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[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #334 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #334 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #334 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes s-class2014 mercedes s-klasseautoblog podcast topicsautonomous vehiclesbmwbmw 2 seriesmercedesmercedes benzmercedes s-classmercedes s-klasseMon, 20 May 2013 16:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575388/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-334-live/20575388/article-detail.xml 20575388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/2013-mercedes-benz-sl65-amg-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/2013-mercedes-benz-sl65-amg-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/2013-mercedes-benz-sl65-amg-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

Make way for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, the most wonderfully preposterous car I have ever driven.

There is absolutely no reason why any two-seat roadster should be fitted with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 developing 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque, but I sure am glad that Mercedes-Benz doesn't see things that way.

Drop into the leather-lined cockpit of this $213,145 provocateur, floor the accelerator pedal as I did over and over again, and 60 miles per hour falls in a traction-limited 3.9 seconds. Top speed has been electronically held to 186 mph (this apparently saves Gulfstream jet owners from embarrassment). Forget the SL550 and SL63 AMG, the valets will trip over themselves attending to the tycoon driving this thoroughbred - it's the real deal.

Driving Notes
  • The handcrafted 36-valve V12 returns with a new internal designation of M279 (replacing the M275) and a matte carbon-fiber engine cover. Mercedes-Benz has updated the powerplant's turbochargers and improved engine airflow for the 2013 model year. This explains the 17-horsepower improvement and efficiency gains over its predecessor. The venerable five-speed automatic was also replaced with AMG's Speedshift seven-speed transmission (offering electronically controlled Efficiency, Sport, Sport Plus and Manual modes), and the SL65 AMG now features an engine start-stop function.
  • Acceleration rates normally flatten as aerodynamic drag rises. The SL65 AMG seems to do just the opposite as it picks up speed like a rocket leaving the earth's pull of gravity. Full throttle applications release a throaty growl from the quad exhaust, accompanied by spine-chilling burbles as the transmission catches each gear. Downshifts are equally as pleasing as the V12 cackles and pops as each gear falls. Yet, during steady cruising the exhaust note is perfectly tame and proper.
  • Despite is substantial physical size, the SL65 AMG is surprisingly agile. It tracks well and the new electrically boosted steering is precise and nicely weighed. Cornering is flat, thanks to Active Body Control (offering both Sport and Comfort settings). The 19-inch wheel and upgraded monobloc brake package (lifted right off the enthusiast-tuned SL63 AMG), does its job commendably.
  • The cabin is a smart mix of luxury and sport. What leather doesn't cover is made of either woven carbon-fiber or brushed aluminum. The infinitely adjustable quilted seats are heated and equipped with the automaker's neck-heating Airscarf. The meaty three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel is wrapped in smooth leather with grippy Alcantera sides and aluminum wheel-mounted paddle shifters are standard. The convertible hard top, with its lightweight magnesium frame encircling the automaker's trick Magic Sky Control dimming feature, can be raised or lowered in about 20 seconds at the touch of a button.
  • Don't confuse the SLS AMG GT Roadster with the SL65 AMG, as each has very different role. The SLS is a true sports car, with a mission-appropriate ride, gnarly exhaust snarl and a moderate level of amenities. The SL65, on the other hand, is a luxury grand tourer engineered to make miles pass effortlessly beneath it chassis. One does not replace the other - a true boss owns both.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes2013 mercedes-benz sl65 amg2013mercedesfeaturedmercedesmercedes amgmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedesamgmercedesbenzquick spinquickspinslsl-classsl-klassesl65 amgFri, 22 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20471126/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/22/2013-mercedes-benz-sl65-amg-quick-spin-review/20471126/article-detail.xml 20471126 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Former Mercedes-Benz US boss Lieb loses wrongful dismissal suit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/18/former-mercedes-benz-us-boss-lieb-loses-wrongful-dismissal-suit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/18/former-mercedes-benz-us-boss-lieb-loses-wrongful-dismissal-suit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/18/former-mercedes-benz-us-boss-lieb-loses-wrongful-dismissal-suit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ernst Lieb, former Mercedes-Benz USA boss - headshotAutomotive News Europe reports Ernst Lieb, the former Mercedes-Benz USA CEO, has lost a wrongful dismissal suit against his former employer. As you may recall, parent company Daimler fired Lieb claiming the 57-year-old executive used company funds to upgrade his personal home, though he has denied the claim all along, going so far as to sue his former employer. All told, Daimler said Lieb spent more than $100,000 to upgrade his company home in Mahwah, New Jersey. The money was allegedly used to purchase a home theater, a gym, a washer and dryer and a barbecue.

On Thursday, November 8, a court in Stuttgart dismissed the suit, saying the claims against Lieb were "so serious that any further employment [at Daimler] would be unacceptable." The former executive has said he will appeal the ruling, and his attorney, Stefan Naegele, has said the lawsuit is more about restoring Lieb's reputation than about receiving any monetary retribution.

Former Mercedes-Benz US boss Lieb loses wrongful dismissal suit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Nov 2012 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlerernst lieblawsuitmbusamercedes benzmercedes-benzwrongful dismissalSun, 18 Nov 2012 18:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20382833/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/18/former-mercedes-benz-us-boss-lieb-loses-wrongful-dismissal-suit/20382833/article-detail.xml 20382833 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ernst-lieb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ernst-lieb.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz integrates iPhone, Siri into all-new A-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/mercedes-benz-integrates-iphone-siri-into-all-new-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/mercedes-benz-integrates-iphone-siri-into-all-new-a-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/mercedes-benz-integrates-iphone-siri-into-all-new-a-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The paradigm has shifted. Normally an automaker's range-topper gets the latest and greatest technology, but with the introduction of the all-new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is flipping that order on its head.

At next month's Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes will show off the next A-Class and with it, its updated COMAND infotainment system. The user interface has undergone a complete overhaul, ditching the black and beige color scheme for a sharp, modern, three-dimensional design and a range of new features and functions, nearly all of which are centered on the iPhone 4S.

The new Digital DriveStyle app allows drivers to stream AUPEO! radio (Europe's equivalent to Pandora), connect with Facebook and Twitter to read out status updates, find your car in a crowded parking lot and get real-time traffic data and point-of-interest searches through a new Garmin navigation system. All of which is available with the entry-level "Audio 20" setup.

More intriguingly, Mercedes is the first automaker to support and integrate Apple's Siri voice-recognition technology, allowing users to make appointments, send text messages and emails, get weather status and access all their songs through voice commands.

While all these features will be limited to the Euro-only A-Class at first, Mercedes says that the iPhone-integrated COMAND Online suite of services will be coming to the B-, C- and E-Class models this fall. Hit the jump for the full details.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz integrates iPhone, Siri into all-new A-Class

Mercedes-Benz integrates iPhone, Siri into all-new A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz a-classa-classcomandgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showiphonemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz a-classmercedes-benz comandsiriFri, 24 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20178843/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/24/mercedes-benz-integrates-iphone-siri-into-all-new-a-class/20178843/article-detail.xml 20178843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-a-class-iphone-siri-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-a-class-iphone-siri-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Not to be outdone by its competitors from Ingolstadt, Mercedes-Benz brought out its own vision of the future of interiors, complete with augmented reality, a fully customizable dashboard and gesture-based controls. There's not a knob or button to be found...

The video after the jump demonstrates the Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience (DICE) far better than words can convey, but the basic elements are these: a series of proximity sensors detect hand motions across the interior, allowing you to scroll, select and control a variety of functions. The highlights include the ability to get information about the businesses and sights around you, connect with friends nearby and control all the standard music and navigation functionality you'd expect in a high-end ride. But it's not without its issues.

The major problem is there's no way for the system to detect if you're motioning or just have your hand out, and making matters worse is the poor definition of exactly where your hands and arms should be to take control of specific elements. But Mercedes has time to work out the kinks - one exec admitted that a production version is at least 20 years out.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012diceDynamic Intuitive Control ExperiencemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzvideoThu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/20146705/article-detail.xml 20146705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz mBrace2

Following Dr. Z's keynote here at CES, Mercedes-Benz showed off the latest iteration of its telematics and infotainment system, mBrace2.

The system simply expands and enhances what M-B's system has been doing for the last few years, integrating Facebook, Google Point of Interest searches and now Google Street View into the current COMAND interface.

There's a full-scale browser controlled by the central COMAND knob, but as you can see in the video after the jump, a combination of spotty data access (the CES show floor needs its own spectrum) and some oddly chosen user interface decisions makes for a rather clunky experience.

