2010 New York: 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class tries harder to be an SUV

March 31, 2010April 6, 2010 Omar Rana 2010 New York Auto Show, 2011, Crossovers, Mercedes-Benz R-Class, Minivans, SUVs

Here its is, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class made its world debut today here at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Still classified as an SUV/Crossover, the 2011 R-Class does its best to stop looking like a minivan. Even though it seems like it’s doing a good job, there is still a ways to go – at least in our opinion.

“Thanks to our successful model offensive, we are able to offer a uniquely wide range of tailor-made products designed to meet the needs of a demanding customer base,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Head of Marketing and Sales for Mercedes-Benz Cars. “A significant proportion of this success is down to the innovative vehicle concepts with which Mercedes-Benz has repeatedly established and opened up new market segments,” he continued. “These include the R-Class, the original SUV tourer, which we have now extensively redesigned and upgraded.”

Mercedes-Benz also confirmed that the U.S. market will get the R 350 BlueTEC, which is powered by a 210-hp V6 diesel, and the R 350 CDI 4MATIC, which is powered by a 224-hp V6 diesel engine.

Make the jump for more high-res images from the 2010 New York Auto Show.

2010 New York: 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class:

2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class:

Press Release:

Mercedes-Benz at the 2010 New York International Auto Show: World premiere of the new-generation R-Class and model offensive on the U.S. market

New York ““ Following the successful start to the year with a clear rebound against the first quarter 2009, Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with its model offensive on the U.S. market. Taking center stage at today”s Mercedes press conference on the 2010 New York International Auto Show was the world premiere of the new-generation R-Class. The original SUV tourer has been extensively updated ““ including a completely redesigned front end. A further highlight was the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. The racing version of the SLS AMG boasts stunning design and throroughbred racing technology, and makes its debut to coincide with the market launch of the road-going version. On top of that are three attractive new E-Class models for the U.S. market ““ the debut of the E 350 BlueTEC marks the arrival of another incredibly clean and efficient driveline variant of the successful sedan, which holds a 35 percent share of its market segment in the U.S. and remains the undisputed number one in its class. In May, the U.S. market will also welcome the new E-Class Cabriolet and the E-Class Wagon, which comes to market as the E 350 4MATIC with permanent all-wheel drive.

The most important exterior feature of the new-generation R-Class is the completely redesigned front end. It underscores the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle that boasts an impressive array of inner values. These include the spaciousness of modern SUVs, as well as the comfort, exclusivity and prestige of Mercedes-Benz sedans. At the same time, the latest generation offers the interior versatility central to the R-Class vehicle concept, while also delivering the tough characteristics and all-wheel drive features of Mercedes-Benz SUVs.

New R 350 BlueTEC ““ one of the world”s cleanest diesels

When it comes to the engine range, Mercedes-Benz engineers placed particular emphasis on efficiency and environmental sustainability. With the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is offering one of the cleanest diesel models worldwide. The V6 engine generates an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and 400 lb-ft (540 Nm) of torque. The diesel is equipped with AdBlue© exhaust treatment and, despite performance improvements, consumes only 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers (combined EU cycle), which is 0.3 liters less than its predecessor. It already fulfills the emissions requirements for the EU6 standard due for introduction in 2014. All gasoline and diesel versions of the R-Class fulfill the EU5 standard. In the U.S., the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC achieves 18/24 mpg city/hwy. and meets emissions standards in all 50 states.

New R 350 CDI 4MATIC ““ refined performance with reduced consumption

The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC (not available in the U.S.) combines the performance of a V8 model with the low consumption figures of an economic V6. It needs only 8.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (NEDC combined), thus bettering its predecessor by 0.8 liters ““ despite its significantly improved performance. While the peak output previously stood at 165 kW (224 hp), the modified V6 diesel now delivers 195 kW (265 hp) and an exceptional torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft). The sportiest version of the R-Class with a diesel engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km in 7.6 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).

Dr. Joachim Schmidt: “The new-generation R-Class is the most modern and versatile SUV tourer on the market. This amazing combination of safety, comfort and sporting character with outstanding functionality and exceptional efficiency is something you can find only at Mercedes-Benz.”

– By: Roman Bronfenbrener