2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a major exterior facelift, led by a more upright front end and a redesigned rear. The engines, seating layout, and basic chassis carry over from 2010.
About the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
1st generation (W251), mid-cycle refresh year.
Mercedes-Benz positioned the R-Class as a three-row luxury family vehicle that blended the space of a people mover with the road manners and prestige of a Mercedes. The brochure emphasizes first-class comfort for up to six or seven adults, strong safety engineering, and all-weather confidence from 4MATIC. Its core appeal was not rugged SUV image or minivan practicality alone, but roomy long-distance travel in a quieter, more upscale, more car-like package.
Mercedes positioned the 2011 R-Class as a comfortable six-seat family vehicle with standard all-wheel drive and three rows of individually folding seats. The gas R 350 uses a 268-hp V6, while the R 350 BlueTEC diesel emphasizes stronger low-speed pulling power and long-distance efficiency. Both have a seven-speed automatic, self-leveling rear air suspension, and a 6.5-inch infotainment display with Bluetooth.
What changed, by category
2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift |
| Drivetrain | 4MATIC AWD | 4MATIC AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 85 cu-ft | 85 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.4 in | 32.4 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class fully redesigned?
No. The 2011 R-Class received a mid-cycle facelift rather than a full redesign. Its exterior changed substantially, but the engines, seating layout, suspension design, and overall structure carried over.
What exterior changes did the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class receive?
The 2011 R-Class received a taller grille, new headlights, a redesigned front bumper, new mirrors, and new wheel designs. Mercedes also reshaped the rear bumper, integrated the exhaust outlets, and added LED taillights.
Did the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class get new engines?
No. The 2011 R-Class kept its gasoline and turbo-diesel V6 engines, seven-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive. The refresh focused on appearance rather than mechanical changes.
What changed inside the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class?
The interior changes were modest. Mercedes revised the rear headrests, added new wood accents, and updated the instrument display, but did not make a major infotainment change.
Was the 2011 R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC Sport a new diesel model?
No. The previous R 350 BlueTEC Sport continued for 2011 under the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC Sport name. It retained its 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6, seven-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive.