Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mercedes confirms next gen C-class to be built in USA and Germany]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/mercedes-confirms-next-gen-c-class-to-be-built-in-usa-and-german/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/mercedes-confirms-next-gen-c-class-to-be-built-in-usa-and-german/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/mercedes-confirms-next-gen-c-class-to-be-built-in-usa-and-german/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

The diminishing value of the U.S. dollar, most notably against the Euro and Yen, is causing plenty of grief for foreign automakers. While the US market has been in the tank for the past two years, it still remains a major market for companies like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. All three brands have been looking at ways to relieve some of the exchange rate pressure and Mercedes has decided that more "dollar zone" production will be part of the solution.

When the next generation C-Class rolls out in 2014, German production will be consolidated at Daimler's Bremen factory while units for the North American market will be built in the U.S. There's been no announcement about where production will take place, but an expansion of the SUV factory in Alabama is one possibility. On a related side note, part of the reason the Premium German brands have recently avoided selling four-cylinder versions of their entry-level models in the States has been the exchange rates and the associated lack of profitability. With new CAFE rules coming, it's likely that we'll be seeing more moves like this in the next several years.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG


[Source: Daimler]
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Mercedes confirms next gen C-class to be built in USA and Germany

Mercedes confirms next gen C-class to be built in USA and Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C-Classc-class us productionC-classUsProductionmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz c classmercedes us productionmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzCClassMercedesUsProductionus productionUsProductionFri, 11 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Fluctuations and disparities in currency exchange rates have grown to become a significant factor in determining where foreign automakers in particular assemble their vehicles. Mercedes-Benz is among those carmakers most cognizant of these effects, and it has been assembling select models in the United States to meet local demands. Now the German automaker has announced that, for the next generation of its popular C-Class sedan due in 2014, partial production will shift to its assembly plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the M-Class, R-Class and GL-Class crossovers are already built.

The shift in production - which is set to comprise no more than one-fifth of global C-Class production - will not only help offset currency rates, but also afford greater flexibility in meeting local customer demand. The move is expected to further upset Germany's automotive workforce, which has grown restless in the wake of General Motors' collapsed sale of Opel.

In addition to the partial shift to Alabama, German production of the remaining four-fifths of C-Class production is set to switch places with the SL-Class roadster, the former moving from Sindelfingen to Bremen and the latter vice-versa. Full details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama

Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes c-class2014 mercedes-benz c-class2014Mercedes-benzC-class2014MercedesC-classalabamabremenC 230C 250C 300C 350c-classC230C250C300C350mbusimercedesmercedes c-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-classMercedes-benzC-classMercedesC-classsindelfingentuscaloosaThu, 03 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz pondering C-Class production in Alabama?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/mercedes-benz-pondering-c-class-production-in-alabama/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/mercedes-benz-pondering-c-class-production-in-alabama/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/mercedes-benz-pondering-c-class-production-in-alabama/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz C-Class - click above for high-res image gallery

The C-Class is Mercedes-Benz's biggest seller Stateside, and a report in a Stuttgart newspaper indicates the company could be looking to stabilize the revenue from its bread-and-butter sedan. The C-Class is currently produced in Sindelfingen, Germany, and that makes it prey to currency swings on the trip across the pond. If Mercedes transferred production to its plant in Vance, Alabama, the company would also pay lower labor costs than it does in Europe.

The Alabama plant currently makes the M, GL, and R-Class vehicles. In March of this year, Mercedes allotted $290 million to expand the facility but didn't name any vehicle that would be added there, only saying it would be "future product." The German report mentioned that Mercedes could move some SL production from Bremen to Sindelfingen to make up for the shift, but a Mercedes spokesman said there is nothing in the works and nothing to comment on at the moment.

A German labor representative said that if such a move were to come, he would expect Mercedes to have a plan to save the 3,000 jobs that would be jeopardized at Sindelfingen, and protect production at Bremen as well. If Mercedes does move the C-Class here, it would become the first of the German players to build its highest volume car in the States.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz C-Class


[Source: WGAL]


Mercedes-Benz pondering C-Class production in Alabama? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alabamabremenc classc-classCClassfalsemanufacturingmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz clase cmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-classMercedes-benzC-classmercedesbenzMercedesBenzClaseCplantssedansindelfingentuscaloosavanceSun, 27 Sep 2009 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[AMG-fettled Mercedes E-Class Coupe to favor agility over power?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/report-amg-fettled-mercedes-e-class-coupe-to-favor-agility-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/report-amg-fettled-mercedes-e-class-coupe-to-favor-agility-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/report-amg-fettled-mercedes-e-class-coupe-to-favor-agility-over/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

