Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

How The World's Most Powerful Sport Utility Vehicle Fails At Being Absurd

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG

Twenty years ago, sport utility vehicles were trucks. They had big, heavy frames, solid axles and low-range four-wheel drive. At best, they would accelerate to 60 miles per hour in under nine seconds and top out just over 100 mph. "Handling" simply meant that they could keep all four wheels firmly planted while circling an onramp.

Twenty years ago, only exotic sports cars boasted more than 500 horsepower. They accelerated to 60 mph in less than five seconds and could hit 150 mph if allowed enough space. Tuned suspensions, oversized brakes and exhaust systems that roared were expected, but supple rides were not.

Now, take a look at that brand-new silver sport utility vehicle in the image above. Beneath its leather-lined and sound-insulated cabin is a 550-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8, electronically controlled suspension, six-piston brakes and permanent all-wheel drive - it's the most powerful SUV on the market.

The tall four-door will sprint more quickly than (and outrun) a Ferrari 360 Modena Spider F1, plow through foot-deep snow drifts and take a family of five, with a ski boat in tow, to a lakeside Fourth of July picnic.

Sounds a bit preposterous, doesn't it?

Continue reading 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG [w/video]

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 amg2012 mercedes-benz2012 mercedes-benz ml63 amg2012 ml63 amg2012+ml632012ml63amgfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivem-classm-klassemercedesmercedes amgmercedes ml63mercedes+benzmercedes+four+wheel+drivemercedes-benzmercedes-benz ml63mercedes-benz ml63 amgmercedesbenzmercedesfourwheeldriveml+63+amg+2012ml-classml63ml63 amgml63amg2012Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20154117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-first-drive-review-video/20154117/article-detail.xml 20154117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-mercedes-ml63-amg-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-mercedes-ml63-amg-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Ultimate Passenger Vessel For Travel To Infinity And Beyond

2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Sometime before the end of this century, humans will travel to Mars. The longest manned journey ever attempted will take the explorers at least 34 million miles over the course of many months, at best. The vehicle necessary to support such an odyssey will need to be spacious, comfortable, technically advanced, incredibly safe and very powerful.

Before plotting the future spacecraft's design, we suggest the engineers take a close look at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG for ideas.

Of course, we don't think the S63 is fit for interplanetary travel - micrometeorites and ultraviolet radiation would likely wreak havoc on its expensive and vogue matte finish Magno Platinum paint - but we do feel it is one of the most spacious and luxurious rocket ships that someone outside of a space agency can put in their personal hangar.

During our week with the AMG-tuned S-Class, its four wheels never left the surface of planet Earth, but we did load it up and make a long weekend trek to Palm Springs. How did this twin-turbocharged sedan handle the long outing and subsequent run into the mountains? Does it drive ponderously, or is the big Benz agile and athletic? Most importantly, what's not to like with this two-and-one-half ton almighty giant?

Continue reading 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG [w/video]

2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz s-class2012 mercedes-benz s63 amgamgamg s-classfeaturedmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s63 amgreviewreviewss classs-classs63 amgTue, 17 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review/20149774/article-detail.xml 20149774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-mercedes-benz-s63-amg-review.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz CLC snapped testing in the snow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/mercedes-benz-clc-snapped-testing-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/mercedes-benz-clc-snapped-testing-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/mercedes-benz-clc-snapped-testing-in-the-snow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz CLC Spy Shots

Our spy photographers have caught the Mercedes-Benz CLC out for a little winter testing. Based on the same platform as the company's A and B-Class vehicles, the CLC should offer buyers a smaller alternative to the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Rumor has it the CLC will be available in both front and all-wheel drive configurations, and AMG is already humming along on a high-performance version of the four-door. The CLC AMG is likely to produce somewhere between 300 and 340 horsepower when it debuts. Otherwise, buyers can expect to find two gasoline engines on the option sheet producing 121 and 154 horsepower, respectively.

