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[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 <![CDATA[Face to giant face with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class [w/videos]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Mercedes-Benz isn't a brand afraid to put on a show for any old reason at all - like, just because it's Tuesday - but the premiere of the 2014 S-Class, even by the standards we're used to, was Broadway-theater intense. Held at a purpose-built venue inside a hanger at the Airbus factory in Hamburg, the hours-long extravaganza was hosted by two German newscasters and guest-starred Alicia Keyes, an A380, fireworks, every model in the lineup in a choreographed driving routine while The Stig did donuts in an SLS AMG in the rain, and at the very end, burlesque. That's how much the S-Class means to this brand.

What's it going to mean to the razor's edge of the mass-market large luxury sedan market? The exterior, that's ripe for debate. But the interior - well, it just hung a sign on the segment that read, "Achtung! This, meine Damen und Herren, is how it's done."

Continue reading Face to giant face with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class [w/videos]

Face to giant face with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-classmercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s-klassevideo Fri, 17 May 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571644/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571644/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/20571644/article-detail.xml 20571644 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-s-class-reveal-live-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-s-class-reveal-live-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe prepares to join new sedan]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/mercedes-benz-s-class-coupe-spy-shots/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/mercedes-benz-s-class-coupe-spy-shots/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/mercedes-benz-s-class-coupe-spy-shots/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe spy shots

It's a busy day over at Mercedes-Benz. In addition to taking the wraps off of the all-new 2014 S-Class sedan, the company's engineers have been spotted testing the rakish, two-door variant of the Mercedes flagship, which will ditch its CL-Class nomenclature in favor of a more precise S-Class Coupe moniker. (Remember, the coupe and convertible versions of the E-Class used to go by the name CLK.)

Now that we have all the details on the big S-Class sedan, we have a pretty good guess as to how all of that will work its way over to the two-door model. What we're most curious about, however, is how the new car will look when its swirly paper is removed. Up front, the fascia looks like a slightly redesigned version of what's found on the sedan, but it's around back where things get really interesting. Rather than using the vertical rear lighting elements of the four-door, the S-Class Coupe seems to be fitted with some slim, horizontal units. Color us intrigued.

Mercedes-Benz will initially launch the S-Class sedan with twin-turbo V8 power in both the S550 and S63 AMG, so we expect those same powerplants to make their way over to the coupe, as well. We'll know more when the two-door gets its official reveal in the not-too-distant future (Frankfurt Motor Show, perhaps?).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe prepares to join new sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s-class coupespy photosspy picsspy shots Wed, 15 May 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570541/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570541/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/mercedes-benz-s-class-coupe-spy-shots/20570541/article-detail.xml 20570541 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-s-class-coupe-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-s-class-coupe-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes S-Class is ready for your plutocratic dollars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class in silver - front three-quarter view

There are superlatives and acronyms, there is hyperbole, there are neologisms like "navitainment," there is the longest press release we've ever seen - it includes a glossary - and there is the quest to build "the best automobile in the world." What else could it be but the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

With the Asian market and its chauffeured drivers in mind, the long-wheelbase S-Class is the focus this time. It has the same length and wheelbase as the outgoing model, it's 0.7 inches higher and about an inch wider, but made of aluminum throughout so weight gain is negligible (Mercedes-Benz hasn't released a US-spec weight yet). In front is a larger radiator grille and a facial treatment that, from quite a few angles, makes it look like a slightly larger E-Class to our eyes. Behind that are the design themes we've seen unleashed on other Mercedes such as its "Dropping Line" along the side and the sloping rear end. The coefficient of drag is just 0.24 - that's only 0.02 more than the comparatively tiny CLA.