Data issues aside, the biggest problem is using the outmoded concept of a pointer to select things on the screen. That's fine for PCs, but using a five-way controller to pan and click around a page is infuriatingly frustrating. Here's hoping M-B irons out the kinks before mBrace2 arrives on the all-new SL and the rest of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Continue reading Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2

Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012mbracembrace2mercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz mbracemercedes-benz mbrace2slsl-classWed, 11 Jan 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/20145617/article-detail.xml 20145617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbrace2-ces-2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbrace2-ces-2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to feature all-new infotainment system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class spy shot

Mercedes-Benz is making a big splash at CES this year, finally bringing a booth to the party and trotting out Daimler head Dr. Dieter Zetsche to keynote Tuesday morning's festivities.

The big news is the introduction of mBrace2, Mercedes' new cloud-based entertainment and information delivery system that debuts on the all-new SL roadster and proliferating through the Benz lineup in 2013.

We just wrapped up a hands-on with the prototype system (coming soon), but if you're looking for a thoroughly updated COMAND interface, you're in for disappointment.

The same beige and black user interface carries over with mBrace2, but there's attractive news on the horizon. Mercedes tells us that an all-new and completely redesigned interface is due to debut on the 2014 S-Class, which will drop the 90s-era graphics for a more modern, intuitive design. And if it's anything like the system Mercedes showed off with the Concept A-Class, things are finally looking up for Benz infotainment.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to feature all-new infotainment system originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz s-classcesces 2012mercedesmercedes benzmercedes s-classmercedes-benzs classs klasses-classs-klasseWed, 11 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145618/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/20145618/article-detail.xml 20145618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-s-class-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-s-class-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz previews its CES plans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mercedes-benz-previews-its-ces-plans/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mercedes-benz-previews-its-ces-plans/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mercedes-benz-previews-its-ces-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for its first showing at CES, and in addition to building a sizable booth to highlight its range of new and updated products, M-B head Dr. Dieter Zetsche will be keynoting the event on Tuesday.

We expect Zetsche to detail the automaker's plans for its infotainment systems going forward, including a comprehensive update of COMAND and new connected and app-driven features.

On the floor, Mercedes will be showing off mbrace2, it's revamped communications and connectivity platform, which will include new safety features, speech recognition, traffic and navigation information, vehicle care and personal assistance functionalities, along with a new concierge service and internet browsing. A complimentary smartphone app will link up with the system, allowing drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles, set up geo-fence alerts and include a new social functionality dubbed Send2Benz.

Additionally, Mercedes will preview its new DriveStyle iPhone app that integrates much of the phone's functionality into the central display to limit driver distraction, along with new safety systems, both of which will debut later this year.

We'll be on the floor getting hands-on with all of it it less than a week, but until then get the full details in the press blast after the jump.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz previews its CES plans

Mercedes-Benz previews its CES plans originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012comandmbracembrace2mercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzThu, 05 Jan 2012 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20141348/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/mercedes-benz-previews-its-ces-plans/20141348/article-detail.xml 20141348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbbooth530-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbbooth530-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ladies-and-gentlemen-this-is-your-2013-mercedes-benz-sl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ladies-and-gentlemen-this-is-your-2013-mercedes-benz-sl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ladies-and-gentlemen-this-is-your-2013-mercedes-benz-sl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Between our official sneak peek and the endless leaks, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is officially out of the bag before its debut at next month's Detroit Auto Show. And like its predecessors over the last five decades, the new SL continues to offer S-Class luxury and innovations in a svelte, drop-top package.

While the styling might not be a radical departure from the R230 chassis that's been around since 2003, the new front fascia takes the SLS' upright nose - an element that's infecting the rest of the Mercedes line-up - and joins it with a more raked hood and bi-xenon headlamps with fiber optic accents and daytime running LEDs mounted low in the bumper. When we got a preview of the SL last month, we were smitten by the aggressive new front end, but the profile and rear view left us comfortably numb.

The interior, on the other hand, is a masterwork, with more SLS-inspired elements carrying over inside, including the crosshair vents, a beautiful combination of leather, wood and carbon fiber, and a center console that blends simplicity and elegance, topping it off with a squat transmission stalk. The "Mercedes-Benz" text engraved in aluminum on the bottom of the flat-bottom steering wheel is a particularly nice touch, but the silver gauges come across as more Dodge circa 2005 than 21st-century Benz.

The roof can be had with either standard glass or the Magic Sky Control available on the SLK. Mercedes claims it stows away in 20 seconds and is more cleanly integrated than the R230, along with weighing 13 pound less thanks to its partial magnesium construction.

