Friday, July 31, 2009

Spy shots: Facelifted Mercedes Benz S-Class limousine

2010 Mercedes Benz S-Class limousine spy shots
Expect the new limo to make its debut early next year
The 2010 model year facelift for the Mercedes Benz S-Class was just revealed back at April’s New York Auto Show, bearing a slightly revised face and an updated powertrain lineup. Today our spy photographers have captured images of a stretched-wheelbase limousine variant in testing.

Clearly sporting the new 2010 S-Class face, the limo spied is still in the earlier stages of testing, judging by the mismatched character line along the side of the car.

Little is thus far known about the car, but it can be expected to use the same running gear found throughout the rest of the new S-Class lineup, though likely only paired with the larger engines. Probable candidates include the upper-end V8 petrol engines and the range-topping diesel V8 generating up to 354hp (264kW), found in the S550. Expect a V12 model as well.

While the facelifted S-Class range officially goes on sale this month, this stretched limo version isn’t expected to go on sale until early next year.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the best car in the USA according to survey

S 500 4matic mit AMG Sportpaket
Mercedes-Benz and smart drivers are particularly satisfied, according to the latest J. D. Power APEAL survey about the best vehicle concept. In this exhaustive customer survey the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running, and is therefore not only the best car in its segment, but at the same time also in the entire US market. Other winners in their segment were the SLK and, for the first time, the smart, which its buyers appreciate as the best car in the Sub-Compact Cars segment. This result by the internationally renowned market research institute underlines the high level of Mercedes customers’ satisfaction with the quality and design of their new cars.

The 2009 APEAL study (”Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study”) by the market research institute J. D. Power reflects how satisfied car buyers were with their new cars after driving them for three months between December 2008 and February 2009. Around 81,000 new car buyers delivered their verdict on a large number of aspects in a detailed questionnaire. These included driving characteristics, exterior and interior design, operating functionality, stowage space, but also e.g. also the noise made when closing the doors.

A maximum of 1000 points was achievable. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class scored 887 points – the highest number in any of the categories. This makes the luxury saloon the best car in the USmarket, as well as the measure of all things in the large premium car segment. The S-Class therefore easily defended the first place it had already achieved in 2007 and 2008.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK was also the winner in its class, gaining 28 points after the last model facelift. Other improvements were achieved by the M-Class (plus 10 points), the R-Class (plus 7 points) and the C-Class (plus 6 points). The overall average achieved by the Mercedes models was 841 points – an outstanding result. In this study, car buyers made very positive mention of the fact that in their view, Mercedes-Benz has made very substantial progress in reducing fuel consumption and therefore carbon dioxide emissions.

The smart was represented in the APEAL study for the first time, and the two-seater immediately took first place in the Sub-Compact Car segment

This outstanding result in the APEAL study means that within just a few weeks, and for the second time this year, Mercedes-Benz has emerged a winner in a customer survey conducted by the well-known USmarket research institute J. D. Power and Associates. Only recently, top marks for highest product quality were achieved in Germanyfor the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) survey, which is regarded as the perfect buyers@ guide. First place overall across all categories was won by the Mercedes-Benz CLK, which also took first place in the sports car rating. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class was able to prevail in the luxury segment, taking first place in this significant ranking.

The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class



The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exterior front and side view

If you're looking for a way to enhance your Mercedes GL, tuning firm Carlsson today has unveiled the Design RS-Kit for the model, aimed at giving the SUV a sporty, more powerful appearance. Up front, a front spoiler lip brings the model closer to the ground; a large radiator grille and two bonnet attachments add an air of authority to the GL; and modified headlights and LED fog lamps complete the changes up front.

From the side, key changes include mammoth 22-inch 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition Carlsson wheels and new side skirts, while a C-Tronic SUSPENSION drops the sport 'ute some 30 millimeters. And last but not least, in the back, a new rear skirt attachments is present – the perfect fit for the two oval stainless steel tailpipes of the sport sub-muffler.

If you're interested, pricing for the Design RS-Kit comes in at EUR 8,499 (excluding VAT), while the C-Tronic SUSPENSION system is priced at EUR 1,099 and the wheels (with Dunlop tires) are priced at EUR 4,189 (again, both excluding VAT). There's a number of Carlsson engine enhancements for the Mercedes GL as well, all of which you can find in the official press release below.

Enjoy ladies and gentlemen.


The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exterior front view

The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exterior front and side view

The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exterior rear and side view

The Carlsson Design RS-Kit For The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, wheel



OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE


Carlsson gives the Full-Size-SUV more agility
Design RS-Kit for the Mercedes-Benz GL


  • Entire aerodynamics kit connects dynamics with power

  • Performance enhancement up to 435 hp (320 kW)

  • Intelligent lowering device recognises road characteristics

  • Light alloy wheels 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition in 22 inches

The Mercedes-Benz GL (Type X 164) is the model with the most opulent dimensions within the entire Mercedes motorcar product line. With the new RS-Kit, the automobile manufacturer Carlsson now gives the GL a sporty look and at the same time, a powerful appearance.