Let's run down some of the noteworthy standard and optional items on the V222 (the long-wheelbase version of the W222, which is the only one we'll get):
  • The cabin gets two 12.3-inch TFT screens for the instrument cluster and the navitainment, a touch-sensitive telephone keypad, rear climate control with two more zones, access to infotainment media from any seat in the car - rear seat passengers can even see the Google Maps display to make sure the driver is going the right way
  • Roughly 300 LEDs in the cabin offer seven hues, five dimming levels and four dimming zones will be standard and the LED brake lights dim at night or while waiting at lights so as to be kinder on the eyes of drivers behind
  • Five different options in rear seating, the uppermost of which offers a backrest that reclines nearly 45 degrees, does so independently of the bolster, and has calf support and a heel rest. Get the First Class Rear package and avail yourself of a console that allows control of the center console from the rear, and thermally-controlled cupholders
  • Magic Body Control that uses stereo cameras to scan the road surface and adjust the suspension in advance of road imperfections
  • Massaging seats based on the "hot stone principle" for front and rear using 14 cushions in the backrest and six massage programs
  • An Air Balance Package that ionizes and filters the air and emits five choices in fragrance
  • Grouped under "Intelligent Drive," the next generation of features like Active Parking Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Night View Assist Plus, Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, Brake Assist Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Pre-Safe Brake with pedestrian recognition
  • A Warmth and Comfort package with heated steering wheel and armrests, seats with active ventilation, and power heated rear seats with memory
The new S-Class will launch with two models in the US, the S550 in September and the S550 4Matic following in November, which will probably joined by the inevitable S63 AMG 4Matic. Next year will welcome more powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid. As noted in the brochure that recently leaked online, the twin-turbo V8 in the S550 goes up to 4.7 liters in capacity from 4.6 and gets 449 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. And of course, there's the promise of an eventual high-zoot Pullman model to supplant Daimler's now-dead Maybach range, but let's not get ahead of ourselves.

There's so much more, but we'll leave it at that for now - there's plenty of reading in the release below to keep you occupied while we go visit the car and return with a report on the live European reveal.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes S-Class is ready for your plutocratic dollars

2014 Mercedes S-Class is ready for your plutocratic dollars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-class2014 mercedes s-klassemercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s-klassemercedes s550v222 Wed, 15 May 2013 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569493/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569493/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed/20569493/article-detail.xml 20569493 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-mercedes-s-class_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-mercedes-s-class.jpg <![CDATA[Recap: 2013 Spanish Grand Prix is Catalan for 'Lottery' and 'More pit stops']]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/recap-2013-spanish-grand-prix-is-catalan-for-lottery-and-mor/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/recap-2013-spanish-grand-prix-is-catalan-for-lottery-and-mor/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/recap-2013-spanish-grand-prix-is-catalan-for-lottery-and-mor/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



This year's Formula One season might qualify as being just as crazy as last year's, only it's a different kind of crazy. Instead of a new winner every Sunday, how the winner actually manages to take the victory is the mystery, and just when we thought the season might have settled into a groove regarding team performance, here comes the Spanish Grand Prix to remind us that we don't know anything until the race has been run.

There were many similarities to past weekends to being this one: Mercedes-AMG Petronas showed awesome one-lap pace, Fernando Alonso did well enough in qualifying to get fifth on the grid but talked up the race pace of the Ferrari, Kimi Räikkönen was the equivalent of a racing photobomber, never saying much but always showing up in the picture, Felipe Massa wasn't really big on the tires and McLaren might want to consider starting a blues band they spend so much time singing them.

Then the lights went green and things went nuts...

Continue reading Recap: 2013 Spanish Grand Prix is Catalan for 'Lottery' and 'More pit stops'

Recap: 2013 Spanish Grand Prix is Catalan for 'Lottery' and 'More pit stops' originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 spanish grand prixf1felipe massafernando alonsoFerrariformula 1formula oneinfiniti red bull racingkimi raikkonenlewis hamiltonlotusmercedes-amgnico rosbergspanish grand prix Tue, 14 May 2013 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567561/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567561/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/recap-2013-spanish-grand-prix-is-catalan-for-lottery-and-mor/20567561/article-detail.xml 20567561 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sgp09b_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sgp09b.jpg <![CDATA[Scanned Mercedes S-Class brochure leaks online]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/scanned-mercedes-s-class-brochure-leaks-online/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/scanned-mercedes-s-class-brochure-leaks-online/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/scanned-mercedes-s-class-brochure-leaks-online/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



That single image of the 2014 Mercedes S-Class that we posted two weeks ago appears to have come from this, the German-language brochure for the coming sedan. The new generation of the luxury limo that rules them all will be unveiled next week (yes, we'll be there), but it seems every week brings a new leak of what we can expect - like the die-cast toy of a few days ago. This time it was user Meilensammler who uploaded these scans to German Car Forum.

The W222 - which will not contain a single light bulb we're told, only LEDs - will come in two lengths that have the same wheelbases as the current W221 (we only get the long wheelbase in the US) but are longer, lower and wider than the current car. Inside, along with those two 12.3-inch TFT screens, are a pair of back seats in the First Class Seating package that look outstanding.

