Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2013 SL-class. The sports car features an all-aluminum bodyshell, which means more rigidity and less weight. Furthermore, the folding metal roof has a magnesium frame cutting more weight compared to the previous model. The new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor, sacrificing some of the weight saved through the aluminum bodyshell as a result.
The exterior of 2013 SL is entirely reworked and looks kind of … different. It features a ventilated hood and a single bar grille. The Bi-xenon headlamps come with active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps as a standard feature. There is also an Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The striking sidelights and the horizontal line of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology. At the rear, the new SL features LED taillights and a dual exhaust system.
Aerodynamics – new standards
The design of the new SL is not only aesthetically beautiful, it also boasts outstanding aerodynamic characteristics, giving the roadster top marks in its segment in three crucial areas:
• the lowest wind noise, virtually on par with a closed sedan;
• the best comfort during open-air driving, meaning the roof can stay down evenat high speed;
• virtually no accumulation of dirt on the side windows.
2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
The interior boasts finest leather upholstery, a choice of two wood trims and metallic accents. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car. The dashboard features round air vents and a new FrontBass audio system.
The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque, which grants 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and exceptional fuel consumption of just 6.8 liters per 100 km (41.5 mpg). The top-of-range SL500 has a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 delivering 435PS (320 kW) and astonishing 699Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).
The SL is the world’s safest roadster, thanks to the collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard equipment that includes PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST, plus further assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class.
Nicole Scherzinger drives the exceptional Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. This sport car is dynamic and full of emotion (I bet Nicole is too), and all this is because of the AMG 8-cylinder engine with larger displacement. The effect is the development of the whole 525 hp (386 kW) and torque of 630 Nm (465 lb-ft). The AMG SPEEDSHIFT delivers its innovative 7-speed sports transmission, with which Miss Scherzinger won’t be late for any concert! Nicole’s taste is a great one and obviously she is into cars, which combine the sportiness and spontaneity of a manual gearbox with the comfort of an automatic transmission. This will undeniably ensure that she got all the driving a pleasure! Oh and not to forget the price of the car: it costs around $133000.
Nicole Scherzinger – Mercedes SL63 AMG
Denise Richards and Mercedes-Benz GL450
The ex-wife of Charlie Sheen obviously has admirations for bigger cars. She has paid for this beautiful SUV the amount of $80000. For this sum she got one of the best-looking SUV that Mercedes builds. Moreover this car has the luxury V-8 with three rows of seating. However we give an advice to the superstar, which is to look forward to the future with more ”eco”-eyes. This is very easily achievable, because Mercedes offers a very smart diesel – GL320 BlueTec. With it Denise will have the opportunity to show that she cares for the environmental well-being of the planet, just like her colleague – Christina Applegate (for more information see part 1 of the article).
Denise Richards – Mercedes-Benz GL450
Patrick Dempsey
The next celebrity that caught our attention is the movie star from Grey’s Anatomy – Patrick Dempsey. He has not only one, but two vehicles caring the brand of Mercedes-Benz. We are absolutely sure that he enjoy every summer driving his retro convertible, which adds more to his fabulous status! Unfortunately, he has kept the details about the price for himself. Moreover, he not only got the pleasure to drive this cabriolet, but also enjoys driving another Mercedes car. And this is Mercedes SLS AMG. Here, this “joy” has cost him the amount of $200000. And compared to Eddie Murphy we must confirm that he is more into sport type of vehicles. We also have to highlight the unique design of the automobile (see the Gullwing doors), and to mention the 6.3 V8-powered AMG engine (420 kW/571 hp) that this lovely car has! Applauses for Dempsey!
Patrick Dempsey – Mercedes SLS AMG
Gerard Butler and Mercedes-Benz S400 HYBRID
Even the Scottish star enjoys driving a Mercedes, and more importantly – a special one! This is Mercedes-Benz S400 HYBRID – the ultimate combination of eco and luxury car! The vehicle is also special because it is the first hybrid from Mercedes. Butler has paid for this environmental-friendly car the sum of $90000. And if you wonder about the engine in this S-Class Sedan, it is being powered by a hybrid system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas one. The high–power profile of Mercedes is maintained exactly by this hybrid system. In addition the electric-gas combo delivers a total output of 295 horsepower (217 kW), which are channeled through a 7-speed automatic transmission. Definitely Mr. Butler got our admirations for this “green” ride!
The Ducati Streetfighter 848 was the inspiration for the “streetfighter yellow” colour of the SLK 55 AMG. And here the designers definitely got it! This vision ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. The AMG Performance Studio made it possible to bring this design for the customers as an individual optional extra. Not only is the outside look of the car stunningly appealing, but also is the interior of the SLK 55 AMG. Here the contrasting yellow stitching makes a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. You already love it, don’t you! Furthermore the yellow AMG door sill panels feature LED technology, and everything together rounds off the striking effect of the interior.
As it is already well known, AMG Performance Studio is very popular with its special paintwork and leather appointments, but also with its technical solutions and extensive body improvements and transformations. Everything goes around the individual customer requirement, whether it is a stylish upgrade high level of hand-crafted. In the same time everything is made according the highest safety and quality standards, which are very typical for Mercedes-Benz.
The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 compared to each other are not only similar visually but also technically. In details, both models are the perfect combination of excellent driving dynamics, astonishing design and intense driving pleasure.
Some even may say that the SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. First of all, because of it’s newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system. Hence, this allows an ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 422 hp (310 kW) and maximum toque of 540 Nm (399 lb-ft), the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. In addition its fuel returns 33.6 mpg (14.3 km/l) on the combind cycle and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometer. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h of the SLK 55 AMG is jus 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited up to 155 mph (249 km/h). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.
Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848
The brand new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its uniqueness even at first sight: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG body styling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions.
On the other hand we have the inspiration for the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG – the new Ducati Streetfighter 848. This amazingly beautiful motorcycle provides unbridled biking pleasure. The reason for this is not only the innovative technology, but also the outstanding appearance that it has. To be more precise, here we speak about a Testastretta 11° engine with 132 hp (97 kW) and an exciting 93.5 Nm (69 lb-ft) of torque as well as a modified frame geometry. All of this is to guarantee a safe, agile handling. In addition all this is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, improved ergonomics and a tuned traction control (DTC) system. And the extremely talented Ducati designers had taken care of the appearance of the Streetfighter.
To match every taste, there are several visual variants of the bike. The first one is in traditional red with red frame, and the second new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. In addition the Dark Stealth colour variant with frame in Racing Black underscores the amazing outlook of the Streetfighter. Definitely we have no choice but to admit that in the new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and astonishing styling in a contemporary design.
Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848
If you have always wondered about the celebrities who drive your favorite vehicle, here you can have a glance at four of the well known super-stars. Not surprisingly they have chosen Mercedes-Benz as their transportation method, but this choice may speak about their personalities as well. Let’s have a sneak peak:
Pharrel Williams and Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
This beautiful car costs Pharrel Williams the amount of $455,000. What’s so special about the vehicle is that it has the impressive supercharged 5.5L V8 engine. The top speed of the car goes to 207 km/h and without a doubt we can affirm that the front man of N.E.R.D loves to drive it around Virginia Beach. This special car definitely expresses the unique style of the co-creator of the fashion lines Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. Unquestioningly this unique combination of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula 1 partner McLaren can impress everyone with unique pioneering developments, very high performance and also with big levels of safety and practicality. For sure the celebrity counts on good style and security!
