The MY2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class - Safety, Luxury and First-Class Comfort
Bold New LookOne look is all it takes to see that the new MY2011 R-Class conveys a new level of assertiveness, underscoring the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. The completely redesigned front end completely transforms its overall appearance, taking its inspiration from Mercedes-Benz sedans and SÚV models. Alongside its fresh exterior, the inner values of the redesigned MY2011 R-Class also speak for themselves. These include the spaciousness of a luxury SÚV, as well as the safety, style and exclusivity of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. (concept carz) At the same time, the latest generation offers the interior versatility central to the R-Class vehicle concept, while also delivering the all-weather confidence of 4MATIC allwheel drive as standard (Ú.S. models only). The R-Class celebrates its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) March 31, 2010.Efficient EnginesFor the Ú.S. market, the R-Class is offered with a choice of two fuel-efficient engines. The R350 4MATIC delivers 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, yet achieves an estimated 14/19 mpg (city/hwy), while the R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is one of the world's cleanest diesel vehicles. The V6 turbodiesel engine generates an output of 210 hp (155 kW) and an impressive torque of 400 lb-ft. Equipped with the highly-effective AdBlue© exhaust treatment system for low emissions, the diesel engine achieves an estimated 18/24 mpg (city/hwy).A New Level of Style and Versatility
The redesigned R-Class features an assertive new design, further emphasizing the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. Designers focused their attention on completely restyling the front end, giving the R-Class a look that is both harmonious and powerfully dynamic. In addition to the hood, fenders, radiator grille, front fascia, headlamps and bumpers -- with chrome simulated underguards -- have all been completely redesigned. The face of the R-Class can be further enhanced with chrome trim incorporating optional LED daytime running lights in combination with bi-xenon headlamps.
If there was a versatility test for automotive interiors, the R-Class would surely be the top contender for first place. The seating variants in particular offer a wide range of possibilities - the R-Class was designed with a focus on comfort and security and with relaxed and safe travel in mind. Long wheelbase versions (short wheelbase not offered in the Ú.S.) offer seating for six people in the standard layout. Five, six and seven-seat configurations are also available (Ú.S. models offer standard seating for 6, with 7 passenger seating optional). Standard equipment includes partially poweroperated seats for the driver and front seat passenger. Active ventilated and heatedmulti-contour seats with full power adjustment and memory function are available as an option (special order in the Ú.S.) for front seat occupants.The R-Class delivers a further benefit in the shape of its large, versatile luggage compartment. The short wheelbase version (not available in the Ú.S.) has a luggage capacity of up to 1,950 liters, while the long wheelbase version offers a maximum of 84 cu. ft./2,385 liters. All five-seat variants come with a separate load compartment beneath the floor of the main luggage area. The optional power liftgate -- controlled remotely from either switch or key fob -- facilitates easy entry to the cargo area. This makes the R-Class the most versatile and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle lineup.In the finely appointed, airy interior -- which feels even more spacious with the optional panorama glass roof -- new materials and color combinations raise the premium feel and quality of this luxury crossover. They also add to the hallmark Mercedes ambience onboard. Ú.S. models offer a choice of standard MB-Tex in Cashmere and Ash in addition to popular Black. European customers can select from a range of upholstery combinations that include 'Aspen' fabric and MB-Tex simulated leather.New to the international range are the two-tone interior finishes. The base color of Almond Beige can be combined with the contrasting Mocha Brown. Alternatively, there is the base color Alpaca Gray contrasting with deep Basalt Gray (choice of beige/black or grey/black on Ú.S. models). Both color combinations are applied to the cockpit, steering wheel, center console, seats, door trim and floor coverings. Contrasting seat piping complements standard MB-Tex or optional leather upholstery.The AMG interior sports package (not available in Ú.S.) comes as standard with black Nappa leather upholstery. Alongside trim elements in dark brushed aluminum and chrome trim in Silver Shadow, customers can also order from opulent wood veneer trim in high-gloss eucalyptus, high-gloss burl walnut or poplar anthracite. Ú.S. models feature standard burl walnut trim or special order eucalyptus wood trim.Extensive Model Lineup
