Mercedes' latest concept vehicle reveals a near-future, family-centric vehicle expected to join the premium automaker's expanding line in 2005. The Vision "Grand Sport Tourer" merges traditional vehicle types into a crossover vehicle similar in spirit to corporate cousin Chrysler Pacifica. Key to any crossover is interior versatility; the GST second- and third-row seats each fold individually to accommodate various people and cargo-toting needs. Passengers are entertained via two eight-inch color screens fed by DVD player and digital TV receiver, and a glass panoramic sunroof. For the driver, the entertainment comes from a 250-hp diesel V-8 engine teamed with an electric motor, and shifted by a seven-speed transmission, creating a powerful and efficient drivetrain. Zero to 60 mph times of 6.6 seconds are cited by Mercedes, with fuel consumption rated at 30 mpg, while the future version of this powertrain promises 33 mpg. When it goes into production, the luxuriously equipped GST will fill the narrow gap between the E-Class Estate and the ML-Class, offering an appealing solution to the transportation needs that send most car buyers toward more conventional segments.
