Tag: Mercedes-Benz S-Class

  • Mansory Crafts a 1000 HP Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S63

    mansory-mercedes-benz-s-class-amg-s63The latest tuning of Mansory that we recall is this on the Rolls-Royce Ghost II and it was amazing and very beautiful. This one is not as versatile in colors and styling but in terms of power – it is definitely mind-blowing. This time the tuning attention was paid to Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S63. Of course, to support the boost in power, the sporty elegance of the Mercedes was enhanced via a special aerodynamic programme.

    The latter comprises of several styling and aero components such as a front spoiler with adapted LED daytime running lights, the new bonnet and the new roof and rear lips. The rear apron was designed in a diffuser look.

    The sporty appearance was further strengthened with new side skirts and widened front wings as well as the carbon housing of the rear-view mirror. In addition, Mansory’s sports exhaust is responsible for a throaty and imposing sound. The back of the car is entirely redesigned. The rear silencer is made from stainless steel with its angular twin tailpipes.

    Speaking of performance, the eight cylinder twin turbo engine of the AMG S63 received some tweaks such as high performance components. In accordance with client’s wish the tuners provide choice of two upgrades for the powerplant.

    The first one is called M800 variant and it helps the unit produce a total of 800 hp (588 kW) at 4,750 rpm. The torque grows to 1,200 Nm (886 lb-ft) at 1,700 – 3,500 rpm. If you wonder about how the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h has changed, well, it was reduced to 3.6 seconds (production version: 4.0 seconds).

    Next, the M1000 performance kit comprises of connecting rods, big end bearings, crankshaft, bearing bushings, turbocharger, suction and compressor system. Together with the new pipe fan manifolds they help the engine produce instead of 585 hp (430 kW) an impressive 1,000 hp (735 kW). The maximum torque has climbed to 1,400 Nm (1033 lb-ft) at 1,500 – 3,500 rpm. So when fired up, the saloon rockets to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds on its way to an electronically regulated 300 km/h.

    All this power has to be transmitted onto the road with the appropriate tyres. Here, the tuners have developed one-piece 22 inch Multispoke alloy wheels that were fitted with Vredestein tyres in size 255/30/ZR22 on the front axle and 295/25/ZR22 on the rear axle.

    The cabin received only minor updates such as aluminium pedals and newly designed steering wheel. There are also new foot mats, framed in leather with embroidered Mansory emblem, as well as the illuminated door sill trims.

    Source: Mansory

  • Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is a Long Wheelbase Only in the UK

    Mercedes-Benz-S-500-PLUG-IN-HYBRID-THUMB
    Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid
    shows some grate figures: the car returns 100.9 mpg UK (2.8 liters / 100 km), emits 65 g/km of CO2, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2-seconds before reaching a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). In fact, this Mercedes-Benz model is one of the most advanced saloons globally. Car’s equipment specifications are based on the conventional S 500 L AMG Line, which means a lot of highlights.

    Just take in mind the 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, AMG body styling for the front and rear bumpers, the LED intelligent light system, COMAND Online, noise insulating glass, leather upholstery and the front seat memory package, which all come as a standard.

    Furthermore, the S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is powered by a V6 biturbo petrol engine and an electric motor. The engine generates 333 hp (245 kW), while the motor – 116 hp (85 kW). In total this makes 442 hp (325 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. Despite this mighty performance, this hybrid vehicle can travel over 20-miles on purely electrical power.

    S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is based on the steel and aluminium chassis structure of the conventional S-Class. In addition, it is the third Hybrid model in the line-up, together with the S 300 BlueTEC Hybrid and S 400 Hybrid variants. Its 8.7 kWh lithium-ion batteries can be topped up with the help of external charging devices such as fast chargers. A full charge takes around two hours.

    The technology features are oriented to ensure that as little energy as possible is wasted. The COMAND system looks ahead of where the car is travelling to predict where energy can be recuperated. The car will look to regenerate as much power as possible in advance of entering urban areas where the electric-only driving mode can be deployed.

    Furthermore, the new model utilizes a tablet or smartphone-based system to allow the driver to pre-heat or pre-cool the car. This is possible thanks to the addition of the Connect me system, which can also remotely send information to the driver when away from the car on the charge status, the predicted range and when the next service is due.

    There is a lot of comfort features included. Some of them are: seven interior trims to choose from, seatbelt-mounted airbags, Air Balance perfume diffuser system, Magic Body Control, etc.

    Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in long wheelbase form in the UK. Its price tag will begin from £87,965. Production of the car starts in October and first deliveries are expected a month later.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • 2014 Smart ForTwo vs 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – Crash Test

    Here is a very interesting video featuring the new 2014 Smart ForTwo and the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class. They are involved in a head-collision crash test proving that the small car, which is half of the weight of the big saloon is just as safe as the S-Class.

    2014 Smart ForTwo is even more safe than the legal requirements. In some points in terms of safety, the small city car exceeds the Euro NCAP regulations. This was demonstrated by a recent in-house offset crash against a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The impact speed is 50 km/h with 50 % overlap and the Smart offers its two passengers an intact occupant space and excellent chances of survival.

    After all, the new Smart ForTwo has undergone the same development programme as, for example, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Daimler’s 75 years of safety expertise and smart’s 21 years of expertise in building small cars have gone into the safety concept of the new smart generation.

    You can see, how the main frame of the 2014 Smart ForTwo is virtually intact and the doors can be opened without additional devices used in heavily crashed vehicles.

    Of course, the new Smart doesn’t have so much crumple zones as the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan, but still offers impressive passenger protection.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v708z67ALww

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Carlex Design Interior for 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

    Carlex Design has published several pictures of their customization program for the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222). The luxurious saloon is on the market for several months and is one of the best-selling in its segment. Mercedes-Benz is also offering S-Class Edition 1, but it can’t even touch the impressive interior by Carlex Design.

    The tuning company has surpassed almost everybody, when it comes to luxurious interiors. All metal elements of the Mercedes-Benz’s flagship sedan are covered in pure 24K gold. Almost all parts are covered in gold including air vents, speaker covers, door handles, air vents, emblems and the steering wheel-mounted buttons. If you think that is too much, you have to check the full leather upholstery from crocodile skin. The seats, center console, both armrests as well as the door panels and the dashboard are covered in crocodile skin.

    Carlex Design has turned the interior of the new S-Class in a place that can shelter princes and princesses without any concerns. Of course, the hardcore fans of Mercedes-Benz won’t appreciate the flashy interior, but who cares, when you can sit on heated and vented seats with massage functions covered in crocodile skin.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is priced from £62,650 in the UK and $95,900. Carlex Design didn’t reveal any pricing for the customization program, but it won’t be cheap… at all!

    Source: Carlex

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet [render images]

    Mercedes-Benz has recently announced the all-new 2015 S-Class Coupe, which replaced the well-known CL-Class. Of course, good ideas about reworking of the model started to emerge immediately. Here is one – S-Class Cabriolet materialized by the Malaysian designer Theophilus Chin. Of course, the project is based on the S-Class Coupe, which had its roof chopped and replaced by soft-fabric.

    There is a new fashion in car industry to create Coupe-Cabriolets, which is very successful, but the hardcore fans of Cabriolets still appreciate to cloth roof rather than metal. There are no other differences except the possibility of altering the angle of the windshield. If the S-Class Cabriolet happens, it will be the biggest one ever produced from the German manufacturer. It will be also a direct rival of the spectacular Bentley Continental GT Convertible.

    2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe was presented at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. It is 5,027mm long, 1,899m wide and 1,411mm tall, with a 2,495mm wheelbase. The sales are expected to begin in the second half of this year. Initially only an S500 Coupe model will be available. It will be powered by a 4.7 liter V8 bi-turbo engine with 455HP (335 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). Of course, a lot other models are expected including the super-powerful S 63 AMG and the monster S 65 AMG with over 600HP and 1,000Nm of torque.

  • 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Debuts At NAIAS

    2015-Mercedes-Benz-S-600-THUMB2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 has debuted in Detroit and it showed what it hides under its hood: the V12 biturbo engine. The top model in the S-Class range will be offered with long wheelbase and with a luxurious package of equipment.

    At the Show was also announced that not only the S 600 but al models in the current range will be upgraded with the addition of a head-up display, touchpad and Collision Prevention Assist Plus.

    Precisely, the V12 engine has an output of 530 hp (390 kW), and the displacement of the engine has increased from 5,513 to 5,980 cc. The maximum torque is 830 Nm (613 lb-ft) and is available from 1,900 rpm. Mercedes-Benz S 600 will also feature for the first time the ECO start/stop function as standard. The combined fuel consumption of the car is estimated at 25.4 mpg.

    What have to be highlighted are the features of the engine: all-aluminium crankcase, one-piece chain drive, forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel, modified forged pistons, new engine control unit, new dedicated ignition coil with twin-spark ignition, cam follower, two intake and one outlet valves (three-valve technology), hollow-stem outlet valves, filled with sodium, low-temperature cooling-water circulation with separate expansion reservoir.

    As a standard the S 600 will be equipped with variety of technologies such as the LED Intelligent Light System, the Magic Body Control suspension with Road Surface Scan and the Driving Assistance package Plus. The latter comprises Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Distronic Plus with Steer Control and Stop&Go Pilot, Pre-Safe Brake and Pre-Safe Plus.