As we detailed before, the new SL will be around 300 pounds lighter than the outgoing version, living up to its Sports Light moniker by coming in under 4,000 pounds. That might not be a huge reduction, but it's the first of many steps Mercedes plans to implement in the coming years.

At launch, the SL550 will come equipped with the twin-turbocharged and direct-injected 4.6-liter V8, outputting 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque - a significant boost over the old model's 384 hp and 391 lb-ft. The dash to 60 is claimed to come in around 4.5 seconds, with fuel economy improved by up to 10 percent thanks to a modified seven-speed automatic gearbox and start/stop tech.

Speed-sensitive, electromechanical steering joins two suspension options: the standard Agility Control Suspension or the Active Body Control setup that debuted on the outgoing model.

Finally, two new technologies come standard on the SL, the previously featured Magic Vision Control which integrates the spray nozzles into the wipers, and the new FrontBass system that mounts two subwoofers in the driver and passenger footwells. And naturally, all the safety gadgetry is included, ranging from Pre-Safe to Adaptive Brakes. Get the full details in the press release below the fold and look for the all-new SL to hit dealers this spring.

Continue reading Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 mercedes benz sl2013 mercedes benz sl5502013 mercedes-benz sl2013 mercedes-benz sl5502013 sl550detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benznaiasslWed, 14 Dec 2011 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/ladies-and-gentlemen-this-is-your-2013-mercedes-benz-sl/20127975/article-detail.xml 20127975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2013-mercedes-benz-sl628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2013-mercedes-benz-sl628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz F125! gullwing fuel cell concept leaks ahead of Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/mercedes-benz-f125-gullwing-fuel-cell-concept-leaks-ahead-of-fr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/mercedes-benz-f125-gullwing-fuel-cell-concept-leaks-ahead-of-fr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/mercedes-benz-f125-gullwing-fuel-cell-concept-leaks-ahead-of-fr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F 125! concept

Omni Auto reports that Mercedes-Benz will debut the F 125! gullwing coupe concept seen here at this week's Frankfurt Motor Show.

According to Omni Auto, the F 125! concept showcases M-B's design direction for the 2025 CL-Class. It's unknown if the German automaker intends to make a production CL that's fueled by hydrogen, but if the German automaker does, then Omni Auto says its likely that the setup featured in the F 125! that will be used. In this case, that means four electric motors cranking out a combined 231 horsepower. That level of grunt allows the F 125! to hit a top speed of 137 miles and zip from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. According to Omni Auto's leaked information, Benz says the F 125! consumes 0.79 kilograms of hydrogen per 100 kilometers and that the stylish coupe can travel up to 621 miles on a full tank.

As you can probably tell, the F 125! draws styling cues from the automaker's F800 Style concept, a four-door sedan that debuted at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. However, the prototype F 125! features a chassis made from a mix of carbon fiber, aluminum and plastics along with a unique carbon fiber tank to hold hydrogen at 700 bar. The gullwing's 10-kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows the 125 F! to travel approximately 31 miles before activation of the on-board fuel cell is required.

Look for us to post live shots and more details on the Mercedes-Benz F 125! concept when it debuts in Frankfurt, but for the moment, be sure to check out the image gallery to see the concept's trick slide-out trunk and stylized design.

Mercedes-Benz F125! gullwing fuel cell concept leaks ahead of Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtbreakingf 125f 125 conceptf125frankfurtfrankfurt 2011frankfurt motor showfuel-cellgullwinghydrogenmercedes benzmercedes-benzMon, 12 Sep 2011 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20040350/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/12/mercedes-benz-f125-gullwing-fuel-cell-concept-leaks-ahead-of-fr/20040350/article-detail.xml 20040350 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/mercedes-f-1251-1315835871_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/mercedes-f-1251-1315835871.jpg <![CDATA[Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche to keynote CES 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/daimler-chairman-dieter-zetsche-to-keynote-ces-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/daimler-chairman-dieter-zetsche-to-keynote-ces-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/daimler-chairman-dieter-zetsche-to-keynote-ces-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dieter Zetsche

Following in the footsteps of Ford's Alan Mulally and Audi's Rupert Stadler, Daimler chairman and Mercedes-Benz head honcho Dieter Zetsche will deliver the keynote at CES this January.

Zetsche's address - and Mercedes' first time at CES - is part of a larger push to bring even more automotive partners into the consumer electronics show, which began with Ford three years ago. This year's expo in Las Vegas will also include an electric vehicle pavilion and a "Safe Driver TechZone" to demo everything from collision avoidance to text-to-voice technology.

