The latest Cadillac ATS RWD sedan, gets a price tag which makes its future look good. Starting from $33,990, the 2.5-liter/30+ mpg model even comes with destination charges. It’s a small poke in the eye for Mercedes-Benz and Audi. Their own compact-sedans (the C250 and A4 respectfully) have a significantly higher price.
Besides the 2.5, for one can get the mid-range power train ($35,795) which is 2.0 but it is turbocharged thus more powerful and less thirsty. Manual and Automatic transmissions are available as is the choice between RWD and AWD. The top of the range model that costs $42,090, incorporates a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 320 horsepower. The transmission is strictly automatic and the standard equipment includes leather 8-way power seats with memory for settings storage, adaptive start, CUE tech and much more. Full specifications are due to came later on.
The CUE technology represents Caddilac’s user interface. It’s akin to that used in many smartphones and tablets. The idea is that it uses electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger – in other words… a touchscreen.
The handling is also expected to be top-notch since the Nürburgring in Germany, among other tracks has been a favorite of Cadillac testing engineers for quite a while. The ATS is also lighter than the aforementioned A4 and C250 by around 100 pounds. The top-of-the-line 3.6 is expected to do 0 to 100 kph in less than 6 seconds.
Eight automakers from Europe and United States are going to display one-of-a-kind fast-charging technology. It is unique because it will enable recharging of most electrified vehicles for just 15 to 20 minutes.
The brands which are taking part in this project are: Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen. They have agreed to work in collaboration in order to provide a harmonized single-port fast charging approach.
The name of this project is DC-fast charging with a Combined Charging System. It will be utilized for vehicles in the U.S. and Europe.
More importantly, the first live charging demonstrations will take place during the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 (EVS26) (6th-9th of May).
What the combined charging system does is to integrate one-phase AC-charging, fast three-phase AC-charging, DC-charging at home and ultra-fast DC-charging at public stations into one vehicle inlet. The purpose of this is that any driver will be able to recharge its vehicle almost anywhere, regardless of power source.
Another benefit of this project concerns a more affordable adoption of a standardized infrastructure.
Combined Charging System Connector
Furthermore, the European association of vehicle manufacturers has chosen the Combined Charging System as its AC/DC-charging interface to become integral part in the all new vehicles in Europe, with a starting date in 2017.
It is also important to mention that this charging system was designed having in mind existing charging strategies, the ergonomics of the connector and preferences of U.S. and European customers.
Moreover, an additional advantage of the Combined Charging System will create a uniform standard with identical electrical systems, charge controllers, package dimensions and safety mechanisms.
Next, the system will be also responsible for maximizing the capability for integration with future smart grid developments through common broadband communication methods. This will happen of course, regardless the global location of the charging system.
Last, but not least, this approach will also minimize the development and infrastructure complexity, and enhance the charging reliability, reduce the total cost-of-ownership for end customers and offer low maintenance costs.
Commercially available combined charging stations are projected to be on disposal later this year and vehicles using the technology will be available starting 2013.
Project Visio.M Concept is an interesting project which will offer a solution for electric mass mobility in urban environments. The electric cars which are powered by electricity from renewable energy are one of the most attractive options for mobility in the future.
This not only concern long distance travel, but in fact the focus of this project is put mainly on mobility within the urban area.
In the history of the development of such technologies, the different approaches have lead only to vehicles which are either too expensive or too heavy. In addition to that they might not meet the mass-market safety requirements.
And here is where Project Visio.M steps in. It is a joint research project between scientists at the Technische Universitaet Muenchen (TUM) and engineers from the automotive industry (mainly from BMW).
Their aim is to develop electric concepts cars which are efficient, safe, and inexpensive. In addition to this the electric vehicles are very silent and more importantly have no emissions. This makes them one of the most important options for future individual mobility in the city areas.
Projcet Visio.M Concept
However, there are a lot of technical developments to be undertaken before this happens. For instance, small electric vehicles offer minimum level of safety. In addition, the models which are derived from gasoline-powered cars are usually too heavy and require large and expensive batteries.
Rroject Visio.M envisions to be a small electric vehicle, affordable and safe, and achieving the goal to share significant part of the mass market.
The information about this vision that we have is that this mobility concept will be powered by 15 kilowatts and will have a maximum curb weight of 400 kg (without battery). This will meet the requirements of the European regulatory category L7e.
The project is going to be built on the MUTE concept, developed by the TU Muenchen as their test carrier to explore innovations and new technologies for vehicle safety, propulsion, energy storage, and operational concepts for implementation under the framework requirements of large-scale production.
Most of the attention here had gone to the safety. Although this concept has a minimal weight, it is expected to have a level of protection equal to that offered by conventional cars with combustion engines.
Not that a Mercedes-BenzSL is a very common sight on the streets but it’s owners will eventually become wary about the possibility of blending in. That’s not what Mercedeses are for. Loosing that character of exclusivity may be the worst thing that can happen to an SL. Luckily however, there is a solution… coming directly from Daimler’s cellar in Stuttgart – introducing the Mercedes-Benz original accessories.
The variety of things that can go on your SL is extensive. Extensive is the wheel selection – eleven stylish alloy wheels. Then there are the various docking stations and ports so you can plug-in just about any smoartphone that has ever been produced. A COMAND Online multimedia system includes a DVD changer and a media interface and is compatible with again numerous mobile devices.
Leaving functionality and entering style we find the elegant door sill made from brushed stainless steel that reads an illuminated “Mercedes-Benz”. Or how about taking a part of the SL wherever you go with the key ring which is a replica of the SL symbol on the boot lid?
AMG also contributes to the goody bag – aprons for the back and front, side skirts and a choice of three 19-inch five-spoke wheels.
Mercedes-Benz SL with incenio 19-inch multi-spoke wheel
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is providing the necessary safety for the world’s most popular touring car series. The German Touring Car Masters (DTM) starts on the 29th of April at Hockenheimring.
The vehicle is made in accordance with the DTM rules and is going to be driven by racing driver Jürgen Kastenholz. The car is intended to provide optimal safety for racing drivers, spectators and track marshals if event of dangerous situation occurs.
In fact, this is the most powerful C-Class ever created and next to the spectacular design, includes latest technology enhancements. 2012 C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series features aerodynamically optimised light bar on the roof, energy-efficient, fast-response LEDs in green and orange, which serve to keep the DTM racing drivers informed of the current situation.
In details, the green lights on the front and rear are always active when the car enters the field at the beginning of a Safety Car phase. Continuous green is the signal for all DTM drivers to overtake the Safety Car.
On the other hand the orange color is used when the Safety Car is in position in front of all DTM vehicles. The flashing orange lights indicate that overtaking is absolutely prohibited.
In addition, the stroboscope-like flashing LED lights on the front and rear remain active throughout the Safety Car phase.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is equipped with the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and maximum torque of 620 Nm (458 lb-ft). The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h for this car is possible for just 4.2 seconds. Its top speed is 300 km/h.
Furthermore, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car comes with a modified AMG sports exhaust system. The special rear silencer guarantees a distinctive AMG V8 sound.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive programmes, double-declutching function and RACE START delivers direct and fast gear-shifting.
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car
Next, the standard-fit AMG rear-axle differential lock with locking effect in acceleration and deceleration mode combines with the 3-stage ESP®. And in cases of extremely short stopping distances the car is equipped with the AMG high-performance braking system.
Moreover, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series DTM Safety Car includes AMG Track package, the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package and forged AMG light-alloy wheels.
First, the AMG Track package features active rear axle gear cooling and sports tyres. The radiator is positioned in front of the diffuser insert in the rear apron to effectively take the air stream. The safety car runs on Dunlop Sport Maxx Race sports tyres in size 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear. Additionally, they are fitted on forged AMG wheels which are painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.
Secondly, the AMG Aerodynamics package comprises of flics and a functionally designed genuine carbon-fibre front splitter on the front apron, plus a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with adjustable blade. These components give the vehicle a sharper profile and optimize its aerodynamic balance.
At last, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package includes exterior mirror housings, the inserts in the side sill panels and a diffuser insert in genuine carbon fibre.
The interior of this Mercedes-Benz sport car is also in harmony with its exterior and corresponds to the series production model. What is new here are the two AMG sports bucket seats, which ensure optimum lateral support for driver and co-driver.
In terms of safety, new four-point seat belts are being utilized. The maximum control is delivered by the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA with flattened top and bottom rim sections and aluminium gearshift paddles.
Another highlight is the two-way radio system and TV monitor which serve for communication with the race organizers. The camera, which is located next to the rear license plate, provides the co-driver with a view of the DTM cars following the Safety Car.
Mercedes has exhibited the new Viano Vision Diamond Concept at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show.
The luxurious van comes with exterior enhancements as well as full interior rebuild.
The exterior boasts black radiator grille, chromed grille louvers, and two-tone exterior paint job. A fine, shimmering gold line painted by hand separates the two body colors of black and diamond white, and a painted diamond adorns the B-pillar. The two-tone effect is repeated in the rims of the 5-spoke wheels, and the brakes feature the words “Mercedes-Benz” in gold.
The interior boasts Maybach-inspired rear seats that have integrated footrests as well as heating, cooling and massage functions. The comfort is further enhanced by diamond embedded trim, silver champagne flutes and a refrigerator that holds 5 bottles.
The final touches are a huge 40” flat-screen display, which can be used for watching television, surfing the Internet and participating in video conferences. There is also a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, W-LAN internet connectivity and a Magic Sky Control, which enables passengers to change the interior lighting conditions with just the push of a button. This changes the color of the windows, an effect that is made possible by a liquid in the window glass that reacts to differences in electric current.
Isn’t that a looker?! It’s the latest concept-to-be-reality thing from Mercedes-Benz. At the moment it’s called the Concept Style Coupé (CSC) and it looks like the love child of a CLS and an A-Class if they were ever to mate. Sleek and curvy, this fluidic piece of art is to be exhibited next week at the Beijing Motor Show as it makes its world debut. It’s smart as well, no doubt, with Mercedes’ latest turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit, a 4MATIC drive and a set of fancy blinkers…apparently.
Let’s start off with the exterior, shall we? It certainly has the face of an A-class (the latest one) with that dotted grille. Then again, with a length of 4637 mm, it is almost as long as the current CLS (give it or take 300 mm). And that slopey profile is rather unmistakable – it has “four-door coupe” all over it. There’s a glass roof at the top which is only separated from the rear window by a roll-bar-like beam. The 21-inch wheels on the CSC are meant to look like turbines and supposedly, they do channel air to those massive disk brakes. Then there are the headlights – even when they are off, a red glare throws daggers at you in a particularity devilish manner. The indicators resemble a set of LEDs that light up in succession much like the ones you find on an airstrip.
Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe
Inside, things are just as Mercedish – a blend of leather and Alcantra wrap around you with an ergonomic nature. The carbon-trimmed dashboard is meant to represent a wingspan while the air vents on it use a jet engine for inspiration (quite a lot of aircraft themes so far). There’s a light behind each one of them so they tend to change their color, depending on the temperature of the air that’s being thrown at your face – red suggests scorching hot, blue offers Arctic whirlwinds and yellow indicates a mildly breeze (we just like to think so). The neon green lining touch is rather neat as well – it gives you that sporty training shoe feel. Computer buffs will love this as well – the car’s COMAND Online gives you access to the world wide web at all times and that the software (all the apps and interface) is hosted directly at Dimler’s. That way you can get the most current updates “over-the-air” (OTA) through, let’s say, a mobile phone connection.
But enough about silly stuff. Let’s talk numbers and fumes… which aren’t that much. Sure, 211 bhp sound reasonable enough. But we suspect that an engine, normally found in the A-Class, won’t be at it’s best in the CSC (remember that the world wide web is in it?). Still, a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder top of the range engine (from that family), mated to a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and a 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission sounds like a nimble setup. It might just be for show, something to put inside this gorgeous body for the time being. When can we expect a production version? Next year, the year after that? We don’t know.
For now, look forward to the Beijing Motor Show which kicks off at the 23th of April where we’ll have that and much more.
Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG are vehicles which are delivering outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel”.
The design of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is reworked, and now features spray-controlled petrol direct injection, ECO start/stop function and generator management.
It is equipped with AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine which effortlessly develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 Nm (561 lb-ft).
Therefore it is no surprise that this exceptional vehicle is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. Its new top speed is 210 km/h.
Although this vehicle delivers a powerful performance, its fuel consumption is also impressive: just 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. This is 2.1 litres less than its predecessor model produced. The reduction is a result of the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function.
First, the seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting. Whan it is in “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. In addition, the AMG instrument cluster also includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.
There are also two other modes: the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes. Whan they are on, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays enhanced agility.
2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG
The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is improved with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.
Furthermore, AMG sports exhaust system includes twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear. The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been modified for the more dynamic handling characteristics.
In addition to these modifications, the wheels and brakes are also completely new. This powerful Mercedes-Benz machine runs on new AMG 5×2 spoke light alloy wheels. They come as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with
275/50 R 20 tyres.
As an option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges.
Moreover, this Mercedes-Benz vehicle comes equipped with a new AMG high-performance brakes. They deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance.
The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator Mercedes-Benz grille now comes with four chrome inserts. This actuallt makes it AMG recognizable.
Another new feature is the AMG bumper. In particular it has three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. The vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts give the G63 AMG powerful stance.
Of course, the interior was also completely transgormed and now includes more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. There is a new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems. In addition to them, G 63 AMG comes with an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors.
The cabin looks even more comfortable, thank to the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. There are also other options available for an even more stylish interior.
2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG Interior
G 63 AMG key specifications:
G 63 AMG
Displacement
5461 cc
Bore x stroke
98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio
10.0 : 1
Output
400 kW (544 hp) at 5500 rpm
Max. torque
760 Nm at 2000–5000 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
13.8 l/100 km
CO2 emissions
322 g/km
Efficiency class
G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h
5.4
Top speed
210 km/h
2012 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG has an autstading performance, it has maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) thank to the V12 engine. Hence, the G 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h.
In fact, this is the first G-Class vehicle which is equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine. The latter includes new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit.
As a result, the combustion is improved and this leads to smoother running and power delivery. As in the G 63 AMG, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G TRONIC automatic transmission system is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.
G 65 AMG key specifications:
G 65 AMG
Displacement
5980 cc
Bore x stroke
82.6 x 93.0 mm
Compression ratio
9.0:1
Output
450 kW (612 hp) at 4300–5600 rpm
Max. torque
1000 Nm at 2300–4300 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
17.0 l/100 km
CO2 emissions
397 g/km
Efficiency class
G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h
5.3
Top speed
230 km/h*
The exterior of the G 65 AMG is distinguished by its high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards.
The interior of the vehicle includes designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. What is especially made for this mode is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This theme is repeated on the door central panels.
A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo Mercedes-Benz mats with a V12 badge.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG will be launched in june with the following starting prices:
Mercedes-benz has revealed an all-new model called Citan. It is actually a commercial panel van aiming to young families with children, who need spacious and versatile vehicle in order to do their tasks easily.
You’ll probably notice that this “new” Mercedes Citan is a rebadged Renault Kangoo. The Citan is born after the a strange alliance between Daimler and Renault.
The changes are minor – a new front grille and slightly different headlights. Besides the Mercedes-Benz logo, the Citan also comes with different front bumper and front hood compared to the Kangoo.
It is offered in three body-styles – a panel van, a crewbus, and a mixed-use vehicle and also in three lengths – compact, long and extra-long.
The choice of engines is broad. Three high-torque, turbodiesel direct-injection engines with outputs from 75HP (55kW) to 110HP (81kW) and a nippy, supercharged petrol engine generating 115 hp (84kW) cover all standard requirements. All the diesel engines have a particulate filter as standard. Five and 6-speed transmissions with a joystick gearshift positioned within easy reach on the centre console transmit power to the front wheels.
Reducing fuel consumption, a BlueEFFICIENCY package is available for the petrol engine as standard and includes ECO start/stop function, battery and generator management and low rolling resistance tires.
The safety is granted thanks to a number of technologies included in the standard Adaptive Electronic Stability Program – ABS (anti-locking braking system), VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), TCS (Traction Control System) and ASR (Acceleration Skid Control).
2012 Mercedes-Benz Citan will be officially unveiled at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in the end of this year.
Kicherer has announced their tuning program for the new Mercedes-Benz ML turning it into a real high-performance luxury SUV. The name of the project is IMPACT.
The exterior comes with LED daytime running lights, wheel arch enlargements for the front and rear axles, side skirts, attachments to the doors and trunk lids as well as a rear fender skirt with integrated rear diffuser and trapezoidal pipe-end covers in sportive four-pipe looks, a complete front fender skirt also belongs to the IMPACT’s aerodynamic assembly set. The assembly set is complemented by numerous perfectly positioned applications made of visible carbon fiber.
The SUV rolls enormous 22” KICHERER RS2 Aluminum wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires. The suspension uses an electronic chassis adjustment system by about 25 mm.
The interior boasts a choice of Nappa leather, Alcantara and Carbon in the entire interior for an exclusive experience.
The KICHERER ML “IMPACT” aerodynamic kit will be available for all ML types 166 of the youngest generation. Initial market appearance is planned for the summer of 2012.
The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG is going to be available at dealerships in the United Kingdom very soon. In addition to that the new, refreshed vehicle is going to come with a competitive price of £82 995.
What is more, the ML 63 AMG comes with an exceptional set of standard equipment. Of course, as you have already concluded, this comprehensive equipment comes from the experts from Mercedes-Benz AMG performance division.
In short, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG is propelled by a 5.5-litre bi-turbo direct-injection V8 engine. It delivers the exceptional 525 hp (386 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. And if the vehicle is equipped with the optional AMG Performance Package, then the customer will enjoy riding on a beast producing the whole 557 hp (410 kW) and 760 Nm (561 lb-ft).
For more detailed specifications about the ML 63 AMG, click HERE.
These impressive numbers of the engine makes it possible for the Mercedes to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds.
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG
And what specifically the engineer from AMG has done here is to make the car work more fuel-efficiently. In particular, now the car is almost 40 per cent more economical and emits nearly 30 per cent less CO2 than the previous model.
In addition to this, there is also the responsive and intelligent AMG Speedshift Plus 7-G Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission included in this model. It also featured a Controlled Efficiency driving mode and ECO start/stop function. They additionally contribute to the improved fuel-efficiency and show combined economy of 23.9 mpg, with CO2 emissions pared down to 276 g/km.
Modifications have been done to the chassis as well. They ensure the excellent performance of the 2012 ML 63 AMG. Furthermore, there are also included AMG sports suspension and high-performance brakes with internally ventilated and perforated discs, Direct Steer and 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels.
Next to be highlighted is the Mercedes-Benz Active Curve System with AirMATIC self-levelling air suspension. This system comes also as a standard and gives the ML 63 AMG astounding body composure and handling when cornering.
There is no doubt that the specialists from the AMG have done incredible work on the exterior and interior appearance of the car as well. For instance, the exterior includes AMG bodywork with exclusive front and rear aprons and side skirts, AMG-specific LED daytime running lamps as part of the standard Intelligent Light System, an AMG sports exhaust system with two twin tailpipes which give the ML 63 AMG its charismatic exhaust note and ‘V8 BITURBO’ lettering on the front wings.
On the other hand, the interior is as impressive as the outer look of the vehicle. Inside are included a leather-upholstered AMG Sports seats which are in addition, heated at the front. Moreover there are is also featured the following equipment: an AMG four-spoke steering wheel trimmed in Nappa leather with a flat lower section, AMG instruments and floor mats and sports pedals and footrest in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, Mercedes-Benz COMAND Online system with Media Interface, a DAB digital radio, a dashboard trimmed in Artico artificial leather and an electric glass sunroof.
2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG Interior
An interesting fact is that the optional AMG Performance Package is being offered for the very first time on the ML-Class. And thank to it, now the ML model can get not only additional power and torque, but also it gets the AMG Performance steering wheel with Dinamica inserts in the grip areas, an AMG carbon fibre engine cover and red-painted brake calipers.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG can be also equipped with the Driver’s Package. What it basically does is to increase the limited top speed from 155 mph to 174 mph.
The exceptional 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has just recently received some significant upgrades. The G-Class is still one of the leaders among off-road vehicles. The interior now includes high-quality finishes made with exquisite materials. In addition, the instrument cluster and centre console have been absolutely transformed.
In addition driver’s field of vision is now encompassed by a colour screen. The 2013 G-Class also features the sophisticated COMAND Online infotainment system. It includes a navigation system and internet access.
What is more, new LED daytime driving lamps and new exterior mirrors also add to exterior appearance of the luxury off-roader.
And how about the range of safety features: it can be optionally enhanced with the addition of Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS.
Absolutely new to the range is the G 63 AMG model with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine with standard ECO start/stop system, and the G 65 AMG model with twelve-cylinder biturbo engine.
In fact, the G-Class today is one of the top models among luxury-class cross-country vehicles, and has provided the gene pool for the other very successful SUVs built under the Mercedes-Benz brand. This year the G-Class has been voted off-roader of the year, as it has been voted many years before.
In the new upgraded range there are new measures included, such as new engines, a significantly extended range of appointments, new luxurious interior and a few discreet external modifications.
2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Although the exterior modifications have been “discreet”, the interior is compledtely transformed.
Fisrt, the external modifications include LED daytime running lamps and new exterior mirrors for all engine variants. In addition, the AMG versions also include new characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvres, plus distinctive new bumpers with large air intakes, red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels.
But let us put more attention on the interior. Here the instrument panel and centre console have been entirely redesigned and now include new controls and new trim elements. The result is that the new G-Class now has fresh and classy look.
In addition, the TFT colour display is now on the the instrument cluster between the two round dials. And an additional large colour screen is conveniently positioned in the centre. It is part of the COMAND Online system and incorporates a DVD changer and the COMAND Controller. All this comes as a standard on all G-Class models.
The afore mentioned infotainment system includes also a navigation system with special additional off-road functions, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
The G-Class however, retains the grab handle on the front-passenger side, the switches for the three differential locks – clearly aligned within the driver’s field of vision and highlighted in silver-coloured trim – and the redesigned shift lever in the lower section of the centre console.
Of course, there are also featured new optional extras: DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC with reversing camera, ESP® system withTrailer Stability Assist and a HOLD function.
2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Interior
More importantly, the range of engines included, has been futher optimized. It now includes: the G 350 BlueTEC and the G 500, both as a long-wheelbase station wagon, plus the G 500 as a short-wheelbase Cabriolet model. The basic version of the long-wheelbase station wagon model is the G 350 BlueTEC with V6 diesel engine and a displacement of 2987 cc. The four-valve engine has an output of 155 kW (211 hp) at 3400 rpm and has available torque of 540 Nm (397 lb-ft) across an engine speed range of 1600 to 2400 rpm.
Important note here is that the BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz minimises its emissions effectively.
Furthermore, there is one alternative engine to the diesel one. Namely, it is the G 500, which has a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with an output of 285 kW (388 hp) and offers excellent torque of 530 Nm (390 lb-ft).
Vehicles, equipped with the G 350 and the G 500 enines will also feature the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard. In particular, this is the sixth generation of the stepped automatic transmission that has been developed and produced by Mercedes-Benz.
What is absolutely new to the G-Class range is the G 63 AMG with V8 biturbo engine, which produces 400 kW (544 hp) and 760 Nm (559 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, this engine also features the ECO start/stop system as standard. In fact, the engine range has been extended by the addition of the G 65 AMG with V12 biturbo engine, which is able to create 450 kW (612 hp) and 1000 Nm (735 lb-ft) of torque.
The new G-Class Range will be available from June 2012 with a starting price of 85 311 Euros.
The latest Cadillac ATS RWD sedan, gets a price tag which makes its future look good. Starting from $33,990, the 2.5-liter/30+ mpg model even comes with destination charges. It’s a small poke in the eye for Mercedes-Benz and Audi. Their own compact-sedans (the C250 and A4 respectfully) have a significantly higher price.
Eight automakers from Europe and United States are going to display one-of-a-kind fast-charging technology. It is unique because it will enable recharging of most electrified vehicles for just 15 to 20 minutes.
Not that a 
Isn’t that a looker?! It’s the latest concept-to-be-reality thing from 
Mercedes-benz has revealed an all-new model called Citan. It is actually a commercial panel van aiming to young families with children, who need spacious and versatile vehicle in order to do their tasks easily.
Kicherer has announced their tuning program for the new Mercedes-Benz ML turning it into a real high-performance luxury SUV. The name of the project is IMPACT.
