Bluetec – Automobiles Review

2014 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid – 1,968 km on a Single Tank of Fuel

Although the extremely-efficient 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid didn’t set a world record on a single tank of fuel, it managed to complete an epic journey from Africa to the UK.

The travel took Andrew Frankel (a British journalist) from Tangier in Northern Africa to the UK. He visited two continents, four countries and three time zones in a total time of 27 hours on the road, which he shared with a relief driver. Andrew arrived at Goodwood in time for its appearance at the Festival of Speed. He covered a total of 1,968 km (1,223 miles) without refueling.

What is more, on arriving the fuel gauge was yet to register empty, the car estimated an available range of 160 km (100 miles). This results in a range of 2,129 km (1,323 miles) on a single tank of fuel.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is powered by a 2.1 liter four-cylinder diesel – 204HP (150 kW) at 4,200RPM and 500Nm (370 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600RPM. There is also an electric motor mounted within the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (26HP). The combined power is 230HP (169 kW). 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph). The big family saloon can achieve a fuel consumption of just 4.2 liters / 100 km with emission of 109 g/km of CO2. The curb weight is 1,845 kg (4,068 lbs).

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is available as a Saloon or an Estate with prices starting from £39,880.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EITiqurE8dc

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 27, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Expanding The S-Class Family

Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-S-600-medium The recently launched new S-Class family is now growing with four new members. That’s rigt, Mercedes-Benz are introducing a fuel-sipper (BlueTEC HYBRID), an AWD fuel-sipper (BlueTEC 4MATIC), a 5-star hotel on wheels (S 600) and an S 65 AMG – the name says it all. Let’s give them a quick look one at a time.

The 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – a diesel-based hybrid that will have an offensively low overall fuel consumption of just 4.4 liters per 100 km and a CO2 emission value of 115 g/km. Keep in mind that this is an S-Class that can be had with a long wheel base as well. In order to achieve these figures of frugality, the 300 uses a 20 kW electric motor nestled between the main 204 hp engine (a 2.2-liter four-cylnder) and the automatic transmission. You also get the usual hybrid tech like brake recuperation, and all electric drive only etc.

The 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is a different story. A 3.0-liter V6 diesel in it churns out 258 hp and 620 Nm of torque. And even though it’s essentially an AWD vehicle, it returns 5.9 liters per 100 km (again with either wheelbase). That means that in terms of economy, it’s on par with the previous four-cylinder S 250 CDI.

The S 600 (pictured above) will now stand at the top of the S-Class luxury pyramid. It comes only as a long wheelbase. You will also be stuck with an LED Intelligent Light System, a Magic Body Control suspension with Road Surface Scan and a Driver Assistance Plus package. It’s not all caviare and truffles though. There’s a 6.0-liter biturbo V12 under the hood that hauls all that machinery with 530 hp. Maximum torque is 830 Nm from 1900 rpm. F (class) in efficiency, however.

Finally, there’s the hardcore Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG (pictured bellow). Same engine as the S 600’s, more power. 630 hp and 1000 Nm of torque to be exact. The fuel economy has been reduced by 2.4 liters per 100 km but still stands at 11.9 (F). Long wheelbase, Magic Body Control with Road Surface Scan.

Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-S-65-AMG-medium

All four models are available for ordering with an official launch date sometime in March this year.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 5, 2014

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is Here

2015-Mercedes-Benz-C-Class-medium It’s the new Mrecedes-Benz C-Class! You know, the one that’s supposed to be compact and more common-man oriented. Well, this here is a yet another departure from that idea.

The latest C-Class is longer and wider than its predecessor by 95 mm and 40 mm respectively. That’s 4686 mm in length from headlight to taillight and 1810 mm from side to side. The total increase in length is mainly due to the 80 mm longer wheelbase. That’s why there’s acres of leg-room inside for the rear passengers.

And while the dimensions go up, the overall weight goes down by as much as 100 kg. Extensive use of lightweight materials is to blame for that. Apparently, the use of aluminum, as compared to the older model structure, has gone up from 10 percent to 50 percent. The safety of the cabin has not really been sacrificed despite the diet. Besides, the chances of someone having a crash in it sounds seem to be pretty low. There’s a host of standard and optional automated systems like Attention Assist, Adaptive Brake Assist, Collision Prevention Assist Plus (at up to speeds of 125 mph, it applies the brakes when there’s an estimated danger on the road and no response from the driver). If that’s not enough, there are also optional assists such as lane keeping, and another brake assist for even drowsier drivers we presume, and a follow-that-car mode with a Stop Go Pilot at speeds less than 37 mph.

Speaking of stopping and going, let’s not neglect the elephant(s) in the room .The C-Class will be initially available with three engine choices – one diesel and two petrols. The former is a C 220 BlueTEC 2.2-liter plant with 170 hp and 400 Nm in its pocket. The two petrols (C 180 and C 200), on the other hand, are 1.6 and 2.0-liters respectively and develop 156 and 184 hp again respectively.

A number of factors weigh in on the exquisite economy of all engines. All models have Mercedes’ ECO start/stop function, all are, as mentioned, significantly lighter than their forerunners, and all employ sophisticated technologies. The diesel boasts an economy of 70.6 mpg and 103 g/km of CO2 emissions partly due to a state-of-the-art common-rail direct injection setup, and a selective catalytic reduction system. The C 180 and C 220 are not bad either at 56.5 mpg and 53.3 mpg respectively.

Later in its life, the C-Class will also get a hybrid plant akin to the one found it the S and E-Classes – a C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID with a 204 + 27 hp diesel + electric motor that runs on 72.4 mpg. A plug-in hybrid is also to be expected

Depending on the installed output ratings, Mercedes-Benz is offering two new 6-speed stick versions. Then there’s the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic gearboxes which will offer the latest in environmental-friendliness, responsiveness and driving pleasure.

This being a Mercedes-Benz, one should also expect a superior suspension system. A front independent suspension boast a four-link setup provides more grip and higher lateral stability. Essentially, the driver is rewarded with more feedback from the steering wheel and a sporty feel. At the back, the optimized multi-link independent suspension ensures unsurpassed wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability.

Three DIRECT CONTROL suspensions with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension:

a comfort suspension
a lowered comfort suspension with a sportier character
a sports suspension lowered by 15 mm

Optionally, for the first time in a C-Class, you can opt for the Mercedes-Benz AIRMATIC air suspension which is highly customizable and has optimum ride comfort on its mind.

Inside, one of the focal points of the C-Class is the HUD display that can even offer directions. Another focal point is the central display at the main console. It’s 7-inches diagonally or 8,4-inches if you go for the COMAND Online navigation option. From it you can access a plethora of software we haven’t even heard of. Just to get an idea of the level of smartness though, consider this: when the navigation foresees an incoming tunnel (which it naturally does), it turns on the air-circulation setting on its own so that you don’t inhale the sooty air that is usually present on such stretches.

2015-Mercedes-Benz-C-Class-medium-2

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 16, 2013

2014 Mercedes E250 BlueTEC – US Price $51,400

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the price list of the 2014 E-Class Facelift. The entry-level E250 BlueTEC is priced from $51,400 and the top-of-range E63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC wagon will cost $102,370.

The newest Mercedes-Benz E-Class – the 2014 E250 BlueTEC sedan – has achieved an impressive estimated EPA rating of 45 mpg US on the highway and 28 mpg US around town. The first diesel E-Class to be available with 4MATIC achieves best-in-class fuel efficiency for a midsize luxury sedan and for the entire industry in the same size range. When equipped with optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, its fuel mileage numbers are still an impressive 42 mpg US highway and 27 mpg US in the city. No other diesel sedan offers a better EPA fuel economy highway estimate.

The E250 BlueTEC has a 2.1-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with 195HP (145 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz focuses on real-world safety with the goal of accident-free driving, and the new E-Class offers more than 30 standard and optional active and passive safety systems under the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive comfort and safety portfolio.

The new E250 BlueTEC sedan is the price-leader in the E-Class family, priced competitively at $51,400 while offering a clean diesel powertrain. Please find below the following E-Class portfolio and overall pricing, which excludes the 2014MY destination & delivery price of $925:

E250 BlueTEC sedan (rear-wheel drive) – $51,400
E350 sedan (rear-wheel drive) – $51,900
E350 Coupe (rear-wheel drive) – $52,200
E250 BlueTEC 4MATIC sedan – $53,900
E350 4MATIC sedan – $54,400
E350 4MATIC Coupe – $54,700
E400 Hybrid sedan (rear-wheel drive) – $56,700
E350 4MATIC wagon – $58,600
E550 Coupe (rear-wheel drive) – $59,000
E350 Cabriolet (rear-wheel drive) – $60,200
E550 4MATIC sedan – $61,400
E550 Cabriolet (rear-wheel drive) – $67,300
E63 AMG 4MATIC sedan – $92,770
E63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC sedan – $99,770
E63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC wagon – $102,370

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 16, 2013

Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 1st Anniversary Edition

Mercedes-Benz is going to offer ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 1st Anniversary Edition specially for Japan. Production will be limited to 100 units and pricing starts at ¥8,600,000 (around €66,000).

