Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[World Car Of The Year down to its final four]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class - front three-quarter view, dynamic

Judges for the World Car of the Year Award have narrowed down the finalists to just four vehicles. Out of a total of 42 entries, only the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Porsche Boxster/Cayman, Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT-86 and Volkswagen Golf remain standing. For Volkswagen, this marks the second consecutive year the company has had an entry among the finalists, and the fourth time since 2009. In order to qualify, a vehicle must be on sale on two continents during the span of time between January 1, 2013 and May 30, 2013. A panel of 66 journalists from 23 countries then vote on the finalists.

Three vehicles have made the cut for the last round of voting on the 2013 World Performance Car as well, with the Cayman/Boxster and FR-S/BRZ/GT-86 running against the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Meanwhile, the Renault Zoe, Tesla Model S and Volvo V60 Plug-In Hybrid are duking it out for the World Green Car Award. Finally, the World Car Design of the Year Award is up for grabs between the Aston Martin Vanquish, Jaguar F-Type, and the Mazda6. Check out the full press release below. Overall winners will be presented at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

Continue reading World Car Of The Year down to its final four

World Car Of The Year down to its final four originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxster2013 subaru brz2013 volkswagen golf2014 porsche cayman2014 volkswagen golfa-classa-klassebrzfr-sgolfgt-86gt86mercedes-benzscionsubaruvolkswagenworld car of the yearworld car of the year awardWed, 13 Mar 2013 10:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20500301/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/20500301/article-detail.xml 20500301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mercedes-benz-a-class-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mercedes-benz-a-class-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is Affalterbach's first big leap into the little pond]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The recent history of AMG is turning out amped-up versions of Mercedes-Benz offerings that would hardly ever be mistaken for their sedate counterparts. Sure, you'd need to pay attention to pick a G-Class from the G63 AMG, but dual side-pipes are a quick giveaway. The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is not only a new era in Affalterbach's attention on smaller cars, it is probably also the most subtle transformation we can think of in the line-up.

Low and chunky enough in standard guise to make a sporting impression, the aesthetic makeover is confined to black trim around the lower rim of the hatch, black wheels with red brake calipers and a single, rectangular exhaust tip on either side of the diffuser. It's easier to make a positive ID inside, where the flat-bottomed steering wheel, red seatbelts and red-rimmed details say, "You know what I am..."

If the car is running, though, it won't take but a second. The 2.0-liter turbo spitting 360 horsepower and 332 pound-feet will grumble through a sport exhaust at idle, and bellow through the same on it's way to a 0-60 time of less than 4.5 seconds. And if you need something that looks a little harder - and you want those quad pipes - then the A45 AMG Edition 1 is the treasure you seek. There's a press release below for all the info you'll need until the hot hatch goes on sale in Germany later this year, and photos for the rest of us while we wait to find out if we'll get a chance to buy it.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is Affalterbach's first big leap into the little pond

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is Affalterbach's first big leap into the little pond originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz a45 amga-classa45 amgamggenevageneva 2013geneva motor showmercedes-benzTue, 05 Mar 2013 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488375/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-geneva-2013/20488375/article-detail.xml 20488375 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/a45amglive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/a45amglive.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG shows up to fight the hottest hatches [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-shows-up-to-fight-the-hottest-hatches/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-shows-up-to-fight-the-hottest-hatches/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-shows-up-to-fight-the-hottest-hatches/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG in white - front three-quarter view

Fun coincidence. On the same day that Audi announces the unveiling of its new S3 Sportback at the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz steals the spotlight by confirming that the all-new A45 AMG will also receive its official debut early next month. Starting life as the entry-level A-Class hatchback, the A45 AMG gets the full AMG treatment, which includes numerous performance, handling and styling upgrades.

Under the hood sits an AMG-tuned 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 breathing through a sport exhaust system helping the five-door produce 360 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired to a seven-speed AMG dual-clutch transmission and power is sent to the ground using 4Matic all-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz says that the A45 AMG will be able to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in under 4.5 seconds and it will have a top speed of 155 mph; in the land of hot hatches, it doesn't get much hotter than that. For added performance and handling, AMG has retuned the A-Class' suspension and steering systems and equipped The A45 with a three-stage stability control system that is specific to this car.

Surprisingly, the exterior styling of the A-Class was already sporty enough that the new model doesn't receive too many changes to become the A45 AMG. The biggest alterations include black accents to the chin spoiler, rocker panels and mirror caps, black wheels with red-painted brake calipers and rectangular dual exhaust outlets. Inside, it doesn't take a trained eye to spot the differences. The flat-bottomed sport steering wheel and the numerous red accents throughout the cabin (including the seatbelts!) really help to make this AMG interior stand out; front passengers will also get sport bucket seats that appear to be more than supportive enough for even the most spirited driving conditions.

The A45 AMG goes on sale in June for German buyers, but North American availability has not been announced yet. Scroll down for a couple of videos (including great engine sound!) and the full press release with all of the details for the new A45 AMG. Sit tight and we'll have live pictures and impressions from Switzerland for you in just a few weeks.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG shows up to fight the hottest hatches [w/videos]

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG shows up to fight the hottest hatches [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz a45 amga-classa-klassea45 amgamggenevageneva 2013geneva motor showmercedesmercedes-benzWed, 13 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20460123/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-shows-up-to-fight-the-hottest-hatches/20460123/article-detail.xml 20460123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/mercedes-a45-amg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/mercedes-a45-amg.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG spied in Sweden]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/mercedes-benz-gla45-amg-spied-in-sweden/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/mercedes-benz-gla45-amg-spied-in-sweden/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/mercedes-benz-gla45-amg-spied-in-sweden/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've spotted the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA testing a couple times in recent months in getting closer to production form and shedding camouflage, but now it looks like we're see our first look at the AMG version of this compact crossover. The low ride height might trick some into thinking that we're just seeing the already-confirmed A45 AMG out testing, but the unique beltline, rear doors and side windows confirm this is some version of the GLA-Class.

What makes us so confident that this is the AMG model? Well, for starters, this prototype has beefier brakes with cross-drilled front and rear rotors and bigger front calipers, but it also sports dual exhaust outlets poking through the rear fascia and a suspension that has been lowered considerably. Our spy shooters said that this car's exhaust note made it almost certainly an AMG model.

Just to be clear, the GLA AMG will not be powered by a 4.5-liter engine. The closely related A45 AMG will carry the "45" in its name to celebrate the first 45 years of AMG, and our sources seem to indicate the AMG version of the GLA will do the same. We're expecting this sporty crossover to produce as much as 350 horsepower from its AMG-tuned four-cylinder engine, and like the all-new E63 AMG, it could very well come standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive.

With the standard GLA-Class not expected to debut until this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the GLA45 AMG might have to wait until sometime next year to get its official introduction; although, as a note, Mercedes-Benz did reveal all of its E-Class models (including the E63 AMG) at the same this week at the Detroit Auto Show.

Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG spied in Sweden originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classa45 amgamgglagla-classgla45 amgmercedes-benzspy photosspy shotsWed, 16 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20430513/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/mercedes-benz-gla45-amg-spied-in-sweden/20430513/article-detail.xml 20430513 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mercedes-a45-amg-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mercedes-a45-amg-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class anime video screencap

What do you do with a new success? Work it. The still-warm A-Class is already the most successful launch in Mercedes-Benz history, yet the German brand is still coming up with new ways to show it off to more people. The latest example comes from Mercedes' Japanese outpost, which has created an anime series for the compact hatch called "Next A-Class." The new video shorts are part of the promotion ahead of the model's launch in Japan this January.

The futuristic, city-shifting action centers around a mythical, mystical noodle truck, the hitch being that you have to somehow find it and then actually catch it before you can buy anything from it. Thankfully, the protagonists have an A45 AMG to do the trick. An insider's note: the noodle truck is based on the 1955 Blue Wonder, an actual Fifties-era race transporter powered by the inline six from the 300SL Gullwing. Check out the series' first installment below.

Continue reading Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure

Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classa-klassea45 amgamganimeblue wonderjapanmarketingmercedes-benzvideoMon, 19 Nov 2012 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20382742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/20382742/article-detail.xml 20382742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nexta-classjapan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nexta-classjapan.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz A-Class dubbed most successful launch in company history]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/mercedes-a-class-dubbed-most-successful-launch-in-company-histor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/mercedes-a-class-dubbed-most-successful-launch-in-company-histor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/mercedes-a-class-dubbed-most-successful-launch-in-company-histor/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When we drove the 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class earlier this year, we called it "likely the most important Mercedes-Benz passenger car since the old 190 turned into the C-Class "Baby Benz" back in 1993." And just like that car opened all kinds of new doors for The Three-Pointed Star, the A-Class looks to be doing the same. Autocar reports that pre-orders in Western Europe number 70,000, a figure that would represent a ten-percent conversion rate of potential customers invited to pre-launch events.

That would also make the third-generation A-Class the most successful car launch in Mercedes history, an auspicious start for a car with a heavy burden. The segment continues to expand and will be a key battleground, especially as both Mercedes and Audi plan on being the number one luxury carmaker by 2020, taking over from BMW. The uptake of the standard model bodes well for the fortunes of the CLA sedan and the utility variant to come.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class dubbed most successful launch in company history originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz a-classa-classaudibmwmercedes-benzMon, 29 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/mercedes-a-class-dubbed-most-successful-launch-in-company-histor/20361696/article-detail.xml 20361696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/a-classorders_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/a-classorders.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz CLA caught uncovered ahead of reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/mercedes-benz-cla-caught-uncovered-ahead-of-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/mercedes-benz-cla-caught-uncovered-ahead-of-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/mercedes-benz-cla-caught-uncovered-ahead-of-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The ever-covert spy photographers at Brenda Priddy & Company have nabbed a fresh one. This time, it's a new Mercedes-Benz that looks to be a mix between an A-Class and the CLS-Class four-door coupe. It is being called the CLA-Class, and it has been caught completely sans-camo in preparation for a shoot in Iceland.

The CLA is the much-anticipated A-Class derivative that is coming Stateside, first announced in Beijing. Word is that the small Mercedes is a front-wheel drive, and likely powered by either a 170-horsepower 2.2-liter four or a 208-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged mill. This new FWD architecture is called MFA, and is also shared with the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

The design of the CLA-Class is heavily rooted in the Concept Style Coupe showcar, first seen at an art show at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles. The most notable feature is the car's silhouette, which appears to echo that of the larger CLS-Class. The front end of the CLA is similar to that of the A-Class, albeit as a somewhat bolder interpretation of that design. Perhaps the one puzzling element to the design is the grille - utilizing a unique pattern has been reserved for Benz concept cars thus far. Either Mercedes-Benz is using the CLA as the first implementation of the pinpoint grille design in a production car, or the vehicle you see before you is a "production ready concept." We will know for certain when the showroom-ready version arrives next year as a 2014 model.

Mercedes-Benz CLA caught uncovered ahead of reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classclacla-classcls-classfour-door coupemercedes-benzmercedes-benz cla-classspy shotsTue, 18 Sep 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20326308/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/18/mercedes-benz-cla-caught-uncovered-ahead-of-reveal/20326308/article-detail.xml 20326308 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-benz-cla-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-benz-cla-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/2012-mercedes-a-class-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/2012-mercedes-a-class-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/2012-mercedes-a-class-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Third Time Is Absolutely A Charm For Entry-Level Merc

2012 Mercedes A-Class - red - front three-quarter static view

You are looking at what is likely the most important Mercedes-Benz passenger car since the old 190 turned into the C-Class "Baby Benz" back in 1993. And the United States and Canada won't get it, at least not in this hatchback configuration we have just tested extensively in Slovenia.

The big message coming from Mercedes, however, is that the new A-Class is categorically not to be referred to as a baby anything. (We wish them good luck in enforcing this mandate.) The attitude is aggressive and "Attack Mode" in nature, clearly showing how tired Mercedes is of being known as the less exciting, more mild mannered German brand.

The thing is, that reputation is well earned and the brand has embraced it for quite some time with real success. But now it's time to bust out of the current normal and cater to the kids with expendable cash in pocket.

Since 1997, the world has lived through two generations of A-Class, one of the most utterly bland four-wheeled semi-premium small cars ever formulated. And since the 190/C-Class went all upmarket in the early '00s, Mercedes has had no true competitor - at least not a very cool one - in a premium small car segment anywhere on Earth where it sells cars. And, boy, have they needed it.

Continue reading 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz a-classa 250a 250 sporta classa-classa-klassefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemercedes-benzTue, 21 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20304991/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/2012-mercedes-a-class-first-drive-review/20304991/article-detail.xml 20304991 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-mercedes-benz-a-class-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-mercedes-benz-a-class-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz taps Valmet to build new A-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/mercedes-benz-taps-valmet-to-build-new-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/mercedes-benz-taps-valmet-to-build-new-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/mercedes-benz-taps-valmet-to-build-new-a-class/#commentsFiled under: , ,



"Is that a Uusikaupunki A-Class?" It sounds like an awfully personal question, but it's something you might be asking soon, since Mercedes-Benz is partnering with Finland's Valmet Automotive to boost production of the new A-Class. There are already more than 40,000 orders in for the new hatchback, and Daimler plants in Germany and Hungary are running at full tilt to keep up.

Since Mercedes plans to start selling the A-Class in North America in 2014, and Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche anticipates a compact vehicle boom, Daimler wants to make sure it has cars available for buyers. The contract with Valmet runs for three years from 2013 until 2016 and will add another 100,000 A-Class vehicles to the mix, important as Mercedes tries to roll out five compact models including a coupe and SUV. For its part, Valmet is happy to have something more to do other than tinker around with low-volume cars like the Fisker Karma and Marussia B2.

Mercedes-Benz taps Valmet to build new A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classdaimlermercedes-benzvalmetWed, 25 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20285547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/25/mercedes-benz-taps-valmet-to-build-new-a-class/20285547/article-detail.xml 20285547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/12c79002_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/12c79002.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes A-Class enters production, utility variant confirmed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/mercedes-a-class-enters-production-utility-variant-confirmed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/mercedes-a-class-enters-production-utility-variant-confirmed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/mercedes-a-class-enters-production-utility-variant-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class production begins

Remember the dowdy original Mercedes-Benz A-Class? It's hard to believe that this sporty new five-door hatch evolved from that frumpy thing. But it has, and the new A-Class is officially rolling off the Daimler assembly line in Rastatt, Germany, as of now.

The A-Class will join its platform-mate B-Class and a forthcoming crossover model at Rastatt. While we've heard plenty of rumors about this crossover, we hope that Daimler's announcement today that it will be the next product sharing the Rastatt line should lead to some more official information about the new model allegedly dubbed "GLA." Daimler sunk some €1.2 billion (nearly $1.5 billion) into the plant to produce the trio of compact vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz says its already had 40,000 orders for the new A-Class since it went on sale in mid-June, with some 70,000 B-Class people movers sold since that model hit showrooms late last year.

Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Mercedes A-Class enters production, utility variant confirmed

Mercedes A-Class enters production, utility variant confirmed originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a classa-classa-klasseb-classb-klassegermanyglamercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz glarastattTue, 17 Jul 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20279236/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/17/mercedes-a-class-enters-production-utility-variant-confirmed/20279236/article-detail.xml 20279236 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/mercedes-benz-a-class-enters-production-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/mercedes-benz-a-class-enters-production-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo good for crazy 185 HP per liter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-2-0-turbo-good-for-crazy-185-hp-per-liter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-2-0-turbo-good-for-crazy-185-hp-per-liter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-2-0-turbo-good-for-crazy-185-hp-per-liter/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We have just joined the journalist hordes in Affalterbach for some early peeks at AMG's imminent future, and the downsizing trend is really catching on, even here with Mercedes-Benz and its traditionally big-engined high-performance arm.

The biggest news was the smallest news: a really hot-looking high-performance A-Class model dubbed A45 AMG that will take it to the soon-to-be tested BMW M135i and future Audi RS3. Specific numbers are not out, but engine bosses tell us to expect around 370 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. The engine is all-new: a twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter called M133 and based loosely on the Daimler 2.0-liter turbocharged unit. If those figures are accurate, that would mean the M133 has the greatest true series-production power-per-liter rating in the world. This is the first AMG engine not built at Affalterbach, but at Daimler's state-of-the-art four-cylinder assembly plant at Kölleda, but the "one man, one engine" approach remains unscathed.

Word has it that the United States and Canada most likely will not get this wee AMG, but we hear this same powertrain with strengthened seven-speed dual-clutch transmission will come to us in a four-door CLA 45 AMG version, and possibly also in a smaller crossover vehicle based on the modular chassis beneath the A- and B- Class ranges.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo good for crazy 185 HP per liter

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo good for crazy 185 HP per liter originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz a-classa-classa-klassea45a45 amgamgclamercedes 2.0-turbomercedes-benzmercedes-benz claWed, 13 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20257467/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-a45-amg-2-0-turbo-good-for-crazy-185-hp-per-liter/20257467/article-detail.xml 20257467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/00-amg-a45-spy-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/00-amg-a45-spy-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz taking aim at Audi RS3 with new A45 AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-taking-aim-at-audi-rs3-with-new-a45-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-taking-aim-at-audi-rs3-with-new-a45-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-taking-aim-at-audi-rs3-with-new-a45-amg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz A250 Sport

With the launch of the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is getting serious about the premium hatchback segment - much more than it was with the previous A-Class, B-Class and the old, C-Class Sport Coupe. And with the premium hatchback territory comes the high-end hot hatch market. Audi is already playing that game with the RS3 and BMW is heading in with the new M135i, so Mercedes is going to need an entry of its own. And this is the latest on its development.

According to British weekly Autocar, Benz is preparing to launch a new A45 AMG early next year with a transverse 2.0-liter turbo four producing as much as 330 horsepower and over 300 pound-feet of torque. That's about par with the competition, but produced from less displacement thanks to input from AMG High-Performance Engines that provides the power for the company's Formula One racing team (not to mention McLaren and Force India).

The power is tipped to be put down to all four wheels by a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, tuned to mimic rear-drive handling characteristics. Suspension and rolling stock are anticipated to be greatly enhanced, as will the aero kit over the A250 Sport "engineered by AMG" pictured above. Stop/start and regenerative braking will reportedly help make the A45 AMG more economical than its rivals while matching their five-second 0-60 times.

Mercedes-Benz taking aim at Audi RS3 with new A45 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classa45a45 amgamgmercedes-benzmercedes-benz a-classmercedes-benz a45 amgWed, 13 Jun 2012 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20256866/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/13/mercedes-benz-taking-aim-at-audi-rs3-with-new-a45-amg/20256866/article-detail.xml 20256866 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/12c80227_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/12c80227.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes partners with Glympse, adds location-sharing tech to A-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/09/mercedes-partners-with-glympse-adds-location-sharing-tech-to-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/09/mercedes-partners-with-glympse-adds-location-sharing-tech-to-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/09/mercedes-partners-with-glympse-adds-location-sharing-tech-to-a/#commentsFiled under: ,



The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class continues to pack in the latest infotainment tech. This time it's in-dash integration of the location-sharing service, Glympse. Mercedes and Glympse announced their new partnership this week at the Detroit Telematics Conference.

Normally found on smartphones, Glympse allows a user to select people with whom to share his or her location. Those people can then see where the user is on an interactive map that's displayed on either a web browser or the free smartphone Glympse app. The hallmark feature of Glympse is that users set a timer for how long their location will be shared, helping to ensure privacy after reaching their destination.

I've used Glympse before to track the progress of inbound relatives on the interstate and found it to be useful in situations that require a traveling party be punctual. While it's perfectly usable in the car today just by launching the Glympse app on your smartphone, this partnership with Mercedes marks the first time that the service will be integrated directly into the car. Unfortunately, that car is the new A-Class, which will first launch in Europe before coming to the U.S. If received well by customers, Glympse could become as common an in-car app as others like Pandora are today.

Mercedes partners with Glympse, adds location-sharing tech to A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Jun 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classglympsemercedes-benzSat, 09 Jun 2012 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20253010/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/09/mercedes-partners-with-glympse-adds-location-sharing-tech-to-a/20253010/article-detail.xml 20253010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/glympsedesktopviewer-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/glympsedesktopviewer-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Magna Steyr will build new entry-level Infiniti]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/magna-steyr-will-build-new-entry-level-infiniti/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/magna-steyr-will-build-new-entry-level-infiniti/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/magna-steyr-will-build-new-entry-level-infiniti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Infiniti Etherea Concept

Automotive News reports Nissan will turn to Magna Steyr to build a new Infiniti compact car in 2014. The Austrian manufacturer will assemble the vehicle as part of the luxury brand's efforts to grow in western Europe and other global markets.

So far, Nissan and Infiniti have been tight-lipped about what the vehicle will bring to the table, but earlier reports have hinted the model will be designed to compete directly with the likes of the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Speaking of Mercedes-Benz, the new Infiniti will likely ride on the same underpinnings as the current A and B-Class models.

The report says Nissan is set to use a number of Daimler components in the new compact, including Mercedes-Benz four and six-cylinder engines. Expect to see both gasoline and diesel variants as well. Magna Steyr is expected to produce between 50,000 and 60,000 Infiniti units per year. The two companies are currently finalizing the details of the agreement.

Magna Steyr will build new entry-level Infiniti originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classdaimlerinfinitimecedes-benzmercedes-benz a-classmercedes-benz b-classThu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235397/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/magna-steyr-will-build-new-entry-level-infiniti/20235397/article-detail.xml 20235397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/infiniti-etherea-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/infiniti-etherea-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[New entry-level Mercedes crossover to be dubbed GLA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/new-entry-level-mercedes-crossover-to-be-dubbed-gla/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/new-entry-level-mercedes-crossover-to-be-dubbed-gla/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/new-entry-level-mercedes-crossover-to-be-dubbed-gla/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

With BMW readying a refreshed X1 crossover for the U.S. this fall, Mercedes-Benz is looking to play Burger King to the Bavarian automaker's McDonald's, launching its own kiddie-sized crossover next year. According to Car, the new model, formerly known as BLK, is now called GLA, thanks to the marque's new nomenclature.

The GLA will share a platform with the new A-Class and B-Class, riding on what Mercedes refers to as its MFA architecture. Car says the GLA will be about the same size as the B-Class pictured above, at 174.8 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 59 inches tall, with a 106.2-inch wheelbase - just slightly smaller than the X1. The magazine doesn't have any specific information about what might be powering the new crossover, but says it will share powertrains with its platform-mates. This means we can probably expect the turbocharged, 208-horsepwoer, 2.0-liter four-cylinder with direct injection that we saw in the Concept Style Coupe at Beijing to be fitted underhood once the GLA arrives Stateside.

New entry-level Mercedes crossover to be dubbed GLA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classblkglamercedesmercedes-benzThu, 03 May 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20230084/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/new-entry-level-mercedes-crossover-to-be-dubbed-gla/20230084/article-detail.xml 20230084 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe images spill onto Internet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe-images-spill-onto-internet/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe-images-spill-onto-internet/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe-images-spill-onto-internet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe leaked images

Well lookie what we have here. We've been waiting for Mercedes-Benz to pull the silk off its long-awaited compact sedan, and a brace of new concept car images have started leaking onto the Internet this morning as further proof that a production model is almost here. Dubbed Concept Style Coupe, or CSC, the showcar seen here is expected to debut at the Beijing Motor Show next week. Earlier reports had this hot bit of hardware dubbed CLA, though that nomenclature could still be reserved for a production model.

Looking more than a bit like a CLS that's been run through a dryer after mating with the Geneva 2010 F800 Style Concept and last year's Concept A, the rakish four door is expected to spawn a production model that will be available in North America.

According to reports, the CSC will roll onto the stage in China powered by a 208-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that also sees duty in the new A-Class hatchback. Like the A-Class five-door that debuted in Geneva, the CSC is expected to ride atop Mercedes' new MFA platform, scaled to take on models like the Audi A3 (which is also pegged to get a sedan variant) and Volvo's new V40.

We're also expecting Mercedes to unveil a related concept in North America very shortly at the Transmission LA: AV Club music and media festival that begins in LA on April 20, so keep your eyes peeled for that vehicle as well.

Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe images spill onto Internet originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a classa-classa-klassebeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showbreakingclaconcept style coupecscmercedes-benzmercedes-benz concept style coupeWed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20218395/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe-images-spill-onto-internet/20218395/article-detail.xml 20218395 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mercedes-benz-concept-style-coupe.jpg <![CDATA[AMG-fettled Mercedes-Benz A-Class caught testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG prototype caught testing

The Mercedes-Benz A25 AMG has disrobed almost completely compared to the last time we saw it. It makes minimal changes to the A-Class form, just a fiercer set of wheels and, under the last remaining camo, a brace of larger air intakes in front and a restyled diffuser in back. We'd also expect those oval pipe finishers to be swapped for trademark AMG quad pipes come production time.

The engine is what will make the real difference, with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder rumored to be rated as high as 350 horsepower and sending that glory to all four wheels through a dual-clutch gearbox. Those specs mean the A25 AMG is a shoo-in for heaps of comparos with the all-wheel drive, 340-horsepower Audi RS3, the driving prowess of the 256-horsepower Volkswagen Golf R and the rumored 320-horsepower BMW 135i hatch. Check it out in our gallery of high-res spy photos.

AMG-fettled Mercedes-Benz A-Class caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz a-classa-classa-klassea25 amgamgmercedes-benzmercedes-benz a25 amgspy photosspy shotsMon, 16 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/20216369/article-detail.xml 20216369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/m-ba-classamg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/m-ba-classamg.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz CLA is official name of small four-door coupe debuting in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/mercedes-benz-cla-is-official-name-of-small-four-door-coupe-debu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/mercedes-benz-cla-is-official-name-of-small-four-door-coupe-debu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/mercedes-benz-cla-is-official-name-of-small-four-door-coupe-debu/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We will now know the "baby CLS" - the small four-door "coupe" built on the MFA platform supporting the Mercedes-Benz A-Class (pictured above) and B-Class - as the CLA. It will debut at April's Beijing Motor Show, and it's just one of the five variants that Mercedes has planned for its MFA underpinnings.

When it hits the streets in 2013, advance reports indicate that both front- and all-wheel-drive versions will be available. Power will come from a range of gas and diesel engines with anywhere from 110 to 150 horsepower (there's even a potential AMG model with more than 300 hp on the way), mated to seven-speed dual-clutch and six-speed manual transmissions.

Of note, though, over its long gestation, the CLA has been referred to as the CLC, but the CLA and CLC are different cars. The CLC is the Concept Style Coupe, said to be based on the A-Class concept, which was a two-door hatchback, yet also said to be an evolution of the F800 concept, which was a sedan. The CLA will make its debut in China, but the CLC will be unveiled in Los Angeles at an Mercedes-sponsored art festival called "Transmission LA: AV Club." The Beijing show and the art festival overlap, so we'll find out which car is which and what they both look like soon enough.

Mercedes-Benz CLA is official name of small four-door coupe debuting in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classbeijingbeijing 2012beijing auto showclacla-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz clamercedes-benz clcFri, 30 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20204691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/30/mercedes-benz-cla-is-official-name-of-small-four-door-coupe-debu/20204691/article-detail.xml 20204691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/12c80227-1333116068_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/12c80227-1333116068.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz CLC to get Beastie introduction in LA?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/mercedes-benz-clc-to-get-beastie-introduction-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/mercedes-benz-clc-to-get-beastie-introduction-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/mercedes-benz-clc-to-get-beastie-introduction-in-la/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class dynamic cornering photo

We've been expecting for some time that Mercedes-Benz would choose to grace its New York Auto Show stand with a variant on its new A-Class family as part of a push to bring a new range of small cars to North America. However, it now seems more likely that Los Angeles audiences will get a vision of Mercedes' entry-level future, not New York. That's because Mercedes has officially confirmed that it will show something called the "Concept Style Coupe" at an art, music, film and food festival in LA curated by none other than Mike D of the Beastie Boys.

Transmission LA: AV Club, a "multi-disciplinary festival," runs from April 20 to May 6, and sponsor Mercedes promises an "artistic staging" of the concept car (expected to be a sedan), the production version of which is rumored to be dubbed CLC. The 17-day festival will be held at the Geffen Contemporary at LA's Museum of Contemporary Art.

All of which begs the question: With the New York Auto Show staged earlier (press days are April 4 and 5), what will Mercedes show in the Empire State? It's too significant of a market to the Three-Pointed Star to let the show pass without debuting something significant. See the complete press release below for more.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz CLC to get Beastie introduction in LA?

Mercedes-Benz CLC to get Beastie introduction in LA? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classa-klassebeastie boysclcgeffen contemporarymercedes clsmercedes-benzmike dmocamuseum of contemporary artnew yorknew york 2012new york auto showFri, 16 Mar 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20194896/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/16/mercedes-benz-clc-to-get-beastie-introduction-in-la/20194896/article-detail.xml 20194896 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-mercedes-a-class-hard-cornering_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-mercedes-a-class-hard-cornering.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatches new level of refinement for its class [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-geneva-2012-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-geneva-2012-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-geneva-2012-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Though the Geneva Motor Show doesn't open until tomorrow morning, automakers have thrown the doors open on their own evening events in order to get a captive audience away from the show. We've just returned from the bright lights of Mercedes-Benz and its new A-Class reveal, and we have to say, it looks far more enticing than spy shots had led to us to believe.

Displayed in a trio of uplevel trims, we were particularly taken with the bold surfacing on the car's two-box profile, as well as the unique and premium-looking "diamond" grille treatments derived from last year's more radical New York Auto Show concept car. Even the interiors come off as upscale, with convincing carbon fiber-look dashboard treatments and round HVAC vents that riff on those of the SLS AMG gullwing.

Simply put, the loaded interiors we saw put even the updated C-Class cabins to utter shame, and they shade those of the current Audi A3 (a new one is being introduced here in Geneva), Volvo C30 and anything in the Mini portfolio. They even seem to be surprisingly roomy - we observed a journalist who had to be six-foot, six-inches find a comfortable seating position without issue. Said scribe had also driven to the show in a new M-Class and proclaimed the materials in the new A-Class to be "not that far off."

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatches new level of refinement for its class [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatches new level of refinement for its class [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz a-classa-classa-klassebreakinggenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmercedes-benzMon, 05 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186220/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-geneva-2012-video/20186220/article-detail.xml 20186220 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/007-2012-mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/007-2012-mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-opt.jpg -1 2