chilledbenz

I have made some comments on another thread here and it got me thinking that I should attempt to post a thread here for what is new on the 2009 R class and what is gone from the 2008 models. I will add a disclaimer here that I'm using website and official brochure information that isn't always 100% accurate. Keep in mind this is a list of what is new or gone and not the full list of options. I will try to update this when I can see a 2009 model in person, or if anyone else finds out feel free to update the list.
*U.S. Specifications Listed Below*

What's New or Improved

Engine:
R320 BlueTEC 210hp 398lb-ft torque can run on B5 bio diesel

Exterior:

Black slotted front grill

19'' Five spoke wheels with run flat tires on R320 models (same as Sport Package)

Heat absorbing blue tinted glass on R320 models (also with Sport Package)

Interior:

New steering wheel

New command system including bluetooth, in dash six disc cd/dvd changer, in dash sd card reader and Tel Aid.

Restraint Systems:
Pre-Safe
Child Door Locks

P1:
Ipod interface
7 seat option
40 gig hard drive nav system
HD radio
Rear view camera
115v ac power outlet in cargo area

P2:
3 zone climate control
Rear a/c
2nd row sunshades


Now for what is gone that was available on 2008 models

Engine:
R320 CDI 215hp 398lb torque

Drivetrain:
2 wheel drive R350

P1:
Panorama roof with sunshades (available as an option on 09)
2nd row audio controls (probably just left off the 09 info but is still there)
Power rear quarter windows (same here, probably there just left out of info)
Dual sun visors (same as above)

P3:
Air suspension
Adaptive damping shocks
Infrared reflecting glass
Cargo net

Full Leather Seating Package:
Wood/leather steering wheel
Burl walnut trim
Interior ambient lighting

Lighting Package:
Bi xenon headlamps with active curve illumination
Heated head lamp washers

Heating Package:
Heated front seats
Heated rear seats
Heated leather steering wheel

Scotsman

Thanks for the info chilledbenz.

heron25

the only thing I can recommend, in my opinion, is avoid the run flat tires. They harshen up the ride, don't corner very well and they are wickedly expensive to replace. Just my two cents.

chilledbenz

Thankfully they only come standard on the R320 BlueTEC version, but it wouldn't surprise me to see them on the R350 in the future, that space saver spare scares me, hope I never have to use it ha ha.

Thought I should probably add that the above specs were for U.S. versions and other countries options may vary.

MyMercedes012

thanks for the info

Scotsman

Had to use the space saver on the SL and unless you respect the limitations could be pretty costly. A real pain getting it on and looks bloody stupid at the same time!

lkchris

It's the exact same engine with just some more stuff tacked on to the exhuast system. Perhaps minor tuning changes to correspond.

lkchris

Space saver spare is standard on R350 because it doesn't come with runflat tires.

It is NOT available on the diesel because the urea tank fills the space normally used for carrying spare tire. That's why diesel comes with runflat tires.

mercdriver

I believe that beginning in 2009, there was also a change to the side impact airbag system that was made as a result of it not having the greatest side impact crash ratings previously. The 2009 and 2010 models received excellent side impact crash test ratings as a result.

So, I suppose one could safely speculate that the 2009's are somewhat safer than the 2006-2008's. Active head restraints were added in 2010.

mercdriver

Sadly, the 2nd row sunshades are NOT available in Canada...