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-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-4matic-not-for-sale-lease-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-4matic-not-for-sale-lease-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-4matic-not-for-sale-lease-only/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Mercedes Benz ML450 hybrid - click above for high-res image gallery

This week brings the official launch of the first European-branded vehicle equipped with the two-mode hybrid system that was co-developed between General Motors, Daimler, BMW and Chrysler. The Mercedes-Benz ML450 edges out the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid in getting to showrooms but it actually shares much with the BMW. Mercedes is building the re-packaged two-mode transmission that is being installed in both vehicles. And while the vehicles bear German nameplates, both are actually built in the southeastern United States.

Unlike the BMW, Mercedes has tuned the ML for improved fuel efficiency compared to its conventionally-powered siblings. While the BMW uses a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 to achieve 17/19 mpg ratings. The ML450 instead uses an Atkinson cycle version of Mercedes 3.5-liter V6 to achieve up to 335 hp and 381 pound-feet of torque in combination with the electric motors. The result is a boost in mileage compared to the V8 ML550 to 21 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. That compares with the ML350 Bluetec diesel which is rated at 18/25 mpg.

Interestingly, Mercedes has actually opted not to sell the ML450, instead offering it only for lease for either 36 or 60 months at $659 or $549 per month, respectively. According to Mercedes USA spokesman Rob Moran, "We are offering this vehicle as lease only due to a limited supply of batteries available. We felt a lease only program offered the best option for customers."


Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only

Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mercedes benz ml450 hybrid2010MercedesBenzMl450Hybridm classm-classMClassmercedesMercedes BenzMercedes Benz MLmercedes benz ml450mercedes benz ml450 hybridmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzMlMercedesBenzMl450MercedesBenzMl450HybridMl450ml450 bluehybridml450 hybridMl450BluehybridMl450Hybridtwo modetwo mode hybridTwoModeTwoModeHybridMon, 16 Nov 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[New York: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 hybrid - Up to 34 MPH on battery alone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-mercedes-benz-ml-450-hybrid-up-to-34-mph-on-battery/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-mercedes-benz-ml-450-hybrid-up-to-34-mph-on-battery/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-mercedes-benz-ml-450-hybrid-up-to-34-mph-on-battery/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mercedes-Benz ML 450 hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

The road to production for the Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid hasn't always been smooth, but now that the Germans have shown off the new SUV here at the New York Auto Show (following its early debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show), they'll be happy to tell you just how amazing and luxurious this SULEV people-hauler is.

The numbers start with a respectable 21 city/24 highway mpg rating. With a 3.5-liter V6 Atkinson cycle engine and a 288V NM battery pack, the ML450 hybrid can go 1.8 miles and up to 34 mph on battery power alone (take that, Toyota Prius!). The hybrid powertrain altogether has a combined output of 335 horsepower, so providing adequate power to move the giant SUV was clearly just as large a priority as fuel economy. The ML450 hybrid features Mercedes' first application of the Two-Mode hybrid powertrain it co-developed with General Motors and Chrysler - similar applications also appear in the Chevrolet Tahoe Two-Mode Hybrid, Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids.

How does it ride? All we can say for now is, stay tuned. We're about to hop in one and see for ourselves, but in the meantime for more technical details, see Mercedes' spec sheet (page 1, 2) and the complete press release after the jump.


Gallery: New York 2009: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 Hybrid


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 Hybrid


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 hybrid - Up to 34 MPH on battery alone

New York: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 hybrid - Up to 34 MPH on battery alone originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>M Classm-ClassMClassmercedesmercedes benz ml450mercedes benz ml450 hybridmercedes ml450mercedes ml450 hybridmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMl450MercedesBenzMl450HybridMercedesMl450MercedesMl450Hybridml450ml450 hybridMl450Hybridnew yorknew york 2009new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowNYAutoShowThu, 09 Apr 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes cutting production in Alabama]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/mercedes-cutting-production-in-alabama/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/mercedes-cutting-production-in-alabama/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/mercedes-cutting-production-in-alabama/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As consumer demand for thirsty vehicles continues to wane, Mercedes-Benz is being forced to slow production at the Alabama plant which manufactures their GL- and ML-Class SUVs and the R-Class crossover. Sales of Mercedes domestic trucks fell to 5,090 vehicles in June, representing an 11.9 percent decline from the same period last year. The move marks the first time in more than a decade of U.S. production, that the German automaker has reduced output due to market and economic conditions. The cuts will affect more than 4,000 of the plant's employees, and unfortunately will trickle-down to hurt the countless other companies who provide just-in-time components to support Mercedes production.