Even in its base versions, the R-Class offers a wide range of personalization options. All models come fitted as standard with a vast array of details that make both longdistance travel and short city runs safe and comfortable. These include the unique PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system, a comprehensive restraint system with eight airbags, NECK-PRO active head restraints, a tire pressure monitor and adaptive brake lights (not available in Ú.S.). Safety is further enhanced by powerful and user-friendly telematics systems like Audio 20, Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS.Ú.S. models feature standard in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer with optional COMAND hard-drive navigation and harmon/kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound, as well as standard Bluetooth connectivity and available mbrace telematics. Ú.S. models features standard dual-zone climate control, while international market versions offer THERMATIC automatic climate control equipped with a combination filter for the further reduction of exterior air pollutants flowing into the cabin. The optional THERMOTRONIC (not available in Ú.S.) with its separate rear seat climate control optimizes interior air quality. The spacious glove box now comes with an AÚXin jack for external audio and entertainment devices. Connectivity is further expanded by an optional media interface (ÚCI).Alongside the extensive standard equipment, the R-Class also offers a vast range of assistance systems that define the highest level of comfort and safety and underscore the leading position held by the R-Class in this segment of the market. They include DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, AIRMATIC air suspension with ADS adaptive damping, which are both available as special-order options in the Ú.S., or the optional Blind Spot Assist that can make lane changes significantly safer. State-of-the-art voice activation makes using the telematics system even more straightforward, while a rear view camera enables fast and easy parking or maneuvering in tight conditions. As soon as the driver shifts into 'R', the camera image is displayed on the highresolution COMAND APS monitor. Rear seat passengers can enjoy their own entertainment program on board with the rear seat entertainment system. For increased comfort during the winter months, the second seat row can also be fitted with seat heating (special-order option in Ú.S.).MY2011 R-Class - ÚS model lineup and equipment options
Model overview*
* R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
* R350 4MATIC*descriptions and data in this press kit apply to the Mercedes-Benz Ú.S. model lineup. Country-specific variations apply.Standard equipment for first-class comfort and comprehensive safetyR350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
* Fuel economy (city/hwy): 18 mpg/24 mpg
* 50-state availability
* 19' 5-spoke alloy wheels standard with all-season run-flat tires
* 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
* Sport front and rear bumpers
* Chrome fog lam
* Privacy glass
* Burl Walnut wood trim
* Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
* Power rear quarter windows
* Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
* PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
* NECK-PRO front head restraintsR350 4MATIC
* 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
* Sport front and rear bumpers
* Chrome fog lamps
* Power tilt/sliding glass sunroof with sunshade
* Power rear quarter windows
* Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
* In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer
* PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
* 19' AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
* Burl Walnut wood trim
* Privacy glass
* Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
