2011 Mercedes R Class new images

Daimler has published new details regarding the 2011 Mercedes R Class along with a large new image gallery.  
The range opening version is the 2011 Mercedes R 300 CDI BE which is also the most fuel efficient as it needs between 7.6 and 7.8 litres of fuel per 100 Km and has CO2 emissions of 199 – 206 grams per Km. The 2011 Mercedes R 300 CDI BE extracts power from a 3.0-litre V6 that produces 190 HP (140 kW) thanks to which accelerating from 0 to 100 Km/h takes 9.5 seconds.
At the other end of the spectrum we find the 2011 Mercedes R 500 4MATIC that comes fitted with a 5.5-litre V8 packing 388 HP (285 kW), enough to make the German MPV accelerate to 100 Km/h from a standstill in 6.3 seconds. Fuel consumption and CO2 emission in this care are between 13.2 – 13.4 litres/100 Km and 306-311 g/Km respectively.
All 2011 Mercedes R Class models come fitted as standard with the 7G-TRONIC transmission, and pricing ranges from 42,100 Euros to 62,400 Euros.
Mercedes press release :
Stuttgart  – After a world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March this year and the positive feedback received there, Mercedes-Benz is convinced that it is on the right track with the new-generation R-Class. A completely redesigned front section in particular enhances the overall look of this model, with styling cues taken from Mercedes-Benz saloon and SUV models. The interior of the "twenty-ten" model year R-Class complements this fresh exterior, combining as it does the good use of space found in the latest MPV models with the comfort, high-class appeal and prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz luxury-class saloons. At the same time this latest generation retains the interior versatility of its predecessor, whilst also benefiting from the robustness and all-wheel drive capability it draws from the Mercedes-Benz SUVs.
 
Engine line-up: economical drive systems
 
In addition to the modern petrol variants adopted
from the preceding model, with their customary effortless power
delivery and high drive comfort, the appeal of the R-Class is now also
enhanced by a range of optimised diesel engines. Dr. Thomas Weber,
Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management with responsibility for
Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development: "We have reworked the
R-Class completely, thereby adding to its appeal and enhancing its
premium qualities, but without losing any of the advantages of this
unique vehicle concept. On top of this, our BlueEFFICIENCY strategy
makes the R-Class the most economical and environmentally friendly MPV
in the premium segment“.
 
Despite delivering the same output and improved
performance compared with the preceding model, the new R 300 CDI
BlueEFFICIENCY consumes around 7 percent less fuel, at 7.6 l per 100
km*. The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the high performance of a V8
model with the low fuel consumption of an economical V6 variant. It is
happy with just 8.5 litres of diesel* per one hundred kilometres,
thereby undercutting its predecessor by 0.8 litres – yet is able to
offer significantly enhanced performance. While previously the maximum
performance topped out at 165 kW (224 hp), the V6
diesel engine now boasts 195 kW (265 hp) as well as 620
Newton metres of torque. Making its debut here in the R-Class, it is a
powerful package that enables this most dynamic of all the
diesel-powered R-Class models to achieve effortlessly superior levels of
performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds, while
the top speed is 235 km/h.
 
With the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is
offering one of the cleanest diesel models in the world. The V6 engine
achieves an output of 155 kW (211 hp) and torque of 540
Newton metres. Compared with its predecessor, this model also manages
to achieve reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions while providing
enhanced performance. Thanks to AdBlue© exhaust after-treatment, the
compression-ignition engine consumes an average of 0.3 of a litre less,
at 8.4 litres of diesel* per one hundred kilometres, generating in the
process the same level of emissions as a comparable petrol engine. As a
result, this model currently already meets the emission values planned
for 2014 according to the EU6 standard. All other petrol and diesel
versions of the R-Class meet the EU5 standard.
* combined NEDC consumption)
 
Key technical data*:

* Data for the international model range, which
may vary from country to country.
CDI/BlueTEC = diesel models
1 BE
= BlueEFFICIENCY
2 only available with long wheelbase
3 figures
in brackets apply to long wheelbase variant
4 electronically limited
 
Geared up: 7G-TRONIC as standard in all
models
 
All R-Class models are equipped with the
latest-generation of the innovative
7G-TRONIC automatic
transmission. This seven-speed transmission now has new bearings and
couplings, operates with different oil pressures and uses a new,
low-friction oil. These measures reduce friction and churning losses,
thereby improving efficiency. The new torque converter with slip-reduced
lockup clutch likewise improves efficiency and aids fuel economy. In
addition, standstill decoupling lowers fuel consumption. This technical
feature reduces transmission input torque in "D" when the car is at
rest, for example at traffic lights. This lowers the stress on the
engine, making for lower fuel consumption, better vehicle acoustics and
smoother idling. The slip-controlled clutch is engaged as soon as the
driver releases the operating brake, ensuring no delay when the vehicle
moves off.
 
Simply stunning: the design of the
R-Class
 
The latest generation of the R-Class features a
new, self-assured appearance. The overall impression is determined by an
integrity of design that encapsulates the unique personality of this
highly versatile vehicle. The focus of the designers was the completely
revised front section which, by emphasising the width and making use of a
horizontally structured bonnet, affords the entire vehicle a look which
is as harmonious as it is powerfully dynamic. As well as the bonnet,
the vehicle’s wings, radiator grille and surround, headlamps and bumpers
with chrome underguard have all been completely redesigned. As an
optional extra, a chrome insert with integrated LED daytime driving
lights in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps is available to enhance
the look of the R-Class even further.
 