Pharell – Mercedes SLR
Megan Fox and Mercedes-Benz G550
The Super star Megan Fox was very recently spotted with her Mercedes-Benz G550. You probably have ever believed that this square and edgy design of the Mercedes G-Wagon will be more appealing for the gentleman. Well, Megan Fox proves it wrong! Not only is she one of the sexiest women in the world, but as seen – she is a tough lady who likes “tough” cars! Mercedes-Benz G550 is very special 4×4 vehicle and it costs approximately $110 000. The 2010 G-Class line includes the V8-powered G550 and the high-performance G55 AMG. They will ensure that Miss Fox won’t be late for any movie shot! The beautiful celebrity not only has a good taste for a balanced off-road car, but also her choice speaks for a search of sumptuous on-road comfort. Well done Megan!
Megan Fox Mercedes G550
Eddie Murphy and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Fantastic car! And it cost Mr. Murphy only the amount of $190 000. This luxury grand tourer automobile is the first Mercedes automobile designed in-house by AMG. And obviously Eddy Murphy is up to date with the innovations unlike Pharrel Williams. If you wonder why, it is confirmed that this is model to replace Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Don’t envy Pharel! This sport automobile is extremely exciting. Not only it has unique design – see the Gullwing doors, but also it is equipped with 6.2 V8-powered AMG (420 kW/571 hp )!
Eddie Murphy Mercedes SLS AMG
Christina Applegate and Mercedes-Benz GL 320
Why not going to yoga with your new Mercedes-Benz GL? Well, this is what Christina Applegate does, and she does it very well! Driving this full-size crossover SUV costs the celebrity the sum of $ 80 000. Obviously she can afford a personal trainer, but the pleasure of driving a GL-Class is irreplaceable. GL-class offers a high-quality interior, but the eco-friendly superstar probably had chosen it because of the fuel-efficient diesel engine. Moreover, the driving of the vehicle feels more like a car than a truck-based SUV. And most importantly don’t forget that this spectacular automobile is a worthy heir of the G-Class … only the cabin is a bit refined.
Vath has unveiled their tuning program for the Mercedes-Benz SLK R172 including both style and performance modifications.
The exterior package includes a new front lip spoiler and modified rear diffuser. There are also a set of lowering springs to improve the stance and huge 20” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.
The interior boasts carbon fiber elements, aluminum pedals and velour floor mats. Vath also offers a revised speedometer graduated up to 330 km/h (205 mph).
Other goodies feature high-performance brake system, a LSD (limited slip differential) and a stainless steel sport exhaust system.
There are performance packages for the 200 CGI, 250 CGI and 350 CGI. The SLK 200 CGI is boosted to 210 PS (154 kW) and 310Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque, while the tuned SLK 250 CGI has 244PS (179 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft). The mighty SLK 350 CGI boasts 330PS (243 kW) and 390Nm (288 lb-ft) of torque.
Mercedes-Benz has announced the new ML 63 AMG. The SUV is not only superbly powered, but it now features efficiency and performance, exclusivity and an awesome driving experience. The vehicle boasts a 28% improvement in efficiency over its predecessor.
2012 Mercedes ML 63 AMG is powered by a new 5.5 litre bi-turbo V8 engine with 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (519 lb-ft). The optional AMG Performance package boosts the V8 engine’s power output to 557PS (410 kW) and its maximum torque to 760Nm (563 lb-ft).
“Like its predecessors, the new ML 63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG. As the inventor of the high-performance SUV, we remain true to the philosophy which we introduced in 1999 with the ML 55 AMG and continued in 2005 with the ML 63 AMG.”, commented Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG
The newly developed ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation, the AMG-specific design and the broad scope of standard equipment and appointments provide for a highly attractive overall package.
The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, ECO start/stop system, an all-aluminium crankcase, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling and generator management. All this mean that you’ll have more power, better torque and less fuel consumption, which is 23.9 mpg. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds if fitted with the AMG Performance Package, while the top speed stands at 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.
The engine is mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system, which is 7-speed automatic gearbox with several functions – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport) and M (Manual).
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG
The AMG Performance package includes an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.
2012 ML 63 AMG stands on enormous five-spoke light-alloy wheels – 9J x 20” with 265/45 R 20 up front and 10J x 21” with 295/35 R 21 at the rear axle.
The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 mm – front and 345 x 26 mm – rear.
The interior boasts electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. There are also aluminium trim elements, leather upholstery and a lot AMG badges. The distinctively designed instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG.
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG Interior
The designo Exclusive package features Nappa leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats with an unusual diamond pattern. It is available in designo marron, designo porcelain and designo black. There are also AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats as well as velour floor mats with designo metal badges and black designo leather edging. A designo roof lining in DINAMICA black rounds off the designo Exclusive package.
Further optional items include designo trims in black piano lacquer and the designo wood/leather steering wheel in black piano lacquer.
The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will launch in the UK in Spring 2012.
ML 63 AMG
Displacement
5461 cc
Bore x stroke
98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio
10.0 : 1
Output
525 hp at 5250 rpm
557 hp at 5750/rpm*
Max torque
700 Nm at 1750-5000 rpm
760 Nm at 2000-5000 rpm*
Engine weight (dry)
204 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
23.9 mpg
CO2 emissions
276 g/km
Acceleration 0-62 mph
4.8 s
4.7 s*
Top speed
155 mph**
* with AMG Performance package; ** electronically limited.
Check the standard and optional equipment, below!
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG standard equipment:
• AMG door sills in stainless steel
• AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
• Audio 20 CD radio with Bluetooth and USB interface
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Electric sliding glass roof
• Heated seats for driver and front passenger
Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG Performance Studio:
• AMGfloor mats
• AMG light-alloy wheels (10 x 21) in 5-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 295/35 R 21
• AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA
• AMG Performance package with increase in power of 32 hp and 60 Newton metres more torque, AMG engine cover in high-quality real carbon, AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA, callipers in red painted finish
Optional equipment:
• Trailer coupling with electric unlocking
• Becker® MAP PILOT
• Electrically operated EASY PACK tailgate
• Rear Seat Entertainment System
• harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system
• Wood/leather steering wheel in nappa leather
• THERMOTRONIC luxury automatic climate control
• Light package including Intelligent Light System
Wald International has revealed the new Black Bison Edition R230 SL. The vehicle is based on Sports Line version of the model and comes with some exterior improvements. However, there is no data about boosting the new superefficient engines.
The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper, front fenders, a pair of modified side skirts, a new rear bumper and quarter panel wheel arch extensions. Finally, to complete the aggressive exterior, Wald installed a trunk lid spoiler, which is also available in carbon fiber and a DTM sports muffler with twin exhaust pipes.
Black Bison Edition R230 SL stands on enormous Renovatio R12 wheels – 9J x 20” at the front and 11J x 20” at the rear fitted with ultra-low profile performance tires.
Wald International will exhibit the tuned car at the 2011 SEMA.
Vath released a new tuning package for Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG. The second generation of CLS-Class was first introduced to the public in Paris in 2010. The four-door coupe received refined interior and exterior by Vath.
2012 CLS 63 AMG is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 525HP (386 kW) at 5250RPM and 700Nm of torque between 1750 and 5000RPM. The V63RS tuning kit boosts the mighty engine to whopping 658PS (484 kW) and 960Nm (708 lb-ft) of torque. The performance is just brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds , 12 seconds to 200 km/h and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).
The results are thanks to a new intercooler system , a stainless steel sport exhaust system with steel catalysts and a calibrated ECU, of course. The price for this upgrade is € 12 800.
The suspension is also upgraded – lowering springs for front axle from 20 to 40mm and rear axle electronic adjustment. The price is € 980. The brake system is improved by installing flexible steel brake lines for € 590 – Technical Supervision certificate and Castrol SRF racing brake fluid included.