It looks like three models will come at launch. The twin-turbo V8 in the S550 goes up to 4.7 liters in capacity from 4.6 and gets 449 horsepower, a 20-hp bump over the present car, and 516 pound-feet of torque. The S350 Bluetec sticks with the 3.0-liter V6 but will get 258 horsepower, an 18-hp increase, and 457 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5-liter V6 and electric motor combo in the S400 Hybrid will get 302 hp, a jump of 27. The listed 0-60 time of the S550 is 4.8 seconds, but like it's brethren it is limited to a 155 mile-per-hour top speed.

Check out the high-res scans above, and stay tuned on May 15 when the car is revealed.

Scanned Mercedes S-Class brochure leaks online originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz s-classmercedesmercedes s-class Sun, 12 May 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565889/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565889/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/12/scanned-mercedes-s-class-brochure-leaks-online/20565889/article-detail.xml 20565889 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mercedes-s-class-brochure_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mercedes-s-class-brochure.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class revealed again in 1:18 scale]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed-again-in-1-18-scale/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed-again-in-1-18-scale/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed-again-in-1-18-scale/#comments Filed under: , , ,



There is plenty to look forward to when it comes to the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but it could end up being a fairly anticlimactic reveal thanks to fully exposed spy shots, a leaked press photo and now images of a diecast version of the luxury sedan. Autoweek.nl has images showing a highly detailed 1:18 scale model of the redesigned S-Class that matches up with everything we've seen so far.

This isn't the first time a model car spoiled a new vehicle's reveal, as the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and 2013 SRT Viper were both unceremoniously revealed in toy form first. World Car Fans is reporting that the car 2014 S-Class will be officially unveiled on May 15, but at this point, all that's left to wonder about is the official on-sale date and what will be under the hood.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class revealed again in 1:18 scale originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz s-classdiecastdiecast carmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s-class Fri, 10 May 2013 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563868/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563868/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-revealed-again-in-1-18-scale/20563868/article-detail.xml 20563868 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-mercedes-s-class-diecast_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-mercedes-s-class-diecast.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Roadster... in Arkansas?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-roadster-in/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-roadster-in/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-roadster-in/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was built as a race car for the FIA GT Championship series in 1997. To meet homologation requirements, a total of 26 road-going vehicles were built in the following years. The rarest were the open-roof roadster models, of which only six were made. While 24 of the street-legal cars were fitted with a 6.9-liter V12, good for more than 600 horsepower, two were upgraded to "CLK GTR Super Sport" configuration with a 7.3-liter V12 rated at 655 horsepower. Performance was spectacular, with a 0-60 sprint of about 3.7 seconds and a top speed of just over 200 miles per hour.

The original sticker price for the CLK GTR Super Sport, more than a decade ago, was $1,547,620 - dissuading most of us from buying one. But if you missed out last time, we just found a clean example that has apparently been sitting inside a showroom in Arkansas waiting for a new owner. It is reportedly the only roadster currently in the United States. Federalized and street legal, its odometer shows only 70 delivery miles (are we the only ones who consider it a shame nobody has ever enjoyed wringing it out?). Fresh off an extensive factory service, this museum piece boasts a Buy it Now price of $1,995,980. So much for depreciation, eh?

[Update: One of our readers correctly pointed out that the car has depreciated... as its original selling price of $1.547 million is $2.2 million in today's money!]

eBay Find of the Day: 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Roadster... in Arkansas? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ebay motorsmercedesmercedes clk gtrmercedes clk gtr roadster super sport Thu, 09 May 2013 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560865/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-roadster-in/20560865/article-detail.xml 20560865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/glk-gtr-lead-26_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/glk-gtr-lead-26.jpg <![CDATA[Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



In what must have looked and sounded to motorists on the M6 like an invasion of The Swarm, a parade of 50 enthusiast gems leaving a charity event were caught shooting down the on-ramp and merging into traffic. There were plenty of Porsches joining the 959 and Ducktail above, Aston Martins going back to the badboy V8 of the last millennium, a Ferrari Testarossa, a TVR and numerous other Easter eggs.

There were not, however, plenty of turn signals, with someone counting just five among the fifty engaging in proper use of the blinker. One reason put forth for that is the same reason we're posting this video, which is from last Summer, below: "because supercar." Enjoy.

