Mercedes-Benz debuts an updated R-class for the 2011 model year with a new front-end design, slightly altered rear and lightly freshened interior. From the A-pillar forward, the '11 R-class is new, with a more upright grille, fenders, hood and headlights to better relate to the rest of Mercedes-Benz's SUV lineup. Out back, a bumper with rear diffuser and integrated exhaust outlets and rear LED taillamps highlight the changes. The R350 4Matic and the R350 Bluetec 4Matic also ride on fresh wheel designs and sport sleeker rearview side mirrors.
Inside, the mild changes include new two-tone interior color schemes, wood trim, silver air vents, rearview mirror with integrated compass and 3-D gauges. Other major portions of the interior, such as the dashboard and consoles, continue unchanged from the 2010 model. A blind-spot monitoring system joins the options list for 2011.
Also being carried over are both powertrain options: a 3.5-liter 268-hp V6 and a 50-state 3.5-liter turbocharged diesel V6 with 400 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come bolted to a seven-speed automatic transmission and both are only available with Benz's 4Matic all-wheel-drive system in the United States. Suspension tuning is also unchanged from the previous model.
How's it drive?
Ride comfort is the name of the game with the R-class. It's quiet and has a well-sorted suspension to smooth out bumps yet is not overly soft or hampered with large amounts of body roll. In fact, the car exhibited only minimal roll--in large crossover terms--on some twisting roads on our drive route in New Jersey. The brakes were also a strong point, offering impressive muscle to bring things to a halt with fairly solid brake pedal feel. We would like the steering to offer a more direct feel because at times it felt way too disconnected. However, for a long road trip with the family and luggage, the R-class is a perfect tool to take along with roomy enough third-row seating for average-size adults.
We drove the gasoline and diesel versions of the new car and while the gas engine was adequate, we highly recommend springing for the Bluetec diesel to get the healthy amount of torque and better fuel economy. It took a heavy right foot to get the gasoline-equipped R-class up to speed quick for expressway merging exercises, but it is fine to motor away from stoplights when you're not in a hurry. On the other hand, the diesel offered great off-the-line punch, which is always appreciated. The seven-speed transmission offered seamless shifts and quickly goes down the gears when needed.
Do I want it?
If you put high value in the functionality of your vehicle, carry six or seven passengers often and don't mind driving around a vehicle that closely resembles a (gasp!) minivan, then yes. The third row can accommodate most adults, and even though the majority of the interior is unchanged, it is still a nice place to be with high build quality and it's put together with nice materials.
Again, we strongly suggest splurging for the diesel engine option. The turbocharged diesel V6 is potent and offers the thrust and better fuel efficiency that you will appreciate. And with the premium for the diesel being only $1,500 on the current 2010 model over the gasoline engine, we see that as money well spent.
2011 Mercedes-Benz R350 4Matic
Price: $50,375 (est)
On Sale: July
Drivetrain: 3.5-liter V6; 268 hp @ 6,000, 258-lb-ft @ 2,400-5,000 rpm, seven-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 4,949 lb
0-60 mph: 8.0 sec (mfr)
Fuel Economy (EPA): 14 city/19 highway mpg
