: £38,515
- Mercedes-Benz R 350 SE/Sport: £41,465
- Mercedes-Benz R 350 L: £40,015
- Mercedes-Benz R 350 L SE/Sport: £42,965
- Mercedes-Benz R 500 SE/Sport: £50,035
- Mercedes-Benz R 500 L SE/Sport: £51,535
- Mercedes-Benz R 320 CDI: £38,520
- Mercedes-Benz R 320 CDI SE/Sport: £41,470
- Mercedes-Benz R 320 CDI L: £40,020
- Mercedes-Benz R 320 CDI L SE/Sport: £42,970

'L' is for long wheelbase.