    To go further into details, all of the functions of the head unit will be controlled by fingertip gesture, thanks to the optional touchpad. The latter offers an additional, full-function input option over and above the existing COMAND Controller and LINGUATRONIC.

    The head-up display displays important information directly in the driver’s field of view on the front windscreen. It provides important data on speed, speed limits and navigation instructions.

    Collision Prevention Assist Plus also comes as a standard here. Next to the Brake Assist system, which helps to protect against collisions at speeds of over 4 mph, this system adds another function: if the danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124 mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles.

    2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 will be available on the market in March.

    Mercedes-Benz S 600 (long wheelbase) Specifications

    Engine

    Number of cylinders/arrangement 12/V, 3 valves per cylinder
    Displacement cc 5980
    Bore x stroke mm 83.0 x 92.0
    Rated output kW/hp 390/530 at 4900 – 5300 rpm
    Rated torque Nm 830 at 1900 – 4000 rpm
    Compression ratio 15.5: 1
    Mixture formation High-pressure fuel injection with common-rail
    technology and two turbochargers

    Power transmission

    Transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC
    automatic transmission
    Gear ratios Final-drive ratio
    1st gear
    2nd gear
    3rd gear
    4th gear
    5th gear
    6th gear
    7th gear
    Reverse 1
    Reverse 2
    2.47
    4.38
    2.86
    1.92
    1.37
    1.00
    0.82
    0.73
    3.42
    2.23

    Chassis and suspension

    Front axle Four-link front suspension with coil spring, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers
    Rear axle Multi-link independent rear suspension with coil spring, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, torsion-bar stabiliser
    Braking system Internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes at front, internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes at rear, electric parking brake, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
    Steering Electromechanical rack-and-pinion power steering
    Wheels Front: 8.5 J x 19; rear: 9.5 J x 19
    Tyres Front: 245 / 45 R 19 Y; rear: 275 / 40 R 19

    Dimensions and weights

    Wheelbase mm 3165
    Track, front/rear mm 1624 / 1637
    Length (overall) mm 5246
    Width (overall) mm 1899
    Height (overall) mm 1497
    Turning circle m 12.3
    Boot capacity max.* l 500
    Kerb weight acc. to EC kg 2185
    Payload kg 555
    Perm. gross vehicle weight kg 2749
    Tank capacity/incl. reserve of l 80/8

    Performance and fuel consumption

    Acceleration 0-62mph sec. 4.6
    Top speed mph 155
    Combined fuel consumption mpg 25.4 – 24.9
    CO2 emissions g/km 264 – 259

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is Here

    2015-Mercedes-Benz-C-Class-thumb2015-Mercedes-Benz-C-Class-mediumIt’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

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class With On-Screen Debut [VIDEO]

    2014-Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-Control-THUMBThe 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 is the first of the new-generation S-Class model line which hits the U.S. showrooms today. In addition, it makes an on-screen debut as a part of an integrated marketing launch.

    The vehicle is undoubtedly a benchmark in the luxury sedans, but it also adds many exclusive features such as hot-stone massage and at the same time provides one of the most sophisticated accident-avoidance technologies.

    The marketing campaign includes two TV spots. The first one is called “Four Words” and it explores the origins of the company’s storied tagline “The Best or Nothing”. The video goes back in time through the 127-year history of Mercedes-Benz, and begins with the Gottlieb Daimler’s garage, where the very first automobile was made.

    The advertisement then reviews the historic Silver Arrow race cars inside the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart, and more importantly, the ad conveys how those four simple words written by the founder have challenged Mercedes-Benz to “inspire, provoke and push”. The end of the ad shows the new 2014 S-Class as the logical development of the entire history and philosophy of the brand.

    httpv://youtu.be/AHvwMA7h6bg

    The second advertisement is named “Control” and it illustrates what makes the S-Class driving experience “a new era of innovation”. The video shows a nighttime drive through the city and introduces features such as hot stone massage, interior lighting available in seven colors and a cabin fragrance system.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a vehicle which brings new levels of luxury, technology and safety to market. The interior of the car includes heated armrests ionized air purification via the Air Balance Package, First Class rear-seat luxury and a Burmester sound system.

    Its sophisticated exterior design is complemented by an intelligent suspension system, named Magic Body Control that sees the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly. In terms of safety technologies, Mercedes-Benz offers more than 30 standard and optional active and passive features.

    An example for one of them is the Driver Assistance Package, which includes the following: DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE Brake, PRE-SAFE PLUS, BAS PLUS with Cross Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Protection. Other Intelligent Drive safety features include Attention Assist and Night View Assist Plus with human and animal detection.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting price of $92,900 USD.

    httpv://youtu.be/lN16r051m0g

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Magic Body Control [VIDEO]

    The new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has made its debut a few weeks ago and now the luxury brand is beginning its advertising campaign. On its YouTube Channel, called MercedesBenzTV, it has released a very creative video which promotes the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive MAGIC BODY CONTROL found in the new S-Class. This is a world’s first suspension system which ensures optimum driving comfort by using “eyes”.

    ROAD SURFACE SCAN technology detects road surface’s undulations in advance by the means of the stereo camera in the windscreen. Then the MAGIC BODY CONTROL sets up the active suspension in order to deal with the situation. This new technology is based on the ABC (Active Body Control) suspension and includes an active suspension that enhances both comfort and driving dynamics.

    The new advertisement however, does not show the S-Class, but surprisingly – it is all about chickens. And to be honest, it is one of the most creative and eccentric ads I have ever seen! I’m sure that everyone will love it and it is undoubtedly worth the attention. You can view the video below:

    httpv://youtu.be/nLwML2PagbY

    Video Source: YouTube

  • German Special Customs Tunes Mercedes-Benz S-Class

    German-Special-Customs-Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-THUMBWe are all familiar with the fact that the Mercedes-Benz vehicles are one of the most exclusive and luxurious ones. This is very true especially for the series called “S-Class“. Since five decades, the series is present on the automotive market, and a few weeks ago we have seen the introduction of its latest member.

    And now German Special Customs is presenting its own design of an optically as well as technically clearly re-sharpened S-Class luxury limousine. Some of the most striking modifications are the bulky aprons on the front and rear sides.

    To be more precise, the GSC front spoiler bumper bar with integrated LED daylight running light bars seems to be virtually sucking in the air stream with its massive cooling air openings. On the other hand, its counterpart on the rear creates a frame on the trapezoidal end-pipes of the new sport exhaust system.

    There are also connecting links of the new bumper bars which form side skirts that also contribute towards an optical sense of lowering. Furthermore, the engine hood embodies signs which give a hint of the power concealed beneath it, thanks to its powerful contours and integrated ventilation openings.

    An engine modification is expected in the future. The GSC professionals aim to tune the Biturbo V8 Sports S63 AMG unit so that it provide up to 850 horsepower (625 kW). At last, the company will offer XL wheel/tire combinations with diameters of up to 21 inches for the wheel houses of the S-Class.

    Source: German Special Customs

  • Carlsson Mercedes-Benz S-Class – 780HP and 1050Nm

    Carlsson has announced their latest project based on the all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

    The exterior comes with an aerodynamics package including a new front bumper featuring larger air intakes and an “RS” front lip spoiler. There are also a set of revised side skirts, a new rear bumper and diffuser housing a 4-tailpipe sports exhaust system. The big saloon rides wheels in sizes ranging from 19” to 21”. The Carlsson C-tronic suspension lowering kit for vehicles with Airmatic and Magic Body Control will be available shortly.

    The interior boasts fine leather and wood, state-of-the-art high-tech infotainment equipment such as HD TV screens, an audiophile grade REVOX Sound system, and business tools like a Wi-Fi hotspot can be seamlessly integrated into the plush cabin. Even a fridge or a Humidor can be fitted to make you feel more at home. Carlsson are also used to fitting made to measure Merino Sheepskin floor mats to customer cars. Colour matched to the vehicle’s interior these mats are available either as a set of four, or for the front foot wells only.

    Carlsson offers performance packages for the 4.7 liter twin-turbo V8 (S500), which can be boosted to 610HP (448 kW) and 900Nm (663 lb-ft) – an increase of 154HP and 200Nm. The 5.5 liter twin-turboV8 (S63 AMG) is able to develop 780HP (573 kW) and 1,050Nm (774 lb-ft) – an increase of 195HP and 150Nm

    Source: Carlsson

  • 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Concept

    Mercedes-Benz has exhibited the all-new S-Class Coupe Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The successor of the CL-Class boasts gorgeous appearance and self-assured style and embodies the design philosophy of sensual clarity. In the interior with its spectacular architecture and truly exclusive appointments the four-seater defines the state of the art of modern luxury.

    The big coupe measures 5050 mm in length, 1958 mm in width and 1409 mm in height with a 2945 mm wheelbase. It is characterised by typical rear-wheel drive proportions, which are emphasised by the Mercedes-typical signature, the dropping line. The long bonnet with distinctive lines and powerdomes, the cowering greenhouse with high beltline. S-Class Coupe rolls a set of 21” alloy wheels fitted with 265/35 R 21 front and 295/35 R 21 rear tires.

    The engine is the well-known 4.7 liter twin-turbo V8 from S500 – 455HP (339 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

    The interior features new layout with a white instrument panel and a more sculpted shape of its lower area. There are aluminum ventilation nozzles with ceramic-like inserts. There are two 12.3” screens, which are slimmer than the ones in the regular S-Class.

    We are expecting a production ready version in January, next year at the 2014 NAIAS.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz