Mercedes-Benz to drop the R-class in the US

Mercedes-Benz will drop the slow-selling R-class wagon from its U.S. lineup after the 2012 model year. But the German automaker will continue to build the R-class at its plant in Alabama for export to other markets. Mercedes dealers sold 293 copies of the R-class through the first two months of this year, one-third less than the number sold in the first two months of 2011. A Mercedes spokesman confirmed the move in a report by Yahoo Autos. Demand for the R-class is much higher in foreign markets. Mercedes will continue to sell the wagon in Mexico, Canada and China until at least 2015. The 2012 R350 4Matic starts at $53,565, including shipping charges, and comes with 302-hp V6. For $54,715, the R-class comes equipped with a diesel engine.