The side view features coupé-like lines – a
pleasant contrast to conventional MPVs – and is characterised by the
modified exterior mirror housings and the wheel design. Wheels are
available in 5-spoke, 5-twin spoke or 10-spoke designs, and in sizes
ranging from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres
(17 to 21 inches). The design idiom of the front is continued
consistently through to the rear section which, with its new bumper
covering, modified tail lamps and integrated tailpipe trim, has also
been given an accentuated wide look. The 2010 model year R-Class looks
particularly attractive in the new "diamond white" paint finish.
 
Wellness program: a relaxed environment
for both longer journeys and everyday use
 
Particularly where seating variations are
concerned, the interior of the new R-Class offers a great deal of scope:
in its standard version this saloon designed for relaxed, safe touring
has five seats, but four, six or seven-seater configurations are also
possible. The front seats are partially electrically adjustable as
standard, and on request the front occupants can also enjoy actively
ventilated, heated multicontour seats with fully electric adjustments
and a memory function. The R-Class also reveals another benefit in the
form of its large, versatile luggage compartment: in the
standard-wheelbase versions the luggage compartment holds up to 1950
litres, while the long-wheelbase version boasts 2385 litres. In all
five-seat variants there is a separate stowage compartment beneath the
load compartment floor, while the optional EASY PACK tailgate, which can
be operated remotely by means of a switch or key, also makes access to
the luggage compartment easier. As such the R-Class is the most variable
and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car product
range.
 
The bright, classic interior – which seems even
more spacious when fitted with the optional panoramic glass sunroof –
makes use of new materials and colour combinations to enhance the
high-class appeal and quality of this luxury tourer. At the same time
they underline the sense of wellbeing inside the vehicle which is so
typical of a Mercedes-Benz. Available interior appointments include the
upholstery combination of "Aspen" fabric and breathable, soft-touch
ARTICO man-made leather.
 
Two-tone interior appointments are a new addition
to the range: this is where the base colour almond beige can be
combined with the contrasting shade of mocha brown. Alternatively, the
base colour alpaca grey combined with contrasting dark basalt grey is
also available. Both colour combinations are used on the dashboard,
steering wheel, centre console, seats, door linings and floor coverings.
When choosing ARTICO or leather appointments at the same time, the
piping is finished in a contrasting colour. The AMG Interior Sports
package includes single-tone black nappa leather appointments as
standard. As alternatives to the aluminium trim with a dark longitudinal
grain or the chrome trim in silver shadow, it is also possible to order
luxurious wood trims in high-gloss brown eucalyptus, high-gloss brown
burred walnut or high-gloss anthracite poplar.
 
Model range: the R-Class with a personal
touch
 
The nine basic variants already provide plenty of
opportunity to select an R‑Class to suit specific individual
requirements. All models boast numerous features as standard which help
to make travelling both on long journeys as well as on short urban trips
even safer and more relaxed. These features include the unique
anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, a complete restraint
system with eight airbags, crash-active NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre
pressure loss warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also
enhanced thanks to high-performance telematic systems such as the Audio
20, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS with an extremely user-friendly
interface.
 
The THERMATIC automatic climate control system is
fitted with a combination filter to further reduce pollutants which may
be contained in the outside air entering the vehicle. As an optional
extra, a THERMOTRONIC system providing separate rear air conditioning is
available to meet all interior air conditioning requirements. The
spacious glove compartment now comes with an AUX-IN connection for
external audio or entertainment devices. Connection options can also be
extended further with an optional Media Interface (UCI).
 
To complement the extensive standard equipment,
the R-Class provides a variety of assistant systems which push ride
comfort and safety to the highest level and underpin the vehicle’s
leading position in this market segment. These include DISTRONIC
proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping
System (ADS), or Blind Spot Assist, which can make changing lanes
significantly safer. The modern LINGUATRONIC voice control system makes
using the telematics systems even easier and more convenient, while a
reversing camera provides for smooth, easy parking or manoeuvring in
blind spots. As soon as the driver engages "R" gear, the image from the
camera is shown on the high-resolution COMAND APS display. Rear
passengers, meanwhile, can enjoy their own entertainment programme
thanks to the rear seat entertainment system. Seat heating can also be
ordered for the second row of seats to increase comfort even further in
winter.
 
Valuation: surveys confirm high resale
expectations
 
Experience shows that Mercedes-Benz models are
among the most stable on the market in terms of value retention, and
they therefore offer a significant financial advantage. This was
confirmed once again last year by a neutral third-party when the German
specialist magazine "Auto Bild" selected the "2010 Value Champions" in
different vehicle categories based on surveys conducted by
Saarbrücken-based market research institute Bähr & Fess Forecast.
The "Value Champion" among MPVs, the R 300 CDI, emerged at the head of
the field in this market segment, and according to the forecasts would
retain a value of 47.5 percent after four years. The R‑Class already
held this leading position in an expert analysis of residual values last
year.