Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG gets updated exterior, little else

With all of the hype surrounding the BMW's M-badged X5 and X6, as well as the renewed Porsche Cayenne range, it's easy to forget that Mercedes-Benz has its own super-fast sport-ute, the ML63 AMG. As its name suggests, this top-rung ML is fitted with the same 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 that we've come to love in the rest of the automaker's AMG lineup, good for 503 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque in this application.

We expect to see an all-new AMG M-Class in the next couple of years, but for now, Mercedes-Benz has updated the ML63 with very subtle exterior tweaks, including darkened headlamps and taillamps, a refreshed hood and tweaked front and rear underguards (in chrome, of course). From there, not much else changes – the seven-speed AMG Speedshift transmission is still in place, routing all of that forward thrust to all four wheels, measuring 20 inches in diameter (21s can be had as an option).

In the ML AMG's next generation, expect to see the automaker's brand new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 under the hood, good for around 544 horsepower and a pavement-churning 590 pound-feet of torque. High-powered SUVs and crossovers aren't the most practical of automotive choices these days, but we're happy to still see them moving forward. After all, sometimes you just need to get the kids to soccer practice in extremely short order.


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Review: 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4Matic is more than just a movie prop

When you launch a vehicle during the year's most over-hyped estrogenfest, you're obviously trying to appeal to a specific demographic. Specifically, not us. There's a reason we haven't taken a crack at the Mercedes-Benz GLK until the sequel to Sex and the City hit the screen. It was just too easy to pigeonhole this cute 'ute as nothing more than a boxy four-wheeled trinket – a cynical fashion accessory designed to compliment your rat-faced pooch and Manolo Blahniks (yes, we had to look that up).

But a funny thing happened on the way down I-5.

While blasting the stereo and hauling along at a decidedly Germanic clip, all of the stereotypes about the GLK's target demographic flew out its expansive sunroof. For as much as we dislike the mere idea of "entry-level luxury" – and in particular the scads of pseudo-SUVs that populate it – the GLK started to make sense. It's well proportioned, has adequate power and comes with nearly enough amenities to match its tri-pointed badge. We actually enjoyed it, even though our manhood might've taken a hit in the process.

Speaking of hits, from a stylistic standpoint, the GLK is either a solid double or a strikeout. Over the course of a few days, we warmed up to it, enjoying the E-Class-inspired rear fender flares, expansive greenhouse and tight posterior. Its Sports Appearance Package 20-inch, seven-spoke wheels fit the blistered arches to a "T," and while the emblem is larger than a Big Gulp lid, we've resigned ourselves to the fact that Mercedes-Benz is taking a "go big or go home" approach to its fascias.

Inside, the slab-sided aesthetic of the exterior carries over to good effect, with a right-sized dash, center console and steering wheel. It's a clean, if staid design for its segment and made up of de rigueur C-Class materials to match. The center-mounted speedo recieves the standard Merc LCD display in the middle, allowing you to toggle between everything from fuel consumption to trip readings. The gauges are clear and legible, the steering wheel controls easy to understand and even easier to operate.



The stereo is an ode to simplicity, save the numerical keypad running along the right side, and the dual-zone climate controls are nicely knurled, if a little shifty in their fitment. In short, everything is exactly where you'd expect, including the large COMAND knob aft of the shifter and the absolutely massive (and slightly comical) dollar-coin-sized engine start button.

Finger that aluminum-look starter and the 3.5-liter V6 gets startled to life and falls into a smooth drone in the background. With just over 4,000 pounds to motivate, the 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque are up to the job, and in our tester's 4Matic (read: all-wheel-drive) trim, the first stab of the throttle was met with more acceleration than expected. The standard seven-speed automatic flicked through the ratios with the speed and assurance we've come to expect from the Benz boyz, lending more credence to the claims that Mercedes vehicles offer some of the best 'boxes in the biz.



A few circular on- and off-ramps along with a run down a local Bay Area backroad proved that the GLK is remarkably more at home on the curves than most of its closest competition. The steering, while fingertip light, provided a connection to the road largely devoid on most luxo-soft-roaders and, despite its lanky proportions, the GLK was remarkably adept at handling the twisties. The rough(ish) ride we experienced on the highway and around town became an asset, not a curse, when bouncing from bend to bend, with body motions kept in check and an uncommon amount of front grip when heading into a corner a touch to fast. Scrubbing off speed with the four-wheel discs was never an issue, with firm, positive feedback that proved fade-free throughout our various drives.

Mercedes' COMAND interface seems to fall somewhere in between Audi's MMI and BMW's iDrive when it comes to ease-of-use, with a well thought out menu structure and a "Back" button always providing you a quick escape from sub-menu hell. While we understand the safety concerns about entering a destination into the nav system, the inability of the passenger to get directions while the GLK is trundling through traffic became a reoccurring annoyance. Even more galling was the lack of Bluetooth audio streaming or even a standard 1/8th-inch jack to run our phone into the system. If Ford can do it in the bargain basement Fiesta, surely a Benz driver shouldn't be forced to listen to their tunes through a crappy set of headphones – particularly on an audio system this damn good.



A quick review of the GLK's interior stats proves what we've suspected all along: its quarters are slightly more cramped compared to the competition, particularly in rear leg and shoulder room. Similarly, its maximum cargo capacity – 55 cubic feet – is notably lower than the 71 cu-ft provided by the BMW X3 and slightly less than the 61 cubes found in the Acura RDX. However, considering it's the shortest of the bunch, that's to be expected, although it is the tallest and the widest amongst its German competitors.