Continue reading Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing

Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aston martinferrarilamborghinim6nissan gt-rporscheporsche 911ukvideo Thu, 09 May 2013 12:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562691/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/20562691/article-detail.xml 20562691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/supercar-parade-m6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/supercar-parade-m6.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Last week, Mercedes-Benz released the details for the updated 2013 Sprinter intended for global markets, but this week it has announced what changes are being made to the US-spec version of the van for the 2014 model year, including the Freightliner model. As expected, most of the changes made to the European model will be present on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter when it goes on sale in the US, which is expected to be this fall.

The biggest difference between the Sprinter announced last week and the one headed to our shores is what is found under the hood. While European Sprinters will come with diesel engines and offer the availability of a supercharged four-cylinder gasoline or CNG engine, US Sprinters will still offer the 3.0-liter V6 BlueTEC diesel. This year's Sprinter now comes standard with a new base engine, the 2.1-liter four-cylinder BlueTEC diesel. This smaller engine will produce 161 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, and will be paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission; the optional 3.0 V6 puts out 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and will be mated to a six-speed auto.

Fuel economy for the new Sprinter has not been announced, but Mercedes-Benz has made numerous changes with the goal of improving efficiency. To this end you'll find a new, low-friction rear axle and the optimization for the generator, fuel pump and power steering pump.

All of the other changes will carryover to the US including the revised exterior styling, the updated interior (which has not been revealed yet) and the advanced safety features such as collision prevention, blind spot detection and lane keep assist. Oddly enough, it appears that US Sprinter models will not be getting the Crosswind Assist feature. Mercedes-Benz USA has limited the number of images it revealed with this press release, so some of the models shown in the original gallery might not be offered in the US.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details

Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 freightliner sprinter2014 mercedes-benz sprintercommercial vanfreightlinerfreightliner sprinterfullsize vanmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sprinter Mon, 06 May 2013 18:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559394/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559394/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/20559394/article-detail.xml 20559394 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec 4Matic

We got our first taste of the refreshed 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK lineup last summer, once again affirming our belief that it's easy to fall in love with the littlest Benz CUV. There's something sort of charming about the boxy, rugged-looking luxury crossover, and while it won't set the world on fire in terms of driver engagement, it's a solid front-runner in the segment.

In addition to the GLK350 - in both rear- and all-wheel-drive forms - Mercedes-Benz has now launched this GLK250 BlueTEC model, packed with a brand new 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine and offered exclusively with the automaker's 4Matic all-wheel drive. With improved fuel economy and torque-tastic diesel characteristics, this oil-burning GLK could easily be the star child of the company's small CUV lineup. We hit the roads northwest of Ann Arbor, MI to find out.

Driving Notes
  • Mercedes' new 2.1-liter turbo-diesel engine is good for a healthy 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This is the first application of Merc's new four-pot diesel here in the US, but we'll soon be seeing it in the E-Class later this year. Compared to the GLK350, the diesel engine has 102 less horsepower but 96 more foot-pounds of twist. What's more, the torque thrust is delivered at just 1,600 rpm in the BlueTEC, compared to 3,500 rpm in the GLK350.
  • That said, the GLK250 is significantly slower off the line than its naturally aspirated counterpart. Hitting 60 miles per hour in the BlueTEC takes 7.9 seconds, compared to only 6.4 seconds in the GLK350. Of course, the diesel model is slightly heavier than its petrol-drinking kin - 4,321 pounds here versus the 4,079 of a 4Matic-equipped GLK350.
  • Where you really win, though, is fuel economy. Mercedes-Benz rates the GLK350 4Matic at 19/24 miles per gallon (city/highway), but the BlueTEC increases those numbers to 24/33. That bests all other competitors in the class, for now. (Remember, there's an Audi Q5 TDI on the horizon...)
  • On the road, the 2.1-liter diesel is perfectly matched with the more relaxed dynamics of the GLK. Even with the more powerful 3.5-liter V6, this CUV isn't one to be hustled, but we rather like the refined characteristics of the Merc from behind the wheel.
  • There is a very small amount of turbo lag at takeoff, but once you hit the meat of the torque band, you'll never be at a loss for power. The seven-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator, and has a sport mode that's more eager to fire off downshifts for spirited driving.
  • Steering feel is generally good, but doesn't offer as much feedback as a BMW X3. That said, the suspension is extremely well-sorted for a small luxury CUV application, providing just the right amount of feedback without ever being too abrasive, even on these large 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235/50R19 Continental 4x4 Contact tires. The brakes, however, feel weak in this GLK. You really need to sink your foot deep into the pedal to achieve adequate stopping force.
  • The interior of this GLK is as nice as it ever was. Thanks to that upright, boxy shape, and a tall glasshouse, the cabin feels very open and airy, especially with the shade retracted on that panoramic sunroof. It's an attractive interior, too, even in the dark hues of our tester. Everything is nicely organized and material quality throughout is nothing short of premium.
  • Naturally, a full host of infotainment and safety technology is available, including Mercedes' MBrace2 system. The interior is quite functional, too, with spacious rear accommodations and up to 54.7 cubic feet of storage with the bench folded flat.
  • The GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic starts at $38,590, which falls in the middle of the $37,090 GLK350 and $39,090 GLK350 4Matic. Our fully optioned tester rang in at $50,485, and before you guffaw, know that an Audi Q5 Hybrid starts at $50,900 - that's without a single option box ticked.
  • Considering the cost savings over the GLK350 4Matic and the huge bump in fuel economy, we don't expect that the average GLK buyer will miss the added off-the-line oomph of the 3.5-liter engine all that much. This BlueTEC model is easily the best GLK yet.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticmercedesmercedes glk-classmercedes glk250 bluetecmercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticquick spinquickspin Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554032/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554032/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/20554032/article-detail.xml 20554032 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589.jpg <![CDATA[Daimler, Renault talking about large van joint venture]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/daimler-renault-talking-about-large-van-joint-venture/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/daimler-renault-talking-about-large-van-joint-venture/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/daimler-renault-talking-about-large-van-joint-venture/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Daimler and Renault officially joined hands in April 2010. Since then, Nissan has agreed to build engines for the Germans, Daimler is expected to construct a plant near the Nissan plant in Mexico, the Smart ForFour and Renault Twingo will share platforms and electric siblings and the same Renault manufacturing facility, and Mercedes is supposedly considering a Renault-based X-Class vehicle to slot between Smart and the A-Class. Not bad for less than three years' work.

But wait, there's more. According to a report in Automotive News, the two firms are talking about developing a large van. When it comes to big cargo haulers, Mercedes is in bed with Volkswagen at the moment, but the contract has just three more years to run and VW has announced its intention to go solo on the next-generation van.

This wouldn't be the first commercial vehicle tie-up for the brands: Mercedes already uses the Renault Kangoo as the base for its Citan. Both Daimler and Renault have confirmed the talks, but have not confirmed a French newspaper report that the manufacturing site has already been chosen in France.

Daimler, Renault talking about large van joint venture originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlermercedesrenaultsprintervan Sun, 05 May 2013 13:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557113/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557113/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/daimler-renault-talking-about-large-van-joint-venture/20557113/article-detail.xml 20557113 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mercedes-sprinter-2014_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mercedes-sprinter-2014.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG

Rather than fuss with the seemingly pedestrian, entry-level Mercedes-Benz CL550 4Matic, starting at just $116,205, we recently straightened our tie and climbed right into the burly flagship at the other end of the CL-Class range - the most exclusive entry behind the velvet ropes that goes by the name CL65 AMG.

With a price of $214,105, the bad-boy of big Benzes soars in rarified air - the same stratosphere occupied by Aston Martin and Bentley. Like the S65 AMG, its sedan sibling, the coupe is fitted with a handcrafted 6.0-liter bi-turbo V12 that delivers 621 horsepower and a mind-boggling 738 pound-feet of torque. Mirroring the sedan, the CL65 is also equipped with the automaker's robust five-speed "AMG Speedshift" automatic transmission sending power to just the rear wheels. Loaded with nearly every option in the automaker's arsenal, but all fitted as standard equipment, the four-place cabin is a cocoon that keeps its occupants isolated from the outside world while coddling them with the world's finest upholstery and trim. The CL65 AMG is elegant, spectacular and very exclusive.

