Mercedes-Benz has released a wealth of details about the changes to the brand’s model year 2012 offerings. While some aren’t terrifically exciting, there are a few good nuggets of information pertaining to new engine options and body styles.
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class has always been a bit of a black sheep. With a polarizing exterior, it was one of the first forays into the luxury crossover market. Now, Mercedes has unveiled the (heavily) refreshed R-Class at the 2010 New York Auto Show.
For 2009, Mercedes-Benz has outfitted all of its diesel vehicles with the latest in Bluetec technology. First pioneered in the E320, the ML-, GL-, and R-Class now get the cleanest version of Benz’s oil-burning 3.0-liter V-6. This engine is good for 210 horsepower and an extremely useful 398 pound-feet of torque. However, we were rather skeptical if this would be enough power to move the large R-Class family hauler with enough spirit to keep our enthusiast hearts beating. What we found was a rather pleasant people mover with ample power and a comfortable, luxurious interior perfect for long drives.