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[Miserly S 250 CDI BlueEfficiency is first S-Class ever with four-cylinder power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/mercedes-working-on-the-frugal-est-s-yet-an-s-250-cdi-blueeffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/mercedes-working-on-the-frugal-est-s-yet-an-s-250-cdi-blueeffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/mercedes-working-on-the-frugal-est-s-yet-an-s-250-cdi-blueeffic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Europe's Mercedes-Benz S 320 CDI BlueEfficiency began this year as the most frugal S-Class available. With 235 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, 31 mpg, and S-Class luxury, it's a fine runner if you want to have it all without grenading your treehugging credentials. But hang on - new reports are now popping up suggesting that Mercedes will soon up the frugal luxury stakes with a new S 250 CDI BlueEfficiency - the first S-Class with a four-cylinder engine.

According to the rumors, it will use the 2.2-liter, twin-turbocharged diesel four-pot fitted to the E- and C-Class, putting out 224 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. The obvious sacrifice in sheer grunt and top end ought to be made up for by the mileage, which is predicted to be 35 mpg. To keep the four- and six-cylinder engines from being too close to one another, the six is said to grow in output to 285 hp and 516 lb-ft, and that should spell the end of the eight-cylinder S 450 CDI engine.

[Source: Auto Internationaal (translated) via 4WheelsNews]

Miserly S 250 CDI BlueEfficiency is first S-Class ever with four-cylinder power originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueefficiencycdidieselluxurymercedesmercedes s 250 cdi blueefficiencymercedes s classmercedes s-classMercedesS-classMercedesS250CdiBlueefficiencyMercedesSClasss 250 cdi blueefficiencys classs-classS250CdiBlueefficiencySClasssedanTue, 25 Aug 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



According to a report from Auto Motor und Sport, Toyota is considering a partnership with Daimler to build Mercedes-Benz' A- and B-Class sub-compacts on the Japanese automaker's MC platform. The idea is to maximize the efficiency and output of Toyota's European plants, and could also include sharing development costs on each brand's next generation flagships: the Lexus LS and Mercedes S-Class. Daimler has dismissed the report as "speculation," while a Toyota Motor Europe spokesman toed the company line, only saying "It's part of our normal business practice that we regularly talk to other carmakers but there are no specific projects planned at the moment."

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via Reuters]

REPORT: Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classdaimlerlexuslexus lsLexusLslsmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz e-classMercedes-benzE-classmercedesbenzs-classtoyotatoyota daimlerToyotaDaimlerWed, 01 Jul 2009 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Refreshed Mercedes-Benz S63, S65 leaked in advance of Shanghai show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/refreshed-mercedes-benz-s63-s65-leaked-in-advance-of-shanghai-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/refreshed-mercedes-benz-s63-s65-leaked-in-advance-of-shanghai-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/refreshed-mercedes-benz-s63-s65-leaked-in-advance-of-shanghai-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 and S65 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz had planned to unveil the 2010 model year S63 and S65 AMG before April's end at the Shanghai Motor Show, but the high-performance S-class models have unwittingly been given an early internet unveiling by the company's own German market online configuration utility.

The refreshed limos will continue to get their weapons-grade thrust through big engines (the S63 has a 6.2-liter V8 giving 518 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, while the bonkers S65 gets the twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 engine good for 604 hp and an absurd 738 pound-feet of torque), but the AMG models will finally get more visually distinct, thanks to new LED light strips, a more aggressive front fascia with an enlarged air gulper, bespoke grilles (the S63's fixture has five horizontal bars, and the S65, shown above, wears three double-bars). The S63 and its pricier S65 brother will be further differentiated by unique wheels, badging, and bespoke exhaust treatments.

The blokes at Car and Driver (who spotted the MB consumer website gaffe) say that America will probably continue to only get long-wheelbase models of these two, and prices are expected to be similar to that of the 2009 models, which retail for $131,350 and $198,950, respectively.


Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S63/S65 leaked images

[Source: Car and Driver via WorldCarFans]

Refreshed Mercedes-Benz S63, S65 leaked in advance of Shanghai show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMGBenzembargoMBMercedesMercedes BenzMercedesBenzS-ClassS63S65Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes S-Class AMG spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/spy-shots-mercedes-s-class-amg-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/spy-shots-mercedes-s-class-amg-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/spy-shots-mercedes-s-class-amg-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As we've already reported, the Mercedes S-Class is about to get a facelift, so it should come as no surprise that AMG versions of the new bahnstormer are starting to show up on the road.