Zetsche will speak at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 10, at the Las Vegas Hilton Theater and we'll be on hand to cover it live. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche to keynote CES 2012

Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche to keynote CES 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Dieter Zetschemercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzThu, 08 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035978/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/08/daimler-chairman-dieter-zetsche-to-keynote-ces-2012/20035978/article-detail.xml 20035978 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/dvtogetty48297510-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/dvtogetty48297510-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz shows off next-generation connectivity in Concept A-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/mercedes-benz-shows-off-next-generation-connectivity-in-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/mercedes-benz-shows-off-next-generation-connectivity-in-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/mercedes-benz-shows-off-next-generation-connectivity-in-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz infotainment Concept A-Class

Here's the problem with decking out a high-end Mercedes-Benz with a range of infotainment functionality: The average S-Class buyer doesn't use it and the "digital natives" - those born with a mobile phone in their hands - can't afford one. That's set to change, and the Concept A-Class is the beginning.

The video after the break details a range of new connectivity functions employed on the smallest Benz, including Twitter and Facebook integration, and text-to-speech translation of email messages and status updates. The pseudo-holographic interface is a Tron bridge too far, but the concepts are sound. Now if M-B can bring it to market at a reasonable price-point, they'll be able to snatch up a few Millenials with three-pointed aspirations.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz shows off next-generation connectivity in Concept A-Class

Mercedes-Benz shows off next-generation connectivity in Concept A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classconcept a-classmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz concept a-classWed, 07 Sep 2011 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035909/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/mercedes-benz-shows-off-next-generation-connectivity-in-concept/20035909/article-detail.xml 20035909 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/m-b-concept-a-infotainment_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/m-b-concept-a-infotainment.jpg <![CDATA[Inden Design lays its hands on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/inden-design-lays-its-hands-on-the-mercedes-benz-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/inden-design-lays-its-hands-on-the-mercedes-benz-s-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/inden-design-lays-its-hands-on-the-mercedes-benz-s-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Inden Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2011 Inden Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class - Click above for high-res image gallery

Inden Design has gotten its greasy tuner mitts all over the 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and come up with a luxury sedan for your dark side. The S-Class is no slouch when it comes to being big and impressive, but Inden takes the intimidation to Don Corleone levels with its treatment of the big Merc.

On the outside, Inden added side sills, new front and rear spoilers and 20x10.5-inch wheels front and rear. The tuner sealed the look with a matte-grey film covering in lieu of new paint. Inden also added a new sport exhaust, bringing horsepower up to 420, and killed the Vmax limiter. Keeping everything planted is a sport suspension, lowering the car by 50 mm, and a set of S600 six-piston caliper brakes up front and four-piston clamps out back.

The interior got treated to two-tone leather on the seats, dash and door panels, and the headliner and A, B and C pillars got the Alcantara treatment. To keep everything as modern as possible, Inden threw out the old wood trim and replaced it with carbon fiber. Read all about it in the press release after the break.


Gallery: 2011 INDEN Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2011 INDEN Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class2011 INDEN Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class2011 INDEN Design Mercedes-Benz S-Class

[Source: Inden Design]

Continue reading Inden Design lays its hands on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Inden Design lays its hands on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 inden design mercedes benz s-classinden designmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzs-classThu, 17 Mar 2011 14:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19878863/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/17/inden-design-lays-its-hands-on-the-mercedes-benz-s-class/19878863/article-detail.xml 19878863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/inden-design-s-class-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/inden-design-s-class-lead.jpg <![CDATA[LA 2010: Mercedes-Benz shows off Biome concept for LA Design Challenge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/16/la-2010-mercedes-benz-shows-off-biome-concept-for-la-design-cha/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/16/la-2010-mercedes-benz-shows-off-biome-concept-for-la-design-cha/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/16/la-2010-mercedes-benz-shows-off-biome-concept-for-la-design-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz Biome Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Each year the LA Auto Show plays host to the Los Angeles Design Challenge, where aspiring designers partner with automakers to envision the future of mobility. This year's theme was to create the 1,000-pound car, and Mercedes-Benz' three designs - one from the U.S., another from Germany and yet another from Japan - are predictably out there.

The entrant from Mercedes' U.S. design arm in Carlsbad, CA was not only rendered but built into a full-scale model. The basis for the Biome Concept is a vehicle that "grows in a completely organic environment from seeds sown in a nursery." Not only that, but it's powered by a combination of the sun and a chemical bond from an imaginary liquid dubbed BioNectar4534. It's all natural, all organic and all science fiction. Size-wise, the Biome comes in at a theoretical 875 pounds, but it's massively wide, slightly shorter than a CL and about as tall as a Vector.