Driving Notes
  • The V12 engine provides thrust levels that are more common to small jets. Despite the large displacement, there is slight turbo lag as the turbochargers build up their 22 psi of boost. Once pressure hits, a fraction of a second later, the driver plays spectator to a ferocious battle between the engine and electronic traction control system as the 4,940-pound coupe launches to 60 miles per hour in about 4.2 seconds. Triple digits on the electronic display arrive effortlessly and its passing power leaves everyone giggling. The engineers have restricted its terminal velocity to only 186 mph, apparently to prevent it from going into orbit.
  • Mercedes calls the CL65's Active Body Control (ABC) underpinnings "arguably the most advanced suspension in production" as its hydraulic systems actively control squat, roll, vibration, pitch and dive during maneuvers - it even mitigates the effects of crosswinds. Despite its AMG-calibration, and a near lack of body roll, the suspension never felt harsh or rough. Truth be told, it was actually much softer and more comfortable than we had expected it to be.
  • Twin-sliding front calipers, over 15.4-inch perforated rotors (the holes are cast in place), provide confident levels of stopping power and look great inside the forged 20-inch wheels. The high-performance tires are 255/35R20 front and 275/35R20 rear, with wide contact patches that contribute to stability. Those meaty rubbers are needed to keep the heavy coupe planted on the pavement, but noise from the tires annoyingly permeates the cabin on certain road surfaces.
  • Four adults will fit comfortably inside the CL65 AMG. Front passengers have an enormous amount of room to stretch out, but backseat passengers will need those up front to move forward a bit for the most comfortable accommodations. We marveled at the fit and finish, but would pass on the slick steering wheel and gloss black trim in favor of carbon fiber or wood.
  • The CL65 AMG feels more athletic and slightly more nimble than the strapping Bentley Continental GT, but not as agile and spry as the smaller and lighter Aston Martin DB9. The Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is a better four-passenger vehicle than both of its competitors, but its discreet badging may not warrant the same attention from an ignorant valet - lest it be confused with a visually similar CL550 - possibly damaging a fragile ego.

2013 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes cl65 amgfeaturedmercedesmercedes cl-classmercedes cl65 amgquick spinquickspin Thu, 02 May 2013 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20555591/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20555591/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg/20555591/article-detail.xml 20555591 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-mercedes-benz-cl65-amg-qs.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec gets 33 mpg, priced from $38,950*]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

GLK250 BlueTec on Mercedes-Benz's configurator - screencap

It's been more than a year since we first saw the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show, but it looks like the compact diesel crossover is finally starting to roll into dealerships. Those wanting to buy a diesel GLK will only have to pony up an extra $1,500 over a base, gas-powered GLK350, as the GLK250's starting price is listed at $38,590 (*not including $905 destination charge).

The turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel produces 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, and Mercedes-Benz has also provided some fuel economy numbers for this model, with claimed EPA estimates of 24 miles per gallon city and 33 mpg highway. There is no listing for the GLK250 on the EPA's website yet, but the figures represent significant increase over the GLK350's lackluster 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway figures, which are for the rear-wheel drive model. The GLK250 comes standard with the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system - a $2,000 option on GLK350 - meaning that if you want an all-wheel-drive version of the 2013 GLK, it's actually cheaper to opt for the diesel model. Head over to the Mercedes-Benz site for the full 2013 GLK-Class configurator.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec gets 33 mpg, priced from $38,950* originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes-benz glk250 bluetecbluetecconfiguratordieselglk pricingmercedes-benzmercedes-benz glkmercedes-benz glk-classmercedes-benz glk250 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553177/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553177/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/20553177/article-detail.xml 20553177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-glk250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-glk250.jpg <![CDATA[First official 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exterior image leaked]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/first-official-2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-exterior-image-leaked/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/first-official-2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-exterior-image-leaked/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/first-official-2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-exterior-image-leaked/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Thanks to some quick-triggered spy photographers in the right place at the right time, we've already seen our first undisguised images of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Now, BlogAutomobile from France has managed to get a hold of what appears to be the first official image showing the exterior design of the big luxury sedan. Of course, Mercedes-Benz has already released a select batch of images showing the car's interior.

The car in this image appears to be identical to the car photographed back in March right down to the color, multi-spoke wheels and even the license plate. With the extra effect added into this image, it practically confirms that it is a leaked press photo. Have a good look then let us know what you think in the Comments.

First official 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exterior image leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-class2014 mercedes s-class leaked imagemercedesmercedes s-class Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553296/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553296/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/first-official-2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-exterior-image-leaked/20553296/article-detail.xml 20553296 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-s-class-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-s-class-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes Sprinter updated to take on Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/mercedes-sprinter-updated-to-take-on-ford-transit-ram-promaster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/mercedes-sprinter-updated-to-take-on-ford-transit-ram-promaster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/mercedes-sprinter-updated-to-take-on-ford-transit-ram-promaster/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz Euro-spec Sprinter van

By the end of this year, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be the second-oldest nameplate in its segment here in the States, but with hot new competition waiting in the wings, Mercedes-Benz is giving its hauler a freshened look and more equipment to stave off rivals. The Sprinter was a pioneer in bringing Euro-style delivery vans to North America, and it's inspired others to transplant their Continental offerings, with the all-new Ford Transit and Ram Promaster models launching shortly. It will also continue to do battle with lower-cost traditional competitors like the Chevrolet Express and Ford E-Series.

The big Sprinter will thus get a new look to go with more safety features and available technology. While the information released here technically covers the Euro-spec 2013 Sprinter (which goes on sale in September), the US market is expected to get the new Sprinter for the 2014 model year with many of the same features. Some of this new technology includes a Crosswind Assist feature as standard equipment and the availability of Collision Prevention Assist and Blind Spot Assist as optional safety measures - Mercedes-Benz says that all three are firsts for any van in the world. Also added to the updated Sprinter is a new 1.8-liter supercharged gasoline (or CNG) engine producing 156 horsepower, which will complement the line of diesel engines that carry over and help make the Sprinter the first cargo van to meet the upcoming Euro VI emissions standards. Buyers will get to choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic, which ought to further aid fuel economy. Additionally, a lower ride height is said to improve fuel economy and should improve handling while aiding ingress and egress for both people and cargo.

In terms of styling, the Sprinter's new face also looks more like the current line of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. This includes a more upright grille along with changes to the hood, headlights and bumper that lend it a closer kinship to models like the CLS-Class and the updated E-Class. The Sprinter will offer both halogen and HID headlights, while the latter will get LED running lamps and offer Highbeam Assist. The images shown here only reveal the exterior from front angles, but it looks like few, if any, changes have been made to the rear of the van. Interior upgrades include a thicker steering wheel, a new shift lever and the latest in audio, navigation and entertainment systems. Scroll down for the official press release for the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Continue reading Mercedes Sprinter updated to take on Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster

Mercedes Sprinter updated to take on Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz sprintercommercial vancommerical vehiclesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sprinter Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551676/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551676/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/mercedes-sprinter-updated-to-take-on-ford-transit-ram-promaster/20551676/article-detail.xml 20551676 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes CLA to get shooting brake variant too?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/mercedes-cla-to-get-shooting-brake-variant-too/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/mercedes-cla-to-get-shooting-brake-variant-too/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/mercedes-cla-to-get-shooting-brake-variant-too/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

As stylish as the new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class already is, it sounds like the automaker is considering a shooting brake version similar to what was recently introduced for the larger CLS-Class. What Car? recently talked to Mercedes design boss Gordon Wagener, who indicated that a cargo-friendly version of the swoopy sedan may be in the works.

Having driven the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake last year, we could certainly see a CLA45 AMG Shooting Brake being quite a lustworthy ride, but like its bigger brother, we would be surprised to see the CLA-Class Shooting Brake show up in the US. In the same interview, Wagener also shot down rumors of a coupe or convertible version of the A-Class, upon which the CLA is built.

Mercedes CLA to get shooting brake variant too? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes cla-classmercedes cla-classmercedes cla-class shooting brakeshooting brake Sun, 28 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549056/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549056/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/28/mercedes-cla-to-get-shooting-brake-variant-too/20549056/article-detail.xml 20549056 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-cla250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-cla250.jpg <![CDATA[Boston bombers were tracked using Mercedes mbrace [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/boston-bombers-were-tracked-using-mercedes-mbrace-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/boston-bombers-were-tracked-using-mercedes-mbrace-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/boston-bombers-were-tracked-using-mercedes-mbrace-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 diesel playing among the rocks

We now know Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the two brothers said to be behind the Boston Marathon bombings, planned to head for New York City to detonate more improvised explosive devices. As it turns out, that plan was foiled by the quick thinking of one Mercedes-Benz owner, diligent police work and the Mercedes-Benz mbrace system. When the brothers carjacked a 26-year-old Chinese entrepreneur identified only as "Danny," they didn't realize his Mercedes-Benz M-Class was equipped with the mbrace system, which can call for help in the event of an accident or track the vehicle in the event of a theft.

According to reports, the Tsarnaev brothers held Danny hostage for nearly 90 minutes while they drove around Boston forming a plan until they had to stop for fuel. When one of the brothers went inside to pay, the other put his gun down for a moment. Danny took the opportunity to unlatch his seat belt, open the door and run to another nearby gas station, where he told the owner to call the police.

When police arrived, they used the mbrace system to track the SUV after receiving Danny's permission, and it wasn't long before a shootout between police and the brothers ensued. When it was over, the eldest brother lay dead in the street. For more on the story, view the video report available below.