As with the garden-variety S, the AMG version gets a neat nip-and-tuck treatment, and adds a hint of Audi-inspired freshness via some LED-rimmed headlamps. Compared to the 2010 S-Class, the AMG model sports a more aggressive front fascia with a deeper chin spoiler, larger air inlets and additional gills. Shaplier side sills and a sculpted rear valance round out the rest of the noticeable changes, along with a set of quad oval exhaust tips and a prominent AMG badge on the decklid. Unfortunately, there are no interior shots to see if the new SPLITVIEW system will make it into the sportiest of big Benzes.

While the new S-Class might be shown at the Geneva Motor Show, it won't arrive in showrooms until mid-2009 as a 2010 model. And there's no word on how much longer we'll have to wait to get an official glimpse of the AMG-fettled model.

[Source: MotorAuthority]

Spy Shots: Mercedes S-Class AMG spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mercedes S-Class2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class2010 s-class2010Mercedes-benzS-class2010MercedesS-class2010S-classAMGamg s-classAmgS-classmercedes s-classmercedes-benz s-classMercedes-benzS-classMercedesS-classs-classsplitviewTue, 10 Feb 2009 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz introduces S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 31 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/mercedes-benz-introduces-31ms-320-cdi-blueefficiency/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/mercedes-benz-introduces-31ms-320-cdi-blueefficiency/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/mercedes-benz-introduces-31ms-320-cdi-blueefficiency/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the S-Class BlueEFFICIENCY

Mercedes-Benz really wants you to know how green its new line of diesel vehicles can be. To that end, the German automaker calls them Blue and capitalizes EFFICIENCY. Subtle, no? In an effort to earn the badge, MB has tweaked its largest and most luxurious model with a 3.0-liter diesel engine, a seven-speed automatic tranny that decouples itself at stops, a power steering pump that only operates when necessary and low rolling resistance tires. Those are pretty simple changes, no complex electric motors here. Fuel mileage, though, is rather good for such a large vehicle, coming in at nearly 31 U.S. miles per gallon. In contrast, the marque's upcoming S400 BlueHYBRID only manages about 29 miles per gallon. If this sounds to you like it makes a resounding case for diesel vehicles, you're right. It does. Unfortunately, MB only mentions German pricing for the S 320 in the press release after the jump, not indicating whether the big blue sedan will be sold on our shores anytime soon or not.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz introduces S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 31 MPG

Mercedes-Benz introduces S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 31 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s-classmercedes-benz s-class blueefficiencymercedes-benz s-class cdiMercedes-benzS-classMercedes-benzS-classBlueefficiencyMercedes-benzS-classCdis-classs-class blueefficiencys-class cdis-class dieselS-classBlueefficiencyS-classCdiS-classDieselWed, 01 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class getting updated]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/spy-shots-2010-mercedes-benz-s-class-getting-updated/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/spy-shots-2010-mercedes-benz-s-class-getting-updated/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/spy-shots-2010-mercedes-benz-s-class-getting-updated/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mercedes-Benz big bomber, the S-Class, is due for a mid-cycle refresh next year and we'll probably see its official form no later than the Geneva Motor Show in March. Judging from this latest batch of spy shots, we may actually see it much sooner, possibly as early as the Paris Motor Show in October. The fundamentals of the S-Class clearly aren't changing, but low investment parts like the grille, lower front fascia, mirrors and tail-lights get updates. The interior doesn't appear to have changed much either, but based on the driver's attempt to block the view, the S-Class may be getting a new COMAND system interface, which would be a welcome change. It's not known if Mercedes will offer a new BlueTec diesel engine in the S-Class here in the States, although that is a foregone conclusion for Europe. One new model we'll definitely see here is the S400 hybrid, which pairs the 3.5L V6 with a new mild hybrid system developed by Mercedes and BMW. The mild hybrid should also be the first mass produced automotive application of lithium-ion batteries.