* Chrome Package with dual chrome exhaust tips
* Dual-zone automatic climate controlWheels
R350 4MATIC
19' 5-spoke (8.0 x 19.0)R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
19' AMG 5-spoke (8.5 x 19.0)Further attractive optional equipment adds to the R-Class experience:Stand Alone Options
* Parktronic
* 7-seat option
* Wood /leather multifunction steering wheelmbrace
* Panorama Sunroof with electric sunshade
* Heated leather multifunction steering wheel
* Trailer Hitch — 3,500 lbs . (Class II)
* 3-zone climate control and rear air conditioning
* Rear Seat Entertainment System
* Rear Seat Entertainment System Pre -Wiring
* Heated Front SeatsOptional Packages
* Auto-dimming driver side and rear view mirrors
* COMAND system with hard-drive navigation
* Enhanced voice control for audio telephone and navigation
* Gracenote® media database
* HD Digital Radio®
* iPod/MP3 media interface (in glovebox)
* Memory Package for driver seat, power steering column and exterior mirrors
* Power folding mirrors
* Power liftgate
* Power steering column
* Rear view camera
* SIRIÚS® Satellite Radio with SIRIÚS real-time traffic service
* Zagat Survey® restaurant guide
* 115V AC power outlet
* 4GB hard-drive with Music Register for download of MP3 filesPremium 2 Package
* harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system
* KEYLESS-GOSport Appearance Package
* Dark tinted sport rear tail lamps
* Heat-absorbing blue tinted glass (first row only)
* 20' AMG 5-spoke wheelSource - Mercedes-Benz
The redesigned 2011 R-Class
The redesigned 2011 R-Class once again raises the bar for the luxury crossover vehicle segment. In addition to the fresh exterior, the R-Class continues to boast a number of unique interior virtues, including the flexible use of space found in the latest crossovers combined with luxurious, first-class comfort. While the exterior look has changed, the R-Class stays true to its mission - providing unparalleled interior space with Mercedes-Benz all-wheel drive. The redesigned R-Class will be available in Ú.S. showrooms in August 2010.Together with the significantly revised exterior, the complete range of standard equipment and the numerous individualization options, the R-Class can be tailored specifically to meet individual requirements. If there was such a thing as a vehicle versatility test, then the R-Class would certainly be the favorite to win first place.An overview of the models:
Ú.S. Models:
•R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
•R350 4MATIC
Other International Models:
•R300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY
•R300
•R500 4MATIC
Simply stunning: the design of the 2011 R-Class
Impressive appearance with new highlights
Dramatically redesigned for the 2011MY, the R-Class is noticeably more assertive, underlining the unique character of this multi-talented vehicle. The designers paid special attention to the front section, with an emphasis on width and a horizontally structured hood to make the vehicle appear more harmonious, muscular and dynamic.Expressive: the new front section emphasizes character
At the front of the R-Class, the hood, fenders, radiator grille, headlamps and bumper have been completely redesigned. The new hood has more defined contours, complemented by an arrow-shaped front edge. The wider, higher radiator grille is more steeply angled, while the rear fascia incorporates striking, clear-cut lines. The side recesses in the bumper -- where the fog lamps and daytime driving lights (or optional LED daytime running lights) are located -- are spaced well apart and emphasize width. The lines of the side skirts are harmoniously continued forward in the updated fenders and grille. The new, dynamic 'face' of the R-Class is particularly impressive. The redesigned headlamps blend perfectly into the front end to further emphasize the horizontal lines. The 'eyelids' follow the beltline contours along the sides, and are arranged above the chromed headlamp housings to produce an assertive, concentrated gaze.Perfect proportions
Sleek design is reiterated in the side profile as well. With the coupé-like lines of the window area, the R-Class represents a unique departure from traditional crossovers. Eye-catching details of the clearly contoured sides include the larger exterior mirror housings, which are set well away from the doors and supported by slim stems. The strikingly designed mirror housings in the vehicle color have integrated indicator repeaters in the form of a stylized arrow.
The rear section seamlessly continues the design idiom of the front, with a new bumper design, modified tail lights, a diffuser and integrated tailpipe trim emphasizing the width with more horizontal structures. The bumper also echoes the sharp contours of the side skirts, giving the effect of a continuous line circling around the exterior. As a finishing touch, the tail lights feature LED and fiber optic technology as well as horizontally arranged lighting functions.The 2011 model year R-Class looks particularly attractive in the new 'diamond white' metallic paint finish.Please take a seat: interior appointmentsSitting comfortably in spacious luxury
If there were a versatility test for automobile interiors, the R-Class would undoubtedly be a candidate for first place. The R-Class offers a variety of seating options: designed for maximum comfort, the crossover offers six seats as standard or an optional seventh seat in the Ú.S. (European models offer five seats as standard in both the normal and long-wheelbase versions plus an available four seat configuration). The second row can also be equipped with a storage console between the two standard captain's chairs.Seating arrangement: from four passengers right up to seven passengers
The space provided behind the front seats is so generous that up to three child safety seats can be installed at the same time. If only four seats are required, the 3rd row seats can be easily folded down for more storage.R-Class customers who prefer more seating capacity may opt for a seventh seat located in the second row. With three passengers seated in the middle row, this gives a total seating capacity of seven. Groups of up to six people choose the popular 2-2-2 seating configuration, which provides each occupant with an individual seat. The R-Class comes with 8-way power adjustable front seats with driver-side 4-way pneumatic lumbar control for driver and front passenger as standard, while as a special order option front passengers can also enjoy the luxury of actively ventilated and heated seats.The R-Class also features another benefit in the form of its large, versatile 85 cu. ft. luggage compartment. The optional electronic tailgate -- which can be operated remotely by means of a switch or smart key -- also makes access to the cargo area easier. This makes the R-Class the most variable and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car product range.Refined atmosphere for maximum driving pleasure
The high-class interior - which seems even more spacious when fitted with the optional Panorama glass sunroof - makes use of new materials and color combinations to enhance the high-class appeal and quality of this luxury crossover. Úpholstery offerings include black, almond beige or ash in both MB-Tex or optional leather. The seats feature a new transverse and linear piping design. The interior also features standard burl walnut trim.The cockpit impresses with its newly designed instrument cluster. The dials and needles have a white background, and are even easier to read thanks to a threedimensional effect.That's entertainment - telematics and multimedia in the R-Class
The telematics of the R-Class impress with intuitive and user-friendly operation, high-performance and great versatility. The 2011 R-Class features the COMAND system as standard equipment with an in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer and highresolution 6.5-inch color display. The COMAND system also includes a compass function, which is shown in both the instrument cluster and the central display plus a Bluetooth interface and an Aux-in connection for mobile audio devices are also integrated. As part of the optional Premium1 package, the COMAND system also includes a 4 GB memory for MP3 files (Music Register), an SD memory card slot and a hard disk drive navigation system that holds various map displays. SIRIÚS real-time traffic rapidly helps guide the driver to the desired destination. Also included in the Premium1 package is a voice-operated control system for accessing many vehicle functions, and a universal media interface to connect an external music memory or iPod to the onboard electronics and the control system. Music tracks are displayed both in the instrument cluster and the color display in the center console, and can be conveniently accessed using the keys in the multifunction steering wheel or on the dashboard. This system also enables charging of the audio device at the same time.Passengers can also enjoy full, concert-hall surround-sound with the optional, latest-generation harman/kardon® Logic7® sound system. This high-output sound system includes a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and Dolby Digital 5.1. Also available is an optional rear seat entertainment system with two large 8-inch screens, a DVD player and two wireless headsets for greater freedom of movement, plus a remote control.Comprehensive safety conceptEight airbags, crash-responsive head restraints and an electronic guardian angel
All R-Class models have numerous standard features which help make long journeys as well as short trips around town even safer and more relaxed. These features include the unique anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, a complete restraint system with eight airbags, crash-responsive NECK-PRO front head restraints, and a tire pressure loss warning system. New for 2011, the optional Blind Spot Assist makes lane changes significantly safer by monitoring the sides of the vehicle and alerting the driver with visual and audible warnings whenever they signal a lane change with another vehicle alongside. Safety is also enhanced by the sophisticated telematics system 'mbrace', the COMAND system with an extremely user-friendly interface, as well as the raised seating position. This gives the driver a good view of the traffic conditions, enabling him or her to recognize potential dangers more quickly and easily.Everything considered: integral Mercedes-Benz safety concept