Situated in the firm, comfortable seats while peering through the uncharacteristically upright windshield, we began to think of the GLK as more of a mini-G-Wagon rather than the high-riding C-Class on which it's based. That impression lasted right up until the moment we pulled up next to one of M-B's WWII throwbacks. Despite its marginally rough ride, the GLK is not a Gelandewagen at two-thirds scale. It's far too modern, far too composed and, yes, far too ordinary to carry on that legacy. But that's not a bad thing.



With competition coming from all coasts, the GLK is remarkably well-equipped to handle the onslaught of buyers looking to downsize. Our fuel economy numbers landed smack-dab in the middle of the EPA's estimates (16/21 mpg city/hwy, 17.7 mpg tested) and the 4Matic's starting price of $36,600 (minus $2k for rear-wheel drive) puts it right on par with the rest of the pack.

However, as with anything hailing from Deutschland, the price rockets skyward like Atlantis on its final flight if you get crazy with the options. Our tester – fitted with the $3,150 Premium Package (memory seats, power liftgate, Panorama sunroof, etc.), $3,350 Multimedia Pack (5.1 Dolby surround, seven-inch color display, COMAND) and an assortment of other kit – rang up an MSRP of $50,235. That's nearly enough to buy Ford's aforementioned subcompact for your kid along with a bone-stock GLK. Then again, that's just how the German's roll.



Needless to say, in the realm of compact luxury crossovers, you're basking in a big bucket of choice. But while the RDX might be sportier, it's decidedly less refined. And while the Audi Q5 might fit like a well-tailored suit, it lacks the panache to stand out from the crowd. So where does the GLK fit in? Right in the middle; a pseudo-'ute for fashion-conscious Cougars and maybe their well-heeled suitors. We wouldn't mind driving it to the multiplex, even if that involves a rendezvous with four insufferable forty-somethings. No matter, we'll leave with our manhood intact.

Governator says Tesla teaming up with Toyota in Cali

California Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger has apparently let slip ahead of a scheduled 5pm Pacific announcement that Tesla Motors will be teaming up with Toyota to build electric cars.

While some might speculate that the agreement could result in the re-opening of Fremont's idle New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant (NUMMI), SFGate says that this is somewhat unlikely. Any production agreement will likely involve the forthcoming Model S sedan, and NUMMI's facilities are significantly larger than what the model will require, as it was originally scaled to accommodate the joint venture between Toyota and General Motors which required much greater capacity. The smart money is on a new factory location, probably in Downey, CA (in Los Angeles County).

It is not yet clear what Toyota will bring to the table or what, if any money or stock is changing hands with this rumored agreement. Also, no word yet on how Mercedes-Benz feels about all this – the German automaker already has a 10 percent stake in the company after opening its coffers to the struggling EV manufacturer back in May of 2009.

[Source: SFGate]

Hexawheel design study picks-up where Mercedes-Benz leaves off

Looking at luxury sedans like the S-Class and drop-tops like SLK, it'd be all to easy to forget that Mercedes-Benz has a rich background in off-roaders. But the Three-Pointed Star is also the maker of such rockcrawlers as the legendary Geländewagen and the Unimog. And that's the expertise that Iranian designer Siyamak Rouhi Dehkordi has tapped into with his Hexawheel concept.

Drawing inspiration from the articulated frames of insects, the Hexawheel employs six driven wheels on an articulated chassis with a flexible drivetrain. Measuring nearly 16 feet long with a foot and a half of ground clearance, the go-anywhere Hexawheel is designed to climb over tall vertical surfaces. The Persian mechanical engineer was also responsible for the F1-inspired Ferrari Zobin concept.

[Source: Car Body Design]

Beijing 2010: Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Break concept is the four-door coupe of wagons

The shooting break (yes, it's 'break,' not 'brake', according to M-B's marketers) design isn't something new – we've seen it before in smaller vehicles like the original BMW Z3 M Coupe. Today, though, Mercedes-Benz takes the shooting break concept one step further with the addition of two rear doors and a healthy dose of next-generation style. It's the CLS Shooting Break Concept, folks. Think of this as the four-door coupe for the wagon segment.

The exterior design is awash with swoopy shapes that mimic both coupe and hatchback/wagon elements. Full LED headlamps and sharp 20-inch wheels round off the whole outside package, and if we're honest, we really like it.

Under the hood lies a direct-injected 3.5-liter V6 capable of producing 306 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque (the exact same output as a Cadillac CTS, for what it's worth). Mercedes-Benz hasn't released estimates, but the automaker says that the concept car "sets new standards among the competition in terms of fuel consumption."

Audi may have passed Mercedes in Q1 global sales, but BMW is still #1

Audi outsold Mercedes Benz globally in the first quarter of 2010; a big deal considering it was the first time the four-ringed automaker had ever accomplished such a feat. But while Audi was finally able to pass its crosstown rival in sales, the German automaker is still longing for the title of the top luxury brand in the land.

Automotive News reports that BMW announced final Q1 sales of 265,809 vehicles, besting Audi by an anorexic 1,709 units for the three month period. BMW saw a global sales increase of 14 percent compared to the same period of 2009, buoyed by strong sales of its new X1 crossover and a 56 percent increase in 7 Series sales. BMW sales boss Ian Robertson said in a statement that the company intends to improve sales across the globe, adding, "We are back on our growth track in nearly all the automobile markets." And BMW isn't just hoping the market improves – the automaker is counting on an increase in sales courtesy of its new 5 Series lineup, which was launched overseas last month and arrives in the U.S. in June. BMW also has a refreshed 3 Series coupe and convertible on the way as well. With single digit growth, BMW intends to sell 1.3 million vehicles in 2010.

But while BMW pulled out the slimmest of victories in Q1, we're thinking Audi's performance during the first three months effectively puts its German competitors on notice. With a very good product lineup and a considerable foothold in China, Audi may well achieve its goal of becoming the largest luxury car maker on earth by 2015 a lot earlier than most people expected.


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Audi outsells Mercedes-Benz globally for first time in Q1 2010

For the first time ever, Audi has managed to outsell Mercedes-Benz in global sales for the first quarter of 2010. Some of the European press are treating it like the fourth horseman of the apocalypse, but before we break out our Mayan calendars and go all 2012 on you, here are the hard numbers: Audi sold 264,100 vehicles worldwide between January and March while Mercedes sold 248,500 units over the same time period. For what it's worth, BMW has yet to release its final first-quarter sales figures.

Audi has repeatedly signaled its desire and intent to become the world's leading luxury car brand by 2015, which would mean passing both of its German rivals, the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz and BMW, along with Japanese automaker Lexus. Plus, Audi offers a pretty compelling lineup of vehicles with which to do battle with those formidable competitors.

According to Autocar, the biggest single contributor to Audi's passing of Mercedes-Benz is the Chinese market, where Audi sells twice as many vehicles per year as Mercedes-Benz. In fact, one out of every five Audis built is sold in China. Considering how rapidly the Chinese market is expanding, Audi is certainly finding itself in an enviable position. Time will tell if it's able to maintain that growth in the face of constant pressure from its German and Japanese rivals.


[Source: Autocar]

New York 2010: Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic Wagon

With a refreshed R-Class debuting this morning and a general understanding that most automakers think Americans prefer trucks to wagons, it was a bit of a pleasant surprise to find Mercedes-Benz taking the wraps off a U.S. market 2011 E350 4Matic Wagon here at the 2010 New York Auto Show today. When we first saw this estate at the Frankfurt Motor Show, we were told not to expect an American showing of the vehicle. Well, Mercedes has apparently had a change of heart as they debuted the wagon, and in 4Matic trim no less.

The E-Class Wagon joins the thoroughly revised sedan and coupe variants of Merc's mid-sizer and shares much of their styling outside and in. The one big difference obviously is the wagon back, which looks very handsome to our two-box-lovin' eyes. There's also the surprise of available jump seats in the "way-back," which pop out of the floor of the cargo area and go back-to-back with the rear bench, giving the little ones a great view of traffic behind them. The outgoing model had them as an option as well, but we can't think of any other U.S. cars that still sell these rear-facing "way back" seats.

Mercedes is only bringing the E350 4Matic version of the E-wagon for now, although hope springs eternal that an E63 AMG Wagon might be in the cards eventually, even if it's only a special-order item like the last one was.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

New York 2010: Mercedes R-Class

Today at the 2010 New York Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz showed that it's still behind the all-but-forgotten "Sports Tourer" when it unveiled the heavily restyled 2011 R-Class. The minivan-that-isn't-a-minivan has had a rough life up to this point. It was never really marketed well by Mercedes, and the droopy snout never really helped. Like Jennifer Gray though, it's amazing what a new nose can do for you.

The 2011 model adopts the automaker's new corporate face with its larger three-pointed star resting inside that upright rectangular grille. It does just enough to butch it up and make the front end handsome. Although in profile, it does look a bit like an extended wheelbase Honda CRV with that sloping D-Pillar. Out back there's also a revised rear bumper with integrated reflectors, new lenses and a new black diffuser below the bumper.

Interior changes are small, and Mercedes only announced an R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R350 4MATIC model for the U.S. for 2011. The 3.0 liter BlueTEC V6 with 210 horsepower and 400 ft-lb of torque is capable of 18/24 miles per gallon, giving it a range of more than 500 miles or just about two tankfuls to Wally World. Pricing wasn't announced, but the new R-Class should be priced similar to the 2010 models, or $51,675 for the R320 BlueTEC and $50,175 for the R350 4MATIC.

The MY2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class - Safety, Luxury and First-Class Comfort

Bold New Look

One look is all it takes to see that the new MY2011 R-Class conveys a new level of assertiveness, underscoring the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. The completely redesigned front end completely transforms its overall appearance, taking its inspiration from Mercedes-Benz sedans and SUV models. Alongside its fresh exterior, the inner values of the redesigned MY2011 R-Class also speak for themselves. These include the spaciousness of a luxury SUV, as well as the safety, style and exclusivity of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. At the same time, the latest generation offers the interior versatility central to the R-Class vehicle concept, while also delivering the all-weather confidence of 4MATIC allwheel drive as standard (U.S. models only). The R-Class celebrates its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) March 31, 2010.

Efficient Engines

For the U.S. market, the R-Class is offered with a choice of two fuel-efficient engines. The R350 4MATIC delivers 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, yet achieves an estimated 14/19 mpg (city/hwy), while the R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is one of the world's cleanest diesel vehicles. The V6 turbodiesel engine generates an output of 210 hp (155 kW) and an impressive torque of 400 lb-ft. Equipped with the highly-effective AdBlue© exhaust treatment system for low emissions, the diesel engine achieves an estimated 18/24 mpg (city/hwy).

A New Level of Style and Versatility

The redesigned R-Class features an assertive new design, further emphasizing the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. Designers focused their attention on completely restyling the front end, giving the R-Class a look that is both harmonious and powerfully dynamic. In addition to the hood, fenders, radiator grille, front fascia, headlamps and bumpers -- with chrome simulated underguards -- have all been completely redesigned. The face of the R-Class can be further enhanced with chrome trim incorporating optional LED daytime running lights in combination with bi-xenon headlamps.

Viewed from the side, the R-Class sets itself apart from conventional crossovers with the coupe-like line of its windshield and its distinctive, redesigned exterior mirrors and wheels. U.S. models feature standard 5-spoke, 19-inch wheels, with a 20-inch rim available on the R350 4MATIC as part of the Sport package. International market versions offer 5-spoke, twin 5-spoke and 10-spoke designs ranging from 17 to 21 inches (43.2 to 53.3 cm). The front-end design language continues through to the rear of the R-Class, with a restyled rear bumper with reflectors, standard LED rear taillights and integrated exhaust pipes.