Exact details are few and far between, but for those that value handling over tire-smoking POWA, this is great news. Autocar is reporting that the next AMG-fettled Mercedes-Benz E-Class will rely on weight-saving materials and techniques, as well as fine-tuning of suspension pieces to increase agility. You know, as opposed to the regular AMG way of doing things, which is lobbing yet another salvo into the breach of the sky's no-limit horsepower war. The next AMG E-Class Coupe will actually be a Black Series model, meaning that not only will there be no "regular" AMG E-Class Coupe (for now), but you really ought to start saving your pennies now. Err, saving your bundles of Grants and Franklins.

According to Autocar, there's also not going to be any Black Series C-Series cars because the limited edition AMGs must be based on two-door models (though we'll see how long that actually lasts). There will, however, be a new C63 - and unlike the upcoming Black Series E-Class Coupe, there will be better driving through more power. The current C63 is AMG's weakest offering with "only" 453 horsepower on tap. The new version will belch thrust to the tune of 500 to 525 ponies. Phew, we were worried there for a moment that AMG had lost its power uber all mind. One last thing: even though it will fit, there's no plan to use the highly lauded seven-speed dual-clutch Speedshift transmission from the E63 and SL63 in the C63. Pity.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Autocar]

AMG-fettled Mercedes E-Class Coupe to favor agility over power? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMGAMG Black SeriesAMG E-ClassAmgBlackSeriesAmgE-classBlack Series E-Class CoupeBlack Series E-SeriesBlackSeriesE-classCoupeBlackSeriesE-seriesC-ClassC63C63 AMGC63AmgE-ClassE-Class CoupeE-classCoupee-klasseMercedesMercedes-BenzSpeedshiftThu, 06 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe a C-Class underneath?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/19/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-a-c-class-underneath/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/19/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-a-c-class-underneath/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/19/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-a-c-class-underneath/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is all-new for 2010, with sleeker, sportier proportions and improved efficiency and performance. The E-Class also weighs 400 pounds less than its sedan stable-mate, but not because of light weight materials. It's because the E-Class coupe is underpinned by the C-Class platform, produced in the same Bremen factory as the C-class, while the E-Class sedan is built in Sindelfingen.

So why not just make a two-door C-Class and base another coupe on the new E-Class architecture? Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, said the C-Class platform was used to give the E-Class Coupe improved performance characteristics. Changing the C to an E also enables Mercedes to charge over $48,050 to start; $50 less than the outgoing CLK350, but a whole lot more than a two-door C-Class. With its smaller proportions and lighter weight, using the C-Class platform also enables Mercedes to make the new E-Class Coupe far more efficient than its predecessor. The E250 diesel will deliver 36% better power while using 17% less fuel. Hat tip to Mike.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe a C-Class underneath? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 May 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-classe-class coupee-class sedanE-classCoupeE-classSedanmercedes benzMercedesBenzTue, 19 May 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

What a difference 20 inches and 1,000 lbs makes. The latest occupant of the Autoblog Garage is the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG. You might recall that a few months ago we tried out one of the big dogs from the Benz lineup, the S63 AMG and came away somewhat awed by the technology but distressed by the driving experience. This time around we got the baby brother of the family and found what may well be the best driver's car in the current Daimler lineup. Ever since the C-class was born as the 190E back in the '80s, Mercedes and BMW have had a back and forth rivalry in the high performance compact sport sedan/coupe segment. As the M3 has grown and evolved over the past two decades, so to has the Stuttgart challenger.

Just like the original M3, the lineage started with the four-cylinder 16-valve 190E-2.3-16 and has grown through a succession of V6 and V8 engines. Despite the nomenclature, this latest edition is stuffed full of 6.2L of AMG V8 dripping with power and torque. Can the latest C63 finally topple the M3 from its throne? Find out after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

Review: 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 mercedes benz c63 amg2009MercedesBenzC63Amgamgamg c63AmgC63autoblog garageAutoblogGaragec-classfeaturedin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragemercedes benz c63 amgmercedes-benzMercedesBenzC63AmgMon, 17 Nov 2008 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Wald C-Class Black Bison Edition scares us... really]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/24/wald-c-class-black-bison-edition-scares-us-really/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/24/wald-c-class-black-bison-edition-scares-us-really/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/24/wald-c-class-black-bison-edition-scares-us-really/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high resolution image

We usually try and reserve judgment when it comes to aftermarket styling packages. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and different people prefer different styles. In this case, however, we have to take exception with this body kit from Wald. First the name - Black Bison Edition? We can understand the metaphor of a prancing horse or a raging bull, but this one just doesn't make sense. And the actual body kit? The massive rear wing on a Mercedes-Benz screams boy racer, and the excessive vents don't go very well with subtle German styling. The only redemption are the semi-attractive two-tone wheels. We'll have to pass on this one...

Gallery: Wald C-Class Black Bison Edition

[Source: eMercedesBenz.com]

Wald C-Class Black Bison Edition scares us... really originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C-ClassMercedes-BenzWaldWald body kitWald C-Class Black Bison EditionWald Mercedes-Benz C-ClassWald TuningWaldBodyKitWaldC-classBlackBisonEditionWaldMercedes-benzC-classWaldTuningThu, 24 Jul 2008 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes unveils new range of diesel four-cylinders]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/mercedes-unveils-new-range-of-diesel-four-cylinders/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/mercedes-unveils-new-range-of-diesel-four-cylinders/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/mercedes-unveils-new-range-of-diesel-four-cylinders/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the new M-B four-pot diesels.

With lots of AMG goodness on the road and in the pipeline, something's got to balance out Mercedes-Benz' carbon footprint. So M-B announced today that it's releasing a new range of four-cylinder diesel mills that balances emissions, fuel economy and performance. The top-of-the-line 2.1-liter oilburner is producing 204 hp and 368 lb.-ft. of torque, or around 20-percent more than its predecessor, while returning better mileage and reducing emissions by over 10-percent. When fitted in the new C-class (250CDI) it's able to make the run to 60 in 7.7 seconds while getting 46 mpg.

The other upcoming C-class models will include the 220 CDI and 200 CDI, producing 170 hp and 136 hp respectively. The boost in performance and fuel efficiency comes from the use of new twin-stage turbochargers, more efficient exhaust recirculation, intercoolers, injection systems and a revised common-rail setup.

All the details are available in Mercedes' press release posted below the fold.

Gallery: 2009 Mercedes-Benz Four Cylinder diesels

Continue reading Mercedes unveils new range of diesel four-cylinders

Mercedes unveils new range of diesel four-cylinders originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>200 cdi200Cdi220 cdi220Cdi250 cdi250Cdic-classdieselmercedes 250cdimercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedes250cdiMercedesBenzturbo dieselTurboDieselThu, 10 Apr 2008 18:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2007: BRABUS Bullit, live and brutally insane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click the pic above for more high-res shots of the BRABUS Bullit.

The term "sleeper" isn't quite accurate when referring to the BRABUS Bullit. It has presence, with an air of understated brutality. The aero mods speak volumes about its predilection for sinister speed, and the V12 emblems flanking the sides only tell half the story. Housed within the engine bay is BRABUS' own SV12 Biturbo mill, producing 720 HP and an electronically governed 811 lb.-ft. of torque (974 lb.-ft. of twist would be available if it wouldn't tear apart the rear diff and liquify the tires). On your way up to the 224 MPH top speed, you'll pass 62 MPH in just under four seconds, and if you want all the details, you can read through our initial post here and check out our high-res pics in the gallery below.

Gallery: BRABUS Bullit Black Arrow - live

Frankfurt 2007: BRABUS Bullit, live and brutally insane originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biturbobrabusbrabus bullitBrabusBullitbullitc-classmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzv12v12 biturboV12BiturboWed, 12 Sep 2007 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2007: Mercedes C-Class wagon arrives in BLUETEC Hybrid form]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-mercedes-c-class-wagon-arrives-in-hybrid-form/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-mercedes-c-class-wagon-arrives-in-hybrid-form/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-mercedes-c-class-wagon-arrives-in-hybrid-form/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image for updated gallery of media and live pics

Mercedes, so far, has had the biggest stage production of any manufacturer here in Frankfurt. It was so big they needed to construct their own building next to the existing exhibit halls to house it. The three-story structure was filled to capacity as the company debuted something like 193 new models in the 20 minute show. Okay, maybe it was a dozen or so. Using dancers in some very creative ways, they managed to convey the idea of man and nature working together for a clean green future to start things off. For the debut of the new models, they were particularly keen on looking green, so the dancers helped create an illusion involving nature. Taking the form of trees and forest spirits (What was this, an anime film? -Ed.), the dancers somehow managed to turn their tree limb props into the shape of a vehicle and enclose all 12 of themselves inside of it just as Dr. Z drove out in a Bluetech sedan. After a bit of talk, the sedan went away and when it was time for the wagon (did Dr. Z call it a Model T? Probably T-Model, on second thought), it too was green. This time a C300 BLUETEC hybrid.

More info and Mercedes' full press release after the jump.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Gallery: 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate

Continue reading Frankfurt 2007: Mercedes C-Class wagon arrives in BLUETEC Hybrid form

Frankfurt 2007: Mercedes C-Class wagon arrives in BLUETEC Hybrid form originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenbreakingc 300 bluetec hybridC-Classc-class estatec-class hybridC-Class wagonC-classEstateC-classHybridC-classWagonC300BluetecHybridFrankfurtMercedes Benz C-Class wagonMercedesBenzC-classWagonT-ModelWed, 12 Sep 2007 01:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BRABUS punches up the Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/brabus-punches-up-the-mercedes-benz-c220-cdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/brabus-punches-up-the-mercedes-benz-c220-cdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/brabus-punches-up-the-mercedes-benz-c220-cdi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image for gallery

BRABUS has announced its D3 S POWER XTRA tuning kit for Mercedes-Benz's new C220 CDI sedan. The Euro-market oil-burner sees a marked improvement in performance after installation, with power jumping from 168 hp/295 lb-ft to 217 horses and a stout 354 lb-ft of torque. On the road, this shaves a full second off the run to 100 km/h (62 mph), which takes 7.8 seconds post-modification. The car's top speed increases to 149 mph, a 6 mph gain. Despite the added performance, emissions remain at the same Euro IV-compliant levels as the factory-stock C220 CDI. Installation can be performed at any Mercedes-Benz dealer's service department. Naturally, BRABUS would love for buyers of the power kit to pony up for additional accessories like the tuner's sport exhaust and bodywork modifications, but they're certainly not required.

Follow the jump for BRABUS' full press release.

[Source: BRABUS]

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI by BRABUS

Continue reading BRABUS punches up the Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI

BRABUS punches up the Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabus d3brabus d3 s power xtraBrabusD3BrabusD3SPowerXtrac 220 cdic-classC220Cdid3d3 s power xtraTue, 28 Aug 2007 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/26/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c-class-sports-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/26/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c-class-sports-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/26/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c-class-sports-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image to enlarge

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sport Coupe never really caught on here in the US, and it was ultimately dumped from the automaker's Stateside lineup. It has lived on in Europe, however, and it will be updated to bring it closer in appearance to the all-new W204 C-Class sedan. The latest spy shot , posted by a member at GermanCarZone, shows a mildly disguised prototype at a filling station.

As you can see, the new-gen C-Class face has been applied, but since the coupe will continue to be built on the old platform (W203), the rest of the car's outward appearance is basically identical to the old model (shown at right). This is about as basic a facelift as you can get, and from the look of it, the C-Class Sport Coupe should remain unlamented in the US even after Europe gets the "new" car.

[Source: GermanCarZone via Carscoop]

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Aug 2007 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BenzC-ClasscoupeHatchMercedesSports CoupeSportsCoupeSun, 26 Aug 2007 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes BLK takes aim at 1-series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/31/mercedes-blk-takes-aim-at-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/31/mercedes-blk-takes-aim-at-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/31/mercedes-blk-takes-aim-at-1-series/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

To hear some people talk, you'd be forgiven for thinking BMW's 1-Series has already won the compact luxury segment and retired to the hearth with a glass of celebratory Riesling. And it hasn't even come to America yet. In spite of the 1's much hyped and much anticipated arrival, it will still have to earn its place by taking on challengers. Mercedes' entrant is called the BLK, based on the C-Class and offered in three body styles: coupe, hatch, and convertible. While the moniker makes sense within Mercedes naming system, it still makes us think of a sandwich.

More details after the jump.

[Source: Auto Express]

Continue reading Mercedes BLK takes aim at 1-series

Mercedes BLK takes aim at 1-series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blkc-classcompactcoupemercedesTue, 31 Jul 2007 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Guessing Game: AMG website hints at impending new model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/02/guessing-game-amg-website-hints-at-impending-new-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/02/guessing-game-amg-website-hints-at-impending-new-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/02/guessing-game-amg-website-hints-at-impending-new-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Those octane junkies in Affalterbach never seem to tire of developing new, more powerful engines and shoehorning them into everything with four wheels and a three-pointed star. The Mercedes AMG website is featuring a cryptic bit of flash animation that shows the back end of an unknown new product speeding through a haze, accompanied by the caption that reads, "In July... the fog lifts." Hey, wait a minute... July... that's this month!

The indication that Benz' in-house tuning division is preparing, in short order, to release a new model naturally leads to speculation over just what that new model might be. One definite possibility could be the impending AMG version of the newly-released C-Class, on which spy shots and information have been trickling in of late. Aside from a C63 AMG, we can speculate based on AMG's current line-up of fire-snorting models, which places the division's latest 6.3-liter V8 in every Mercedes model except for three: the G-Class SUV, the outgoing C-Class wagon, and the SLK roadster, all of which still use the outgoing 5.5-liter engine.

Thanks for the tip everyone!

[Source: Mercedes AMG via eMercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Guessing Game: AMG website hints at impending new model

Guessing Game: AMG website hints at impending new model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgbenzc-classc63julylaunchmercedesslkwebsiteMon, 02 Jul 2007 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz C-Class US pricing announced]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/28/mercedes-benz-c-class-us-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/28/mercedes-benz-c-class-us-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/28/mercedes-benz-c-class-us-pricing-announced/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for a high res gallery of the US-spec C-Class.

For those of you that either want to upgrade your current Benz or finally make the leap into German luxury sedans, Mercedes released pricing for the US-bound C-Class, and the cost of entry is approximately $2,200 less than the outgoing model.

The new C-Class benefits from a freshly styled exterior that's one of the more handsome designs to come from the automaker in recent years, and its new pricing structure undercuts its competitors, including the BMW 3-series and Lexus ES350.

If you're stingy with the options list, you can get a manual transmission, but once you get into the higher-end versions, the automatic is standard and the price goes up accordingly. Two models are available: the 228 HP C300 and the 268 HP C350, with the former coming in at $31,200, while the latter bumps up the price another $5,300 (not including the $775 destination charge). Right out of the box, the C300 comes with 17-inch rollers, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, an LCD display, eight-way power seats up front and a power sunroof. Not bad for an entry-level Merc.

Look for the new C-Class to hit dealers on August 7, with AWD models coming the following month.

All the details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz C-Class US-Spec

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz C-Class US pricing announced

Mercedes-Benz C-Class US pricing announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benzc-classc300c350mercedesmercedes-benzpricingThu, 28 Jun 2007 19:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shot: 2008 C-Class Estate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/spy-shot-2008-c-class-estate/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/spy-shot-2008-c-class-estate/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/spy-shot-2008-c-class-estate/#commentsFiled under: , ,

World Car Fans has a new round of C-Class Estate spy shots, this time with even less camo. This batch of photos reveals almost the entire car except for the rear, where plastic obscures the details. Mercedes engineers even seem to have cooperated with the photographer, parking a C-Class sedan next to the Estate for comparison. As you might expect, the Estate looks much like the sedan with the addition of a rear hatch and luggage rack.

As we reported before, the C-Class Estate isn't currently sold in the U.S., and the 2008 model isn't likely to be either. We sure would like to see it available in the States, especially with its choice of three diesel engines.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shot: 2008 C-Class Estate originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-classc-class estatec-class estate spy shotC-classEstateC-classEstateSpyShotmercedes c-classmercedes c-class estate spy shotMercedesC-classMercedesC-classEstateSpyShotspy shotSpyShotMon, 18 Jun 2007 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered speculation: Mercedes A-class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/rendered-speculation-mercedes-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/rendered-speculation-mercedes-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/rendered-speculation-mercedes-a-class/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When Mercedes decided to aim for the entry-level luxury market in the U.S., the best they could come up with was the C230 Sport, which, because of an anemic powertrain and a high cost of ownership, never quite made it into primetime. In Europe, the A-class subcompact pseudo-minivan hasn't caught favor with as big a chunk of the populace as expected either, so with both those lessons learned, Merc is going back to the drawing board.

According to AutoZeitung, the M.B. boys are developing a compact hatch to rival the Audi A3 and BMW 1-series in the burgeoning compact-luxury class. The rendering, which can be viewed in full by clicking here, may be a close resemblance to what may make it to market at the turn of the decade. Drawing cues from the recently redesigned C-class, the A-class hatch has several distinctly Audi design elements, partnered with the new Mercedes grille. If coupled to the right combination of diesel- and petrol-powered engines, this could be a real success both in the U.S. and abroad.

An argument can be made that Mercedes shouldn't set its sights so low, again. But, if such a vehicle comes to fruition, we'll keep such judgments to ourselves - until we get to drive one.

[Source: AutoZeitung (Google-Translated)]

Rendered speculation: Mercedes A-class originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Jun 2007 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classbenzc-classmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzrenderSat, 02 Jun 2007 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Car magazine gets the skinny on the Audi RS5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/12/car-magazine-gets-the-skinny-on-the-audi-rs5/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/12/car-magazine-gets-the-skinny-on-the-audi-rs5/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/12/car-magazine-gets-the-skinny-on-the-audi-rs5/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Although it's certainly no secret, Car magazine is reporting that Audi engineers are hard at work developing the uber-5. Set to go head-to-head with its Teutonic rivals the M3 and C63; the new RS5 is expected to pack a 450 HP punch when it hits the market in the first half of 2008.

The 4.2-liter V8 currently employed in the RS4 will find a home under the hood of the "5," but with the addition of two small, quick spooling turbos. Max horsepower will obviously see a bump, but the real news is that the projected torque figures are likely to breach the 500 lb.-ft. mark.

Naturally, Quattro will be employed to send all that power to the ground, and with a reworking of the drivetrain, weight distribution is expected to come in around 55:45. Rolling stock will be comprised of 19-inches on all four corners, framing carbon ceramic brakes pulled from the R8. It's also expected that Audi will borrow some of the TT's tech and use magnetic dampers to limit roll.

With its rear-bias power delivery and neutral handling characteristics, the death match between the RS5's cross-country rivals is on. And with a price tag of about £50-large, well-to-do pistonheads will have a serious envious decision on their hands.

[Source: Car]

Car magazine gets the skinny on the Audi RS5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 May 2007 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a5audibmwc-classc63m3mercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzrs5s5Sat, 12 May 2007 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[AMG C63: 450 HP C-Class at your service]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/01/amg-c63-450-hp-c-class-at-your-service/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/01/amg-c63-450-hp-c-class-at-your-service/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/01/amg-c63-450-hp-c-class-at-your-service/#commentsFiled under: ,

After several other tuners have had their say, AMG finally checks in with a horsepower number for the C63: 450. By comparison, the E63 AMG gets 507 hp and takes $83K to become part of the family. The C63 AMG will cost about $20K less, so in order not to offend its bigger brother (and their owners), the AMG V8 has been detuned. That is 20 more than was originally rumored, and 57 less than the E63 AMG. Word is that it will also be differentiated slightly from other AMG's by wearing a mildly restyled bodykit, but will get the quad-pipes to match the rest of the AMG range. The car will be revealed (finally!) at Frankfurt, later this year.

[Source: Benz Insider]

AMG C63: 450 HP C-Class at your service originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 May 2007 07:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgc-classc63mercedesTue, 01 May 2007 07:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/16/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/16/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/16/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-c63-amg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following the unveiling of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class, we all knew it wouldn't be long before AMG would have their turn at the new baby Benz. Sure enough, spy photos have begun hitting the internet, showing the next C63 AMG undergoing testing at the fabled Nurburgring.

Set to face off against the likes of BMW's upcoming (albeit manual and two-door) M3 and Audi's all-wheel-drive RS4, the C63 is anticipated to shoehorn in AMG's prolific 6.3-liter V8, though detuned to somewhere in the neighborhood of a magical 420 horsepower.

Major aftermarket tuners like Brabus, Kicherer and Lorinser have already revealed their modifications for the new C-Class, but only AMG will be able to provide the dealer-direct, factory-backed final product that you're likely to see ripping up your local streets. Expect the C63 AMG to make its debut at the Frankfurt show in September.

[Source: World Can Fans]

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2007 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgbenzc-classc63imagemercedesmulenurburgringphotoshotsnapspytestMon, 16 Apr 2007 16:03:00 EST