Chances are Mercedes-Benz will also offer European buyers a pair of diesel options good for 107 and 134 horsepower. Regardless of engine choice, the CLC will likely put the power to its wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Mercedes-Benz CLC snapped testing in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgclcclc amgclc spy shotsmercedes-benzmercedes-benz clcmercedes-benz clc spy shotsSat, 07 Jan 2012 15:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20142123/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/07/mercedes-benz-clc-snapped-testing-in-the-snow/20142123/article-detail.xml 20142123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-clc-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-clc-628.jpg <![CDATA[Traveling across Australia's Outback by Mercedes-Benz G-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/traveling-across-australias-outback-by-mercedes-benz-g-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/traveling-across-australias-outback-by-mercedes-benz-g-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/traveling-across-australias-outback-by-mercedes-benz-g-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz G Wagen in the Outback

If you've ever taken a good long look at the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and wondered just how tough the leather-lined SUVs are compared to their military-grade counterparts, Inside Line has the answer for you. Corespondent Alistair Weaver joined up with a Mercedes-Benz convoy in a G of his own as the company took off across Australia's infamous stock route. The trail is little more than a dusty path scrawled across the outback. Weaver braved vicious washboard roads, insects, snakes, dead camels and heinous heat to make the trek. How did his G Wagen handle the rough roads and deep sands? Let's just say there were a few issues.

For starters, the washboard dirt tracks made short work of the AMG's Bilstein rear shocks, forcing mechanics to pull the pieces altogether for one short stint before replacements could be flown in. Likewise, the spare tire carrier and both side-view mirrors suffered cracks along the way. Not surprisingly, the military-spec edition suffered no ills over the course of the trek. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourself.

If that's not enough fun in the Australian sun for you, click back and take a look at Motor Trend's trek across the continent in a Subaru Outback.

Continue reading Traveling across Australia's Outback by Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Traveling across Australia's Outback by Mercedes-Benz G-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgaustraliag wageng-classg-klasseinside linemercedes-benzmercedes-benz g-classoutbackWed, 28 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136441/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/28/traveling-across-australias-outback-by-mercedes-benz-g-class/20136441/article-detail.xml 20136441 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/g-wagen-outback-628-1325089482_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/g-wagen-outback-628-1325089482.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz G-Class AMG models spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/mercedes-benz-g-class-amg-models-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/mercedes-benz-g-class-amg-models-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/mercedes-benz-g-class-amg-models-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG Spy Shot

Our spy photographers have snapped a few shots of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG and G65 AMG SUVs. The beasts are currently undergoing winter testing in Sweden, and from the looks of things, buyers will be able to chose between two brawny boxes when the vehicles receive an official debut next year. The G55 is likely to feature a 525 horsepower, twin-turbocharged 5.4-liter V8 engine along with the subtle grille and bumper updates we see here. The globe-crushing SUV will also likely receive larger, more capable brakes as well as an updated interior. Otherwise, we can expect the G's sharp angles to soldier on in perpetuity.

If the G55 isn't enough to make you giggle, Mercedes-Benz is also planning an even more exclusive G65. That terror will come boasting a 6.0-liter, twin-turbo V12 engine good for 612 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque, though only 200 units will be produced. How's that for maniacal? Word has it the AMG G twins will take a bow at either the 2012 Detroit Auto Show or the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class AMG models spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgdetroit auto showg55g55 amgg65 amggeneva motor showmercedes-benzmercedes-benz g55 amgmercedes-benz g65 amgspy photosspy shotsWed, 28 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20135727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/28/mercedes-benz-g-class-amg-models-spotted/20135727/article-detail.xml 20135727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-g55-amg-628-1324999576_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-g55-amg-628-1324999576.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series turns in 7:46 lap on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black-series-turns-in-7-46-lap-on-the-rin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black-series-turns-in-7-46-lap-on-the-rin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black-series-turns-in-7-46-lap-on-the-rin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Democracy, said Winston Churchill, is the worst form of government...except for all the others. You might say the same of the Nürburging. Not the track itself, but the ultimate bragging rights that have emerged from comparing lap times on it. Because while there are countless factors that can affect a car's lap time over such a long circuit, it's still one of the best ways to measure a car's overall performance.

And so the comparisons carry on, especially for German cars that call the Nordschleife their backyard. This time we're looking at the latest slice of awesome wearing the Three Pointed Star, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series coupe, which has reportedly posted a 7:46 lap time at the hands of local publication Sport Auto.

Breaking the eight-minute barrier is an achievement unto itself - one which the standard C63 AMG coupe just barely missed with an 8:01 - but stands up better to comparison: In the same group test, the new Porsche 911 Carrera S barely edged it out at 7:44, while the BMW M3 GTS hit it in 7:48, placing the Black Series right in the middle of the two.

