2010 New York Auto Show: 2011 Mercedes R-Class Facelift

(March 31, 2010 )

The 2011 Mercedes R-Class has been revealed at the New York Auto Show today. The facelifted crossover gets an all new look ?that's bolder and sportier.

"The new R-class is the sportiest and most versatile crossover ever and is our answer to worldwide demand for cleaner SUVs," said Joachim Schmidt, Mercedes sales boss at the launch.

The refurbished exterior now sports a new front bumper, a new grille and more stylish headlights that add to its aggressiveness, new trapezoidal exhaust tips at the back, and a revised hood. LED daytime driving lights are optional.

Improved versions include the short-wheelbase, front-drive R300 CDI Blue Efficiency and the long-wheelbase, all-wheel-drive R350 CDI 4Matic. Using the seven-speed auto gearbox, the 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6 ?boasts an increased output of 261 bhp?and 457 lb-ft of torque. The fuel economy has been improved to 33.2 mpg instead of 30.4 mpg while the CO2 emissions are now down to 223 g/km from 246 g/km. The R300 CDI on the other hand also gets improved readings of fuel consumption that is 37.2 mpg giving away the initial 34 mpg with CO2 emissions cut by 20 g/km to 199 g/km.

No major changes have been made to the interior apart from some new color options, AMG interior package and new safety features like Blind Spot Assist and NECK-PRO.

The price details remain a little sketchy however the 2011 Mercedes R-Class is expected to start at about ￡40,000. The car will go on sale in the U.K. from September.

Source: www.nitrobahn.com