Wellness program - relaxed ambience for long journeys and everyday use

If there was a versatility test for automotive interiors, the R-Class would surely be the top contender for first place. The seating variants in particular offer a wide range of possibilities - the R-Class was designed with a focus on comfort and security and with relaxed and safe travel in mind. Long wheelbase versions (short wheelbase not offered in the U.S.) offer seating for six people in the standard layout. Five, six and seven-seat configurations are also available (U.S. models offer standard seating for 6, with 7 passenger seating optional). Standard equipment includes partially poweroperated seats for the driver and front seat passenger. Active ventilated and heatedmulti-contour seats with full power adjustment and memory function are available as an option (special order in the U.S.) for front seat occupants.

The R-Class delivers a further benefit in the shape of its large, versatile luggage compartment. The short wheelbase version (not available in the U.S.) has a luggage capacity of up to 1,950 liters, while the long wheelbase version offers a maximum of 84 cu. ft./2,385 liters. All five-seat variants come with a separate load compartment beneath the floor of the main luggage area. The optional power liftgate -- controlled remotely from either switch or key fob -- facilitates easy entry to the cargo area. This makes the R-Class the most versatile and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle lineup.

In the finely appointed, airy interior -- which feels even more spacious with the optional panorama glass roof -- new materials and color combinations raise the premium feel and quality of this luxury crossover. They also add to the hallmark Mercedes ambience onboard. U.S. models offer a choice of standard MB-Tex in Cashmere and Ash in addition to popular Black. European customers can select from a range of upholstery combinations that include "Aspen" fabric and MB-Tex simulated leather.

New to the international range are the two-tone interior finishes. The base color of Almond Beige can be combined with the contrasting Mocha Brown. Alternatively, there is the base color Alpaca Gray contrasting with deep Basalt Gray (choice of beige/black or grey/black on U.S. models). Both color combinations are applied to the cockpit, steering wheel, center console, seats, door trim and floor coverings. Contrasting seat piping complements standard MB-Tex or optional leather upholstery.

The AMG interior sports package (not available in U.S.) comes as standard with black Nappa leather upholstery. Alongside trim elements in dark brushed aluminum and chrome trim in Silver Shadow, customers can also order from opulent wood veneer trim in high-gloss eucalyptus, high-gloss burl walnut or poplar anthracite. U.S. models feature standard burl walnut trim or special order eucalyptus wood trim.

Extensive Model Lineup

Even in its base versions, the R-Class offers a wide range of personalization options. All models come fitted as standard with a vast array of details that make both longdistance travel and short city runs safe and comfortable. These include the unique PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system, a comprehensive restraint system with eight airbags, NECK-PRO active head restraints, a tire pressure monitor and adaptive brake lights (not available in U.S.). Safety is further enhanced by powerful and user-friendly telematics systems like Audio 20, Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS.

U.S. models feature standard in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer with optional COMAND hard-drive navigation and harmon/kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound, as well as standard Bluetooth connectivity and available mbrace telematics. U.S. models features standard dual-zone climate control, while international market versions offer THERMATIC automatic climate control equipped with a combination filter for the further reduction of exterior air pollutants flowing into the cabin. The optional THERMOTRONIC (not available in U.S.) with its separate rear seat climate control optimizes interior air quality. The spacious glove box now comes with an AUXin jack for external audio and entertainment devices. Connectivity is further expanded by an optional media interface (UCI).

Alongside the extensive standard equipment, the R-Class also offers a vast range of assistance systems that define the highest level of comfort and safety and underscore the leading position held by the R-Class in this segment of the market. They include DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, AIRMATIC air suspension with ADS adaptive damping, which are both available as special-order options in the U.S., or the optional Blind Spot Assist that can make lane changes significantly safer. State-of-the-art voice activation makes using the telematics system even more straightforward, while a rear view camera enables fast and easy parking or maneuvering in tight conditions. As soon as the driver shifts into "R", the camera image is displayed on the highresolution COMAND APS monitor. Rear seat passengers can enjoy their own entertainment program on board with the rear seat entertainment system. For increased comfort during the winter months, the second seat row can also be fitted with seat heating (special-order option in U.S.).

MY2011 R-Class - US model lineup and equipment options

Model overview*

* R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
* R350 4MATIC

*descriptions and data in this press kit apply to the Mercedes-Benz U.S. model lineup. Country-specific variations apply.

Standard equipment for first-class comfort and comprehensive safety

R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

* Fuel economy (city/hwy): 18 mpg/24 mpg
* 50-state availability
* 19" 5-spoke alloy wheels standard with all-season run-flat tires
* 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
* Sport front and rear bumpers
* Chrome fog lam
* Privacy glass
* Burl Walnut wood trim
* Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
* Power rear quarter windows
* Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
* PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
* NECK-PRO front head restraints

R350 4MATIC

* 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
* Sport front and rear bumpers
* Chrome fog lamps
* Power tilt/sliding glass sunroof with sunshade
* Power rear quarter windows
* Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
* In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer
* PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
* 19" AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
* Burl Walnut wood trim
* Privacy glass
* Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
* Chrome Package with dual chrome exhaust tips
* Dual-zone automatic climate control

Wheels
R350 4MATIC
19" 5-spoke (8.0 x 19.0)

R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
19" AMG 5-spoke (8.5 x 19.0)

Further attractive optional equipment adds to the R-Class experience:

Stand Alone Options

* Parktronic
* 7-seat option
* Wood /leather multifunction steering wheelmbrace
* Panorama Sunroof with electric sunshade
* Heated leather multifunction steering wheel
* Trailer Hitch - 3,500 lbs . (Class II)
* 3-zone climate control and rear air conditioning
* Rear Seat Entertainment System
* Rear Seat Entertainment System Pre -Wiring
* Heated Front Seats

Optional Packages

* Auto-dimming driver side and rear view mirrors
* COMAND system with hard-drive navigation
* Enhanced voice control for audio telephone and navigation
* Gracenote® media database
* HD Digital Radio®
* iPod/MP3 media interface (in glovebox)
* Memory Package for driver seat, power steering column and exterior mirrors
* Power folding mirrors
* Power liftgate
* Power steering column
* Rear view camera
* SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with SIRIUS real-time traffic service
* Zagat Survey® restaurant guide
* 115V AC power outlet
* 4GB hard-drive with Music Register for download of MP3 files

Premium 2 Package

* harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system
* KEYLESS-GO

Sport Appearance Package

* Dark tinted sport rear tail lamps
* Heat-absorbing blue tinted glass (first row only)
* 20" AMG 5-spoke wheel

New York 2010: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced at $183,000 for the U.S.

Mercedes-Benz trotted out the SLS AMG GT3 and E350 4Matic Wagon here in New York, and along with the racy supercoupe and bangin' wagon, it's announced pricing for its all-new, homegrown gullwing.

We don't have an official MSRP breakdown yet, but our man on the floor tells us that the 2011 SLS AMG will start at $183,000 in the U.S. when it begins to go on sale this summer. That entry-level price is noticeably lower than expected, but we're sure once you tack on the options (custom color, carbon ceramic stoppers, etc.), it's sure to head quickly north of $200k. Ready to place an order? Read our First Drive before you tap into the kiddie's college fund.

Geneva 2010: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style concept

While most automakers have scaled back their auto show vehicle press introductions due to budgetary cutbacks or newfound modesty, Mercedes-Benz hasn't forgotten the value of theater. As part of its press conference today showing off several models, the Three Pointed Star kept it flashy with dancers who tubed and bungied in from the ceiling, not to mention the lights blaring debut of the SLS AMG F1 safety car with Messrs. Rosberg and Schumacher inside. Peeling back the frosting, the real focus of Benz's show is this car, the F 800 Style concept.

Said to preview the next CLS, the F 800 Style is a plug-in hybrid with a 272-horsepower gasoline-fed V6 engine. Together with the electric motor, the combination is said to be good for over 400 horsepower and incorporate an electric-only range of 18 miles. Benz also says that the F 800 Style could incorporate a fuel cell powertrain.

The five-passenger sedan looks quite tidy in person, with a shorter tapered trunk than the current CLS, and indeed, the entire concept appears smaller than the aforementioned, with a bluffer face that is said to presage the new face of Mercedes. When viewed in profile, the front looks almost Maserati GranTurismo.

In addition, the F 800 also shows a future derivation of Benz's COMAND all-in-one interior control system that includes a touchpad console. Unlike the production touchpad application in the new Audi A8, the F800 also employs a camera that "...records video images of the user's hand as it works the pad. The live image of the hand is presented in transparent form on the central display above the center console." Uh-huh.

The F 800 also features an evolution of the company's Distronic Plus system that is optimized for use in traffic jams as well as a 360-degree implementation of its Pre-Safe system that monitors for rear impacts. If it senses an impending rearward crash, the system applies the brakes to prevent the car from being pushed forward into other vehicles or pedestrians, though the driver can take control of the vehicle and override the system by hitting the accelerator should that be the safer option.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Top Luxury Cars - 1954-2009 Mercedes Benz S Class Models

The Mercedes Benz S-Class model hit the market for the first time in the year 1954 and is still under production till date. It has been marketed in various generations and several models. The Mercedes Benz S550 was launched in the year 2007 for the first time. It falls under the category of full sized luxury class sedans.

The S-Class vehicles are the largest selling luxury flagship sedan vehicles in the world, which have been production for nearly 55 years. The name S-Class is derived from the German language word Sonderklasse, meant for the "Special Class". The designation S-Class was applied officially in the year 1973 with the model line W116. Since then, five generations of S-Class sedan models have been produced so far.

When the Mercedes Benz released the model for the 2007 - the S550, the vehicle created a big buzz with the latest features with use of cutting edge technologies, including night vision system and the cruise control system based on the radar that could bring the vehicle to a full stop.

The vehicle released with further modifications in the year 2009 includes a few features common to that of 2007 model. The main other features included in the latest edition are the live traffic reports and the integration of iPod to keep the S550 model competitive. However, The iPod fitted in the vehicle does not show the music files on the LCD and the iPod integration in the vehicle was already provided in the model vehicle 2008 ML550, before the launch of the revamped S550 cabriolet.

It is time to take a look at the fascinating Mercedes Benz S-500 Wallpapers
You can also download the other latest red hot Mercedes Benz Wallpapers Here
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geof_Ryan

Top Luxury Cars - The Mercedes-Benz S550

The uber-cool Mercedes Benz S550 comes loaded with plenty of luxurious features. For instance, the spot warning system in the vehicle (released in the year 2009), warns when the lanes to the side of the vehicle are occupied by the other vehicles and advises the driver to do the needful. The night vision system and the adaptive cruise control system in the vehicle are the two high tech features included. The massage seats in the vehicle provide the passengers as well as the driver a great comfort, while the aerodynamic suspension helps it in running wild on the roads at the maximum speed.

Using the features like the steering wheel button and the speedometer display one can browse the music files and can select them. The Mercedes Benz S550 comes along with a few means of music, the most being the PC Card slot, designed for the MP3 songs loaded in flash memory. The 6-disc changer in the vehicle reads both the DVDs and the MP3 CDs. The stereo system mounted in the vehicle receives both the HD radio and the Sirius satellite.