Of course, another test under different conditions, with different drivers on a different day would surely come away with different results. But in an imperfect world, these are as close as we'll get to perfect figures.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series turns in 7:46 lap on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgblack seriesc63c63 amgc63 amg black seriesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c63 amgmercedes-benz c63 amg black seriesnürburgringnordschleifenurburgringnurburgring nordschleifeTue, 20 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20130928/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black-series-turns-in-7-46-lap-on-the-rin/20130928/article-detail.xml 20130928 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/14-mercedes-c63-amg-black-series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/14-mercedes-c63-amg-black-series.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes and Ducati highlight partnership with pair of matching vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/03/mercedes-and-ducati-highlight-partnership-with-pair-of-matching/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/03/mercedes-and-ducati-highlight-partnership-with-pair-of-matching/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/03/mercedes-and-ducati-highlight-partnership-with-pair-of-matching/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

Mercedes-Benz and Ducati joined forces a little over a year ago, and the two brands have chosen the Bologna Motor Show to mark the anniversary. The companies are showing off an SLK 55 AMG and a Streetfighter 848, respectively. Both machines are painted in eye-melting Streetfighter Yellow, and Mercedes-Benz says that AMG may permanently add the color to the personal option list if there's enough demand. The SLK 55 AMG also wears custom yellow contrasting stitching on interior pieces like the sport steering wheel, seats, and dashboard, and a set of yellow-illuminated door sill plates further reinforces the theme.

Neither the SLK 55 AMG nor the Streetfighter 848 boast any performance modifications, which is just fine, since both vehicles offer plenty of giddyup right out of the box. The Benz is the most powerful SLK manufactured to date, with 422 horsepower from a naturally-aspirated 5.5-liter V8. The Streetfighter 848, meanwhile, is a 132-horsepower machine that weighs less than 500 pounds. Hit the jump to check out the full press release.

Continue reading Mercedes and Ducati highlight partnership with pair of matching vehicles

Mercedes and Ducati highlight partnership with pair of matching vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Dec 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgbologna motor showducatiducati streetfighterducati streetfighter 848mercedes-benzmercedes-benz slk 55 amgstreetfighter 848streetfighter yellowSat, 03 Dec 2011 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20119462/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/03/mercedes-and-ducati-highlight-partnership-with-pair-of-matching/20119462/article-detail.xml 20119462 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/mercedes-benz-ducati-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/mercedes-benz-ducati-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz prepping tiny-tough B-Class AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/mercedes-benz-prepping-tiny-tough-b-class-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/mercedes-benz-prepping-tiny-tough-b-class-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/mercedes-benz-prepping-tiny-tough-b-class-amg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It's still unclear whether or not the all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class will be offered here in the United States (for reference, the old B-Class was available in Canada, meaning the small Benz hatch has seen plenty of time on North American shores), but these spy shots certainly give us one more reason to lust after the compact Merc. Nearly every model range in the automaker's lineup benefits from some sort of high-performance AMG variant, and it appears that Mercedes-Benz is working on something sweet for its little B-Class, as well.

Rumored to be dubbed the B25 AMG, this hotter B-Class will likely be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four capable of producing somewhere between 320 and 350 horsepower. That grunt will reportedly be sent to all four wheels via a dual-clutch transmission, though the number of speeds (six or seven) is unclear at this time.

Visually, the AMG will stand apart from the standard B-Class with the addition of larger wheels on lower profile tires, bigger brakes and a more aggressive front end treatment - you know, the standard AMG flare. It certainly seems like a potent package, and if Mercedes-Benz does end up offering the B-Class her in the U.S., we certainly hope the little AMG variant will be part of the lineup.

Mercedes-Benz prepping tiny-tough B-Class AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgb-classb25 amgmercedes-benzspy photosspy picsspy shotsFri, 02 Dec 2011 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20119005/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/02/mercedes-benz-prepping-tiny-tough-b-class-amg/20119005/article-detail.xml 20119005 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-mercedes-benz-b-class-amg-spy-shots628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-mercedes-benz-b-class-amg-spy-shots628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A Simple Black Dress With A Leather-Wrapped Baseball Bat

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

Yes, it's a tired trope. But if there's a pair of well-off empty-nesters, the husband drives a Mercedes-Benz SL and the wife has an SLK. Stereotypes become stereotypes for a reason: As often as not, they're true.

But to dismiss this latest SLK as yet another Executive Assistant-spec coupe/cabrio is to miss three important letters on the boot: A, M and G. Yet again, the crew from Affalterbach have butched up the smallest offering in the Benz lineup, taking the proverbial velvet hammer to the "Chick Car" cliche. The rear wheels of the 2012 SLK55 AMG are driven by V8 power and its brakes and suspension bits have been beefed up for the occasional back road bonanza or high-speed highway assault. And unlike the BMW Z4 that's simply begging for the M treatment, Mercedes actually has die Hoden to build a testosterone-infused droptop. And we can't thank them enough.

Continue reading 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz slk55 amgamgfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivem152mercedes-benzslkslk-classslk55 amgMon, 28 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20114863/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-first-drive-review/20114863/article-detail.xml 20114863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-mercedes-benz-slk55-amg-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-black-series-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-black-series-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-black-series-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Uncorking This Road-Legal DTM Coupe At Laguna Seca

2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

Turn Two at Laguna Seca is one of racing's more interesting creations. Get it wrong here and the rest of your lap will get really grumpy really fast. The AMG-Mercedes people thankfully gave us around 20 hot laps in their new C63 AMG Coupe Black Series over the course of the day - enough that we were able to get into a groove for the final 16 sorties or so. GT cars of about this size, setup and power tend to take to Laguna Seca like yuppies to mesquite.

And so we cooked all day in a fully accoutered C63 Black Series. The fixins' on our coupe went well beyond the standard model's race-car-for-the-road spec: Track Package, Aerodynamics Package, AMG Performance Media suite, Exterior Carbon Fiber Package, 19-inch matte black forged light alloy wheels and a fire extinguisher. We'd have preferred if some of these options actually came as standard equipment, but last we checked, we don't own and run Daimler. Not yet anyway.

Goosing the well-weighted throttle pedal to the floor at the right moment in second gear out of Laguna Seca's insidious Turn Eleven left-hander, the C63 Black Series filled all of Monterey County with its divine quad-barrel noise. The sound was almost enough to make that difficult corner worth tolerating.

Continue reading 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series [w/video]

2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz c63 amg coupe black seriesamgblack seriesc63c63 amgc63 amg black seriesc63 coupefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivelaguna secaMon, 21 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20110911/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-black-series-first-drive-review/20110911/article-detail.xml 20110911 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-c63-amg-black-series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-c63-amg-black-series.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG offers all-weather, all-family rapid transit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-offers-all-weather-all-family-rapid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-offers-all-weather-all-family-rapid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-offers-all-weather-all-family-rapid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We posted the official pictures from Mercedes-Benz earlier this week, but it wasn't until today that the 2012 ML63 AMG was revealed in the flesh.

Muscle arrives in the form of the now-familar twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8, which replaces the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8. No need to complain, as the boosted engine produces 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque (opt for the AMG Performance Package and buyers will receive 550 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque). With a standard Mercedes-Benz AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed transmission, the all-wheel-drive SUV will hit 60 miles per hour in just 4.7 seconds. While the standard ML63 AMG is electronically-limited to 155 mph, the Performance Package raises it to 174 mph (and reduces the 0-60 sprint to just 4.6 seconds).

In person, the ML63 AMG looks really good. The AMG treatment, limited to aggressively reworked fascias, some matte silver trim and wider fenders to accompany the 20-inch AMG wheels, looks clean and understated. Now... where are the keys?

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG offers all-weather, all-family rapid transit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 mercedes-benz2012 mercedes-benz ml63 amg2012 ml63amglala 2011la auto showm klassem-classm-klassemercedes-benz ml63mlml classml-classml63 amgThu, 17 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108172/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-offers-all-weather-all-family-rapid/20108172/article-detail.xml 20108172 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/amg02-1321490591_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/amg02-1321490591.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes releases drool-inducing C63 AMG Black Series featurette]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/mercedes-releases-drool-inducing-c63-amg-black-series-featurette/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/mercedes-releases-drool-inducing-c63-amg-black-series-featurette/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/mercedes-releases-drool-inducing-c63-amg-black-series-featurette/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series video screen capture

Mercedes-Benz has given the company's 2012 C63 AMG Black Series a life of its own. The newest commercial for the vehicle shows exactly what happens when dealers shut off the lights and go home for the night. The coupe sets about prowling the streets of some unnamed metropolis in a quest to quench its insatiable thirst for asphalt, frightening away vagrants and using its exhaust note to bark at the moon. Looks like fun. Buyers may want to think about installing a cage in the garage if they plan to bring this Black Series home.

Our short time with the non-Black Series C63 coupe left us wanting plenty more, and the video after the jump is only whetting our appetites for this even snarlier two-door. Click over to check and watch the film for yourself.

Continue reading Mercedes releases drool-inducing C63 AMG Black Series featurette

Mercedes releases drool-inducing C63 AMG Black Series featurette originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgblack seriesc-classc-klassec63 amgc63 amg black seriesc63 amg coupec63 amg coupe videoc63 videomercedes-benzmercedes-benz c63 amg coupevideoTue, 15 Nov 2011 19:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20107137/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/15/mercedes-releases-drool-inducing-c63-amg-black-series-featurette/20107137/article-detail.xml 20107137 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-benz-c63-amg-black.jpg <![CDATA[The future of AMG includes electrification, starts with all-electric SLS E-Cell]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/the-future-of-amg-includes-electrification-begins-with-all-elec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/the-future-of-amg-includes-electrification-begins-with-all-elec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/the-future-of-amg-includes-electrification-begins-with-all-elec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With alternative powertrains staking a larger claim in the mainstream, it's simply a matter of time before automakers begin adapting the technology for performance applications. The in-house tuning division of Mercedes-Benz won't be left behind, and we'll see the first all-electric AMG product by the end of next year.

Mercedes will begin taking orders for the SLS AMG E-Cell towards the middle of 2012, with test drives and deliveries slated to begin late next year and in early 2013. Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz AMG, says development of the all-wheel-drive, all-electric supercar is moving along at a brisk pace, although official specs, range and curb weight haven't been firmed up just yet. However, Källenius is confident that despite the additional weight of the lithium-ion battery packs occupying the torque tube tunnel, performance will be exceptional, particularly with AMG's ability to independently control torque output to each wheel via the four electric motors.

But the SLS AMG E-Cell is only the first step - even though it's a massive leap forward for the brand. Electric drivetrains and implementing some sort of a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) will be part of AMG products in the future, although Källenius won't commit to saying which models would benefit from the technology. "We must look at everything," Källenius told Autoblog, and utilizing alternative powertrains in the pursuit of ultimate performance will be key to AMG's tire-shredding efforts in the future.

The future of AMG includes electrification, starts with all-electric SLS E-Cell originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amge-cellmercedes-benzsls amgsls amg e-cellTue, 15 Nov 2011 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20107053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/15/the-future-of-amg-includes-electrification-begins-with-all-elec/20107053/article-detail.xml 20107053 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/08-sls-e-cell-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/08-sls-e-cell-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz reveals 518-hp ML63 AMG ahead of Los Angeles debut [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/mercedes-benz-reveals-518-hp-ml63-amg-ahead-of-los-angeles-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/mercedes-benz-reveals-518-hp-ml63-amg-ahead-of-los-angeles-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/mercedes-benz-reveals-518-hp-ml63-amg-ahead-of-los-angeles-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've seen a lot of action from Mercedes-Benz and its AMG performance division this year, most of which concerns replacing the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 with the company's new, more powerful, more efficient twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8. The 5.5 is a great engine, but we've lamented the death of the 6.2 for a while now (though Merc is still putting it to good use in the C63 AMG), and the next vehicle to get the 5.5-liter swap is the all-new 2012 ML63 AMG, which makes its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this week.

In standard guise, the ML63 AMG puts down 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, though an optional AMG Performance Package raises those numbers to 550 and 560, respectively. This power is put to the ground via Merc's AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed transmission, driving all four wheels in the case of the ML63. The Performance Pack also raises the SUV's top speed from 155 miles per hour to 174, and the extra grunt reduces the ML63's 0-to-60-mph time from 4.7 seconds to 4.6.

We like how the AMG design has been grafted onto the new M-Class shape, as the previous model was a bit too bulgy and brash for our tastes. Inside, there's a standard Designo leather interior, along with a whole slate of high-tech gizmos to keep you safe, comfortable and entertained.

Stay tuned for live impressions direct from Los Angeles later this week. In the meantime, have a look through our attached high-res image gallery, and hit the jump for the official press blast as well as some B-roll video of Merc's new AMG crossover.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz reveals 518-hp ML63 AMG ahead of Los Angeles debut [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz reveals 518-hp ML63 AMG ahead of Los Angeles debut [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 mercedes-benz ml63 amgamglala 2011la auto showm classm-classmercedes-benzml63 amgMon, 14 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20105716/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/14/mercedes-benz-reveals-518-hp-ml63-amg-ahead-of-los-angeles-debut/20105716/article-detail.xml 20105716 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes greenlights 911 fighter, reviving SLC name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/mercedes-greenlights-911-fighter-reviving-slc-name/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/mercedes-greenlights-911-fighter-reviving-slc-name/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/mercedes-greenlights-911-fighter-reviving-slc-name/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Way back when we were calling the SLS the SLC, the men and women at AMG in Affalterbach were keeping a secret: there would be an SLC in addition to the SLS. The current car that we have had the opportunity to love in coupe and roadster forms is slated to end production in 2015. What will pick up where it leaves off is the SLC, a so-called "baby SLS" with a 4.0-liter V8 and an eight-speed, dual-clutch transmission.

Car magazine predicts the future coupe will have aluminum-intensive construction and be a better performer than the SLS it replaces. It could also be a median point, itself a 911 rival but perhaps serving as the basis for both an SLK variant and some other carbon fiber supercar beyond the SLS that could challenge a McLaren. After the unloved offspring that was the Mercedes McLaren SLR, we'd be in the front row of any grudge match to see if a hotted-up SLC could settle that sore score.

Mercedes greenlights 911 fighter, reviving SLC name originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgmercedes-benzslcsls amgWed, 09 Nov 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20101854/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/09/mercedes-greenlights-911-fighter-reviving-slc-name/20101854/article-detail.xml 20101854 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedesslc2015_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedesslc2015.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Fifth Gear</i> lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/fifth-gear-lines-up-audi-rs5-vs-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/fifth-gear-lines-up-audi-rs5-vs-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/fifth-gear-lines-up-audi-rs5-vs-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The menacing Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG coupe is slowly making its way into dealerships, ready to eat the souls of any driver willing to tame the 451-horsepower super coupe. It's a hardcore two-door with a naturally aspirated V8 powerplant under the hood, and in our recent stint behind the wheel, we fell head-over-heels in love.

But the C63 isn't the only hot super coupe on the block. The Audi RS5 - a model that will soon be available Stateside - offers 444 horsepower but puts that grunt to the ground via all-wheel drive. It's not as outright vicious as the Merc, but it's certainly capable of standing toe-to-toe, particularly on wet tarmac.

That in mind, the folks at Fifth Gear took these two coupes to the Cadwell Park circuit in Lincolnshire, Great Britain to see which German could pull off the quickest lap time. We won't spoil it for you, so follow the jump and watch Tiff Needell and company have a bit of high-horsepower fun.

Continue reading Fifth Gear lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe

Fifth Gear lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a5amgaudic63c63 amgc63 amg coupefifth gearmercedes-benzrs5s5videoTue, 08 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20101335/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/08/fifth-gear-lines-up-audi-rs5-vs-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-co/20101335/article-detail.xml 20101335 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/video.jpg <![CDATA[Shooting the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/mercedes-releases-sls-amg-roadster-photo-shoot-making-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/mercedes-releases-sls-amg-roadster-photo-shoot-making-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/mercedes-releases-sls-amg-roadster-photo-shoot-making-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster video screen capture

If you've ever glanced through a new vehicle's official PR photographs and wondered exactly what went into their creation, we have something special for you. Mercedes-Benz has released a quick video detailing the work involved in photographing the company's SLS AMG Roadster. Let's just say it wasn't one guy in a parking lot with a point-and-shoot. The endeavor looks to have taken more talent than a shuttle launch to execute, with Michael and Ralf Schumacher on hand as models, multiple grips, and arsenal of photo technology. Color us jealous.

We think that the SLS AMG Roadster looks sexy in any situation, but the professional photography sure doesn't hurt, either. Hit the jump to check out the making-of video for yourself.

Continue reading Shooting the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

Shooting the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz sls amg roadsteramgmercedes-benzroadsterslssls amgsls amg roadstervideoSun, 06 Nov 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099782/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/06/mercedes-releases-sls-amg-roadster-photo-shoot-making-of/20099782/article-detail.xml 20099782 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/sls-amg-roadster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/sls-amg-roadster-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hear the glorious 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe all by its lonesome]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/hear-the-glorious-2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-all-by-its-lo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/hear-the-glorious-2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-all-by-its-lo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/hear-the-glorious-2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-all-by-its-lo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe

Engine notes are a funny thing. They don't add anything to a car's performance capabilities. They don't improve emissions or lower fuel consumption. They don't contribute to ride quality or overall refinement - in fact you could argue just the opposite, at least indirectly. Yet automakers spend a great deal of time and resources to ensure their cars sound just right.

Few engines emit the kind of throaty, raspy burble that a V8 crafted by AMG does. The Mercedes-Benz performance division just makes some of the best sounding engines around. But you don't have to take our word for it: follow the jump to watch - and more importantly hear - the new C63 AMG Coupe sliding around a wet track - without any background music, voiceover, or even much color to distract from the sweet, sweet sound of the 6.2-liter, 450-horsepower V8 revving in all its glory.

Continue reading Hear the glorious 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe all by its lonesome

Hear the glorious 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe all by its lonesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgc 63c-classc63c63 amgmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c63 amgmercedes-benz c63 amg coupevideoMon, 31 Oct 2011 15:12:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20094804/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/31/hear-the-glorious-2012-mercedes-benz-c63-amg-coupe-all-by-its-lo/20094804/article-detail.xml 20094804 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/c63-vidcap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/c63-vidcap.jpg <![CDATA[How Steve Jobs got away with not having a license plate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/28/how-steve-jobs-got-away-with-not-having-a-license-plate/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/28/how-steve-jobs-got-away-with-not-having-a-license-plate/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/28/how-steve-jobs-got-away-with-not-having-a-license-plate/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Among the many myths surrounding the notoriously private life of Steve Jobs was his disdain for license plates. Jobs reportedly drove a Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG without ever affixing a plate, leading many to speculate that Apple's powerful CEO had cut some back room deal with California's DMV, or that he had some high-tech bar code plate on his car, or that he just didn't mind paying whatever citations he received for his different thinking.

Now we have a report that claims to settle the issue once and for all, and explain how you too can drive plate-less in California if you're so inclined.

Continue reading How Steve Jobs got away with not having a license plate

How Steve Jobs got away with not having a license plate originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgapplelicense platesl 55 amgsl55 amgsteve jobssteve+jobs+car+no+license+platesteve+jobs+license+platesteve+jobs+mercedes+no+license+platesteve+jobs+no+license+platestevejobscarnolicenseplatestevejobslicenseplatestevejobsmercedesnolicenseplatestevejobsnolicenseplateFri, 28 Oct 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20093043/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/28/how-steve-jobs-got-away-with-not-having-a-license-plate/20093043/article-detail.xml 20093043 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/apple-license-plate-opt-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/apple-license-plate-opt-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG coming to LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-coming-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-coming-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-coming-to-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've known for quite some time that Mercedes-Benz is prepping a hardcore AMG variant of its new-for-2012 M-Class crossover, and according to Car and Driver, it appears that the production model will debut next month at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Aside from revised aesthetics and a spiffed-up interior, the big change for the 2012 ML63 AMG will likely be under the hood. As much as we love the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 found in the outgoing model, we'd hardly be surprised to find Merc's new twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 under the hood of the next ML63. Elsewhere in the automaker's lineup, this engine produces 518 horsepower (or 550 hp with the optional performance pack), so we'd expect a healthy increase versus the old ML63's 503 hp and 465 pound-feet of torque.

We'll have the full details live from Los Angeles in just a few weeks, if not sooner.

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG coming to LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 mercedes-benz ml63 amgamgla auto showlos angelesmercedes-benzml63ml63 amgThu, 27 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20091027/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/27/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-coming-to-la-auto-show/20091027/article-detail.xml 20091027 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/08-2012-mercedes-benz-ml350-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/08-2012-mercedes-benz-ml350-fd.jpg -1 2