Naturally, the comprehensive Mercedes approach to integral safety applies to the 2011 R-Class. This trailblazing safety philosophy goes well beyond compliance with standardized crash test regulations and concerns itself with all aspects of driving - everything that is important for the safety of the vehicle occupants and other motorists. The Mercedes safety concept divides these aspects into four phases:1.Safe driving: avoiding danger, warning and assisting in good time
2.In the event of danger: acting in an anticipatory manner, e.g. with PRE-SAFE®
3.In an accident: provide protection as needed
4.After an accident: avoid even worse consequences and make rapid assistance possible
Comprehensive restraint system for the best possible occupant protection
Combined with the front and rear deformation zones, the high-strength occupant cell forms an effective basis for occupant protection systems that include:- adaptive, two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger
- sidebags in the front, and in the middle row of seats
- curtain airbags across all three rows of seats
- NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger
- 3-point seat belts on all seats
- belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for driver and front seat passenger
- seat belt tensioners and single-stage belt-force limiters in the middle and rear seat rows
- LATCH child seat anchorages for up to three child restraint systems in the second seat row
- belt height adjustment for the driver and front passenger
- belt status display for rear-seat passengers in the instrument cluster
- automatic child seat recognition with deactivation of the front passenger airbag if a special Mercedes-Benz child seat is fittedThe electronic guardian angel: PRE-SAFE® has a preventive effect
Occupant protection in the 2011 R-Class begins well before an accident. The Mercedes-Benz invention PRE-SAFE® is able to activate preventive measures reflexively when it recognizes an impending accident, so that the belts and airbags can provide optimal protection during the collision. This multiple awardwinning technology is standard equipment.PRE-SAFE® uses a combination of active and passive safety: it is networked with Brake Assist (BAS) and the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, whose sensors can recognize potentially critical handling situations and relay information to the electronic control units within milliseconds. This data is also used for preventive occupant protection by PRE-SAFE®. Important to note is that the PRE-SAFE® protective measures are reversible: if the accident is avoided, the preventive belt tensioning is relaxed automatically, and the passengers can return the seats and sliding sunroof to their original positions. The preventive occupant protection is then immediately ready for use again.Tradition: 40 years of accident research at Mercedes-Benz
Comprehensive safety has a long tradition at Daimler: in 1969 Mercedes-Benz started its ongoing accident research program, in which engineers evaluate collisions involving the company's vehicles in the Stuttgart region soon after they occur - and in special cases even worldwide. Time and again, the findings of these accident researchers provide important information on components that can be specifically improved in terms of passive safety. The investigators have examined around 4,000 accidents since their work started 40 years ago. Each crash is documented with an 80-page accident report. This continuously growing database will enable vehicles to be made even safer in the future.Drive system and chassisDrive for economy
In addition to the economical gasoline variant with customary effortless power delivery and high drive comfort, the optimized diesel engine further enhances the appeal of the R-Class.R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC: as clean as a gasoline model
With the R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz continues to offer one of the cleanest diesel models in the world. The V6 engine achieves an output of 210 hp and substantial torque of 400 lb-ft. This model also manages to achieve reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions while providing enhanced performance. Equipped with highly-effective AdBlue© exhaust gas after-treatment, the compression-ignition engine consumes an average 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, generating in the process the same level of emissions as a comparable gasoline engine. As a result, this model currently already meets the emission values planned for 2014 according to the EÚ6 standard. BlueTEC is a technology developed by Mercedes-Benz for the effective reduction of emissions by diesel vehicles, especially nitrogen oxides. In this process, AdBlue®, a non-toxic, aqueous urea solution is injected into the stream of exhaust gases. This releases ammonia, which breaks down up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR catalytic converter (Selective Catalytic Reduction).Effortless power delivery with high drive comfort: The gasoline engine in the R-Class
The V6 gasoline engine gives the R350 4MATIC a high level of drive comfort together with effortless power delivery and a moderate fuel consumption. The 3.5- liter V6 gasoline engine of the all-wheel drive R350 4MATIC develops 268 hp and a maximum torque of 258 lb-ft, producing fuel economy figures of 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.Stability pact: the well-proven suspension of the R-Class
The R-Class has a dynamically active and comfortable suspension as standard equipment. Both model variants have steel springs in front with self-leveling rear air suspension as standard equipment. Also available as a special order option, the AIRMATIC system with air suspension, the Adaptive Damping System and level adjustment improves both ride comfort and handling dynamics.*The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the Ú.S. Mercedes-Benz model range and may vary from country to country.Source - Mercedes-Benz
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