M-B's German design team created the Smart Weight-Watch, an ultra-compact dunebuggy with removable and recyclable plastic and cloth panels, a carbon fiber tub and tires (you read that last part right) and a lithium-ion battery powering two 15 kW motors. Total weight: exactly 1,000 pounds.

Finally there's the Maybach eRikscha from Japan, a four-passenger, two-wheeled "amalgamation of organic intelligence and biomechanical engineering artistry." Ummm... sure.

You can bone up on all three concepts in the press release after the jump and check out live images and design sketches below.


Gallery: LA 2010: Mercedes-Benz Biome Concept, Smart Weight-Watch, Maybach DRS


Gallery: LA 2010: Mercedes-Benz LA Design Challenge Concepts

Continue reading LA 2010: Mercedes-Benz shows off Biome concept for LA Design Challenge

LA 2010: Mercedes-Benz shows off Biome concept for LA Design Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto showbiomebreakingla 2010la auto showLA Design Challengelos angeles design challengemaybachmaybach eRikschamercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz biomeMercedesBenzsmartsmart weight-watchTue, 16 Nov 2010 15:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19720752/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/16/la-2010-mercedes-benz-shows-off-biome-concept-for-la-design-cha/19720752/article-detail.xml 19720752 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-2010-la-design-m-b-live-630op-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-2010-la-design-m-b-live-630op-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Daimler denies Zetsche will be replaced by Bernhard soon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/report-daimler-denies-zetsche-will-be-replaced-by-bernhard-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/report-daimler-denies-zetsche-will-be-replaced-by-bernhard-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/report-daimler-denies-zetsche-will-be-replaced-by-bernhard-soon/#commentsFiled under: ,



There's no question that Wolfgang Bernhard is well liked by the boys at Daimler. In fact, rumor has it that he's currently being groomed (for the second time, actually) to take the reins at Daimler's Mercedes-Benz automotive unit. If you believe the rumors, the only real question is when Bernhard will take over from current head Dieter Zetsche.

Reports filtering out of Germany had suggested that the changeover would take place sooner rather than later. Daimler, though, is denying those rumors, calling them "fictional and without foundation." In February of 2010, Bernhard was promoted to lead production and purchasing at Mercedes. At the same time, Zetsche's contract was extended to 2013.

It would seem that, if the 49-year-old Bernhard is going to take the helm at Mercedes-Benz at all, it's not going to happen until 2013 at the earliest. Is it too early to start hoping for an AMB-branded Tomahawk motorcycle?

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

Report: Daimler denies Zetsche will be replaced by Bernhard soon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlerdaimler ceoDaimlerCeoDieter ZetscheDieterZetschemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz ceoMercedes-benzCeoMercedesBenzWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardTue, 24 Aug 2010 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19605275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/24/report-daimler-denies-zetsche-will-be-replaced-by-bernhard-soon/19605275/article-detail.xml 19605275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/wolfgang-bernhard-tomahawk_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/wolfgang-bernhard-tomahawk.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS revealed before Paris debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/22/officially-official-2012-mercedes-benz-cls-revealed-before-pari/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/22/officially-official-2012-mercedes-benz-cls-revealed-before-pari/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/22/officially-official-2012-mercedes-benz-cls-revealed-before-pari/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS - Click above for high-res image gallery

It seems like every automaker wants to have a "four-door coupe" in its lineup these days. Hyundai has its rakish new Sonata, Volkswagen has the stylish CC and BMW has reportedly given its Gran Coupe concept the go-ahead for production. This is certainly one of the hottest automotive design trends of recent memory, but we must remember that it all started with the Mercedes-Benz CLS back in 2004. The folks from Stuttgart told us that coupes can have more than two doors (though we're still not 100 percent behind that idea), and the CLS quickly became one of the most stylish four-door vehicles on the market. Even today, the original CLS bodystyle still looks fresh, modern and sexy.

Recently, we came across some leaked shots of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS, showing the stylish new design that will be unveiled at this year's Paris Motor Show. Now we have the official images direct from the manufacturer, and this car is even more beautiful in full high-res glory. The new headlight design is quite striking, and the CLS uses a full-LED setup, with a total of 71 bulbs making up the main headlamps, running lamps, turn signals and side lamps. We're really anxious to see what this looks like in person with the sun below the horizon.
Even today, the original CLS still looks fresh, modern and sexy.

Inside, a new three-spoke sport steering wheel is on hand, and the CLS now uses a column-mounted gear selector similar to that in the higher-end CL and S-Class cars. The rest of the interior mixes luxurious appointments with modern style, and the end result is something that not only looks sporty and elegant, but immensely comfortable and cozy.

We don't have official word about powertrains, but expect the CLS to be offered with two different gas engines when it goes on sale in North America in mid-2011. An all-new direct-injected 3.5-liter V6 is anticipated to be the base engine in the CLS350, while CLS550 models will reportedly receive a twin-turbo 4.6-liter V8 good for around 430 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Of course, a CLS AMG will come shortly thereafter, packing lordly amounts of power.

We'll have the official specs closer to the car's scheduled unveiling in Paris, but for now, you can read what Mercedes-Benz has to say about the CLS in the press release after the jump and scroll through the gallery below for a few high-res shots of the svelte new Benz.


Gallery: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS revealed before Paris debut

Officially Official: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS revealed before Paris debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris motor show2010ParisMotorShow2012 CLS2012 CLS-Class2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class2012Cls2012Cls-class2012Mercedes-benzCls2012Mercedes-benzCls-classAMGCLScls classcls-classClsClassfour door coupefour-door coupeFour-doorCoupeFourDoorCoupeluxurymercedesMercedes Benzmercedes clsmercedes cls-classmercedes-benzMercedes-Benz CLSmercedes-benz cls-classMercedes-benzClsMercedes-benzCls-classMercedesBenzMercedesClsMercedesCls-classparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2010sedanSun, 22 Aug 2010 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19601775/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/22/officially-official-2012-mercedes-benz-cls-revealed-before-pari/19601775/article-detail.xml 19601775 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2012mercedesclsclass000630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2012mercedesclsclass000630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 order books open for 2011 race season]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/12/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-gt3-order-books-open-for-2011-race-season/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/12/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-gt3-order-books-open-for-2011-race-season/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/12/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-gt3-order-books-open-for-2011-race-season/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The full-on competition version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is now officially available to order for race teams in preparation for the 2011 season. Mercedes-Benz will start delivering the GT3-class race cars in February of 2011, leaving plenty of time for teams to do their own preseason testing.

The GT3 class for production based sports cars is truly heating up these days with Mercedes joining Audi, BMW and, of course, Porsche. The American Le Mans Series has dipped its toe into GT3 waters this year as well with the GT Challenge class. At present, GT Challenge is currently limited to Porsche 911s but hopefully, Porsche will open it up to other GT3 contenders.

AMG and HWA AG are developing and producing the SLS GT3, and track testing began in June with veteran Mercedes-Benz DTM and GT driver Bernd Schnieder at the wheel. Before customer deliveries begin, the SLS will appear in some VLN endurance series races at the Nürburgring Nordschleife later this year. The SLS AMG GT3 costs €334,000 before value added taxes (about $430,000 U.S.). Check out the official press release after the break.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 order books open for 2011 race season

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 order books open for 2011 race season originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsgt3mercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz sls amg gt3Mercedes SLS AMGmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgMercedesBenzMercedesBenzSlsAmgGt3MercedesSlsAmgThu, 12 Aug 2010 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19589114/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/12/mercedes-benz-sls-amg-gt3-order-books-open-for-2011-race-season/19589114/article-detail.xml 19589114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/78951414473864106251010c885089-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/78951414473864106251010c885089-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Mercedes planning C63 AMG Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/rumormill-mercedes-planning-c63-amg-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/rumormill-mercedes-planning-c63-amg-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/rumormill-mercedes-planning-c63-amg-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been confirmed for some time that Mercedes-Benz is developing a new two-door coupe version of its C-Class to replace the current hatchback CLC model. With that in mind, it should come as no surprise that Autocar is reporting that Mercedes-Benz is also working on an AMG variant of the coupe to go up against the Audi RS5, BMW M3 and Cadillac CTS-V.

The British magazine is reporting that the coupe will use the same AMG 6.2-liter normally aspirated V8 as one of our favorite Benz sedans, the C63 AMG. However, if this car is to debut later in 2011 as projected, it would seem logical that Mercedes might switch to the new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 that's going into the 2011 CL63.