The newly designed front marks the most significant change. The front spoiler lip lowers the GL visually closer to the road. Therefore, the RS-Kit provides the large Benz with a dynamic character. While the large radiator grill and the two bonnet attachments emphasise the dominant look of the GL. At the same time, the grill inserts made of electro-polished stainless steel radiate elegance. Carlsson adds these inserts to the front skirt, the front spoiler lip, the side skirts, the bonnet and the radiator grill.

Carlsson, the Mercedes refiner from Merzig/Germany also modifies the lights of the car. The headlight inserts and the additional headlights significantly contribute to the new facial expression of the GL. The LED daytime running lights in the front spoiler lip complete the new light unit. At night time, they can also be used as position lamps.

The new side ledges give the powerful car sides a considerably more sporty touch; this impression is additionally accentuated with the grill inserts made of electro-polished stainless steel.

The rear is dominated by a new rear skirt attachment which holds the two oval stainless steel pipes of the sport sub-muffler.

Carlsson offers the entire GL aerodynamics kit for 8.499 EUR excl. VAT.

Powerful look – more performance

In order to ensure that the engine performance matches the new design of the Mercedes-Benz GL, the Carlsson engineers developed performance enhancements for the various engine types. The performance kit CK50 has been especially developed for the top model GL 500. The interaction between the optimised engine electronics and the sport air filter increases the performance from 388 hp (285 kW) to 435 hp (320 kW) at 6,000 revolutions per minute. Thereby, the maximum torque rises from 530 to 600 Newton metres. The performance kit can be obtained in connection with the RS-Design Kit for 3,192 EUR excl. VAT.

Carlsson also increases the performance of the diesel models. After Carlsson modifies the GL 420 CDI, it thrusts out 354 hp (260 kW) instead of the former 306 hp (225 kW). The modification is available for 1,299 EUR excl. VAT. For the entry model GL 320 CDI, Carlsson offers the additional control unit C-Tronic CD32 REVO with the adequate adapter and wire harness which increases the performance from the serial 224 hp (165 kW) to 269 hp (198 kW). Thereby, the maximum torque rises from 510 to 612 Newton metres. For 1,499 EUR excl. VAT, the Mercedes GL driver can obtain this Plug-and-Play-System which can be attached within a few minutes.

Intelligent lowering

In order to transfer the generated power ideally onto the road, Carlsson developed the intelligent lowering module C-Tronic® SUSPENSION. This system does not only lower the car by up to 30 millimetres, the control unit also recognises the road characteristics and continually adjusts the remaining spring travel. Therefore, the C-Tronic® SUSPENSION perfectly connects sporty driving with comfortable travelling. It’s available for cars with AIRMATIC-suspension for 1,099 EUR excl. VAT.

Another refining highlight for the Mercedes-Benz GL is the 22-inch wheel-set in the design 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition. The one-part light alloy wheel has been especially developed for weight-intensive models such as the GL. Design, load capacity and low weight were the equally important factors for the development of the wheel. It increases the agility with a minimum of unsprung masses and at the same time provides highest stability and radiates elegance with its eleven spokes. Available as a wheel-set with Dunlop high performance tyres measuring 295/35 R 22, the 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition can be obtained for 4,189 EUR excl. VAT.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Station Wagon To Debut

Mercedes-Benz confirmed on Monday that the world premiere of the 2010 E-Class station wagon will be held in September at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The German automaker also said that the wagon variant will be launched this fall.

Word of the debut was sandwiched inside a larger statement by Mercedes-Benz which said that the redesigned "E-Class has gotten off to a very successful start, with more than 40,000 units delivered to customers since the market introduction in spring 2009."

It said it expected a further boost in sales "in the coming months from the vehicle's introduction in key markets including the U.S. and China and the launch of the new station wagon."

Mercedes-Benz offered no more official details about the E-Class wagon, such as whether the wagon will get the two new four-cylinder engines now available in the E-Class sedan.

Monday, July 27, 2009

A Mercedes sporty performance, good looks and safety assist

Mercedes Benz E-Class Coupe.

The new E-Class Coupe beats its sedan counterpart into Canadian Mercedes-Benz dealerships with a lower price tag than the CLK it effectively replaces -- and an attractive wind-cheating design that makes it the slickest, most aerodynamic production car on the market.

A classic coupe design with fully retractable side windows (without a central B-pillar), the E-Class Coupe comes to Canada in two variants. The E350 Coupe is priced at $58,600 (that's almost $10,000 less than the '08 CLK) and the E550 Coupe at $68,200.

Blending sporty performance with ride comfort and the quality trimmings expected of a Mercedes, the E-Coupe has few natural rivals in the current marketplace. The Audi A5 and the Infiniti G37 Coupe are probably its closest competitors. It's also expected to appeal to a younger Mercedes-Benz buyer, in the under-50 age range.

An astounding claimed drag coefficient of 0.24, slicker than the slickest sports car you can buy, is all the more impressive because the E-Class Coupe certainly doesn't have a simple, bullet-like design. And despite a strong family resemblance to the sedan, it possesses a distinctive style and character that's even more aggressive and dynamic.

A sweeping arrowhead line flows from the front bumper over the radiator grille into the hood, and there's a new sharper styling interpretation of the separated twin-headlight look that's become synonymous with E-Class. The Coupe also shares its rear fender design with the sedan.