The night vision system provided in the vehicle makes it easier to view what is located ahead of the vehicle during the dark. The night vision system can be activated only during the dark times, and it replaces the display of the speedometer with an enlarged white and black view out the front side. The S550 comes with the 5.5 liter V8 engine and is offered with the 7-speed automatic transmission. It gives the fuel economy of 14 miles per gallon in the city, and 22 miles per gallon on highway roads.

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Top Luxury Cars - The 2009 Mercedes E-Class

Last year, Mercedes introduced a new C-class Which is the nearest it has come to making a MW 3- series. The C-class has the spirit and driving dynamics that its predecessors lacked and even introduced different front-end styling to distinguish the most popular Sport versions. Surely, its bigger brother, the new model E-class, would follow the same pattern?

The answer is no. The new E class has many virtues, but sportiness isn't one of them. At least not for the first versions to go on sale; we can expect the E63 AMG, announced at the New York Auto Show in April and due to go on sale at the end of the year, to be the exception.

Mercedes bosses say that as the heart of the range, the E-class is too important to change fundamentally. They point out that in this market sector, Mercedes is dominant; it easily out-sells the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. So the ninth generation would develop by evolution, not revolution. It had to be a comfortable familiarity but below the surface incorporate a myriad of detail improvements and all the latest technology.

So W212 is lower, wider and more prominently wedge-shaped than its predecessor. That allows it to have the best aerodynamics in its class: a drag coefficient of 0.25 (most of its rivals are 0.28 or above) The imposing grille is still there - and the star still rises above it - but the four headlamps are angular rather than oval.

To meet European regulations for pedestrian safety, that low, wind-cheating bonnet has to be able to pop up 50mm in an accident; while others use complex pyrotechnics, Mercedes has an elegantly simple solution with steel springs.

The emphasis on aerodynamics is part of a program to improve fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions dictated by other EC regulations. For some reason, in Germany environmental measures that elsewhere are called 'green', turn blue.

Mercedes calls its eco-pack age BlueEfficiency. It includes more efficient engines, low rolling resistance tyres and energy-saving alternators, and fuel, air conditioning and power steering pumps that switch off when not required.

The four-cylinder petrol engines are downsized to 1.8 litres, have direct fuel injection and are turbocharged. The three four-cylinder CDI diesels - E200, E220 and E250 - all use the new 2.1-litre engine in different states of tune. The E350 CDI and E350 CGI have developments of the previous six-cylinder engines; the petrol CGI also has direct injection. The 5.5-litre V8 engine for the top model, the E500, is carried over from the old E-class; this is the only version not to have the additional BlueEfficiency features.

In Europe, more than half the market for this type of car is diesel, so I concentrated on the E250 CDI and E350 CDI. These engines develop respectively 204 and 231bhp. The 250 comes equipped with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission while the six-cylinder 350 has Mercedes' latest seven-speed automatic.

The four-cylinder diesel has a curious combination of characteristics. It is unusually smooth and quiet at idle but noisy when pushed hard. Although the 250 has two turbochargers in sequence to even out the power delivery, the performance is far from startling, and the automatic transmission does it no favours. In this respect, the seven-speed E350 CDI is much lively but our experience with the new Jaguar AJ-V6D (and the BMW 335d) suggests it is not the best of the latest crop of high performance diesels.

As before, the F-class is better to travel in than to drive. All models have adaptive shock absorbers that react to the driving situation and adjust to provide maximum ride comfort or cornering stability as required. The seats are improved, the air conditioning allows the choice of three different air volume and distribution modes and is arranged in three independent zones driver, front passenger and rear passengers - and there is more space inside thanks to the 2cm longer wheelbase and 3.5cm extra width. Mercedes aimed to make this car the most comfortable car in its class. I think it may have succeeded.

Mercedes has been in the fore front with most of the active safety systems that we now take for granted: ABS anti-lock braking, ASR traction control, ESP stability control. The new F-class moves this to a new level with a raft of 'assist' systems, all electronic and very clever and designed to see and react to the motoring hazards and mitigate their consequences. This car doesn't quite drive itself but you get the impression that it could... Where to start? Attention Assist is a good example of Mercedes-knows- best. This drowsiness detector is standard equipment on all E-class models. Sensors monitor 70 different parameters to pick up irregularities in driving behavior. If it detects a series of steering errors or other inconsistencies it concludes that the driver is sleepy and sounds a warning and a symbol representing a cup of tea appears on the instrument display to suggest that you take a break.

Brake Assist Plus is a radar- based system linked to the optional Distronic cruise control which provides the driver with optimum braking pressure when a collision is imminent and if no action is taken will apply the brakes automatically. Lane Keeping Assist uses a camera on the windscreen to follow lines in the road and when the car has moved out of a lane with out indicating, an electric motor in the steering wheel vibrates its rim as a warning. Blind Spot Assist provides a light warning of the presence of a car in the blind spot of the side mirror. Speed Limit Assist, recently available on a number of other cars, recognizes speed limit signs and displays the prevailing limit at the center of the speedometer.

Nightview Assist Plus uses an infrared camera to give a greyscale image on the dashboard screen to show hazards beyond the light range and highlight pedestrians. The new E-class takes vehicle lighting further forward, liter ally and technologically. Others have active headlamps that turn with steering or illuminate corners but Mercedes' optional Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a windscreen camera to recognize oncoming traffic and adjust the headlamp beams accordingly. This is much more than automatic dip ping; it changes the shape of the dipped light beam to give the best possible road illumination from 65 to as much as 300 meters. It works beautifully.

Mercedes talks of all these systems making the car your 'intelligent partner'. My first reaction was 'too much stuff' but there is no doubt that they represent further advances in safety technology and of course you don't have to tick all the options boxes.

