2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a light-update year, led by hard-drive navigation becoming standard on both trims. The gas R 350 also gets a stronger 302-hp V6 and a revised 7-speed automatic.
About the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class
First-generation R-Class (W251), refreshed for 2011; 2012 is the second year after that update and the final U.S. model year.
Mercedes-Benz pitched the R-Class as a three-row luxury family vehicle that blended sedan comfort, wagon cargo room, and SUV-style all-weather traction. The brochure emphasizes first-class travel for six or seven people, standard 4MATIC grip, advanced safety, and quiet long-distance comfort rather than off-road image. In practice, it was aimed at buyers who wanted more passenger space than a typical luxury crossover but did not want a traditional minivan experience.
Mercedes positions the gas R 350 as the familiar family-focused version, with six seats, standard all-wheel drive, sliding second-row captain’s chairs, and a fold-flat third row. The BlueTEC pairs the same three-row cabin with a turbo-diesel V6 producing 400 lb-ft of torque for stronger low-speed pull and relaxed highway travel.
What changed, by category
2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Turbo Diesel, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic | Automatic, 7-Spd |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 273 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 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Hill Start Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| 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 | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class?
The biggest lineup-wide change is that hard-drive navigation becomes standard on both 2012 R-Class trims. The upgraded multimedia system, voice control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, HD Radio hardware, satellite radio, and LED daytime running lamps are also standard.
Did the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 350 get a new engine?
Yes. The gas-powered 2012 R 350 gets a new 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 producing 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, along with a revised 7-speed automatic. The 2011 gas model made 268 hp and 258 lb-ft.
Did the 2012 R 350 BlueTEC diesel change from 2011?
The BlueTEC diesel engine carries over without a confirmed mechanical change. Its equipment does improve for 2012 because hard-drive navigation, upgraded multimedia features, and LED daytime running lamps become standard.
Is the 2012 R-Class a major redesign?
No. The 2012 R-Class is a light update following the 2011 facelift, not a full redesign. Its body, chassis, three-row layout, and standard all-wheel drive remain largely unchanged.
Was 2012 the final U.S. model year for the Mercedes-Benz R-Class?
Yes. The 2012 R-Class was the final model year sold in the United States.