The E350 Coupe is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 with 268 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque. Hardly a base model, it comes standard with an Agility Control suspension and a Dynamic Handling Package.

Under the hood of the E550 Coupe is a 5.5-litre V8 that can generate 382 h.p. and 391 ft.-lbs. of torque. Mercedes-Benz engineers have also improved the fuel-efficiency of this V8 over its predecessor.

Drive, as always, goes to the rear wheels and both engines are mated to a seven-speed, driver adaptive automatic transmission with Touch Shift. Mercedes claims it can help propel the E350 Coupe to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and the E550 Coupe in 5.6 seconds.

New technical innovations include Attention Assist, which is a drowsiness monitor, Pre-Safe, a preventative occupant-protection system, adaptive high-beam assist, which automatically dims headlight high-beams, and an automatic emergency braking system called Distronic Plus.

Inside, new seats have 10-way electric adjustments and leather upholstery as standard. Optional are the active and ventilated front seats with inflatable chambers at the front of the seat cushions and in the centre and side panels of the backrests.

Although it's a sporty coupe, the E-Class can also double as a primary vehicle. Rear-seat passengers are provided with two comfortable individual seats, and backrests that can fold forward individually, to increase the cargo space available in the trunk.

The standard agility-control suspension system reduces the shock absorber-damping force under normal driving conditions for best-ride comfort. During a rapid, evasive manoeuvre, or if the driver decides to up the tempo through some curves, it will immediately switch to the maximum damping force.

A standard dynamic handling package also allows the driver to choose a sporty setup at the touch of a button. This changes the continuously variable damping, the speed-sensitive power steering (with variable centring), ESP/ASR (traction control), accelerator response and speed of automatic gear changes.

On the safety side, a new optional Brake Assist Plus system can apply the brakes automatically when an accident is imminent and the driver has not reacted to its warning signals. The driver chooses the point of intervention (2.6, 1.6 or 0.6 seconds) before impact. This system can significantly reduce the severity of a collision.


Mercedes-Benz S-Class voted best car

Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the best-selling German luxury sedan in the Middle East, has been awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running in the latest J.D. Power APEAL customer survey.

2008 ART Mercedes-Benz S-Class Two-Tone


Other winners in their segment were the Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz SLK roadster and, for the first time, the smart, which its buyers appreciate as the best car in the Sub-Compact Cars segment.

"This result by the internationally renowned market research institute underlines the high level of Mercedes customers' satisfaction with the quality and design of their new cars," said Frank Bernthaler, Director, Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz

The 2009 APEAL study ("Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study") by the market research institute J. D. Power reflects how satisfied car buyers were with their new cars after driving them for three months between December 2008 and February 2009. Around 81,000 new car buyers delivered their verdict on a large number of aspects in a detailed questionnaire. These included driving characteristics, exterior and interior design, operating functionality, stowage space, but also e.g. also the noise made when closing the doors.

A maximum of 1000 points was achievable. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class scored 887 points - the highest number in any of the categories. This makes the luxury saloon the best car in the US market, as well as the measure of all things in the large premium car segment. The S-Class therefore easily defended the first place it had already achieved in 2007 and 2008.

The Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz SLK was also the winner in its class, gaining 28 points after the last model facelift. Other improvements were achieved by the M-Class (plus 10 points), the R-Class (plus 7 points) and the C-Class (plus 6 points).

The overall average achieved by the Mercedes models was 841 points - an outstanding result. In this study, car buyers made very positive mention of the fact that in their view, Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz has made very substantial progress in reducing fuel consumption and therefore carbon dioxide emissions.

The smart was represented in the APEAL study for the first time, and the two-seater immediately took first place in the Sub-Compact Car segment.

LG to Supply LCD Panels to Mercedes-Benz


LG Display said its display panels will be used in the car navigation systems installed in Mercedes-Benz’ S-Class sedan. / Korea Times

By Kim Yoo-chul
Staff Reporter

LG Display said Monday it has struck a panel supplemental deal worth several tens of millions of dollars with an auto parts maker Continental AG.

Under the partnership, the German tire maker will supply 30,000 sheets of LG Display's 5.8-inch and 7.3-inch LCD panels on a monthly basis to Mercedes-Benz, which will be used for new E-Class sedans, LG officials said.

Continental is a leading international supplier of automotive electronics. In 2007, it took over Siemens VDO. LG Display was also selling its panels to the Siemens unit.

An LG Display spokesman declined to comment on the exact amount of the deal but officials say the deal could be around $46 million a year.

The panels provided by LG Display are high-end products with light-emitting diode (LED) backlight bulbs. Specifically, the 5.8-inch model will be used in low-end models of the E-class, while the 7.3-inch panels will be attached to premium models, according to officials.

It will be the first time for Mercedes to use South Korean LCD panels for navigation or command systems in the German carmaker's latest luxury sedans.

Over the past few years, Mercedes used panels from South Korean manufacturers only for "low-end models."

Sources have said that LG is replacing Sharp and TMD of Japan as the major supplier for Mercedes' electronics devices.

"The partnership will pave the way for LG Display to strengthen our mobile display business. As for further pivotal steps, we will make efforts to expand our client channels," LG spokesman Park Sang-bae said.

The company has been capitalizing on the TV arena. LG Electronics is the biggest shareholder, while some leading TV and PC makers in China and the United States are other major clients. But the company is on a vigorous pitch to expand its client channels to maintain the sustainability of profits.

LG Display is the world's second-biggest LCD panel manufacturer after its rival Samsung Electronics.

The company beat Samsung in the latest quarter in terms of operating profits thanks to stabilizing panel prices and the rising shipments of small- and medium-sized panels.

An LCD panel is the key component for most consumer electronics gadgets from televisions, cars and other electronics devices.

Mercedes-Benz' new E-Class will go on sale in the South Korean market from next month.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Mercedes-Benz displays its models at 2009 Hyderabad Auto Show

Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
German luxury carmaker, Mercedes-Benz has displayed its models in the Hyderabad Auto Show through its authorized dealer Adishwar Auto Diagnostics - Mahavir Motors. The show stealers at the Mercedes-stall were the powerful SL 63 AMG, the SLK 200 K as well as the sporty C 220 CDI Avant-garde.

Shooting Star
According to the company’s official statement “South India is a strong auto market and a significant contributor to Mercedes’ India volumes. Mercedes-Benz India recognizes the potential of this market and has a well entrenched network spanning nine key cities featuring 21 touch points for the customers in southern India. Andhra Pradesh is one of the key markets for Mercedes-Benz India and Adishwar Auto has partnered with Mercedes-Benz since 1998 in this market.”

It is to be mentioned that Vista Entertainments, in association with Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), on 17th July'09, has kicked off the first ever Auto Show in Hyderabad called the 'Hyderabad International Auto Show 2009'. It is a ‘B to C’ annual event which aims to reach directly to customers and focus on getting direct bookings/sales for the exhibitors. The event is being conducted under the guidance and support of the Federation of All-India Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) which is the Apex body of all the Automobile Dealers and the Andhra Pradesh Motor Vehicle Dealers Association (APMVDA) which is the Apex body of all the motor dealers of Andhra Pradesh. The three-day event will be of the first of its kind in the south India spread over 6,400 sq. metres of air-conditioned facility, with exhibitors like Audi, BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mahindra, Maruti, Mitsubishi, Tata Motors, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen.

Friday, July 24, 2009

2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350


Americans would have been lousy hunters and gatherers. That's why we invented Costco.

The buy-it-by-the-barrelful mentality perpetuates the American need to gather too much stuff while hunting for a deal. I've gone broke saving money at this mega-volume store.

For some, the problem with Costco is the same as the problem with many SUVs: Both offer too much and are just too big for practical purposes.

No one tows a boat to work every day, and no one needs 200 frozen chicken breasts. Downsizing is the new upgrade, but that doesn't mean a new vehicle should not include all of the amenities a driver wanted in his big SUV.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 is nearly perfect compact hauler. Chock-full of all of the high-tech luxuries you'd expect with a Mercedes, it's downsizing made pain-free, at least if you can afford it.

There's no third row or big V-8 in this vehicle. Its narrow, small body makes it an ideal suburban hauler for small families who enjoy quick trips into the city. The all-wheel drive system will help during even the trickiest of weather conditions -- though a slightly less expensive rear-wheel drive model is also available.

But don't let its diminutive nature fool you (it's about the same length as a Honda Civic). There's lots of room inside the cabin -- enough to handle a trip to the aforementioned store in Livonia. There, I overindulged myself on fantastic deals: A case of wine, a few giant cans of coffee and a year's supply of paper towels and toilet paper -- all of which fit easily in the back with the second row folded down. (There's more than 54 cubic feet of storage space available when you put down the seats.)

Really, despite its size, it never felt too small.

It even drives big

The exterior is much more defined than much of its competition, such as the BMW X5. It's as if the sheet metal was stamped twice just to make a point. The cut edges give it a much more truck-like look, and the high roofline helps it avoid looking too much like an oversized station wagon. Even the three-pointed star in the grille looks slightly oversized. It looks and feels like a compact SUV.

It even drives big. While the 3.5-liter V-6 creates 268 horsepower, more than enough juice to get GLK350's 4,000-pound body hitting 60 mph in under seven seconds, it still feels heavy on the road. This could be because I loaded it up with another 200 pounds of groceries in the back, but it's also a combination of the GLK's soft tuning on its independent suspension.

Mercedes uses an agility control system, designed to stiffen the vehicle's ride on smoother roads and loosen it up on Detroit's streets. I did not notice when it identified the road as smooth or rough; the ride always felt soft. The GLK's heavy feel didn't seem to hinder its handling. With its sticky 20-inch optional wheels -- as part of the $970 appearance package (19-inch wheels are standard) -- and its speed-sensitive hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with variable centering, the GLK felt very agile. The seven-speed automatic transmission was so smooth that you often heard the vehicle shifting but never really felt it.

The vehicle's gas mileage was disappointing, averaging 17 miles per gallon in a mix of typical city and highway driving. The EPA estimates for the GLK350 with all-wheel drive is 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway -- in comparison, a four-wheel drive Hummer H3 gets 14 mpg in the city and 18 on the highway. Additionally, the GLK350 requires premium fuel.

My all-wheel drive test GLK seemed to handle itself very well through big sweeping turns and tight city corners. Cruising through the Costco parking lot, its small size allowed me to squeeze into a space most SUVs would never attempt.

A stylish package

The GLK350 is entering its second model year in the U.S., and Mercedes has added a few new features, including an individual tire pressure monitoring system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a keyless start system and a passenger side mirror that tilts when you shift in reverse.

But it's the features that come standard with the GLK350 that make it begin to feel like a deal -- as much of a deal as Mercedes can offer. The base model GLK starts at $33,900, and the all-wheel drive model starts at $35,900; neither includes $875 shipping. My test vehicle offered nearly $10,000 in options, so its final price was $45,935, which could downsize your wallet more than anything else.

That's certainly not cheap, but the GLK gives you everything you want wrapped in stylish package.

There are the interior features such as the eight-way power adjustable front seats to provide the perfect seating position. The eight speaker stereo system, with an auxiliary jack for a personal music device, to create the exact sound you want and even a dual climate control with dust filter to provide the cleanest air possible. It feels very Mercedes.

From the heavy stitching on the seats to the easy-to-read instrument cluster behind the tilting and telescoping steering wheel, the GLK350 makes you feel important. It caters to your sense of craftsmanship and style. It makes a statement about you that only a Mercedes can make. Elegant and well-to-do, you appreciate the finer things in life. At least that's the message it's supposed to send out to the world.

There also more high-brow features, such as adaptive headlamps that turn when you turn the steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers on the windshield and rear window. Mercedes also loads up the GLK 350 with lots of safety features, including six air bags, electronic stability control, roll-over sensor system and its high strength steel body cage that can protect the people inside the cabin.

Mercedes-Benz GLK350

The GLK350's interior feels very Mercedes, from the leather-wrapped steering wheel to the eight-way power adjustable front seats and dual climate control.
Mercedes-Benz GLK350

2010 Mercedes Benz GLK350 4Matic

Type: Five-passenger, all-wheel drive SUV
Price: $35,900*
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6
Power: 268 horsepower, 258 pound-feet torque
EPA gas mileage : 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
* Price does not include $875 shipping

Report Card

Overall: *** 1/2
Exterior: Excellent. Crisp lines and boxy looks give the GLK350 a diminutive trucky look.
Interior: Excellent. Well laid out interior provides all of the comforts you'd expect in a Mercedes.
Performance: Good. All-wheel drive and powerful V-6 gives this SUV lots of get up and go, but vehicle still feels heavy.
Safety: Excellent. Six air bags, electronic stability and traction control. Mercedes' continued focus on safety is deservedly legendary.
Pros: Loaded with lots of content and features, the GLK350 feels luxurious and sporty.
Cons: Can top $45,000 when fully loaded.
Grading scale
**** Excellent *** Good
** Fair * Poor


Mercedes-Benz GLK350

Despite its size, the vehicle never felt too small, with more than 54 cubic feet of storage space available with the seats down

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Convertible

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Does anyone remember Franco Harris? He of four Super Bowl rings, numerous Pro Bowl appearances and a running style best described as lumbering. Where someone more fleet of foot — like the incomparable Walter Payton — might use their speed to elude tacklers, Harris just ran right at them, his theory seemingly that the defensive line would eventually tire of getting their bodies slammed by a 245-pound, black-and-gold-liveried rhino.

I don’t know why I am thinking of Harris — even less why I am using him for an automotive analogy. I barely watch football, the Pittsburgh Steelers was never my favourite team and running backs who grind out 100 yards a game 4.1 yards at a time are hardly exciting to watch. Yet, every time I matt the throttle of Mercedes’ incredible SLR McLaren, there’s big Franco, third and goal, charging straight at the line.

I blame the SLR’s unique exhaust. Most European supercars — any Ferrari you care to mention, Porsche’s Carrera GT, even the glorious sounding Aston Martin DBS — sound somewhat effete, all high revs and neat, precise explosions inside pristine combustion chambers. The $495,000 Mercedes, despite its British and Teutonic heritage, is traditionally American by comparison. Every power pulse — and you can seemingly count them when accelerating at low revs — sounds positively concussive, as if each of the supercharged 5.5-litre’s eight pistons is determined to spin those huge P295/30ZR19 rear tires all by its badass self. A Ferrari at full chat sounds like it’s defying the laws of physics; the McLaren sounds as if it wants to pound them into submission.

That aural delight is made all the more apparent in this, the roadster version of Mercedes’ superest of cars. With no roof to insulate and its trademark sidepipes poking out just aft of the front wheels, passengers are front row and centre in the concert hall that is the SLR McLaren. Depending on your level of devotion to the combustion of fossil fuels, this can be either Wagner at his finest or the Beastie Boys in their worst scratch-and-scream phase. The one common denominator is that, ensconced in all that red-and-black leather, you will not be ignoring the big thundering herd of horsepower ahead of you.

Of course, if the supercharged V8 is making big noise, it’s also making big horsepower — 617 of them when the throttle is matted and the revs climb above 6,000. Things start flying by in a big hurry as the SLR pounds its way to 100 kilometres an hour in just 3.8 seconds. Its top speed, given enough headway and a raft of lawyers to fend off the OPP’s attentions, is a whopping 334 km/h. I can attest to at least the first 300 of those, as that was what the speedometer read when my courage ran out during a test of the coupe version in Spain a few years back.

Despite those jaw-dropping numbers, they actually could have been better. The SLR’s performance limitations — and, yes, it’s absolutely ridiculous to speak of a car that hits 334 km/h as limited — are its transmission and a some latent lardness compared with some of its competition.

Not only is the SLR’s tranny an automatic, but, unlike more modern Mercedes seven-speed slushboxes, it only sports five forward gears. At the time of the SLR’s development, it was the only transmission in Benz’s stable that could handle the 5.5L’s 13 psi of boost and 575 pound-feet of torque. No doubt a more modern gearbox would shave a few more ticks off that already stunning acceleration time.

The other limiting factor is the SLR’s weight — 1,768 kilograms — hefty numbers by sports car standards. What makes this ironic is that, constructed by Formula One legend McLaren, the underlying chassis is the epitome of futuristic and lightweight engineering. The entire chassis and body aft of the firewall is one gigantic but lightweight carbon-fibre tub, while the suspension and engine frames are almost-as-light aluminum extrusions. According to lore, the problem was that Mercedes added many of its traditional accoutrement and electronic safety devices, raising the SLR’s curb weight far above what McLaren originally envisaged.

As much as this creates a performance penalty (again, cue the stupidity of decrying a 3.8-second zero-to-100-km/h-acceleration time), there is much benefit as well. The SLR may accelerate like an F-14 Tomcat on afterburner and corner as if the laws of gravity do not exist, but its interior is (almost) as comfortable and comprehensively appointed as the company’s more sedate SL roadster. Indeed, Mercedes aficionados will recognize most of the switchgear and audio componentry in the SLR’s dashboard.

The almost in the previous paragraph concerns the SLR’s seat comfort. Finely crafted they may be in carbon fibre, they offer precious little adjustment. They move fore and aft and there is some slight tilt ability, but you can’t — as back-pain sufferers demand — adjust the seat back for increased rake. Though the driver’s seat is available in five different sizes, once chosen you will have to live with it for the life of the car. Woe be the L4/L5 lumbars that don’t like the seat angle chosen.

Enforced seat accommodations aside, though, the SLR is the rational supercar, if such a beast does exist. Yes, it goes a trillion kilometres an hour and makes the most delicious of vroom noises, but it will also carry two sets of golf bags in its trunk and it’s possible to hold a conversation at 100 km/h without shouting one’s self hoarse. Try that in your Porsche Carrera GT.

A Mercedes built to ride the wind

The new E-Class Coupe beats its sedan counterpart into Canadian Mercedes-Benz dealerships with a lower price tag than the CLK it effectively replaces -- and an attractive wind-cheating design that makes it the slickest, most aerodynamic production car on the market.
Mercedes Benz E-Class Coupe.

A classic coupe design with fully retractable side windows (without a central B-pillar), the E-Class Coupe comes to Canada in two variants. The E350 Coupe is priced at $58,600 (that's almost $10,000 less than the '08 CLK) and the E550 Coupe at $68,200.

Blending sporty performance with ride comfort and the quality trimmings expected of a Mercedes, the E-Coupe has few natural rivals in the current marketplace. The Audi A5 and the Infiniti G37 Coupe are probably its closest competitors. It's also expected to appeal to a younger Mercedes-Benz buyer, in the under-50 age range.

An astounding claimed drag coefficient of 0.24, slicker than the slickest sports car you can buy, is all the more impressive because the E-Class Coupe certainly doesn't have a simple, bullet-like design. And despite a strong family resemblance to the sedan, it possesses a distinctive style and character that's even more aggressive and dynamic.

A sweeping arrowhead line flows from the front bumper over the radiator grille into the hood, and there's a new sharper styling interpretation of the separated twin-headlight look that's become synonymous with E-Class. The Coupe also shares its rear fender design with the sedan.

The E350 Coupe is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 with 268 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque. Hardly a base model, it comes standard with an Agility Control suspension and a Dynamic Handling Package.

Under the hood of the E550 Coupe is a 5.5-litre V8 that can generate 382 h.p. and 391 ft.-lbs. of torque. Mercedes-Benz engineers have also improved the fuel-efficiency of this V8 over its predecessor.

Drive, as always, goes to the rear wheels and both engines are mated to a seven-speed, driver adaptive automatic transmission with Touch Shift. Mercedes claims it can help propel the E350 Coupe to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and the E550 Coupe in 5.6 seconds.

New technical innovations include Attention Assist, which is a drowsiness monitor, Pre-Safe, a preventative occupant-protection system, adaptive high-beam assist, which automatically dims headlight high-beams, and an automatic emergency braking system called Distronic Plus.

Inside, new seats have 10-way electric adjustments and leather upholstery as standard. Optional are the active and ventilated front seats with inflatable chambers at the front of the seat cushions and in the centre and side panels of the backrests.

Although it's a sporty coupe, the E-Class can also double as a primary vehicle. Rear-seat passengers are provided with two comfortable individual seats, and backrests that can fold forward individually, to increase the cargo space available in the trunk.

The standard agility-control suspension system reduces the shock absorber-damping force under normal driving conditions for best-ride comfort. During a rapid, evasive manoeuvre, or if the driver decides to up the tempo through some curves, it will immediately switch to the maximum damping force.

A standard dynamic handling package also allows the driver to choose a sporty setup at the touch of a button. This changes the continuously variable damping, the speed-sensitive power steering (with variable centring), ESP/ASR (traction control), accelerator response and speed of automatic gear changes.

On the safety side, a new optional Brake Assist Plus system can apply the brakes automatically when an accident is imminent and the driver has not reacted to its warning signals. The driver chooses the point of intervention (2.6, 1.6 or 0.6 seconds) before impact. This system can significantly reduce the severity of a collision.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Great Drives: 2010 Mercedes Benz E550 Coupe

Mercedes Benz E550
Here's a dirty little secret that isn't staying in Las Vegas: although it's similar in looks and pricing to the new E-class sedan, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-class coupe isn't a two-door version of the E-class. Like the CLK it replaces, the coupe is a C-class in size - think of it as a C-class coupe with E-class engines, safety equipment, and interior materials.

Whereas Mercedes-Benz's primary competitors use slightly higher model numbers for their coupes (the Audi A5 coupe is based on the A4 sedan and the BMW 6-series coupe is based on the 5-series sedan), Mercedes has decided to reduce the number of model lines by dropping the CLK moniker and calling the new coupe an E. This may be somewhat of a stretch, but the simplified naming scheme helps Mercedes buyers keep track of which model is which.

Like the E-class sedan, the coupe comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission mated to either a capable 268-hp V-6 (E350) or a muscular V-8 (E550), which can happily produce 382 hp and two black strips of rubber on the asphalt. The E550 looks butch, too, with a standard AMG body kit that includes a more menacing front end, side skirts, and a black diffuser with dual trapezoidal exhausts.

Several aspects of the E-class coupe's styling are awkward, including rear fender flares inspired by the 1950s pontoon-bodied Benzes but which seem out of sync with the rest of the sculpted, modern design. The cabin, however, is elegant and modern, with outstanding ergonomics and four aggressively bolstered buckets. The rear seats offer lots of legroom and fold-down access to the sizable trunk.

The two-door E-class glides down the road in a hushed, relaxed manner that belies its size. The E550's computer-controlled dampers are more supple than the E350's conventional shocks, although both models suffer from numb steering and rear ends that always feel half a beat behind in corners. But there aren't many corners in the desert - and the Vegas Strip is as straight as an arrow. Let's face it, most people will purchase the E-class coupe for its appearance, not its canyon-carving ability or its chassis components. And when in Vegas, it's all about appearance. This is one place where nobody cares if your name is a bit of a fib.

Mercedes-Benz Readies 45 MPG Diesel, 33 MPG Gas E-Class Sedans for Europe

Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is readying two new fuel efficient versions of the new 2010 E-Class with two turbocharged inline-fours -- one diesel and one gasoline. The diesel, or E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, is less thirsty of the two, offering 45 mpg from its 2.2L common-rail mill. It makes 136-hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, and can reach 130 mph.

The gasoline-fed E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, at 33 mpg, takes a fuel economy hit, but compensates with 184-hp, 199 lb-ft of torque, and a top speed of 144 mph. Benefiting the direct-injected 1.8L are standard start-stop system and six-speed manual transmission.

2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The official launch of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is expected for the Geneva Motor Show in 2007, but now you can see couple pics.

The base engine will be a direct injection 1.8-liter four, from 150 to 190 horses. The 2.5-liter V-6 will make 210 hp, while a 3.5-liter V-6 makes 270 hp. An AMG 5.4-liter V-8 will be stuffed into a special C-Class, churning out 400-410 hp to compete with the Audi RS4 and the next BMW M3. A 3.0-liter diesel is planned, as is an iDrive-like operating device similar to that found in the new S-Class.

2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes S-Class hybrid

Mercedes S-Class hybrid
DaimlerChrysler will begin sale a hybrid version of S-Class luxury sedan in 2008. Whereas the LS600h L is a full hybrid pairing a 4.3L V8 with a pair of electric motors, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class hybrid will likely be a mild hybrid. Both the Direct Hybrid and Bluetec Hybrid concepts shown at the 2005 Frankfurt motor were mild hybrids, meaning the electric motors only assist the engine, though the former paired its electric motor with a 3.5-liter gasoline engine and the latter used the 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel.

Face-lifted Mercedes G-Class

Face-lifted Mercedes G-Class
Face-lifted Mercedes G-Class will be present at the Paris auto show in September 2006.

The premium SUV will get new interior features and more powerful engines mated to a 7-speed transmission instead of the current 5-speed unit.

With the introduction of the larger, more luxurious GL premium SUV late last year, it was expected that the G-Class would be discontinued.

Mercedes-Benz decided to continue selling the model until 2010.

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the SLR McLaren super sports car in the form of a roadster. Powered by a supercharged (Kompressor) 5.5-liter, 617-hp AMG V8 engine, the SLR McLaren Roadster can achieve a top speed of 207 mph.

With an AMG Speedshift R five-speed automatic transmission the engine delivers maximum torque of 575 pound-feet, and a zero to 62 mph time of 3.8 seconds.

Its body is made entirely of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic materials. Its newly developed roof material offers desirable aerodynamics while up. Favorable aeroacoustics with the top down mean conversation is still possible at well over 120 mph.

2010-Mercedes-E-Class-Coupe

Daimler unveiled today first official pictures its all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe. The new Coupe will replace a current CLK. The new E-Class Coupe will arrive to European showrooms in May 2009 and later to other international markets.

The quad-headlamp arrangement, the dramatic styling of the three-part side windows and the absence of B-pillars combined with the sleeker roofline and the heavily shouldered rear wheel-arches, result in a design that looks far more unique and stylish than the model it replaces.

Mercedes will offer two diesel and three gasoline engines on the E-Class Coupe. The German automaker supports that all version feature low fuel consumption not only because of the new engines, but also due to a number of practical measures which include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of low rolling resistance tires and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle’s electrical power requirements.

The diesel line-up includes a 204HP twin-turbocharged 2.2-litre unit in the E250 CDi that consumes a combined average of 5.3 lt /100km (44.3mpg US) with CO2 emissions of just 139 grams per km. There’s also an updated version of the 3.0-liter V6 in the E350 CDi with 231HP that consumes 6.8-liters per 100 km (34.6mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 179 gr/km.

The gasoline range comprises of a 204HP 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the E250 CGi, a 3.5-liter V6 with a 292HP in the E350 CGI and a 5.5-liter V8 with 388HP for the range-topping E500.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio

The spy photographers snap shoted a new 2010 Mercedes E-Class Cabrio without camouflage in Germany.

The four-seater CLK Convertible’s replacement will come in several performance flavors. Customers will most likely have the same five engine choices as in the E-Class Coupe that include two diesels, a 204HP 2.2-liter four-pot and a 231HP 3.0-liter V6, and three petrol units, a 204HP 1.8-liter turbocharged-four, a 292HP 3.5-liter V6 and a range-topping 5.5-liter V8 churning out 388HP.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible will make a world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show and will arrive at Mercedes showrooms before the end of the year and in some markets, in the beginning of 2010.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio

Monday, July 20, 2009

Mercedes debuts new, efficient, four-cylinder E-Class models

Mercedes-Benz E 200 CDI

Don't expect to see the new E200 CDI or it's CGI sibling on North American roads anytime soon.

(Credit: Daimler AG)

Mercedes-Benz has announced the addition of new four-cylinder E 200 CDI and CGI BlueEfficiency models to the European 2010 E-Class lineup.

The thrifty E 200 CDI is powered by a common-rail, direct-injected, 2.1-liter, diesel engine that outputs 136-horsepower and a staggering 365 pound-feet of torque. Zero to 62 mph happens in a decent 10.2 seconds, but what's most impressive is the 45.2 mpg that it averages while doing so.

Those who want a little bit more speed can hit 62 mph in 8.7 seconds in the E 200 CGI, which is powered by a turbocharged, direct-injected. 1.8-liter gasoline engine that makes 184-horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque while averaging 32.7 mpg on the EU combined-driving cycle.

Along with the new engines, the new E 200 models will also be available with driver assistance systems, such as drowsiness detection, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and automatic emergency braking, which can help to prevent accidents.

The new E-Class four-bangers start at 38,734 euros (approximately $55,042) for the E 200 CDI BlueEfficiency and 39,508 euros (approximately $56,140) for the E 200 CGI BlueEfficiency. The models are expected to be available in Europe only, as early as September 2009.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim will take over The Raleigh July 15-19

mercedes benz bikini babe
mercedes babes
It's every bikini lovin' babe's favorite time of year again...Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim.

Space is very limited and an RSVP doesn’t guarantee entry, but here are some fashion shows flaunting the coolest swimsuits for 2010 to check out.

InsideFashionWorld.com will present three emerging designers 10 p.m. Wednesday July 15 at Plunge Rooftop Pool Bar and Lounge at The Gansevoort South Beach Hotel, Plunge Rooftop Pool Bar and Lounge at The Gansevoort South Beach Hotel, 2377 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Keva by Keva J, a line of funky metallic suits, Liza and Tara Resort Wear, which boasts tropical print sun dresses and Tyler Rose Swimwear, a South Beach-inspired line which will be modeled by Miami Dolphins cheerleaders. RSVP: 305-864-3434 ext. 175.

Tommy Hilfiger South Beach, 616 Collins Ave.,in Miami Beach will host a cocktail party 7-10 p.m. Saturday July 18. Disco house DJ Johnny the Boy will spin and guests will score swag such as Tommy Hilfiger’s signature beach essentials.

Monday, July 13, 2009

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Sunday, July 12, 2009

Mercedes Benz Latest Model 2009

Mercedes Benz

Benz Model

Mercedes Benz Latest Model

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 Pictures

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 pics
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 pics
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 images
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 images

2008 Mercedes-Benz E550 Pictures

2008 Mercedes-Benz E550 Pictures
2008 Mercedes-Benz E550 Pictures
2008 Mercedes-Benz E550
2008 Mercedes-Benz E550
2008 Mercedes-Benz E550 interior
2008 Mercedes-Benz E550 interior

2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC Pictures

2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC images
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC images
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC interior
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4 MATIC interior

2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Pictures

2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class picture
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class picture
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class dashboard
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class dashboard