Autoblog Mercedes-Benz http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Mercedes-Benz http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG spied with minor changes]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-spied-with-minor-changes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-spied-with-minor-changes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-spied-with-minor-changes/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Roadster spy shots - front three-quarter view

Despite looking fresh and fancy as ever, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is nearly four years old now. Its design was first shown to the world at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, and judging by these spy photos, it looks like a couple of small changes are in order for Merc's gullwing baby (or not, seeing as how the test car spied this time around happens to the the Roadster). The timing of the update is interesting, seeing as how Mercedes introduced a new GT model that effectively replaced the standard car last June. The SLS AMG GT didn't receive much in the way of optical attention, however, so perhaps this is just the Three-Pointed-Star keeping things fresh.

The only real camouflage on the test car seen here is found up front, where it looks like the SLS' fascia has undergone a slight nip/tuck. The grille shape has been modified a tiny bit, and it appears that the lower lip gets the majority of the changes. Our spy shooters tell us that we shouldn't rule out more changes down the road, possibly to the headlamps and taillamps. Of course, there could be further massaging under the hood or inside the cabin, but it's unclear if any of that is going on based on these photos.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG spied with minor changes originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedesmercedes sls amgmercedes sls amg gt roadsterspy photosspy picsspy shots Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20628264/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20628264/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/19/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-spied-with-minor-changes/20628264/article-detail.xml 20628264 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/001-mercedes-sls-amg-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/001-mercedes-sls-amg-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

A Really Hot Little GT Plants The Seed For A Better AMG

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

Mercedes-Benz has AMG on an impressive growth curve these days, the official name of the effort being Performance 50. By the 50th anniversary of AMG in 2017, the Mercedes performance division will produce 30,000-plus units per year, up from today's 20,000 or so. In addition, AMG will boast a catalog of 30-plus models, and a greater dedication to making AMG cars truly nimble performers in every sense will be a priority. Within that very full agenda, this new CLA45 AMG is certain to be an important contributor on all accounts.

The thrill monitors at AMG have a long-established reputation for creating large, open-road rockets that err on the side of brute force and everyday comfort over zippy, tight-feeling sports car finesse and balance. The strategy has worked wonders for the company's sales ledger and created handsome levels of profit per unit, but entire developing sectors of the premium hot-car market have been knowingly left out of the AMG equation. While there are exceptions, AMG has never been considered a maker of truly agile machinery that's easily tossed around.

The very first thing that we notice while driving the CLA45 AMG - on schedule for North American deliveries beginning in November with a reported starting price of $47,450 - is exactly how lively its new 4Matic chassis can be. It's an entirely new feeling for an AMG, and it's entirely welcome by us. Some will complain about the price being asked for this super CLA-Class, but this little sedan is a true AMG of the new genre, and as such, it might just be something of a bargain.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes cla45 amgfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemercedesmercedes cla-classmercedes cla45 amg Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20625067/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20625067/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/18/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-review-first-drive/20625067/article-detail.xml 20625067 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-benz-cla45-amg-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes ready to offer Car-to-X communications by end of year]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/mercedes-ready-to-offer-car-to-x-communications-by-end-of-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/mercedes-ready-to-offer-car-to-x-communications-by-end-of-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/mercedes-ready-to-offer-car-to-x-communications-by-end-of-year/#comments Filed under: , ,



Although Mercedes-Benz isn't the first automaker to develop a Car-to-X system, it sounds like it will be the first to get this automated safety technology into a production vehicle. Car-to-X allows a car to transmit and receive data in order to warn the driver of impending danger or traffic problems.

Using a mobile communication platform, the car would be sent alerts for approaching concerns including a broken down car, dangerous weather conditions or a car being driven the wrong way. In addition to automatic alerts, this system will have the ability to allow users to warn other motorists of road dangers, such as animals or debris on the road.

Mercedes says that it will not only have this technology as a standard feature in its vehicles by year's end, but will also offer a kit that can be retrofitted to older models. It sounds like this technology will likely be limited to Germany or Europe for now, and the automaker it is also working with other automakers to get such a system implemented quicker. Scroll down for a press release.

Continue reading Mercedes ready to offer Car-to-X communications by end of year

Mercedes ready to offer Car-to-X communications by end of year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> automated vehicle safetycar-to-xmercedesmercedes intelligent drive Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622521/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622521/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/17/mercedes-ready-to-offer-car-to-x-communications-by-end-of-year/20622521/article-detail.xml 20622521 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mercedes-car-to-x_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mercedes-car-to-x.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG revealed in video]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-revealed-in-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-revealed-in-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-revealed-in-video/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG video

Following the reveal of the standard Mercedes-Benz S-Class last month, we're eagerly anticipating the next several chapters of the brand's flagship range, especially the all-important S63 AMG. And while Mercedes itself has done a pretty good job of keeping things under wraps, it looks like a mistake was made. As part of its celebration kicking off S-Class production at the company's Sindelfingen, Germany plant, Mercedes released some official videos showing the new sedan coming off the line, and the one you see here is the S63 AMG.

Because of how precisely styled all of Merc's new cars are, the AMG models won't necessarily carry the same sort of visual assault that they've had in generations past. For example, take a look at the brand new CLA250, and then compare it to a CLA45 AMG. Almost identical, right? Even here with the S-Class, the larger air intakes below the front bumper are a dead giveaway about the performance underneath (as are the larger wheels), but it doesn't look substantially more aggressive than the other S-Class models sitting in the same room.

We don't have official details on the new S63 AMG yet, but we expect the company's twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 to be found underhood, putting out something like 550 horsepower in the base model. (Like the new E-Class, an S model will likely be offered). The AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive will likely be part of the S63 AMG package, too.

Scroll down to have a look at the video.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG revealed in video

2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG revealed in video originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s63 amgvideo Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622041/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622041/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-revealed-in-video/20622041/article-detail.xml 20622041 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/s63-amg-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/s63-amg-video.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class enters production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-enters-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-enters-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-enters-production/#comments Filed under: , , ,



With the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class set to go on sale next month, the first examples of the sixth-generation ultra-luxury sedan have begun rolling off the assembly line at the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant in Germany. The first car headed to customers is the silver S400 Hybrid you see above, and Mercedes executives Dieter Zetsche and Andreas Renschler were both on hand to welcome the car.

To prepare for the new S-Class, Mercedes has invested close to one billion euros in the German factory. While a half dozen models are produced at this plant, most of the recent improvements were focused on Mercedes' flagship sedan. Also destined to be built at this plant is the upcoming S-Class Coupe, which is replacing the CL-Class. Interestingly, this name change has been speculated for some time, but the official press release posted below could be the first time we've seen Mercedes refer to the car as such.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class enters production

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class enters production originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-classmercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s-class productionsindelfingensindelfingen factory Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622044/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622044/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/14/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-enters-production/20622044/article-detail.xml 20622044 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-s-class-production_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-s-class-production.jpg <![CDATA[Race Recap: Canadian F1 Grand Prix is one story with a thousand dramas]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/race-recap-canadian-f1-grand-prix-is-one-story-with-a-thousand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/race-recap-canadian-f1-grand-prix-is-one-story-with-a-thousand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/race-recap-canadian-f1-grand-prix-is-one-story-with-a-thousand/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



There were rain and wind and sun, sometimes all at once. There was the Wall of Champions. There was nothing happening in first place and nothing happening back in sixth during the race, but everywhere else - from the time the weekend began - it was surprises, passes, spins, more passing, flying carbon fiber and finally a couple more last-minute surprises. The Canadian Formula One Grand Prix was a proper race for all the right reasons... well, except for the part where the crowd booed the winner.

Continue reading Race Recap: Canadian F1 Grand Prix is one story with a thousand dramas

Race Recap: Canadian F1 Grand Prix is one story with a thousand dramas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> canadian gpcanadian grand prixf1fernando alonsoferrariformula 1formula oneinfiniti red bull racinglewis hamiltonmark webbermercedes-amg petronassebastian vettel Tue, 11 Jun 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605691/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/11/race-recap-canadian-f1-grand-prix-is-one-story-with-a-thousand/20605691/article-detail.xml 20605691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/cgp1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/cgp1.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Mercedes C-Class spotted under the covers]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/next-gen-mercedes-c-class-spotted-under-the-covers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/next-gen-mercedes-c-class-spotted-under-the-covers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/next-gen-mercedes-c-class-spotted-under-the-covers/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C-Class spy shot - rear profile with cover being removed

We aren't expecting to see the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class until the 2014 Detroit Auto Show next January, but our quick-snapping spy shooters managed to catch a prototype being pulled out from under the covers. In these shots, we can clearly see that the new C-Class will take many of its design cues from the larger E- and S-Class sedans - something that's especially noticeable with the more vertical taillamps.

When Mercedes-Benz launches the new C-Class next year, it will reportedly come with a range of gasoline, diesel and hybrid powerplants, as well as a couple of different bodystyles (at least sedan and coupe, anyway). Of course, Mercedes-Benz will need to reposition the C-Class in its lineup, since this small sedan will no longer be the entry point to the brand, what with the fresh new CLA-Class hitting our market later this year.

Still, there should be a lot to like about the upcoming C-Class, and folks from Mercedes-Benz are eager to get this thing on the road. In an earlier Automotive News report, the company's US CEO, Steve Cannon, admitted that, "We were fighting the 3 Series with two arms tied behind our back, and now we will change that."

Next-gen Mercedes C-Class spotted under the covers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes c-classmercedesmercedes c-classmercedes c-klassespy photosspy picsspy shots Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20601904/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20601904/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/06/next-gen-mercedes-c-class-spotted-under-the-covers/20601904/article-detail.xml 20601904 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/002-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/002-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes offering illuminated Three-Pointed Star logo]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/mercedes-offering-illuminated-three-pointed-star-logo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/mercedes-offering-illuminated-three-pointed-star-logo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/mercedes-offering-illuminated-three-pointed-star-logo/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz illuminated Three-Pointed Star - video screencap

Deep, dark, secret confession time: Back well over a decade ago while I was in college, I supported my love for all things automotive in part by publishing basic how-to articles on websites dedicated to the vehicle that I owned at the time, a 1999 Ford Ranger. I never got paid for these pieces, but they eventually gained enough notice that aftermarket companies started sending me products to feature. Much of it was cosmetic, all of it was minimally involved, and some of the modifications now look suspect to my older enthusiast self - things like a billet grille insert and tailgate-mounted Lumi Logo, the latter issuing a subtle glow from my otherwise stock-appearing Ford Blue Oval emblem. I kind of laugh at some of it now, but hey, tastes change.

And yet, the more things change, the more things stay the same. Just ask Mercedes-Benz, which has revealed this new illuminated Three-Pointed Star emblem, available as a dealer-installed option on the 2014 E-Class, 2013+ GL-Class, 2012+ M-Class and 2006+ CLS-Class. Mercedes promises additional fitments as well, but no word on whether they'll be installing future examples at the factory. Unlike my Ranger's short-lived Lumi Logo, the illuminated Three-Pointed Star utilizes LED and light tube technology to project a classier look, and theirs illuminates when you use the key fob to unlock the vehicle. If this new bit of illumination takes off for Mercedes, we're guessing you'll see similar riffs from other OEMs in short order... and maybe a second life for the guys who make Lumi Logos.

What do you think, is Benz's new illuminated star cool-ish or foolish? Watch the video below, then have your say in Comments.

Continue reading Mercedes offering illuminated Three-Pointed Star logo

Mercedes offering illuminated Three-Pointed Star logo originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> illuminationlightingmercedesmercedes logothree-pointed starvideo Wed, 05 Jun 2013 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20600678/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20600678/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/05/mercedes-offering-illuminated-three-pointed-star-logo/20600678/article-detail.xml 20600678 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mercedes-benz-three-pointed-star-illuminated_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mercedes-benz-three-pointed-star-illuminated.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #335]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Porsche Macan, Rolls-Royce SUV, Tesla expands Superchargers, Mitsubishi Attrage, 2014 Toyota Corolla

Autoblog Podcast logo

Episode #335 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the explosion of luxury SUVs and crossovers from the Porsche Macan to the rumored Rolls-Royce SUV, the expansion of the Tesla Supercharger network, the Mitsubishi Attrage and the teasers we've seen of the 2014 Toyota Corolla. We wrap up with your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #335:


Topics: In the Autoblog Garage: Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross

Runtime: 01:40:13
Get the podcast:
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #335

Autoblog Podcast #335 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mitsubishi attrage2014 toyota corollaattrageautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 335corollamacanmitsubishipodcastporscheporshe macanrolls roycerolls royce suvsuperchargerteslatesla superchargertoyota Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:13:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #335Autoblog01:40:13 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598085/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598085/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/20598085/article-detail.xml 20598085 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-review-first-drive-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-review-first-drive-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-review-first-drive-video/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ready To Battle Others Of Its Own Kind

2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

To the casual van observer, there are likely three seminal categories of big-box hauler. 1) The white Ford Econoline. 2) The decades-old conversion vans made by various manufacturers, with a porthole, an angel and a unicorn floating in an airbrushed rendition of the cosmos. 3) The European van, up until recently embodied solely in the form of the Mercedes-Benz (or Dodge or Freightliner) Sprinter.

It's the latter we flew to Germany to drive, the 2014 model year adding a new standard engine and transmission, new safety tech and a finespun redesign. The fresh elements aren't just to give buyers a reason to go brand-new, though. With the Nissan "Proboscis Monkey" NV200 having already arrived, Ford about to import its larger Transit cargo hauler and the Fiat Ducato ready to become the Ram ProMaster, the European van that started it all needs to prepare for new competition that actually aligns with its feature set.

If anyone has issues with the 2014 Sprinter, they shouldn't have anything to do with its performance...

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter [w/video]

2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes sprintercargo vanfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemercedesmercedes sprintermercedes-sprinter Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20597636/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20597636/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-review-first-drive-video/20597636/article-detail.xml 20597636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-1370312578_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter-1370312578.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Schumacher's hot lap of Nürburgring in Mercedes F1 car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-hot-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-hot-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-hot-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



In advance of the Nürburgring 24-hour race last weekend, Mercedes-Benz put on a demonstration that had Michael Schumacher playing catch-up in a Formula One car against four examples of AMG metal. There were four cars sent off in staggered starts before Schumacher: an A45 AMG, E63 AMG 4Matic, SLS AMG Black Series, and an SLS AMG GT3 car. "Mr. Formula One," as the German television commentators call him, left three minutes after the SLS AMG GT3.

There are two videos of Schumacher's lap, the first is on-board footage - and even though there were several GoPros on the car the POV never cuts away from the front wing. You can hear the throttle and tell he's not pushing it, you can also tell how bumpy the track is. The second video is footage from the German Sport1 channel - with commentary in German - that shows all the cars taking off and takes the aerial view of proceedings. He looks to be going a lot faster in that one. You can compare and contrast yourself with the videos below.

Oh, and it's worth noting that, even with the likely restricted car, and the made-for-TV environment, Schumi turned in a quick lap. The nose camera shows the F1 car start to slow down on the back straight, near the start/finish line, right around the modern-length track record time of six minutes and eleven seconds.

Continue reading Watch Schumacher's hot lap of Nürburgring in Mercedes F1 car

Watch Schumacher's hot lap of Nürburgring in Mercedes F1 car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 May 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedes-amg petronasmercedes-benzmichael schumachernurburgringvideo Fri, 31 May 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20587648/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20587648/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-hot-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/20587648/article-detail.xml 20587648 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/schumacher-ring-f1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/schumacher-ring-f1.jpg <![CDATA[Williams F1 to run Mercedes engines next season]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/williams-f1-to-run-mercedes-engines-next-season/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/williams-f1-to-run-mercedes-engines-next-season/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/williams-f1-to-run-mercedes-engines-next-season/#comments Filed under: , ,



The game of Formula One musical engine bays continues with the announcement that Williams F1 has signed a long-term deal to switch to Mercedes engines from 2014, bringing Williams' partnership with Renault to a close after just two years. Williams will get the 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 and KERS from Mercedes, but will use an in-house gearbox.

At the moment, that means four teams will have its engines supplied by Mercedes: its own team, Williams, Force India and McLaren, but at the end of 2014 McLaren will switch to Honda. Next year, Renault will be supplying Infiniti Red Bull, Toro Rosso has just agreed to switch to Renault from Ferrari, and Lotus and Caterham are expected to remain. Ferrari will have its team, for sure, but its deal with Sauber hasn't been confirmed. Marussia is the only team left and it is talking to both Mercedes and Ferrari about a deal for next year.

On the sidelines of the jockeying, McLaren's Martin Whitmarsh has called the 2014 regulations an "own goal" for the sport because of their expense - he believes the engineers were given such free reign that the development costs could be damaging to the budgets of the smaller teams. Next year's engines will need to go the distance with 220 pounds of fuel and a KERS that is ten times more powerful than the present unit.

The press release below has more on the Williams deal with AMG High Performance Powertrains.

Continue reading Williams F1 to run Mercedes engines next season

Williams F1 to run Mercedes engines next season originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 May 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> amgf1formula onemercedesmercedes amg high performance powertrainswilliamswilliams f1 Thu, 30 May 2013 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20589223/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20589223/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/30/williams-f1-to-run-mercedes-engines-next-season/20589223/article-detail.xml 20589223 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-f1-2014-engine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-f1-2014-engine.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes E-Class Coupe]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , ,

In With The (Slightly) Old And The (Sort Of) New



Though the S-Class is the profit-per-unit world champion, Mercedes' stalwart E-Class is still the company's most reliable producer of profits. The latter tends to represent the model that most humans on Earth think of when they think of Mercedes-Benz. The taxi version of the E-Class sedan used in Europe and elsewhere is the usual reason given for this familiarity we all have with the E, but c'mon, it also happens to be a pretty stunning piece of work in its market segment.

Today we're trying the upgraded and massaged fourth-generation Mercedes E-Class Coupe (known internally as C207). Specifically we're driving the 329-horsepower E400 coupe that arrives in the US next summer (2014) to eventually replace - in all body variants - the current V8-powered E550. Starting price for a base E350 coupe should scare up $51,500 when it arrives a little later this year, while this E400 two-door will hit US soil at around $56,000 as a futuristic-sounding 2015 model.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes E-Class Coupe

2014 Mercedes E-Class Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes e-class coupee-class coupe reviewfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemercedes e-classmercedes e-class coupe Wed, 29 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20586155/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20586155/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe-review-first-drive/20586155/article-detail.xml 20586155 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2014-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-fd-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2014-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-fd-opt.png <![CDATA[Exec admits Benz should have created an E63 AMG Coupe]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/exec-admits-benz-should-have-created-an-e63-amg-coupe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/exec-admits-benz-should-have-created-an-e63-amg-coupe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/exec-admits-benz-should-have-created-an-e63-amg-coupe/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe - red - front three-quarter view

Despite the fact that Mercedes-Benz seems to have AMG-ified nearly every model in its current lineup (not that we're complaining), it always seemed like sort of a misstep that this same treatment was never afforded to the E-Class Coupe (pictured). After all, Merc has created AMG versions of the E-Class in sedan and wagon form for some time now. For 2014, the revamped models are powered by the potent 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 and fitted with 4Matic all-wheel drive.

According to BenzBoost.com, we aren't alone in our thoughts that omitting the E63 AMG Coupe was an error. "Seen from now, yes it was a mistake. At that time, AMG had a different strategy. Now they offer an AMG version in almost all the range," Mercedes-Benz product manager Gerd Junginger told the brand fan site.

Prior to the E-Class Coupe, Mercedes-Benz offered an AMG version of the old CLK coupe, even going so far as to create the ridiculously awesome CLK63 AMG Black Series. Unfortunately, Junginger believes it is too late in the product cycle for the E-Class coupe to get an AMG variant, what with the refreshed 2014 model about to launch.

"It's the perfect car to be an AMG. It almost looks like an AMG version as it is now. Next time we won't make the same mistake," said Junginger.

Exec admits Benz should have created an E63 AMG Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 May 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> amgmercedesmercedes e-classmercedes e-class coupemercedes e-klassemercedes e63 amg Wed, 29 May 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20585631/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20585631/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/exec-admits-benz-should-have-created-an-e63-amg-coupe/20585631/article-detail.xml 20585631 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/004-2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/004-2014-mercedes-e-class-coupe.png <![CDATA[Race Recap: For the 2013 Monaco Grand Prix, NASCAR comes to the principality]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Lots of contact, debris cautions, trips into the wall, full-course yellows and a red flag - these are the kinds of racing terms you unbox when you want to have a conversation about NASCAR... or the Formula One grand prix of Monaco. In this case we're not talking about the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte, we're talking about 78 laps in the South of France that even featured a fallen camera cable just like that stock-car race.

This year, Mercedes-AMG Petronas drivers treated their chassis' like busses instead of F1 cars, Romain Grosjean treated his Lotus like a battering ram, Sergio Perez kept sticking his McLaren's nose in places and eventually got it smacked, and maybe the size of the drivers' mirrors should be changed instead of the tires as there were almost as many firsts as there were crashes. Plenty of F1 fans wish Monaco were removed from the calendar, yet even though it doesn't specialize in traditional thrills, that doesn't mean nothing happens during the parade through - and into - the barriers.

Continue reading Race Recap: For the 2013 Monaco Grand Prix, NASCAR comes to the principality

Race Recap: For the 2013 Monaco Grand Prix, NASCAR comes to the principality originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 May 2013 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 monaco grand prixf1felipe massafernando alonsoferrariinfiniti red bull racingkimi raikkonenlewis hamiltonlotusmercedes-amgmonaco grand prixnico rosbergsebastian vettel Tue, 28 May 2013 09:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20584628/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20584628/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/20584628/article-detail.xml 20584628 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mgp1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mgp1.jpg <![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton jet ski prank causes camera damage]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Lewis Hamilton

That zany Lewis Hamilton is up to some hijinks once again, recently hamming it up on a pair of jet skis for a television film crew in Monaco with fellow Formula One driver Nico Rosberg. The F1 drivers were supposed to stay far enough away from the camera operators on a stationary boat, but Hamilton came in close, executed a sharp turn and sprayed the whole crowd with water. Early reports said the stunt did $150,000 in damage to cameras and mobile phones, but Mercedes said that wasn't the case.

A source with the company said one freelancer didn't adequately protect his gear. The race team is helping to repair or replace the damaged equipment as a gesture of good faith.

Lewis Hamilton jet ski prank causes camera damage originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 May 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> f1formula onejet skilewis hamiltonlewis hamilton jet skimercedesnico rosberg Tue, 28 May 2013 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582849/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582849/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/20582849/article-detail.xml 20582849 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dv1484691_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dv1484691.jpg <![CDATA[How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/#comments Filed under: , ,

Mercedes-Benz Rescue Sheet QR Code

Mercedes-Benz is working on a system that may help emergency workers quickly and safely rescue trapped occupants in wrecked vehicles. The system pairs rescue sheets that show firefighters, police and paramedics information on exactly how and where to use rescue sheers to extract trapped passengers, the location of major hydraulic lines, air bags and electrical cables as well as other important vehicle data with QR codes. Using two stickers with the codes prominently displayed, rescue workers can scan the code and instantly pull up the necessary information quickly with an internet connection. The plan could reduce rescue times and help save lives.

Currently, rescue workers have to rely on hard copy rescue sheets or must look up the information online, assuming the sheets are available at all. Mercedes-Benz has waived the right to patent the system in the hope that other automakers will take advantage of the technology. You can read the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims

How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> emergencyfirefightermercedesmercedes safety sheet qr codepoliceqr codesafetysafety sheet Fri, 24 May 2013 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581419/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581419/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/20581419/article-detail.xml 20581419 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-qr-code-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-qr-code-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #334]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/autoblog-podcast-334/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/autoblog-podcast-334/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/autoblog-podcast-334/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 2 Series, People trust autonomous cars

Autoblog Podcast logo

Episode #334 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the BMW 2 Series recently snagged by spy photographers, and a new study that indicates public support for autonomous automobiles. We wrap up with your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #334:


Topics: In the Autoblog Garage: Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross

Runtime: 01:35:28
Get the podcast:
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #334

Autoblog Podcast #334 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 honda civic2013 nissan juke2014 mercedes s-classautoblog podcastautonomous carsautonomous vehiclesbmw 2 seriesfeaturedmercedes s-classmercedes s-klassepodcast Tue, 21 May 2013 16:16:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #334Autoblog01:35:28 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577508/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577508/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/autoblog-podcast-334/20577508/article-detail.xml 20577508 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #334 LIVE!]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #334 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #334
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #334 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-class2014 mercedes s-klasseautoblog podcast topicsautonomous vehiclesbmwbmw 2 seriesmercedesmercedes benzmercedes s-classmercedes s-klasse Mon, 20 May 2013 16:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575388/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575388/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/20575388/article-detail.xml 20575388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Malaise Era All-Stars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

1976-1979 Porsche 930 - front three-quarter view, blue

A few weeks ago, we bid a fond happy 40th anniversary to the automotive dark ages of 1973-84 that have come to be known as "The Malaise Era" - the performance ice-age when 160 horsepower was a lot and a 0-60 time of under 10 seconds was remarkable. Like music in the 1980s, everything in automobiledom didn't suck, however. There were a few bright spots. Here are five of our favorites:

1976-79 Porsche 930, aka 911 Turbo Carrera (above)
Photo Credit: Dorotheum

While Chevrolet beat them by a decade with the turbocharged Corvair Corsa, the Germans more fully developed turbocharging through racing where General Motors couldn't. Early Porsche 930s (known technically as 911 Turbo Carreras) were a bit crude, with turbo lag that could be measured with an egg timer. They lacked an intercooler as well as brakes that were up to the task, but performance was sensational, with the buff books reporting 0-60 times of anywhere from 4.9 to 5.8 seconds and quarter-mile times of under 14 seconds. This was '60s muscle car performance at the height of the Malaise Era. Sadly, the 930 cost about six times as much as your average muscle car did.

Rob Sass is the Publisher of Hagerty Classic Cars magazine. He is a regular contributor to the automotive section of the New York Times and is the author of "Ran When Parked, Advice and Adventures from the Affordable Underbelly of Car Collecting."

Continue reading Malaise Era All-Stars

Malaise Era All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi quattroaudi ur-quattrocar collectorchevychevy corvettecollector carsdatsundatsun 280zxmalaise eramercedesporscheporsche 930 Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569813/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/20569813/article-detail.xml 20569813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo.jpg -1 2