The turbo V8 could the output from the current 451 horsepower to somewhere closer to 500 hp. Autocar also speculates that a C63 Black Series coupe could be a followup to an upcoming SLS Black Series.

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Mercedes planning C63 AMG Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMGC classc class coupec coupec-classc-klasseCClassCClassCoupeCCoupemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz c classmercedes benz c63 amgmercedes benz clkmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzC63AmgMercedesBenzCClassMercedesBenzClkspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsThu, 05 Aug 2010 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19582766/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/05/rumormill-mercedes-planning-c63-amg-coupe/19582766/article-detail.xml 19582766 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mercedes-benz-3810101139492771600x1060_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mercedes-benz-3810101139492771600x1060.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/mercedes-benz-unveils-2011-s63-amg-with-twin-turbo-5-5l-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/mercedes-benz-unveils-2011-s63-amg-with-twin-turbo-5-5l-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/mercedes-benz-unveils-2011-s63-amg-with-twin-turbo-5-5l-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

Engine downsizing has now come to the almost top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG with the adoption of AMG's new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8. The new direct-injected V8 bumps output up from a mere 518 horsepower to 571 horsepower along with generating 663 pound-feet of torque between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm. That's sufficient to propel this behemoth to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds in normal trim or 4.4 seconds if you opt for the AMG sports package.

The 2011 S63 also swaps out its previous torque converter automatic transmission for the multi-clutch unit from the SL63, a move which should lend it a more sporting feel. Just as other automakers get both performance and efficiency benefits from boosted direct-injected engines, the S63's combine fuel economy numbers have jumped from 16.3 miles per gallon (U.S.) to 22.4 mpg on the EU test cycle. The EPA numbers aren't yet available, but we would expect a similar real-world increase from the 2010 model's 14 mpg, though perhaps a bit smaller since the EPA's testing methodology won't show any benefits from the S63's new automatic start-stop feature. Official press release and driving footage video after the jump, spanking new high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Mercedes2011 Mercedes-Benz2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG2011Mercedes2011Mercedes-benz2011Mercedes-benzS63Amg5.5 liter twin turbo v85.5 liter v85.5-liter5.5LiterTwinTurboV85.5LiterV8AMGamg biturbo v8amg twin turbo v8AmgBiturboV8AmgTwinTurboV8automatic start stopAutomaticStartStopbenzmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz s63 amgmercedes benz s65 amgmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzS63AmgMercedesBenzS65Amgmulti-clutch transmissionMulti-clutchTransmissionS classs klasses-classs-klasses600S63s63 amgS63AmgSClassSKlasseFri, 30 Jul 2010 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19574898/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/30/mercedes-benz-unveils-2011-s63-amg-with-twin-turbo-5-5l-v8/19574898/article-detail.xml 19574898 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/78622814403724256283210c761089-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/78622814403724256283210c761089-copy.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Bloomberg</i>: Mercedes to overtake battered Lexus as U.S. luxury leader?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/25/bloomberg-mercedes-to-overtake-battered-lexus-as-u-s-lu/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/25/bloomberg-mercedes-to-overtake-battered-lexus-as-u-s-lu/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/25/bloomberg-mercedes-to-overtake-battered-lexus-as-u-s-lu/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 Sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a decade at the top of the U.S. luxury vehicle sales charts, Lexus may soon be unseated by the previous leader, Mercedes-Benz, as well as BMW. While Lexus sales have been recovering this year from the dismal first half of 2009, Mercedes-Benz has been climbing even faster.

One possible reason for this disparity is the string of recalls Lexus has been hit with this year, including accelerator pedals, floor mats, leaking gas tanks and defective valve-springs. Another reason is the sales strength of Mercedes' updated bread-and-butter vehicles, including the new E-Class.

In June, Lexus sales were up just 2.7 percent compared to 25 percent and 15 percent for Mercedes and BMW respectively. Unless Lexus cleans up its act quickly and manages to convince customers that its quality problems are behind it, Toyota's premium brand could fall behind both German brands.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 Sedan


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Bloomberg: Mercedes to overtake battered Lexus as U.S. luxury leader? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Jul 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwlexuslexus market shareLexusMarketShareluxury market shareluxury market shareeLuxuryMarketShareLuxuryMarketShareemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzSun, 25 Jul 2010 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19567574/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/25/bloomberg-mercedes-to-overtake-battered-lexus-as-u-s-lu/19567574/article-detail.xml 19567574 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/lead1mercedese3502010review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/lead1mercedese3502010review.jpg -1 2