The special edition ML boasts an AMG styling package that includes aggressive front and rear bumpers, a pair of revised side skirts and a set of 20” alloy wheels. There are also stainless steel running boards and privacy glass. The color range includes Obsidian Black or Diamond White metallic.

The interior comes with AMG sports seats, an AMG steering wheel and brushed aluminum trim elements. There are also special floor mats and new pedals.

The ML350 BlueTEC is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 258HP (190 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft). It is connected to a 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission and a 4MATIC AWD system.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 28, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTec – 9G-Tronic Automatic

Mercedes-Benz make very strange decisions… sometimes. The manufacturer decided to introduce the all-new 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox with the E-Class as we all expected it with the new S-class.

However, the 9G-Tronic (replacing the 7G-Tronic) is avaialble in the facelifted E-Class and particularly for E350 BlueTec model. The acceleration time remains the same – 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, but the two additional ratios and Stop/Start function have improved fuel efficiency in the combined cycle – 5.3 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 138 g/km – combined cycle.

Mercedes-Benz has removed the standard 6-speed manual gearbox from the E220 BlueEfficiency Edition and replaced it with 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. As a result of this change the super-efficient model will need just 4.4 liters / 100 km of fuel and will emit CO2 emissions of 114 g/km. Thanks to these changes, the revised model is EURO 6 compliant.

The E-Class line-up is boosted by an E200 NGD which is a natural-gas model powered by a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine taken from the B200 Natural Gas Drive – 154HP (115 kW) and 269Nm (199 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and a combined cycle economy of 4.3 kg / 100 km, which is around 6.3 liters / 100 km of normal fuel.

http://www.automobilesreview.com/category/car-makes/mercedes-benz/

Mercedes-Benz make very strange decisions… sometimes. The manufacturer decided to introduce the all-new 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox with the E-Class as we all expected it with the new S-class.

However, the 9G-Tronic (replacing the 7G-Tronic) is avaialble in the facelifted E-Class and particularly for E350 BlueTec model. The acceleration time remains the same – 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, but the two additional ratios and Stop/Start function have improved fuel efficiency in the combined cycle – 5.3 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 138 g/km – combined cycle.

Mercedes-Benz has removed the standard 6-speed manual gearbox from the E220 BlueEfficiency Edition and replaced it with 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. As a result of this change the super-efficient model will need just 4.4 liters / 100 km of fuel and will emit CO2 emissions of 114 g/km. Thanks to these changes, the revised model is EURO 6 compliant.

The E-Class line-up is boosted by an E200 NGD which is a natural-gas model powered by a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine taken from the B200 Natural Gas Drive – 154HP (115 kW) and 269Nm (199 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and a combined cycle economy of 4.3 kg / 100 km, which is around 6.3 liters / 100 km of normal fuel.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 22, 2013

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic – US Price $39,459

Mercedes-Benz has published the price list for the new GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic in the US. The compact crossover has a price tag of just $39,459. For such amount of money, you’ll get powerful and economic engine, superb comfort and good off-road capabilities.

The GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic is powered by a 4-cylinder 2.1 liter twin-turbocharged diesel with 204HP (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is coupled with a 7-speed automatic gearbox sending the power to 4Matic AWD system.

The expected fuel economy is around 24 mpg in city / 33 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg on combined cycle. Despite the low fuel consumption, the GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic boasts nice performance – 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (133 mph).

The GLK also comes equipped with innovative technologies. For the first time featured here for instance is the electric steering with STEER CONTROL, which supports the driver in unstable driving conditions by triggering an impulse which can be felt on the steering wheel, prompting countersteering by the driver in the correct direction.

In other words, if you don’t need so much interior and luggage space, the GLK 250 is a perfect opportunity for an awesome ride.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 30, 2013

Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid – 4.2 l/100 km and 109 g/km of CO2

Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has been put on a challenge in order to test the theory in the real-world. The very first example of the car to arrive in the UK set out on an economy run – with a twist – to prove that driving fun and efficiency can be combined. The stated data is sensational – 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph). What is more, the big family saloon can achieve a fuel consumption of just 4.2 liters per 100 km with emission of 109 g/km of CO2.

First, driving duties were handed over to ex-rally driver Mick Linford. Next, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID started its economy run in the unlikely surroundings of the main runway at Newquay Cornwall Airport – the most southern active airport in mainland Britain. Here the car accelerated from rest to 62 mph in a little over seven seconds before achieving a peak speed of 136 mph.

The car was then driven entirely normally the 830-miles north to its counterpart in Scotland – Wick Airport – the most northern airport in mainland Britain. Over the course of the two-day journey it encountered real-world driving conditions, including heavy traffic, diversions and challenging weather.

