M-Class – Automobiles Review

Prior Mercedes-Benz M-Class Aerodynamic Kit

prior-mercedes-benz-m-class-w164 Prior Design seem to be in a very SUV mood considering the fact that they have released yet another program for an old-ish titan. Nor really that old actually – the Mercedes-Benz M Class W164 (the one made from 2005 to 2011). Does it look any different from yesterday’s Range Rover? Well, granted that it is a Mercedes, it does but the Prior Design formula on it is basically the same.

Yes, you know it – a front bumper, side skirts a rear bumper and… mounting material. Not what we call thrilling. Okay, there’s also a hood that comes along. Mind you, that’s how things sound on paper. A quick glance at the gallery and we find that the end result is not that gray (it’s white). Despite the add-on side skirts, the M-class has managed to retain a bit of it’s ground clearance. The rear bumper blends seamlessly with the back fenders and wheel-arches while the front looks simply mean (this being an SUV, it should). There are of course LED daytime running lights. But they are optional. At the price of 329 Euros ($428), we recommend they stay that way.

As usual, all materials are made up of Dura-Flex Fiber Reinforced Plastic which is, as one might suspect, durable and flexible. No modifications on the stock Mercedes M-class whatsoever are needed.

Source: Prior Design

May 8, 2012

Premiere at Geneva: Carlsson Mercedes ML CD35

We can’t get enough of Carlsson and luckily, they seem to be unable to stop churning out projects. So in this latest win-win situation, we welcome the Carlsson ML CD35 – It’s based on the current Mercedes-Benz M-class (W 166) and will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this week. 22-inch wheels, suspension tweaks, an aerodynamic package and a performance package all highlight the Carlsson mark on the luxury SUV.

To start off, we have a new look that can only accent the already aggressive stance of the M-Class. A new front apron and dual headlight modules with LED daytime running lights, give the front a typical Carlssonish feel. The mesh inserts withing the bumper, are from an electro-polished stainless steel and so is the main radiator grille. Some sikdeskirts also complement the whole kit and a rear apron and a set of exhausts adorn the back end. Although, we can’t be sure of that until Carlsson fully reveal the ML CD35.

In terms of performance, the standard W166 that has gone under the knife has a 3.0 liter V6 BlueTEC 4MATIC diesel engine that develops 190 HP 680 Nm of torqe. Carlsson have taken that power up to 310 HP and 700 Nm thanks to a C-Tronic supplementary control unit. It’s not just brute power extraction that violates the engine. Rather, the C-Tronic thing cleverly monitors all temperature, emission and rpm reading and shuts off when it senses that the engine has reached a wear-and-tear zone. Soon enough, there will be even more performance tweaks available for the CD35 from Carlsson.

In order to make you even more dependent on your iPhone, the C-Tronic Carlsson suspension provided is linked to an application that allows remote control. Feel free to rise up or lower the CD35 whenever you like. As long as your phone battery isn’t dead. By default, the Carlsson M-class is around 30 mm lower than standard and sits on 10 x 20-inch, light alloy wheels with Carlsson 1/5 Revo design. At the Geneva Motor Show, five-spoke wheels in the Brilliant Edition and Dark Series surface finish will be installed.

The interior has been delicately altered with the help of illuminated door sill panels imprinted with Carlsson lettering, Carlsson door pins, and a footrest plus pedals made from aluminum.

Source: Carlsson

March 5, 2012

2012 Mercedes ML 63 AMG US Price – $95 865

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will hit the US market in March. It is priced at $95 865 including $875 destination charge.

It’s characteristics are the same as the EU version – a new 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 engine with 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (519 lb-ft), which can be boosted to 557PS (410 kW) and 760Nm (563 lb-ft) with the AMG Performance Package.

The performance is great for such big and heavy SUV – 4.7 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. Still, the engine is not very thirsty – 11.8 liters per 100 km on combined cycle.

The engine is mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system – a 7-speed automatic gearbox with several functions – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport) and M (Manual).

The AMG Performance package also includes an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather/DINAMICA.

The five-spoke light-alloy wheels in dimensions 9J x 20” with 265/45 R 20 up front and 10J x 21” with 295/35 R 21 at the rear axle give extreme stability. The brake system includes discs all-round in size 390 x 36 mm – front and 345 x 26 mm – rear.

The interior comes with electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. There are also aluminium trim elements, leather upholstery and some 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. 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.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 28, 2012

Mercedes with two first places in ”The Best Cars of 2012” survey

“Auto motor und sport” is a popular motoring magazine known for it’s expertise on.. well.. motoring and sport. It is German-based but it also has a significant amount of worldwide clout as it has been around since 1977. This year, more than 210,000 readers, some of them from China, others from Brazil, have cast their votes to crown the “Best Cars of 2012”.

And now, Mercedes are proud to say that for a third consecutive year, the SLS AMG Roadster heads the cabriolet nominations. And one can’t really blame the public for going with the SLS again. It is captivated by the unique blend of unconventional yet classic design and ground breaking technology. The SLS AMG boasts a lightweight aluminium spaceframe body, an AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine producing 420 kW (571 hp), seven-speed dual clutch transmission and a sports suspension with aluminum double wishbone suspension.

Another class dominated by Mercedes is the SUV segment – Mercedes-Benz M-Class won most of the reader’s hearts with its ever solid presence on the road, sustainability and safety. End even if it weren’t such a favorite SUV, other Mercs are always there to take the love – an honarable second place for the G-Class

Mercedes-Benz ML-250 BlueTEC 4MATIC (2012)

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 27, 2012

New Range of Accessories for the M- and B-Class by Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz has developed all new and comprehensive range of accessories for both the M-Class and the B-Class. The products not only meet the usual high quality standards, but also they will meet the individualization requirements of any customer. Of course, this can only be done by Mercedes-Benz.

First of all let’s review the news around the accessories in the M-Class. It is absolutely adorable that the range of all products that the customer can add to the exterior appearance includes 12 different light-alloy wheels, snow chain systems, valve caps in sterling silver, bonnet fin attachments and aluminium-finish running boards. Furthermore, to optimize the interior look, Mercedes-Benz offers floor mats, a wood/leather steering wheel, illuminated door sill panels, coat hangers or sports pedals in stainless steel, various child restraint systems and various other accessory items. For instance the electronic highlights in the brand new M-Class accessories comprises of a rear-seat integration kit for the Apple iPad® (which undeniably will be very appealing for all Apple users), a Rear Seat Entertainment System or an InCar Hotspot which brings the internet into the car (yes, you can now stay “connected” all the time!). Next comes the powerful Becker ® MAP PILOT navigation system. With it any user can modify the Audio 20 Radio and turn it into a powerful navigation system with 3D map views. Another beneficial option is the new COMAND Online system, with or without DVD changer.

The accessories range has as wee a range of carrier systems, ski and snowboard racks, bicycle racks and roof boxes. Moreover it includes accessories that allow the better and more specific use of the load compartment too.

And for the sport-look lovers there are good news too. Now AMG offers more distinctively sporty exterior, made possible thank to the individualization elements such as AMG bodystyling elements for the front and rear aprons, side sill panels or AMG light-alloy wheels.

And at last the range is fashionably equipped by products from the Mercedes-Benz Collection, including stylish fashionwear, Samsonite suitcases and holdalls, and various practical items such as key rings

On the other hand Mercedes-Benz has developed a new range of accessories for the B-Class too. Here too, it has been included the Electronic highlights. In this Class however, they consist from a portable Rear Seat Entertainment system, mobile phone cradles and parking aids such as a reversing camera or the Quickpark acoustic warning system. Like in the M-Class Mercedes-Benz offers the powerful Becker ® MAP PILOT navigation system. To bring some more individualization to the car, you can chose among a lot of products like light-alloy wheels, valve caps, hub caps and rim locks. And not to forget the interior, you can enhance it further with

a leather steering wheel or stainless steel pedal covers. For the little fellows there is a range of child seats to suit every age group as well. As seen in the M-Class, Mercedes-Benz hasn’t forgotten to include the accessories that meet the transport needs as well. For example here we have the aluminium carrier system (it can be combined with a range of ski and snowboard racks, bicycle racks and roof boxes, or by a trailer coupling). And to keep all those personal bits and pieces tidy and secure there is a range of accessories for the load compartment.

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Accessories — 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class – Accessories

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 28, 2011

2012 Mercedes M-Class Price – 46 200 EUR

Mercedes-Benz has announced the 2012 M-Class range price list.

In Europe, the 2012 Mercedes M-Class is available in three versions, and with a choice between three engines – ML250, ML350 Bluetec and ML350 BlueEFFICIENCY.

2011 Mercedes-Benz ML250 is powered by a 2.1-liter diesel engine with 204PS (150 kW) and a hefty torque of 500Nm (370 lb-ft). The more powerful ML350 Bluetec has a 3.0 liter V6 with 258PS (190 kW) and 619Nm (457 lb-ft). The performance is very good – 0 to 100 km/h for 7.5 seconds and top speed of 224 km/h.

The petrol variant is ML 350 BueEfficiency with a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft). The top speed is 235 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds.

All engines come with a 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox delivering the power to an 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

The new M-Class has a selective damping suspension, while the Airmatic self-leveling air suspension and an Active Curve System with dynamic roll stabilization is available as an option.

The safety includes Night View Assist Plus including pedestrian recognition, Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Park Assist and Distronic Plus.
Check out the price list, below!

The prices of the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class at a glance*:

		Including 19% sales tax
ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC	€46,200	€54,978
ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	€49,350	€58,726.50
ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	€47,700	€56,763

*Prices in the German Market

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 12, 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is set to have its official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. However, the premium manufacturer has released full details and specification about the new SAV.

By “new” we don’t mean entirely redesigned model, but a slight facelift, which practically is the old M-Class, but with bigger taillights and interesting headlights. The highlights worth mentioning include a new front grille, new wheel designs from 17” to 21” as the biggest come with AMG badge. The improvements are present, still, we think that the rear lights are directly taken from BMW E61 (the previous 5-Series touring). It is tough to create something new and different these days, but this is Mercedes! If they don’t have the designers and the engineers to create a real new SAV, nobody can’t.

The interior is something different. The cabin is way better than the previous model and now feature higher quality materials and a lot of wood. Yes! The dashboard came directly from the S-Class, so we love it. The center console is wider and has some aluminum elements. The updated COMAND system is also present and as an option, you can order panoramic sunroof. Nice!

As you may suggest, the engines are brilliant. The entry level is ML 250 BlueTec with 2.1 liter four-cylinder diesel delivering hefty 204PS (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft). The more powerful diesel – ML 350 BlueTec comes with a 3.0 liter V6 with 258PS (190 kW) and 619Nm (457 lb-ft). The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h for 7.5 seconds and top speed of 224 km/h. Excellent for SAV.

The petrol engine is in ML 350 BueEfficiency with a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft). The top speed is 235 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds.

All engines come with a 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox delivering the power to an all-wheel drive system.

The new M-Class has a selective damping suspension, while the Airmatic self-leveling air suspension and an Active Curve System with dynamic roll stabilization is available as an option. The SAV equipped with this will be a pleasure to drive.

The safety is at extemely high level – Night View Assist Plus including pedestrian recognition, Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Park Assist and Distronic Plus and some other intersting systems.

The price is not announced, yet!

Check the specifications below.

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class:

	ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC (Predecessor)	ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 350 CDI 4MATIC (Predecessor)
Number of cylinders	4	6	6	6
Displacement cc	2143	2987	2987	2987
Rated ouput hp	204	204	258	231
Max torque Nm	500	500	620	540
NEDC combined mpg CO₂ / km	43.4 – 47.0 158	31.4 – 33.6 224	38.1 – 41.5 179	30.0 – 31.8 235-246
Acceleration 0 – 62 mph s	9.0	8.3	7.4	7.6
Top speed mph	130	130	139	136
Emissions standard	EU6	EU5	EU6	EU5

	ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	ML 350 4MATIC (predecessor)
Number of cylinders	6	6
Displacement cc	3498	3498
Rated output hp	306	272
Max torque Nm	370	350
NEDC combined mpg CO₂ / km	32.1 – 33.2 199	23.5 – 24.7 266
Acceleration 0-62 mph s	7.6	8.4
Top speed mph	146	139
Emissions standard	EU5	EU5

Air flow optimisation:

Sealing around the radiator section with adjustable fan shutter
Sealed joints between the bonnet and the headlamps
Front wheel spoilers
Air outlets in the front wheel well liners
Redesigned exterior mirror housings
Optimised roof spoiler
Side spoilers on the rear window (ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC)
Underfloor and engine compartment panelling
Aerodynamically optimised light-alloy wheels

Comfort and driving dynamics:

To improve traction, the slip thresholds and shift points of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS system have been raised
A flatter accelerator pedal curve improves the sensitivity with which the driver can accelerate
Off-road ABS ensures optimum braking on a loose surface

ON&OFFROAD package:

Automatic – covers most everyday driving operations
Offroad 1 – light terrain, dirt roads and tracks
Offroad 2 – challenging off-road terrain with hilly stretches
Winter – for driving in wintry conditions on slippery roads, on snow, ice or with snow chains
Sport – more adventurous, dynamic driving on winding roads
Trailer – optimises moving off, manoeuvring and braking with a trailer

Comfort:

Improved rigidity of the front end structure thanks to struts between the lines of the upper and lower longitudinal members
Increased comfort, yet also reduction in weight, thanks to hybrid construction of front module
Particularly robust cockpit cross member made in lightweight magnesium alloy
Intelligent use of acoustic insulation
In the production plants, insulation is fitted to the bodyshell where it is needed by computer-controlled robots. In the firewall area, the mass distribution of the insulation material used may vary in places in order to counteract potential noise penetration.
Aluminium transmission cross member with integrated vibration damper in the diesel models
Vibrationally optimised 7G-TRONIC PLUS with twin-turbine damper and, in the diesel models, a centrifugal pendulum
Electronically mapped hydraulic engine mounts in the diesel versions
Decoupled exhaust system on diesel models
Standard chassis with selective damping, as an option: AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system or AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system and ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM dynamic roll stabilisation.
Electric steering
Component compartment wall in plastic in order to minimise penetration of noise from engine compartment into the interior
External noise minimised through acoustic encapsulation of engines
High-insulation acoustic windscreen
Additional aero-acoustic sealing in the side sections

Passive safety:

Two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger
Kneebag for the driver
Sidebags for driver and front passenger (combined thorax/pelvis bags)
Sidebags in the rear row of seats as an option
Windowbags across both rows of seats from the A to the C-pillar
3-point seat belts on all five seats
Pyrotechnic reel tensioners and permanent belt force limiters as well as electrically reversible belt tensioners in the front, reel tensioners and single-stage force limiters for the outer seats in the rear
ISOFIX child seat anchorage
Belt height adjustment for driver and front passenger
Belt status display for rear-seat passengers in the instrument cluster
Automatic child seat recognition (optional) with deactivation of the front passenger airbag if a special Mercedes-Benz child seat is used.
In a rear-end collision, a passive head restraint system developed specifically for this purpose can reduce the forces exerted on occupants.

Intelligent partner::

Intelligent Light System, ILS, with specific lighting functions
Night View Assist Plus with automatic person recognition
Speed Limit Assist (standard feature of the COMAND Online option)
Lane Keeping Assist – active/passive
Blind Spot Assist – active/passive
DISTRONIC PLUS
BAS PLUS (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS)
PRE-SAFE^® Brake with autonomous braking (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS)

Source: Mercedes

June 10, 2011

Lorinser aero kit the face-lifted Mercedes M-Class

The premium tuner for Mercedes-Benz vehicles – Sportservice Lorinser is ready with a specially designed aerodynamic package for the new face-lifted M-Class. (more…)

October 1, 2009

Cobra Refines the Mercedes M-Class

Innovative and functional accessories are the specialty of Cobra Technology & Lifestyle. With the new Cobra CITYGUARD^®with integrated LED daytime running lights the German company lends the Mercedes-Benz M-Class a more striking appearance. (more…)

May 4, 2009

M-Class awarded top marks for safety in Euro NCAP test

The new-generation M-Class has passed European NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) crash tests with flying colours and has been awarded the top mark of five stars for its very high level of occupant protection. The Mercedes off-roader has also achieved outstanding results in tests carried out by US rating organisations. (more…)

September 2, 2008

Mercedes-Benz makes in-car iPhone® connection even easier

Mercedes-Benz iPhone connection Whether it be a quick call to a business colleague for an important discussion, listening to favourite music tracks or checking home and office e-mails whilst on the move – the Apple iPhone® is a leading-edge business tool with multimedia capability, available in Germany and other markets.

Now Mercedes-Benz allows the iPhone® connection to be fully integrated into the vehicle architecture for the first time – once again pointing the way ahead for the automotive industry. The new Apple iPhone® cradle allows simple switching between the telephone and audio functions. What’s more, thanks to the location of the cradle in the centre console, the iPhone® is within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger. For ease of use, the iPhone® is controlled via the multifunction steering wheel, while the vehicle display is used to indicate the phone status or music functions and information such as the track title and artist.

Over 100,000 people in Germanyhave already purchased an iPhone® – made by US electronics giant Apple – since its launch in November 2007. By introducing the new cradle for the Apple iPhone®, Mercedes-Benz has made it even easier to enjoy the special benefits of this trend-setting multimedia application, even when on the move in the car. This fully integrated solution – the first of its kind – enables either the phone functions or the audio functions on the iPhone® to be activated. As ever, the device is easy to use thanks to the controls on the multi-function steering wheel, all of which enhances road safety, as the driver’s hands remain on the steering wheel, leaving them free to concentrate on the traffic and the other controls in the cockpit.

Perfect reception is assured as the iPhone® connects to the vehicle aerial automatically when inserted into the cradle. A further advantage is the automatic recharging of the iPhone® battery whilst the phone is sitting in the cradle.

This function means that the iPhone® stays fully charged, which is ideal if the user has to leave the vehicle.
New design to influence the style of further cradles

As well as impressing on a technical level, the Apple iPhone® cradle’s exclusive design allows it to be integrated seamlessly into the interior of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The all-new design is based on a black-and-silver colour scheme that adds hallmark Mercedes-Benz touches. The leading-edge design will be used in future cradles for mobile phones available from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH.

The iPhone® cradle can be inserted into the centre console – where it is within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger – with a single click and without the need for any tools whatsoever. The portable device is therefore easy to plug in and unplug.Optional convenience telephony (Order Code 386) must also be specified. The cradle connects to the audio system either via the optionally available Media Interface or the retrofittable iPod®Interface Kit available from the range of genuine accessories.Both variants use an integral adapter lead that has to be installed by a specialist workshop, ensuring an ideal connection between the cradle and the Media Interface or iPod® Interface.

The fully integrated iPhone® is available now for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, E‑Class, CLK-Class, CLS-Class, S-Class, CL-Class, SL-Class, M-Class and R-Class. The product will also be offered for the new GLK-Class when this model is launched in October. In Germany, the Apple iPhone® cradle retails at € 249 (including VAT) and is obtainable from all Mercedes-Benz dealers.
The adapter leads for the Media Interface or iPod® Interface are available for € 39 (including VAT) in Germany.

June 19, 2008

Tag: M-Class