Continue reading Boston bombers were tracked using Mercedes mbrace [w/video]

Boston bombers were tracked using Mercedes mbrace [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> boston bombingsboston marathonboston marathon bombingsdzhokhar tsarnaevmbracemercedes-benztamerlan tsarnaevtsarnaev Sun, 28 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550896/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550896/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/28/boston-bombers-were-tracked-using-mercedes-mbrace-w-video/20550896/article-detail.xml 20550896 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/11c9190003-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/11c9190003-opt.jpg <![CDATA[New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz Unimog, the superhero villain of the off-road world that's just waiting to make the jump to Transformer, has been completely upgraded for its new generation. There are ten models, expanding the range and getting new designations across the traditional all-terrain series and the implement-carrier series. Panoramic cabins get more visibility, multifunction steering wheels and better dash clusters, improved HVAC and a three-mode central tire inflation system. Outside, there are new items like LED headlights and daytime running lamps in the bumper, roof-mounted windshield wipers and a front-camera monitor for the implement carrier.

The new engine lineup is compliant with Euro VI, featuring four- and six-cylinder BlueEfficiency engines putting out anywhere from 156 horsepower to 354 hp. Powerplant placement has also been tweaked, the chassis members getting a revised curve to place the engine a bit further back and lower, maintaining off-road clearance and lowering the Unimog's center of gravity. The new location of the engine means the cabin has more room, and the wheelbase is shorter. Combined with a higher turning angle, the Unimog has a smaller turning radius than before.

The implement carrier gets what's called a "synergistic traveling drive," the bonus being that drivers don't need to stop in order to use an attachment - a hydrostatic transmission works with the regular manual transmission at up to 31 kilometers per hour for seamless switching.

Those are just a tiny number of the changes in the new monsters from Mercedes-Benz. You can find out enough about them in the two videos and three press releases below to become a certified dealer.

Continue reading New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]

New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz unimogmercedes unimogmercedes-benzmercedes-benz unimogtruck Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/20549771/article-detail.xml 20549771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog.jpg <![CDATA[Schumacher to drive Mercedes F1 car on Nürburgring Nordschleife]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/schumacher-to-drive-mercedes-f1-car-on-nurburgring-nordschleife/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/schumacher-to-drive-mercedes-f1-car-on-nurburgring-nordschleife/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/schumacher-to-drive-mercedes-f1-car-on-nurburgring-nordschleife/#comments Filed under: ,



In advance of this year's 24 Hours of Nürburgring race, and as a "thank you" to German motorsports fans, Mercedes-Benz has arranged quite the driving demonstration at the legendary German track. Seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher will pilot a the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 W02 - the team's 2011 F1 car that carried the Silver Arrow name - around the Nordschleife. As far as we know, this will be the first time that an F1 car will have lapped the North Loop since Nick Heidfeld drove a BMW Sauber car around it in 2007.

This will be far from Schumacher's first go with the Nürburgring: In 2011 he drove a classic Silver Arrow Stromlinie W196 (pictured above) for a demo lap around the Grand Prix track, and in 2007 he infamously punted a Ferrari prototype on the Nordschleife.

There's no word from Mercedes as to how exactly Schumacher will drive for his 'Ring run this time. Heidfeld's lap was slowed massively by his car wearing hard, demonstration tires and for slow-downs to film the event. We have every expectation that Schumi will be subject to the same demands of safety and public relations.

Of course, having the all-time fastest lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife in your CV is something that we'd guess might tempt the über-competitive driver, and he'll certainly have the car to make that happen. Stefan Bellof holds the record for the fastest-ever lap of the 'Ring in its current configuration and length, with a time of 6:25.91 in 1983, at the wheel of a Porsche 956. (Niki Luada has the record at the original length, with a lap of 6:58.6 in 1975, in a Ferrari 312T.) Pundits analyzed the fast bits of Heidfeld's 2007 run, and figured his full-pace time, on admittedly unsticky tires, would have clocked in at around 6:12.

Again, we're not suggesting that Schumacher will have the green light to drive at full speed, but it does sound as though the now one-year retired driver is amped for the opportunity. Said Schumacher, "Posting a lap in a modern Silver Arrow on the most beautiful and most testing circuit in the world, what a brilliant mix - it's every motor racing driver's dream!" We'll keep our fingers crossed on May 19, and hope that the lap is a hot one.

Continue reading Schumacher to drive Mercedes F1 car on Nürburgring Nordschleife

Schumacher to drive Mercedes F1 car on Nürburgring Nordschleife originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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