The tuned CLS stands on enormous three-piece 9J x 20” wheels with 265/30 ZR20 tires up front and 10.5J x 20” with 305/25 ZR20 tires for the rear axle. The price is rather “ugly” – € 6 337.
The aerodynamics package will cost you additional € 4 460 including an airflow front spoiler, a trunk-lip spoiler and a rear diffuser with fins and underfloor extension.
The interior gets a sports steering wheel in leather/leather design, also available with carbon or finewood applications upon request. If you want tachometer scale up to 360 km/h, your pockets will lose another € 1 450 and last but not least, a classy black carbon package is available for € 3 300.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept is really a staggering vehicle. It boasts dynamic and sporty styling in the compact class. It is powered by a 2.0-liter engine with 210PS. Concept A-CLASS is going on view for the first time in the UK as part of an exciting and interactive display that is set to capture the imagination and interest of the public.
The Concept A-CLASS National Tour will visit the Bullring Shopping Centre, Birmingham – Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th September; Westfield London – Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October; Arndale Shopping Centre, Manchester – Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October and Braehead Shopping Centre, Glasgow – Friday 14th and Saturday 15th October.
“Both visually and technologically, Concept A-CLASS provides an exciting insight into the potential future of the Mercedes-Benz compact car range, and a tantalising glimpse of some of the features that we’re confident would influence future customers in this highly-competitive sector,” said Gary Savage, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars.
“The Concept A-CLASS National Tour creates a unique experience for engaging with our potential customers ahead of some significant model launches next year, and it showcases the future direction of Mercedes-Benz in a truly eye-catching and enthralling way.”, he finished.
Kubatech has announced their tuning program for the astonishing Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
The most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world is further optimized by installing an ECU re-map giving additional 54PS (40 kW) and 30Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque. The overall figures are 625PS (460 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft).
Obviously, the 6.2 liter engine has a lot of resources for optimization.
Kubatech didn’t release any information about aerodynamics package or any interior upgrades. Still, we think that SLS AMG is already perfect and it doesn’t need any styling improvements. Power upgrades are just fine!
The cost of these 54PS and 30Nm is really high – more than €8000.
Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2012 SLK 250 CDI offering unique feelings at decent price and don’t mean the car. The roadster combines good performance and low fuel consumption.
The new SLK 250 CDI is powered by a 2.2 liter turbo-diesel with 204PS (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft), which are enough to catapult the car to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and another important discipline – 80 to 120 km/h is covered in 4.3 seconds. The top speed is 243 km/h. Great!
Still, the engine is not thirsty at all – 4.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle and emissions as low as 128 g/km of CO2.
2012 SLK 250 CDI comes with 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard.
The diesel SLK combines thoroughbred sports car performance with the fuel economy of a sub-compact. This guarantees great driving pleasure with great fuel efficiency.
It is available with a choice of three versions of the famous vario-roof. One of them is the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof can be changed from dark to transparent at the touch of a button.
There are also three suspension versions available: a conventional steel suspension, a sports suspension with a stiffer spring and damper setup or a suspension with an electronically controlled, fully automatic damping system.
The latter is part of the Dynamic Handling package, which also includes the Direct-Steer system and the Torque Vectoring Brake developed by Mercedes-Benz for particularly agile and predictable handling characteristics.
Of course, all this style has a price and it is not low at all – €41 828. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI hits the market from September 13.
Mercedes will hit the market with the CLC Shooting Brake. The vehicle is inspired by the Mercedes-Benz Shooting Brake Concept and is set to make its official debut in 2012.
The car will compete against the beautiful Audi A5 Sportback and the upcoming BMW 3-Series GT. Nothing is mentioned about the price, but the new CLC Shooting Brake will be cheaper than the CLS-Class.
CLC Shooting Brake will be offered with front-wheel drive, which is definitely a minus and the AWD system will be available as an option.
The new CLC Shooting Brake is set hit the US market in 2014. Probably, there will be whole new range of direct-injected petrol engine as well as some sporty diesels.