[Source: EMercedesBenz.com]

Spy Shots: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class getting updated originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s classmercedes-benz s-classMercedes-benzS-classMercedes-benzSClassMercedesBenzs-classs-class hybridS-classHybridMon, 25 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The wealthy concerned about gas prices? Merc S-class sales fall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/the-wealthy-concerned-about-gas-prices-merc-s-class-sales-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/the-wealthy-concerned-about-gas-prices-merc-s-class-sales-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/the-wealthy-concerned-about-gas-prices-merc-s-class-sales-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With sales of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class down 23 percent in the United States, and off nearly 12 percent worldwide, Daimler officials are showing concern. The luxurious S-Class is the most profitable model in the lineup, contributing up to an estimated 25 percent of Daimler's pre-tax profits, the drop is getting painful. With the exception of the new C-Class (up 38 percent), overall sales for the German automaker have fallen in the first six months of the year. In response, Daimler is diverting shipments of vehicles to China and Russia as those emerging markets have yet to see a slowdown.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

The wealthy concerned about gas prices? Merc S-class sales fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marketMercedes-BenzS-ClassSales declineSales numbersSalesDeclineSalesNumbersSedanMon, 14 Jul 2008 14:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/rendered-speculation-2011-mercedes-benz-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/rendered-speculation-2011-mercedes-benz-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/rendered-speculation-2011-mercedes-benz-s-class/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you'd suspected that Mercedes' F700 show car was a preview of cues we'd soon see on production cars, there's a Schulte Design rendering to bolster your theory. The current S-Class debuted in 2005, so we won't see its replacement for a couple of years, but there's already lots of development underway. The new sheetmetal will be a full redesign, not a freshening, and the rendering depicts a car that takes inspiration from the F700, but tones the cues down a bit. The shape of the front end is very similar, with the headlights and grille echoing what Mercedes showed us in Frankfurt. Along the flanks, the arcing line at the base of the windows has been toned down. Of course, while it's a good rendering, it's still an unofficial composite image, so we should just wait and see.

Solid word on powertrains has come down from on high, though. Mercedes is looking at a hybrid version of the S-Class to compete with the Lexus LS600hL. Our current S-Class will get a mild hybrid for 2009, and there's a Bluetec Hybrid under development packing 224 horsepower/560Nm and returning 44mpg. The engines we know and love in the current S-Class will largely carry over, though we'd expect that attention to efficiency and the hybrid powertrains will be more important because of the new CAFE standards.

[Source: eGMCarTech, Rendering: Schulte Design]

Rendered Speculation: 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011classdieself700hybridlexusls600ls600hlmercedesmercedes benzMercedesBenzredesignrenderingss classs-classSClassWed, 16 Jan 2008 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes-Benz S 300 BLUETEC Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-s-300-bluetec-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-s-300-bluetec-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-s-300-bluetec-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click image to enlarge

The F 700 concept car is primed to be the star for Mercedes-Benz at Frankfurt with its DIESOTTO hybrid drivetrain and glitzy looks, but it's certainly not going to be alone up there on the stand. We know about the AMG C-Classes (sedan and wagon) and the ML 450 Hybrid, and you can add the S 300 BLUETEC Hybrid to the mix. Its hybridized BLUETEC 4-cylinder motivates the big sedan with a modest 224 horsepower and a not-modest-at-all 413 lb-ft of torque. The combination is good for 43.5 mpg and CO2 emissions of 142 g/km, and importantly, the system meets US emissions standards. While it's a show car, this package seems eminently doable, and it's not unreasonable to believe that it'll ultimately make it to production.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes-Benz S 300 BLUETEC Hybrid

Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes-Benz S 300 BLUETEC Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetecfrankfurthybrids 300s-classS300Fri, 07 Sep 2007 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Politico? Mafioso? RENNtech has an armored Merc S-class for you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/politico-mafioso-renntech-has-an-armored-merc-s-class-for-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/politico-mafioso-renntech-has-an-armored-merc-s-class-for-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/politico-mafioso-renntech-has-an-armored-merc-s-class-for-you/#commentsFiled under: ,


Defensively, the S600 Guard has got you covered: B6/B7 armor that stops standard military-grade small-arms fire, grenade, shrapnel, and explosive device protection, run-flat tires, self-sealing fuel-tank, and integrated fire-extinguishing system. Offensively, however, as any tuner would tell you, things could always be better. Even if you're sitting in a tank, why just sit there and take the hits? RENNtech has decided to apply its expertise to the issue, upgrading the S600 guard with the kind of offensive ability that will get you out of trouble, not just protect you from it.

Partnering with INKAS, a firm that builds safes and armoured vehicles, the house of RENN has put in an upgraded ECU, a carbon fiber airbox, and bolstered the intercooler pump. Final result: the regular S600 Guard's 517 hp gets cranked up to 640 hp, and it gets 775 lb-ft. And for pulling off evasive maneuvers, the standard brakes have been swapped out for 15.2-inch rotors up front and 14-inchers in the back. If you need more armoured get-up-and-go than that, you might want to consider an M1 Abrams instead.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Politico? Mafioso? RENNtech has an armored Merc S-class for you originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2007 13:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armouredguardinkasmercedesrennrenntechs-classs600Thu, 17 May 2007 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[New BMW 7-series will come with 8-speed transmission]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/new-bmw-7-series-will-come-with-8-speed-transmission/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/new-bmw-7-series-will-come-with-8-speed-transmission/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/new-bmw-7-series-will-come-with-8-speed-transmission/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When BMW released the redesigned 7-series back in 2001, they were the first to offer a six-speed automatic transmission. Two years later, Mercedes upped the ante by throwing an additional cog into the mix, equipping their new S-class with a seven-speed auto. Now that Lexus is offering an eight-speed slush box in their waftastic LS460, BMW has vowed not be left behind in the ratio wars and plans to bring an nine- eight-speed transmission to market by the end of the decade.

The next 7-series will be due for a substantial redesign by 2009 or 2010, so that's when industry analysts expect the eight-speed box to find its way into BMW's luxury sedan. The engineering haus, ZF Friedrichsafen, has been tapped to create the new automatic and has plenty of experience increasing fuel economy, while decreasing build costs, on the current model's six-speed automatic.

When will this cog-swapping numbers race end? We're not entirely sure, but as soon as manufacturers start cresting the double digits, we doubt anyone will even be paying attention.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

New BMW 7-series will come with 8-speed transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-series8-speed automatic8-speedAutomaticbmweight speedeight-speedEightSpeedlexusls460mercedes benzMercedesBenzs-classMon, 05 Feb 2007 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes four-door drop-top to debut in Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/mercedes-four-door-drop-top-to-debut-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/mercedes-four-door-drop-top-to-debut-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/mercedes-four-door-drop-top-to-debut-in-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We've been reporting on rumors of Mercedes' plan to lop the roof off an S-class and fit it with a ragtop for too long. Finally, it's been confirmed that M-B will be dropping the top of its four-door convertible at the Detroit auto show next month.

Based off the V12-powered S-class, the cabrio version will assuredly come equipped with a cloth roof, along with a pricy premium that would add an additional $10-15k to the sticker of the S600. Considering that a base S600 comes in at just over $140,000 (not including the gas guzzler tax), buyers will certainly appreciate the exclusivity that a cabrio Merc will afford them.

According to sources close to the project, production is highly likely.

[Source: Automotive News -- Sub. Req.]

Mercedes four-door drop-top to debut in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Dec 2006 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabrioconvertibledrop topDropTopmercedes benzMercedesBenzrag topRagTops classs-classs600SClassv12Mon, 11 Dec 2006 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz adding big diesel to S-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/mercedes-benz-adding-big-diesel-to-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/mercedes-benz-adding-big-diesel-to-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/mercedes-benz-adding-big-diesel-to-s-class/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mercedes-Benz has just announced a new model will be adding to its S-Class line of uber-sedans in Europe: the S420 CDI. The S420 CDI features a 4.0-liter V8 CDI diesel engine that produces 320 hp and a stump-pulling 538 ft-lbs. or torque, all while burning 9.4 to 9.6 liters of diesel for every 100 kilometers travelled on the New European Driving Cycle. Mash the throttle and the S420 CDI will entertain you with a 6.6 second trip to 62 mph, which ain't half bad for a land yacht like the S-Class. Mercedes says that with its 90-liter fuel tank and a feathery foot, the S420 CDI could nearly travel 1,000 kilometers or 621 miles on a full tank. The turbodiesel engine is also clean enough to meet European emission standards for diesels by using common-rail technology, piezoelectric injectors and diesel particular filter. This new model for the European market means the Benz garage is now stocked with eight models of the S-Class: two diesels (S320 CDI and S420 CDI), one gas V6 (S350), two gas V8s (S450 and S500), one gas V12 (S600), and two AMG models (S63 AMG and S65 AMG). The new S420 CDI was not listed as a Bluetec diesel, which means it likely will not be offered in the U.S. anytime soon.

Check out the complete press release from MB after the jump.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz adding big diesel to S-Class

Mercedes-Benz adding big diesel to S-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Dec 2006 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benzcdidieselmercedess-classWed, 06 Dec 2006 17:38:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz S600 Guard]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/video-mercedes-benz-s600-guard/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/video-mercedes-benz-s600-guard/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/video-mercedes-benz-s600-guard/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The S600 Guard is the ultimate armored limousine, the choice of third-world dictators and dealers of all kinds of stuff. Because Mercedes builds their Guard series (E, G and S-Class models) on separate assembly lines from their conventional counterparts, the passive and active security measures are built in right from the start - though you wouldn't know from looking at one. The S600 Guard will defend its occupants against machine-gun fire, grenades and other explosives; it'll run on flat tires; it's got its own air supply in case of a gas attack; and in case of a fire, it's got its own fire-extinguishing system and self-sealing fuel tank.

Aston Martin may have the product placement agreement for the 007 movies, but no car on the road lives up to the standard like the S600 Guard. Don't take our word for it, watch the video for yourself. (Just don't mind the techno-trance.)

[Source: Motor Authority]

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz S600 Guard originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 08:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorarmourbenzbulletproofguardmercedess-classs600videoMon, 30 Oct 2006 08:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes CL Cabrio in the works?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/mercedes-cl-cabrio-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/mercedes-cl-cabrio-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/mercedes-cl-cabrio-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: ,



The rumormongers over at Auto Motor Und Sport report that during a conversation with Hans Dieter Multhaupt, Daimler Chrysler's Vice President of Program Management and Development, the idea of a convertible CL was hinted at, along with the possibility of a diesel mill finding its way under the hood.

The translated article quotes Mr. Multhaupt, as saying that the engineers and designers take steps to insure that these variants will be possible with limited modifications. The one factor that leads to broader offerings is consumer demand, which Mercedes hasn't seen, yet.

We're not sure about the diesel, but it's probably a no-brainer that a droptop version of the S-Class based coupe will make it to production. Soon.

[Source: Auto Motor Und Sport]

Mercedes CL Cabrio in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clmercedess-classFri, 22 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Farfromskiddin: Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/farfromskiddin-mercedes-benz-s-class-4matic-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/farfromskiddin-mercedes-benz-s-class-4matic-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/farfromskiddin-mercedes-benz-s-class-4matic-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off its upcoming line-up of 4MATIC S-Class sedans. 4MATIC is, of course, the name for Mercedes' all-wheel-drive system, and the range-topping über-sedan will offer it mated to a number of engines to give the well-heeled a host of choices for uncompromised traction in whatever conditions they may come across.

4MATIC will be offered globally on the S320 CDI, S450 and S500 sedans, although they've yet to announce which of these models will be sold in the North American market. Based on the current American line-up, it'd be safe to assume we'll only get the S550 4MATIC.

Mercedes claims the AWD V8 sedan, despite the extra weight, will accelerate in the same 5.4 seconds it takes its rear-wheel drive counterpart to hit sixty from a standstill, and will only suffer a minor increase in fuel consumption.

The V8-powered 4MATIC models are on sale in Europe now in both short and long wheelbase versions, while customers will have to wait until December for the S320 CDI 4MATIC. Another gas-powered V6 model, the S350 4MATIC, will arrive by mid-2007.

(Official press release can be found after the jump)

[Source: Mercedes-Benz, eMercedesBenz]

Continue reading Farfromskiddin: Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC unveiled

Farfromskiddin: Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Sep 2006 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4MATIC4WDall wheel driveAllWheelDriveAWDBenzDaimlerChryslerfour wheel driveFourWheelDriveMercedesMercedes-BenzS-Classsedansnowtractionwinter drivingWinterDrivingTue, 12 Sep 2006 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Tuner Tuesday: ASMA Design S-Class Eagle I]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/tuner-tuesday-asma-design-s-class-eagle-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/tuner-tuesday-asma-design-s-class-eagle-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/tuner-tuesday-asma-design-s-class-eagle-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mere words come up wanting when trying to describe an ASMA Design-tuned Mercedes-Benz. These over-the-top customizations have appeared on this page before, including the CLS Shark I and II, the ML Gladiator II, and the company's original attempt to tune the new S-Class. Now ASMA has turned its designers loose on the 2007 S-Class to create the Eagle I, which we suppose can best be described as what the Mercedes-Benz S-Class would like if it were doing a cameo in the Back to the Future II... sans the hover conversion.

The Eagle I features the "traditional" ASMA plunging grille line that Ashely from eMercedesBenz calls "Darth Vader-esque". In addition, ASMA adds a shocking number of vented panels to the S-Class to complement the new front end, side sills and rear bumper. As always, customers can add a new set of wheels, sport exhaust, etc. to complement their Eagle I, although this thing doesn't appear to take compliments very well. You can find more info and high-rez shots of the Eagle I via the eMercedesBenz link below.

[Source: ASMA Design via eMercedesBenz]

Tuner Tuesday: ASMA Design S-Class Eagle I originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ASMAASMA DesignAsmaDesignEagle OneEagleOneGermanS-ClasstunerTue, 29 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[S-Class receives a variety of obscure awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/15/s-class-receives-a-variety-of-obscure-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/15/s-class-receives-a-variety-of-obscure-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/15/s-class-receives-a-variety-of-obscure-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Borneo Bulletin reports that the German marque's new S-Class has received several awards of excellence. The honors include:
  • Newspaper Bild am Sonntag awarded the luxury sedan its "Golden Steering Wheel."
  • Top Gear awarded it the "Limousine of the Year" due to the S-Class relaxing effects on passengers, whose hearts averaged 5 beats per minute less than other brands in the comparison.
  • What Car? magazine deemed the S-Class "Best Luxury Car."
  • The Automotive Circle International (ACI) gave the S-Class its "EuroCarBody Award 2005" for its exterior design.
More details of each award can be found at the link. Are they deserved or make you go "hmmm?"

Related:
Wards names industry's top interiors, features
Austrian magazine votes Mercedes-Benz S-Class "Fleet Car of the Year"
New S-Class unveiled

[Source: Borneo Bulletin]

S-Class receives a variety of obscure awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Aug 2006 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsS-ClassTue, 15 Aug 2006 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: More on the S-Class convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/14/spy-shots-more-on-the-s-class-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/14/spy-shots-more-on-the-s-class-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/14/spy-shots-more-on-the-s-class-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We've already shown you the possible abomination that Mercedes plans on performing to an otherwise beautiful car, in the form of the S-Class convertible. However, the photoshop gurus over at Brenda Priddy and Co. have taken the speculation to the next level with a front, three-quarters rendering of the 4-door drop top.

Although much prettier than the previous photo, we think its unlikely that the new convertible will go beyond its show car debut, supposedly in Detroit, and make it to a dealership near you.

[Source: The Car Connection]

Spy Shots: More on the S-Class convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Aug 2006 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedespriddys classs-classSClassspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsMon, 14 Aug 2006 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes S-Class hybrid coming in 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/17/mercedes-s-class-hybrid-coming-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/17/mercedes-s-class-hybrid-coming-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/17/mercedes-s-class-hybrid-coming-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DaimlerChrysler is reportedly preparing a hybrid version of its S-Class luxury sedan for sale in 2008. Likely spurred on by Lexus introducing the LS600h L at the 2006 New York auto show, Mercedes plans to offer a slightly different set up than its Japanese competitor. Whereas the LS600h L is a full hybrid pairing a 4.3L V8 with a pair of electric motors (it's named the LS600h L because Lexus claims the engine's power is equivalent to that of a 6.0-liter V12), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class hybrid will likely be a mild hybrid. Both the Direct Hybrid and Bluetec Hybrid concepts shown at the 2005 Frankfurt motor were mild hybrids, meaning the electric motors only assist the engine, though the former paired its electric motor with a 3.5-liter gasoline engine and the latter used the 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel.

Furthermore, Mercedes will introduce the S-Class hybrid in the U.S. and Japan first, mainly because diesels are the powerplant of choice in Europe for those looking for high mileage.

[Source: Autoblog.nl]

Mercedes S-Class hybrid coming in 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Jul 2006 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>full hybridFullHybridmild hybridMildHybridS-ClassMon, 17 Jul 2006 17:57:00 EST