SL-Class – Automobiles Review

2014 Mercedes-Benz SL 400 – Price €97,282

Mercedes-Benz has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 SL 400. The stylish roadster is a successor of SL 350 and comes with an new engine and some other nice technologies. These include aluminium body and chassis as well as a number of premium extras.

The engine is taken from E-Class 400 – a 3.0 liter V6 twin-turbo with 333HP (245 kW) at 5,250RPM and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) at just 1,600RPM. 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). This is 27HP and 110Nm more than its predecessor. The fuel consumption is also improved – 7.3 liters / 100 km on combined cycle (32.2 mpg US or 38.6 mph UK) with CO2 emissions of 172 g/km. The EURO 6 engine is mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels.

Like all BlueDIRECT petrol engines the biturbo engine in the new SL 400 also works with a direct injection system with spray-guided combustion, which Mercedes-Benz was the first car manufacturer to offer in series production. The system pressure is up to 200 bar, the pressure being variably optimised according to the engine’s mapping. Piezo injectors enable optimal mixture formation with up to five injections per power stroke. The third-generation direct injection is supplemented by rapid multi-spark ignition, MSI.

2014 Mercedes-Benz SL 400 is priced from €97,282 (including 19% VAT).

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 7, 2014

Brabus 2013 Mercedes SL-Class – Beast on wheels

Brabus has announced their latest project based on the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. The tuning program offers both styling and performance upgrades.

Sporty-elegant body styling components, tuned in the wind tunnel for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, are the BRABUS designers’ specialty. The exterior boasts a complete body kit including a new front and rear bumpers, a pair of revised side skirts, front fender vents and a trunk-mounted spoiler. The ride rolls Monoblock wheels in dimensions from 18” to 20”. There is also a sports exhaust system available to order.

The largest combination to fit the R 231 model series SL features BRABUS Monoblock F, Q or R wheels in size 9J x 20” in front with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires and size 9.5J x 20” wheels with 295/25 ZR 20 tires on the rear axle.

BRABUS recommends high-performance tires from Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

The two-seated cockpit can receive even more individual character and luxury attributes at BRABUS. The product lineup ranges from scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and a speedometer with 320-km/h or 360-km/h dial (200 mph or 225 mph) to carbon-fiber or fine wood trim sets in any imaginable color and with a variety of surface finishes.

The company upholstery shop creates exquisite BRABUS interiors from especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The SL500 can be equipped with a 520 PowerXtra CGI power kit. The result for the twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 engine is 520HP (382 kW) and 820 Nm (604 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250, 275 or 300 km/h (155, 172, 186 mph).

The car can also be equipped with a limited-slip differential and a revised suspension with sport springs (on the SL 350) or a reprogrammed ABC (Active Body Control) module that reduces the ride height by 25mm.

Source: Brabus

September 12, 2012

Pricing announced for 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster is even more exceptional as one can imagine it and is now available with a starting price of £72 495. This is the sixth generation of the world’s most emblematic Roadster and afore mentioned price goes for the SL 350 model. SL 500 will cost the “willing-to-be-driver” £83 445.

One is most certain, the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster is lighter, have sportier stance and more importantly – more efficient. An interesting fact for instance is that the main reason for this is that its body was almost entirely of aluminum. All this combined with its power, which comes from Mercedes-Benz BlueDIRECT direct-injection engine, makes the luxurious car efficient in terms of fuel, yet still not lacking in performance.

In particular, SL 350 is powered by a BlueDIRECT 3.5-litre V6 engine, which produces 306 horsepower (225 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 – 5,250 rpm. The new model will be also responsible for sharper performance. It is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.9 seconds and onto a 155 mph electronically limited top speed. However, its CO2 emissions remain high – 176 g/km. Yet, the fuel economy is more than excellent – 37.7mpg.

Next, the SL 500 is powered by the 4,663 cc BlueDIRECT V8 engine. This one combines direct injection and twin-turbo technologies. Due tot his fact, it develops 435 hp (320 kW) at 5,250 rpm and an impressive 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque which is available from a low 1,800 rpm to 3,500 rpm. Its sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is even more impressive – it can cover it in just 4.6 seconds. Here as well the speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Fuel efficiency and CO2 figures are 30.7 mpg on the combined cycle and 214 g/km.

Although it is a new 2013 model, the SL-Class retains its classic sports-roadster proportions. It still has a long bonnet and set-back cabin. Nevertheless, the car is now longer, wider and lower than before.

Something that must be highlighted here as well is that its body construction is mainly made from aluminum. The consequence of this is that it has reduced the weight of the car with circa 140 kg, despite the significant increases in safety and luxury features. Nonetheless, there are parts which are non-aluminum: the magnesium sections of the rear floor and the high-strength steel implants in the front windscreen pillars for peerless open-top safety.

The body of this Mercedes-Benz vehicle can now be considered stiffer as well. For example, the chassis now includes semi-active adjustable damping or optional Active Body Control, and Direct Steer speed-sensitive power steering. All this results in more nimble and sporty responses with no sacrifice in comfort.

In terms of safety, the new SL-Class can be considered among the safest roadster in the world. It comes equipped with a comprehensive standard protection features: PRE-SAFE, NECK-PRO, ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, pro-active DISTRONIC PLUS AND PRE-SAFE BRAKE (as an option).

Standard specification includes the following: Pre-safe, Attention Assist and Active Bonnet; Intelligent Light System with bi-Xenon headlamps; Magic Vision Control heated adaptive wiper system; COMAND Online with Media Interface; Sports seats trimmed in leather upholstery; 18” five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 28, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster with market launch

What other car can deliver supreme sportiness, style and comfort other than Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster from Mercedes-Benz. In just in a day it is going to be available at all dealerships of the brand.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster has a body-in-white, which was produced from all-aluminium constructions as this happens for the first time. The customers can choose between two new powerful 6- and 8-cylinder engines featuring cutting-edge injection technology. In addition the ECO start/stop function comes as standard. What is specific about these newly developed engines is that they are saving up to 29 percent more fuel than their predecessors.

Additional innovations included in the Roadster are the Frontbass system for the ultimate in listening pleasure, and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL wiper/washer system. The altter applies the water to the windscreen directly from the wiper blade.

The new generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is all about lightness. May be you have no idea what the abbreviation “SL” stands for. Well, to answer thoe who still are wondering – it means “super-light”. Systematic weight reduction is one of the key structural design features of the new SL.

Furthermore, 2013 SL includes another debut: an all-aluminium body-in-white. Of course, all is done in the name of “lightness”. Combined with a host of other intelligent improvements to points of detail, this leads to an overall weight reduction of up to 140 kilograms in comparison to the predecessor model. What is more here is that the aluminium structure is also superior to the predecessor’s steel design in terms of rigidity, safety and comfort. Maybe this is one of the safest Roadsters in the world.

Moreover, the new SL-Class has high environmental compatibility: it reveals advantages over the previous model in all impact categories. Primary energy requirements have been reduced by 23% and NOx emissions by 16% over the entire life cycle. In addition, the new SL was built with higher percentage of high-quality recyclates and renewable raw materials. What has to be highlighted here is that for the first time in automotive industry, a secondary alloy has been qualified for aluminium inner panels in the body-in-white, thus minimizing the environmental impact in the manufacturing process.

Prices for the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster start at 93,534 euros.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 30, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2013 SL-class. The sports car features an all-aluminum bodyshell, which means more rigidity and less weight. Furthermore, the folding metal roof has a magnesium frame cutting more weight compared to the previous model. The new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor, sacrificing some of the weight saved through the aluminum bodyshell as a result.

The exterior of 2013 SL is entirely reworked and looks kind of … different. It features a ventilated hood and a single bar grille. The Bi-xenon headlamps come with active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps as a standard feature. There is also an Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The striking sidelights and the horizontal line of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology. At the rear, the new SL features LED taillights and a dual exhaust system.

Aerodynamics – new standards

The design of the new SL is not only aesthetically beautiful, it also boasts outstanding aerodynamic characteristics, giving the roadster top marks in its segment in three crucial areas:

• the lowest wind noise, virtually on par with a closed sedan;
• the best comfort during open-air driving, meaning the roof can stay down evenat high speed;
• virtually no accumulation of dirt on the side windows.

The interior boasts finest leather upholstery, a choice of two wood trims and metallic accents. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car. The dashboard features round air vents and a new FrontBass audio system.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque, which grants 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and exceptional fuel consumption of just 6.8 liters per 100 km (41.5 mpg). The top-of-range SL500 has a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 delivering 435PS (320 kW) and astonishing 699Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The SL is the world’s safest roadster, thanks to the collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard equipment that includes PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST, plus further assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 14, 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz range for the US: C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the 2012 model range. It will feature revised versions of C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS Class. Furthermore, the manufacturer will put on sale E63 AMG Estate in the US.

Most 2012 models will feature a more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic gearbox and more powerful direct-injected petrol engines. Furthermore, there will be an entirely new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, naturally aspirated V6 and bi-turbo V8 power units – some with ECO Stop/Start technology.

The interior will boasts a new audio headunit with a 5.8” color display, Bluetooth audio streaming, phonebook download, album cover art and USB port. COMAND with Navigation receives a 7” screen, SIRIUS weather, display of personal photos, 3D city models, intermediate navigation destinations, area avoidance and a larger 10GB Music Register.

The new direct injected 1.8 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine in C250 delivers 201HP (148 kW) and 310Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. C350 sport will come with new direct-injected 3.5 liter V6 with 302HP (222 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft).

The mighty CLS550 is powered by a 4.6 liter bi-turbo V8 with 402HP (296 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) coupled to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. CLS63 AMG has new direct-injected 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 518HP (381 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) with with ECO Stop/Start technology and AMG 7-speed MCT.

Check out the new features to all models at the table, below.

2012 Mercedes SLS Roadster

C-Class Sedan (September)

Restyled four-door sedan with new direct-injection 4- and 6-cylinder engines, more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, aluminum hood and increased standard equipment including HD radio, rain-sensing wipers, integrated garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, USB interface and integrated compass.
Exterior updates include new headlights, LED DRL’s and taillights, bumpers and grille.
A completely redesigned interior features a color instrument cluster display, new headunit (described above) w/fixed 5.8″ screen, avail. PARKTRONIC w/Parking Assist
New safety features includes standard ATTENTION ASSIST, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function and available Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
C250 Sport/Luxury: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.)
C300 4MATIC Sport/Luxury: continues with existing 3.0-liter V6 (228 hp, 221 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive.
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.)
C63 AMG: receives AMG 7-speed Multi-Clutch Transmission (MCT) and continues with naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft) and optimized suspension. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

C-Class Coupe (September)

New two-door coupe debuts with bold AMG styling, standard panorama sunroof, steering wheel shift paddles, split-folding rear-seats, front seats with integrated headrests and driver memory plus a fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission as well as the other technology highlights of the sedan.
C250 Sport: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) and 17inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) and 17-inch AMG twin 5-spoke alloy wheels, rear trunk spoiler
C63 AMG: features hand-built naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft), AMG 7-speed MCT and 18-inch twin 5-spoke alloy wheels. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

CL-Class Coupe (July)

CL550 4MATIC continues with 4.6-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 (429 hp, 516 lb-ft.)
CL63 AMG continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo AMG V8 (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start and AMG 7-speed MCT.
CL600 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues
CL65 AMG High-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738 lb-ft) continues
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

CLS-Class Four-Door Coupe (June)

New-generation four-door coupe debuts with dramatic styling, two new V8 engines, electromechanical steering, aluminum doors and world-first active LED headlights.
CLS550 new direct-injection 4.6-liter biturbo V8 (402 hp, 443 lb.-ft) with more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, AIRMATIC suspension and available with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive (Sept).
CLS63 AMG new direct-injection 5.5-liter biturbo AMG V8 (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start technology, AMG 7-speed MCT and AIRMATIC rear suspension. Optional Performance Package yields 550 hp/590 lb-ft.
Other new technology includes a color instrument cluster display, multicolor ambient lighting and central controller
LED taillamps and PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
Safety technology includes available Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, 10 standard airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST

E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet

E350 Coupe and Cabriolet (July) new 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and new 17-inch twin 5-spoke wheels
E550 Coupe and Cabriolet (Oct.) new 4.6-liter direct-injection V8 engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft) and electromechanical steering.
New available assistance systems include both active and passive Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
Other highlights include new steering wheels with standard shift paddles, color instrument cluster display, standard LED DRLs, more fuel-efficient 7-speed transmission and media interface moved to the center console.

E-Class Sedan and Wagon (October)

Model line features more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, new steering wheels, color instrument cluster display and standard LED DRL’s, media interface moved to center console.
E350 4MATIC Wagon continues with sport or luxury models, new direct-injection 3.5liter V6 engine (302hp, 273 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive, 3rd-row rear-facing seat, power tailgate, rear air suspension and electromechanical steering,
E350 BlueTEC 50-State V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues.
E350 Sport/Luxury new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E550 4MATIC Sport new 4.6-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8-engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft), electromechanical steering and standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E63 AMG Sedan new 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8 engine (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start technology mated to the AMG 7-speed MCT plus new 19-inch AMG 10-spoke wheels. Optional Performance Packages yields 550hp/590lb-ft.
E63 AMG Wagon debuts with drivetrain mentioned above and standard panorama roof
Model line continues to showcase advanced new driver assistance systems such as ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention, PRE-SAFE Brake with Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

F-Cell

5-door, 4-passenger hydrogen-electric car (134 hp, 214 lb-ft) continues, available for lease in southern California.
Powered by fuel cell technology with an EPA estimated range of 190 miles (European driving cycle: 240 miles)

G-Class SUV (October)

G550 5.5-liter V8-powered model (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
“Edition Select” package offered in choice of 3 paints, AMG fenders, exhaust sidepipes, silver-painted wheels and other interior highlights including designo upholstery

GL-Class SUV (August)

GL350 BlueTEC 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) model continues
GL450 4.6-liter V8-powered (335 hp, 339 lb-ft) model continues
GL550 5.5-liter V8-powered (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) model continues
Minor updates to the interior, rearview camera now includes directional lines, all models now feature standard LED DRLs

GLK-Class SUV (July)

GLK350 3.5-liter V6-powered (268 hp, 258 lb-ft) model continues w/available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
Media interface relocated to center console.

R-Class Crossover (August)

R350 4MATIC new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft), more fuel-efficient 7speed automatic transmission & standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
R350 BlueTEC 50-state V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues
Model line features standard LED DRLs, directional lines on rearview camera and minor interior updates.
New standard equipment includes COMAND system with hard-drive navigation, enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation, Gracenote® media database, HD Radio®, SIRIUS® satellite radio with SIRIUS real-time traffic service, Zagat® Survey restaurant guide, 4GB hard-drive with Music Register

S-Class Sedan (July)

S400 HYBRID continues with the first lithium-ion battery designed exclusively for automotive use and 3.5-liter V6 mild hybrid powertrain (295 hp, 284 lb-ft)
S350 BlueTEC 4MATIC new model features standard all-wheel-drive and 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine (240 hp, 455 lb-ft)
S550 new 4.6-liter direct-injectionV8 engine (429 hp, 516 lb-ft) and more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission. Available with 4MATIC all wheel drive.
S63 AMG High-performance model continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 engine (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start functionality as well as AMG 7-speed MCT. Optional Performance Package yields 563hp/664 lb-ft.
S600 flagship 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues.
S65 AMG high-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738lb-ft) continues.
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

SL-Class Coupe/Roadster (June)

SL550 5.5-liter V8 model (382hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
SL63 AMG high-performance 6.3-liter V8-powered model (518 hp, 465 lb-ft) with AMG 7-speed MCT continues

SLK-Class Coupe/Roadster

New-generation SLK debuts with SLS AMG styling cues, new powertrains and retractable hardtop that opens/closes within 20 seconds and offers Panorama roof and MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Standard LED daytime running lamps and electronic parking brake.
SLK350 (June): new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) with 7-speed automatic transmission and 18-inch 5-spoke wheels
SLK250 (Early 2012): new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) available with 6-spd manual or 7-spd automatic and 17-inch 5-spoke wheels
New interior highlights include sun-reflecting leather, Direct Ambient Lighting, COMAND control knob and AIRGUIDE.
New safety highlights include Adaptive Brake, NECK-PRO head restraints, PARKTRONIC with Parking Assist, 8 airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST
New standard equipment includes rain-sensing wipers, power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, power memory seats with lumbar support, integrated garage door opener, rearview mirror with integrated compass and HD Radio.
New headunit (described above)

SLS AMG

AMG-developed super sports car with aluminum body and high-performance powertrain featuring a hand-built V8 engine (563hp, 479 lb-ft) with front-mid layout and dry sump lubrication mated to a carbon fiber driveshaft and advanced dual-clutch transaxle transmission with 4 driving modes.
New equipment includes standard Blind Spot Assist, optional 3-mode AMG Adaptive Suspension and AMG Performance Media including driving telemetry and G-Force measurement
SLS AMG Coupe (July) continues with new paint offerings
SLS AMG Roadster (late 2011) debuts with power soft top in choice of three colors that opens/closes in 11 seconds up to 30 mph, conventionally hinged doors, standard AIRSCARF and removable wind deflector.

Sprinter Van

Cargo Van, Crew Van, Passenger Van, MiniBus and Cab Chassis models continue with 50-state BlueTEC clean diesel engine
Available in 3 GVWRs, 3 lengths and 2 roof heights.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

May 13, 2011

Mercedes-Benz SL Widebody kit by Misha

Teased on sketches approximately two weeks ago, Misha Designs’ Mercedes-Benz SL Widebody kit has now officially revealed its face. (more…)

October 26, 2010

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

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Mercedes-Benz will continue its long tradition of producing legendary sports cars when it launches the new-generation SL-Class in spring 2008. The world’s most successful premium roadster in its class features a new design with the emphasis firmly on sportiness and effortless superiority. These traits are also reflected in the handling qualities of the two-seater model, which now delivers even more athletic performance thanks to the new direct-steer system as well as offering enhanced comfort and safety. (more…)

March 13, 2008

Mercedes-Benz SL Sport Package

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is now available to order with a sports package comprising exclusive details that inject a new and thrilling sense of flair. Inside, it is primarily the silver-coloured contrast stitching, perforated leather and aluminium trim in a fresh new look that set the tone for the sporty and luxurious ambience. Outside, large wheels in a thrilling five-spoke design dominate the picture, while setting off the silver-painted front brake callipers to particularly stunning effect. Perforated brake discs at the rear wheels help endow the Roadster with excellent stopping power. Finally, the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles further intensifies the sports car sensation felt when sitting inside the Roadster bearing the mystical letters “SL”.

Ever since the world-famous 300 SL Gullwing Coupé was premiered over 50 years ago, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has ranked as one of the most fascinating and coveted cars in the world. Now in its fifth generation, the current SL-Class has lost none of this mystique and excels in all the same ways as its predecessors, by offering sophisticated design, groundbreaking technology, exceptional comfort and immense driving pleasure. A new equipment package from Mercedes-Benz, which is available to order now, gives the two-seater an even sportier, individualised look thanks to a host of refined details both inside and out.

The new large 19-inch wheels (8.5 inches at the front with 255/35 ZR19 Y tyres, 9.5 inches at the rear with 285/30 ZR19 Y tyres) are the most striking visual feature and deftly underscore the extra-special status of the SL-Class with sports package. Their sensational, newly devised design comprising five twin spokes with very straight lines and a hubcap cover featuring the Mercedes star and laurel wreath instantly attracts the gaze of any onlookers. The wheels’ visual impact is reinforced by the fact that they afford an unimpeded view of the attractively styled front brake callipers, which have been specially painted in silver for the sports package and marked with the Mercedes-Benz lettering. The high-performance brake system lives up to these sensational looks, assisted by perforated brake discs at the rear wheels too. Dark-tinted tail light units form a further distinguishing feature.

Innovations on the technical side include a sports air cleaner that produces a richer sporty sound in the SL 350. The chief technical highlight of the new sports package is, however, the 7G-TRONIC Sport seven-speed automatic transmission, the only passenger car transmission of its type in the world. Apart from a manual shift program, the new transmission also comes with steering-wheel shift paddles in both the SL 350 and the SL 500. The paddles allow drivers to shift through the seven gears without having to take their hands off the multifunction steering wheel, just like in a racing car. What’s more, 7G-TRONIC Sport is capable of shortening gearshift times by as much as 30 per cent.

In the interior, silver-coloured contrast stitching on the seats, steering wheel, dashboard, centre console, selector lever gaiter, armrest as well as the door linings (and in the rear of models with Exclusive nappa leather appointments) creates an unmistakable emphasis. The same applies to the borders of the high-grade velour floor mats. A roof liner trimmed in black fabric, new-look aluminium trim as well as the perforated leather adorning the steering wheel and selector lever further underline the car’s sporty aspirations.

When the model received its most recent facelift one year ago, the engine line-up, driveline and suspension were all tuned for even sportier performance. Ever since, a new V6 and V8 power unit together with even more powerful V8 AMG and V12 engines have been delivering yet more dynamic motoring pleasure in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, allied to an even greater sense of effortlessly superior fun at the wheel. The second-generation “Active Body Control” suspension in the SL and its more direct steering for that extra touch of sportiness are equally as impressive.

The new sports package offers customers an enticing way of further enhancing and personalising this legendary dream car. It is only available for the SL 350 and the SL 500 in conjunction with black leather appointments (standard in the SL 500). It is priced at € 2975 (incl. VAT).

February 28, 2007

Tag: SL-Class