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

Mercedes cutting production in Alabama originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlabamaM-Classmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzML-ClassProductionR-ClassSlowdownSUVFri, 25 Jul 2008 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Carlsson puts some more class in the M-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/carlsson-puts-some-more-class-in-the-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/carlsson-puts-some-more-class-in-the-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/carlsson-puts-some-more-class-in-the-m-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


click image to enlarge

Carlsson has applied its tuning magic to the new M-Class with a host of power, visual, and interior upgrades. Starting with the engine, Carlsson's performance kit for the 320 CDI engine boosts horsepower to 269 and torque to 452 lb-ft, and a new exhaust system with quad tailpipes is also available. The suspension can be upgraded with Carlsson's C-Tronic system that lowers the vehicle 40mm, and 22" 11-spoke wheels help fill the wheel wells even more. A subtle front spoiler and a diffuser-look rear skirt are the only exterior modifications. Interior appointments include alcantara and leather seats, a sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and illuminated door exit lights. Once again, Carlsson proves that sometimes it doesn't take much to make a better Benz.

[Source: Carlsson]

Continue reading Carlsson puts some more class in the M-Class

Carlsson puts some more class in the M-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CarlssonCarlsson M-ClassCarlsson Mercedes-Benz M-ClassCarlssonM-classCarlssonMercedes-benzM-classM-ClassMercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz M-ClassMercedes-Benz ML 320 CDIMercedes-benzM-classMercedes-benzMl320CdiThu, 20 Dec 2007 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Complete info, pics on the Mercedes M-Class "Edition 10"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/complete-info-pics-on-the-mercedes-m-class-edition-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/complete-info-pics-on-the-mercedes-m-class-edition-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/complete-info-pics-on-the-mercedes-m-class-edition-10/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image for photo gallery

Mercedes has followed-up its live press conference shots of the M-Class "Edition10" SUV with complete details and the additional photos we'd been expecting to see. In a nutshell, here's the rundown on the M-Class Edition 10.

Five "Edition 10"models (market availability varies):
  • ML 420 CDI 4MATIC
  • ML 280 CDI
  • ML 320 CDI
  • ML 350
  • ML 500
"Edition 10" package includes:
  • 20" alloys in silver or "chrome shadow" finish
  • Darkened housings for headlamps and foglamps
  • Titanium-look radiator grille and front bumper guard
  • Tnted taillamp clusters
  • Titanium-look rear bumper guard
  • Squared twin-tip dual exhaust outlets
  • Blue-tinted glass
  • Assorted chrome trim elements
  • Edition 10 badging
  • Two-tone beige and black interior
  • Edition 10 floormats
Follow the jump for the total breakdown in the Mercedes-issued press release, and check out more shots of the car in the gallery below.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz M-Class "Edition 10"

Continue reading Complete info, pics on the Mercedes M-Class "Edition 10"

Complete info, pics on the Mercedes M-Class "Edition 10" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Edition 10Edition10m-classml 280 cdiml 320 cdiml 350ml 420 cdiml 500Ml280CdiMl320CdiMl350Ml420CdiMl500tuscaloosaFri, 13 Jul 2007 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes celebrates 10 years in Tuscaloosa with "Edition 10" M-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/12/mercedes-celebrates-10-years-in-tuscaloosa-with-edition10-m-cl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/12/mercedes-celebrates-10-years-in-tuscaloosa-with-edition10-m-cl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/12/mercedes-celebrates-10-years-in-tuscaloosa-with-edition10-m-cl/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image for gallery

Mercedes-Benz is celebrating 10 years of operation at its Tuscaloosa, AL facility, which is best known for producing the M-Class SUV. At a press event held at the plant and presided over by Dr. Z himself, the automaker presented a special edition version of its SUV stalwart dubbed "Edition 10." The Edition10 limited-edition package is a paint-and-trim deal that's quite good-looking, actually. The requisite badges are joined by other visual highlights such as darkened trim around the headlamps, darker taillamp lenses, a black chrome look to the grille, and a similar treatment on the hood vents. A two-tone interior and metallic pedals are also included, and based on what we see in the photos released, a metal steprail is also part of the package. No pricing for the Edition 10 option has been released yet, and we'd expect to see some additional shots of the SUV before all is said and done.

Press release follows the jump.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz M-Class "Edition 10"

Continue reading Mercedes celebrates 10 years in Tuscaloosa with "Edition 10" M-Class

Mercedes celebrates 10 years in Tuscaloosa with "Edition 10" M-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 years tuscaloosa10YearsTuscaloosaedition 10Edition10m classm-classMClasstuscaloosatuscaloosa plantTuscaloosaPlantThu, 12 Jul 2007 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[A truly epic Mercedes M-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/06/a-truly-epic-mercedes-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/06/a-truly-epic-mercedes-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/06/a-truly-epic-mercedes-m-class/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above or follow the read link for a big gallery of pics of this outrageous Benz

Not sure who took these pics or what the mural depicts exactly, but this is one finely detailed M-Class. A true work of art if you're into REALLY custom paint jobs, this Mercedes from St. Petersburg (Russia, not Florida) is swathed in a mural of epic proportions. Medieval warriors adorn the flanks converging on a lightning-illuminated castle atop the hood. It's really pretty spectacular, as you can see from the gallery. Surely not the best use of a Mercedes-Benz M-Class, but to each his own. And as long as the owner likes it, what do our opinions matter?

Thanks for the tip, kerunt!

[Source: English Russia]

Gallery: Epic Mercedes

A truly epic Mercedes M-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art carArtCarepic Benzepic Mercedesepic muralEpicBenzEpicMercedesEpicMuralM-ClassWed, 06 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Bluetec hybrid Mercedes M-Class possible within 2 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/bluetec-hybrid-m-class-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/bluetec-hybrid-m-class-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/bluetec-hybrid-m-class-possible/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Just -Auto reported yesterday that Mercedes-Benz could have a Bluetec diesel-electric hybrid variant of ithe M-Class on sale in the UK within the next two years. The system would probably leverage a 3.2L six-cylinder Bluetec engine in conjunction with the 2-Mode hybrid system developed jointly with BMW and GM. Fuel economy is expected to be around 40 mpg (we're assuming this measurement is in the UK's larger Imperial gallon) and CO2 emissions would likely be under 200g/km.

That would help cancel out some of the anti-SUV sentiment toward such a vehicle in UK and European markets. Now, while Mercedes wouldn't confirm that any plans for a green powertrain like this exist, Just-Auto expressed confidence in its source. Hopefully, assuming this comes to fruition, the system would comply with US standards and regulations as well, and help lead the way towards more fuel-stingy yet powerful diesel hybrid systems in the future.

[Source: Just-Auto (sub req'd)]

Report: Bluetec hybrid Mercedes M-Class possible within 2 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetechybridm-classTue, 17 Apr 2007 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[ASMA-DESIGN Gladiator II M-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/04/asma-design-gladiator-ii-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/04/asma-design-gladiator-ii-m-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/04/asma-design-gladiator-ii-m-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Though it looks like the angry older brother of a PT Cruiser, the Gladiator II from ASMA-DESIGN takes that same in-your-face attitude we've seen on the company's CLS and S-Class kits and grafts it on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class sport utility. Though the grille is still a bit ostentatious even for us, the larger dimensions of the M-Class make it better equipped to pull off that special ASMA brand of grand standing. Along with the new grille the Gladiator II gets new fenders, a redesigned rear bumper, different hood and sport exhaust. We're pretty sure those wheels aren't stock, either.

Follow the link for more pics of this aggressive M-Class at eMercedesBenz.

[Source: eMercedesBenz]

ASMA-DESIGN Gladiator II M-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 May 2006 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ASMAASMA-DESIGNBenzCLSM-ClassmercedesS-ClassThu, 04 May 2006 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Teutonic titans Benz and BMW battle amidst record March sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/08/blow-out-march-for-mercedes-bmw/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/08/blow-out-march-for-mercedes-bmw/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/08/blow-out-march-for-mercedes-bmw/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New models fired up sales for premium brands Mercedes and BMW in March, as the battle for teutonic bragging rights in the luxury segment kicked into high gear.

BMW group sales hit a record 144,316 units in March, up 13.5 percent, buoyed by double-digit growth in the U.S. and Germany, and solid gains in the hot Chinese market. Meanwhile, Mercedes Car Group racked up sales of 138,400 units, up 17.4 percent, setting an all-time record. But in the all-important core brands, Mercedes-Benz scored 125,400 sales, while arch-rival BMW managed only 122,509 units.

Once again, new models tell the tale. Mercedes-Benz rolled out new or revamped models across the board last year, including fresh versions of the M-Class and S-Class, and the new R-Class and B-Class. The onslaught continues this year with the new GL-CLass SUV (pictured) and freshened SL- and E-Class models. BMW, on the other hand, has been surfing the wave generated by its new 3 Series, which accounts for about 40 percent of all BMW sales.

While Mercedes looks to be surging ahead in the near-term, expect BMW to fight back when its revamped MINI line rolls out.

[Source: Reuters, Mercedes Benz]

Teutonic titans Benz and BMW battle amidst record March sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Apr 2006 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-seriesBimmerBMWDaimler ChryslerDaimlerChryslerDCXg-classGL-classm-classmarch earningmarch figuresmarch salesMarchEarningMarchFiguresMarchSalesMercedesSat, 08 Apr 2006 14:04:00 EST