Facelifted 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

It might not be a rampant sales success, but Mercedes-Benz is updating the R-Class for 2011 nonetheless. The most obvious changes are visual, though we hear powertrain updates are in the works to meet new fuel efficiency standards. While the R-Class is already available with the automaker's 3.0-liter BlueTec diesel, the vehicle could also be a candidate for Benz's hybrid system in the coming S400 Hybrid.

Our spy photographers recently caught a mostly uncovered look at the facelift results in Europe. The 2011 R-Class dons a sharper, more angular front end, with a larger and more prominent grille. A new set of headlights look more ML-Class than the oblong ovals of the current R-Class. Also new are the hood, front bumper with LED running lights, and side mirrors. Out back, the changes are less radical, with a revised bumper, exhaust pipes, and new LED lights.