On arrival at Wick Airport the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID achieved a maximum speed of 120 mph down the runway, which was 911 metres shorter than at Newquay.

The engineering team behind the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID aimed to strike a balance between delivering everyday economy and performance, when required. Over a distance of 830-miles and two days, the car achieved a peak speed of 136 mph. It returned economy of 67.3 mpg.

The entire trip was carried out on a single tank of fuel – of which a quarter remained on its arrival in Wick. Had the car carried on driving it would have achieved a theoretical range in excess of 1,100-miles.

This extraordinary economy is made possible through a hybrid system linked to the efficient four-cylinder diesel engine – an electric motor is mounted within the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The gearbox substitutes a torque converter for a wet clutch system, therefore allowing for the internal combustion engine to be disengaged entirely via the clutch and for electric-only drive to be maintained for short periods, boosting economy. The system is intricately packaged within the vehicle so as not to impact on the load capacity of the E-Class in any way.

The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is now available on the market in both saloon and estate models. Prices start at £39,645 OTR for the saloon and £41,435 OTR for the estate.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 17, 2012

Mercedes-Benz S 350 BlueTEC meets EURO 6

Mercedes-Benz S 350 BlueTEC is now fitted with ECO start/stop as standard making it even more efficient than before. To be more precise – 10%, which means 45.6 mpg on the combined cycle while CO₂ emissions have been reduced by 7% to 164 g/km.

So, the S 350 BlueTEC is the first model, which meets EU 6 regulations, which will come into effect in the UK until 2014.

S 350 BlueTEC is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with hefty 258PS (190 kW) and 620Nm of torque. 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

“The Mercedes still reigns supreme…what sets it apart is the astonishingly comfortable ride, it is the most relaxing saloon in the business. Nothing can match the S-Class’s imperious refinement and the array of gadgets help make this car one of the safest and most hi-tech models money can buy,” commented Auto Express, Acting Editor, Graham Hope.

In addition to its BlueTEC technology, the S 350 BlueTEC also enjoys the full benefits of Mercedes-Benz innovative range of bespoke BlueEFFICIENCY economy-boosting measures.

The S 350 BlueTEC rides on low rolling resistance tires having a 10% improvement, while still retaining good handling and braking characteristics.

The vehicle also comes with a smooth under body panelling, allowing the car to cleave cleanly through the air at speed thanks to reduced aerodynamic drag and lower wind resistance.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 3, 2011

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Grand Edition W221

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2012 S Class Grand Edition W221. The W221 Grand Edition is created to celebrate the 60 years that passed since the model first entered the market.

The car was developed by the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO and comes with a new aerodynamics package. The body kit features a new front spoiler with integrated LED daytime running lights and a lower air intake, a pair of new side skirts, a rear apron and a re-styled rear bumper.

The interior boasts a lot of individual options as well as a leather steering wheel, stainless-steel pedals and various wood styling inserts.

2012 Mercedes-Benz Grand Edition S Class stands on 19” AMG wheels with a double five-spoke design. Behined them, there are 350 mm brake discs with 8-piston calipers up front and 6-piston calipers at the rear.

Grand Edition S Class is available with S250 CDI delivering 204PS (150 kW), S350 BlueTEC with 258PS (190 kW) and S350 BlueEFFICIENCY boasting 306PS (225 kW).

Price list is not announced, yet.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Grand Edition W221

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 25, 2011

Mercedes G-Class “BA3 Final Edition” and “Edition Select”

The iconic G-Class of Mercedes-Benz will be available in two new special editions – BA3 Final Edition and Edition Select.

The first – Edition Select costs €6 735 for the long-wheelbase model. It includes two-tone paint scheme, an AMG sports exhaust and black 18” alloy wheels. The interior boasts two-tone designo leather upholstery and piano black wood trim.
The second – BA3 Final Edition is based on the short-wheelbase model and celebrates its end of production. It includes AMG flared wheel arches in the vehicle colour, 5-twin-spoke 18” light-alloy wheels fitted with 265/60 R 18 tires. There are also a 3D Mercedes-Benz star in stainless steel and an AMG radiator grille in a 3-louvre design with chrome highlights. The interior comes with black leather seats, burr walnut trim and ambient lighting.

There are two engine available – G 350 BlueTEC comes with a six-cylinder diesel with 211PS (155 kW) and 540Nm (398 lb-ft). The G 500 has a 5.5-liter V8 petrol with 388PS (285 kW) and 530Nm (391 lb-ft).

Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC BA3 Final Edition is priced at €90 511 and the more powerful G 500 has a price tag of €100 685.

G-Klasse - BA 3 Final Edition