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Brabus GL 63 Biturbo picks up where Mercedes AMG leaves off

The performance boffins over at AMG keep themselves pretty busy, churning out high-output versions of just about every vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz line-up. Just about, but not quite. For example, if you want a GL-Class family-hauler with the division's stonking 6.3-liter V8 engine, you're SOL. But that's where the aftermarket comes in, and Brabus has arrived at the scene to save the day. And then some.

Not only has Brabus fitted the 6.3-liter V8 to the GL, but they've bolted a pair of turbochargers in the process. And while they were at it, they tweaked the seven-speed auto-box, fitted a big water-to-air intercooler and upgraded the intake, exhaust, brakes, suspension and rolling stock. The result? 650 horsepower and nearly as much torque. That oughta be good for 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour) and hitting 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds along the way.

The Widestar body kit also widens the vehicle's stance, while the interior has been tricked out in custom leather, carbon fiber trim and LCD screens aplenty to keep the kids busy while you focus on maximum velocity. The super-truck will be unveiled in a couple of months at the Geneva Motor Show, but is available for order now from €368,000 ($518k).

[Source: Brabus]

Review: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E350

A November Nor'Easter had chewed its way up to New England, delivering a cataclysmic combination of rain and wind as we headed out on a late-night errand. Normally, such a prospect requires a potent blend of Italian roast and Krank20 to stay hyper alert. Instead, behind the helm of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic, the going was serene and confident. In a word: Wow.

These moments of vehicular astonishment have thinned out in the last two decades. Just look around at the automotive landscape. Even more modest conveyances are kitted out like luxury cars of yore, packing tons of tech and safety features that were once the exclusive purview of the world's well-to-do. Can anything be impressive anymore? As a matter of fact, yes. The E350, as it strafed along the pavement, solid as granite and ready for anything, made us feel like true kaisers of the strasse. Horsepower-addicted auto reviewers have complained that the 3.5-liter V6 needs more spinach. Fine. You want speed, spring for the AMG E63 and shut up. But for the above-average family man, the E350 manages to transcend its asthmatic lungs, soft-spoken tiller and supple feet to foment serious respect, if not outright desire.
The new E-Class styling is crisp and classic, making the outgoing sedan look as dated as a cassette Walkman. Clapping eyes on the first pictures of the 2010 models showed a rear quarter panel distinctly reminiscent of a Chevrolet Impala – an obvious cause for alarm. Thankfully, the design translates more handsomely in person. No, that isn't the same milksop capitulation surrounding the Honda Crosstour. Scout's honor, the E350 is a great looking car. With its larger dimensions, the sedan resolves the styling in a classier way than the C-Class sedan and its two-door platform sibling, the E coupe.

Conservatively styled for traditional tastes, there's more surface work in the new body. Ovoid headlamps are now squared-up (one could almost use Ford's non-word "squircles") and the rear lamps swash across the tail more expressively than before. Mercedes-Benz hasn't gone off the Bangled deep-end with its latest E. No, this new idiom is sharper and more modern, with finely-tailored looks that have a certain amount of speed drawn in. There's motion in them thar lines and the details exude an air of automotive finery. Simply put, the E-Class will age well.




And classic styling is what's going on inside, too. The quintessential Mercedes cabin is a swell place to spend time, with the shape of the dashboard reminiscent of the panel in old W124s. But the interior design isn't as dated as that comparison might suggest, as the new E features a large LCD and spiffy gauges in the panel. Drawing a clear line back to its predecessors and packing the kind of high-tech firepower buyers in this class demand, the new E masterfully balances old and new. Although our tester's black ash trim brought the gloom and ash leather upholstery was already showing signs of being doomed to a life of clean-ishness, the pleating on the seats says "1987 300E" and what's wrong with invoking such a modern legend?

The materials, along with fit and finish, seem appropriately rich. There are touches of S-Class here and a dash of C-Class there, but the Mercedes parts bin is populated with good stock, so it feels familial instead of frugal. Lexus may be most recently identified with such fastidiousness, but the E350 displays an obsession with perfection. Even the headlight switch toggles with precision-machined feel, lending an air of importance to even the simplest task. There's virtually no slop in any of the ancillary controls, reiterating that the E-Class is one impeccably crafted automobile.



Around the interior, the expected high points are realized in good form. The optional Drive Dynamic seats act counter to cornering forces and offer a massage feature for those seeking a more intimate relationship with their chariot. The seats are all-day comfortable, but one of the first things we did was disable the groping functionality (we're fine with keeping this liaison platonic). Going with the standard power seats will keep $650 in your pocket, though the massagers are a boon to alertness on long slogs. If bladder-busting drives are your thing, perhaps the only thing better than groping seats and mechanical rollers would be integrated restrooms.

The rest of the technology in the E350 is surprisingly benign. COMAND isn't the epic agita-fest we expected, though the system needs fewer sub-menu steps and can be an outright distraction when delving deep into the structure. It's a good thing the Distronic Plus radar-based speed control is so amazingly good. Intervention is finely modulated, and the car even slowed itself to a momentary stop and accelerated again through a traffic circle with more aplomb than your average driver. The $3,950 Premium 1 package adds features many buyers will want, including hard-drive navigation, voice control, satellite radio, a rear view camera, heated seats and a dandy-good Harman Kardon Logic 7 audio system, while the $2,900 Driver Aid package installs the Distronic system, along with blind spot and lane monitoring. The sheer distraction of trying to use an iPod with the audio system means your eyes will be off the road for long stretches, so it's almost a necessity that the E can mostly drive itself. And while COMAND has lots of functionality built in, it's more clunky than iDrive or MMI, and stands a chance at flummoxing drivers just looking for directions to Bar Americain.



Thankfully, most of the functions have dedicated controls on the center stack. Switches for the ventilation system seem particularly well-considered and Mercedes employs little flippers that make setting temperature, fan speed and mode easy, with a clear bar graph displaying your settings. A column shifter for the seven-speed automatic transmission isn't exactly a sporting touch, but there are steering-wheel mounted shift buttons if you want to pose. Visibility out of the cabin was reminiscent of the low-cowl days of yesteryear, coupled with an airy atmosphere thanks to the glass roof. The biggest ergonomic gaffe is just Mercedes being Mercedes. To wit, the position of the cruise control stalk is exactly where the uninitiated driver expects to find the turn signals. You'll eventually adapt, but there's a period of unintentionally changing lanes without signaling, and not for lack of trying.

Though the E you see in the photos is a rear-drive example, our tester was equipped with Mercedes' all-wheel drive 4Matic system. Without trying the car in ultra-low traction situations (it was a downpour, not a blizzard), the AWD hardware didn't come into serious play as we formed our impressions of the driving experience. The ride proved just short of amazing, with a massively rigid bodyshell allowing the suspension to be topped up with whipped cream without shuddering and flopping about. Despite the plush ride, the E350 isn't all marshmallow – it's just more cushioned than a BMW 5 Series. And while there's a good amount of bodyroll, the E still feels reassuring as it heels over and takes a set. As you'd expect, this is not the sedan for hooliganism, though it won't make a total fool of itself if you force it to play along.




The helm is much sharper than Benzes of yore and even offers some feedback. Watching the tri-star hood ornament rotate through a turn like a gunsight makes up for having to correct mid-corner – something we experienced on more than one occasion. And for a 90-degree V6, the 268-horsepower 3.5-liter is impressively serene. Silent at idle, the engine is smooth and makes the most of its modest pride of horses when wound hard. It even snarls when caned, but it's nothing to set your heart aflutter. The buttery-smooth seven-speed automatic is best left to its own devices, so just ignore the silly, useless paddles and let the trans slides through its ratios without so much as a head bob. Despite having a cogtacular ratio spread, there's only so much power deficit the gearing can counter for, and the E350 is comparatively down on snort. Fuel economy also suffers a bit from the whipping you'll do to keep up.

The E350's stock in trade is being the seriously solid benchmark that we've come to expect. The extra-strong structure feels unbreakable, and there's a seemingly endless well of tricks to keep vibrations and harshness from entering the cabin. The brakes, too, proved unflappable – no surprise considering the myriad of electronics employed to keep the rotors dry and primed for action. Yet despite all the active and passive safety features (nine airbags, active headlamps and the Pre-Safe system which rolls up the windows, closes the sunroof, adjusts the seats and pre-tensions the belts if it senses an impending crash), the E350 doesn't drive like an autonomous space capsule – even when it suggests you stop for coffee when it detects drowsiness.



In the new E's most recent TV spots, Mercedes touts the decades of experience and innovation it brought to bear on the all-new E-Class. Strangely, this is one of those rare instances when marketing speaks truth. While the excellence does cost (the E350 starts at $49,000 and our tester rang in at around $60k), you won't feel ripped off, even if you opt for the V6. If past E-Class Benzes have lost the marque's storied status, the E350 is finally the vehicle to win it back, come hell, highwater or Nor'Easter.

Detroit 2010: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio

We've been friendly with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class since its introduction. As much as we liked the sedan, we enjoyed the Coupes even more so. That stated, it would figure that we're going to really dig the new 2010 E-Class Convertible. Of course, here in the D, we just get to look at the latest Benz drop top and listen to the Daimler folks make the car's case. If we did nothing but listen to them, the E-Class Convertible is literally the most exciting thing since bagels got holes.

In reality, this is a pretty sharp looking car, especially with the top down. Turns out that the best way to remedy the awkward looking chunky C-Pillar is just to remove it altogether. Replacing the CLK as MB's mass-market convertible, the new E-Class rag top has to be many things to many people. As such, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the E-Class Convertible with a couple of features that will allow the car to be driven with the top down year round.

The biggie is the new AirCap, a small 2.4-inch wind deflecting device that, in conjunction with a baffle between the rear headrests, keeps things quiet in the open cabin at speeds up to 100 mph. Sunstroke aside, not being able to talk to the person 13 inches away from you is one of the big drags of convertible ownership. If they're to be believed, Mercedes claims that AirCap solves the problem. That's a great thing, should you opt for the 382 horsepower, 391 pound-feet of torque E550 Convertible as opposed to the V6-powered 268-hp, 258 lb-ft of torque E350 Convertible.

There's also a new Airscarf, a system that blows hot air at the necks of the people seated up front. Hence, short of hail, falling snow and rain, you could conceivably drive the E-Class Convertible year round. Unless you're seated in the back seat... And even with AirCap and Airscarf, we'd be hesitant to drive the new E-Class 'Vert in Detroit in early January. Just sayin'. Like what you're seeing? Well, the new E-Class Convertible will go on sale in May of this year.

Detroit 2010: Mercedes-Benz sculpture is the future of the CLS, Terminator 2 style

The first concept to be officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show is this, a sculpture by Mercedes-Benz that foretells the future of its vehicles – and specifically the CLS.

From the SLS AMG-inspired fascia to the overly blistered fenders clearly inspired by the recent E-Class coupe, the T2-style sculpture features two signature lines that are set to infect the rest of the Mercedes line-up in the near future.

According to officials, this stylistic exercise represents M-B's transition from its traditional wedge shape to a new, edgy art-deco design inspired by the '30s. Aesthetic fripperies aside, this is the future of the CLS, which we expect to see in full concept form later this year.

2011 Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet