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[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

We've been all but assured that a convertible version of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG was on the way, and now we've got photographic proof of the de-gullwinged drop-top weathering the wintery climes before its reveal in 2010.

Although Mercedes officials haven't divulged much about the SLS cabrio, it's likely to be fitted with a retractable soft-top rather than a folding hard-top in a bid to keep weight in check and retain some of the trunk's capacity. Naturally, the chassis will be fortified to increase rigidity, but considering the SLS AMG was designed from the onset to be both a coupe and a convertible, we suspect the extent of the modifications to be limited and the weight penalty to be minimal.

Some reports indicate that the SLS AMG Roadster could debut as early as the Geneva Motor Show in March, but if we were betting gentlemen, we'd suspect the convertible SLS to debut later in 2010, likely at the Paris Motor Show.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgbenzmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz sls amg roadstermercedes sls amg roadstermercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amg roadsterMercedes-benzSlsAmgRoadsterMercedesBenzMercedesBenzSlsAmgRoadsterMercedesSlsAmgRoadsterroadsterslsspy shotsSpyShotsTue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/autoblog-podcast-157-mike-levine-trucks-along-with-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/autoblog-podcast-157-mike-levine-trucks-along-with-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/autoblog-podcast-157-mike-levine-trucks-along-with-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Our friend Mike Levine from Pickuptrucks.com joins Chris, Sam and Dan for Episode #157 of The Autoblog Podcast, bringing his vast knowledge of all that is crew-cabbed and full framed. Of course, we start off with what we're driving and dreamy talk about the Dodge Ram Power Wagon, but the real meat and potatoes news items begin with a peek at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabrio. Staying with Ms. Jellinek's namesake brand, the crew ponders the idea of an electric SLS supercar. Staying charged, we move right into Toyota's recent hybrid news - a tease of an all new hybrid that we'll see at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, and today's announcement of a PHEV Prius. Hybrid pickups come up before we move on to the BMW's Z4 sDrive35is and then questions. One hour, thirty minutes, in time for your Tuesday pick-me-up.

For more listening pleasure check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget, and let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!


Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us!

Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastbmw z4bmw z4 mbmw Z4 sDrive35isBmwZ4BmwZ4MBmwZ4Sdrive35isE-ClassE-Class Cabrioe-class cabrioletE-Class ConvertibleE-classCabrioE-classCabrioletE-classConvertibleelectric slselectric sls amgElectricSlsElectricSlsAmgfeaturedmercedesMercedes BenzMercedes SLS AMGmercedes-benzMercedes-Benz E-ClassMercedes-benzE-classMercedesBenzMercedesSlsAmgmike levineMikeLevinePickupTruckspickuptrucks.compodcastpower wagonPowerWagonram power wagonRamPowerWagontoyota hybridtoyota priustoyota prius hybridToyota Prius PHEVtoyota prius plug intoyota prius plug in hybridToyota Prius plug-inToyotaHybridToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHybridToyotaPriusPhevToyotaPriusPlug-inToyotaPriusPlugInToyotaPriusPlugInHybridTue, 15 Dec 2009 13:40:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #157Autoblog1:35:19podcast; autoblog podcast; toyota hybrid; phev prius; plugin prius; e-class cabrio; mercedes e; toyota; bmw z4<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz SLS goes from zero to gold in seconds for Dubai show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-sls-goes-from-zero-to-gold-in-seconds-for-dubai-sh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-sls-goes-from-zero-to-gold-in-seconds-for-dubai-sh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-sls-goes-from-zero-to-gold-in-seconds-for-dubai-sh/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG "desert gold" edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Over the past several years, we've seen no end of photos of high-end cars with bright chrome and gold finishes coming out of the Middle East and Russia. Until now, none of those have come that way from an automaker's paint shop. However, you just knew that couldn't last, and alas, Mercedes-Benz has created a special version of its new SLS AMG supercar for the 2009 Dubai Motor Show.

Fortunately, Mercedes has decided to forgo the shiny route and applied a matte gold finish dubbed "AMG Desert Gold" to the gull-winged SLS. The badging and trim bits like the three-pointed star also go from the usual chrome or silver to a deep back look, as do the wheels. The overall appearance is actually quite much easier on the eyes than the mirror-finished gold appliques we are used to seeing. At this point the show car is a one-off, but Mercedes has said that if there is enough interest (read enough checks with sufficient zeros) the desert gold paint will be offered through the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO program.

Joining the gold SLS on the Dubai stand is a special 30th anniversary "Edition 79" G55 AMG KOMPRESSOR SUV. This one gets a matte grey finish that is normally only offered on the SLS. The Edition 79 comes with a 507-hp supercharged V8 under the hood for quick blasts across the sand. In proper high-end limited edition fashion, only 79 examples of this old school Benz will be built with all of them headed to the mid-East.


Gallery: Gold Mercedes-Benz SLS for Dubai Motor Show


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS goes from zero to gold in seconds for Dubai show

Mercedes-Benz SLS goes from zero to gold in seconds for Dubai show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Mercedes-Benz Baltimore vehicle process center has secured a five-year contract to inspect, process, and repair pre-delivery BMW and Mini vehicles arriving in the United States. It's a deal that makes economic sense for both companies, say that automakers. BMW models currently arrive in Charleston, South Carolina, and are shipped to nearby Spartanburg (home of BMWs assembly plant) for inspection and pre-delivery work. That plant is "no longer appropriate" once the X3 starts production next year, says Jim O'Donnell, president of BMW North America. O'Donnell says BMW has been looking for an outside contractor, and it was the company's own purchasing department who proposed the deal.

Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, called the deal "a win-win situation." The company has both the manpower and space to service the additional BMW vehicles, and this arrangement may create additional opportunities for the two companies down the road. The Baltimore vehicle process center, on track to process 70,000 vehicles this year, currently handles Mercedes-Benz and Smart vehicles. The arrangement with BMW will not begin until March 1, 2010.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Max Nash/Getty]

REPORT: BMW, Mini to let Mercedes-Benz inspect, prep its vehicles at port originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrangmentassemblyBaltimoreBMWcontractdealernst liebErnstLiebinspectionJim odonnellJimOdonnellmercedesmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMiniportpre-deliveryprocessrepairSpartanburgTue, 15 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is ready for its close-up at the Detroit Auto Show, but before the shindig in Michigan gets underway next month, Mercedes has dropped all the official details on its CLK convertible replacement.

Like the coupe on which it's based, the Cabrio is a step up from its predecessor and comes packing a choice of powerplants: a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque in E350 guise or a 5.5-liter V8 churning out 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque in the E550 cab.

Unlike some of its competition, the E-Class Convertible doesn't employ a retractable hard-top, but rather a 0.9-inch cloth roof that pays dividends in the capacity department. With the top up, the trunk is good for nearly 14 cubic feet of space and cut down to just over three cubic feet when the top is dropped and stowed behind the rear passengers. There's also a pass-through underneath the roof's enclosure -- similar to the recently released Audi A5 convertible -- that should make schlepping longer parcels a bit easier.

The real party piece on the convertible E-Class is the new AirCap system, which includes a 2.4-inch wind deflector that extends from the windshield, along with a draft-stop mounted behind the rear seats. According to Mercedes, this limits the amount of wind intrusion into the passenger compartment up to speeds of 100 mph, keeping your perfectly coifed hair in check and making conversations easier when storming the autobahn.

Other tech includes the Mercedes Airscarf, which blows warm air around the neck of the front seat passengers (originally seen on the SL) and Mercedes' first application of head airbags in a convertible. If you're champing at the bit to get your hands on the 2011 E-Class Convertible, you'll have to wait until May, but in the meantime, you can scope out all the details in the press release below the fold.


Gallery: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mercedes e class cabriolet2010 mercedes e-class cabriolet2010 mercedes-benz e-class2010 mercedes-benz e-class cabrio2010 mercedes-benz e-class cabriolet2010 mercedes-benz e-class convertible2010Mercedes-benzE-class2010Mercedes-benzE-classCabrio2010Mercedes-benzE-classCabriolet2010Mercedes-benzE-classConvertible2010MercedesE-classCabriolet2010MercedesEClassCabriolet20112011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet2011Mercedes-benzE-classCabrioletcabrioletdetroitdetroit 2010detroit auto showDetroit2010DetroitAutoShowe class cabriolete-classe-class cabrioletE-classCabrioletEClassCabrioletmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[J.D. Power ranks Mercedes-Benz #1 for customer retention]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mercedes-benz-ranked-1-for-customer-retention-by-j-d-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mercedes-benz-ranked-1-for-customer-retention-by-j-d-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mercedes-benz-ranked-1-for-customer-retention-by-j-d-power/#commentsFiled under: , ,



That's customer retention, not retentive customers, though Mercedes-Benz could be said to enjoy both. J.D. Power and Associates has been indexing customer retention for seven years, and Mercedes-Benz tops the list in 2009. Power measures how many vehicle buyers are replacing an older model from the same brand, and Mercedes-Benz's 67-percent retention rate tops all others, including the usual suspects, Honda and Toyota.

What's resonating with customers are resale value and quality. Even used Mercs are spendy, but they all ooze an air of quality. Ingot-solid platforms and the fine sheen of obsessively-perfected engineering seem to convince buyers that the cars will last forever and are of the highest quality. Why said customers might then trade a car with such inherent awesomeness, which is built to withstand all manner of circumstances, is another story entirely, but Mercedes-Benz's first-place finish this year caps a five-year run of increasing numbers, culminating with this year's best-ever 67 percent, the highest the Power study has measured.

[Source: J.D. Power]

J.D. Power ranks Mercedes-Benz #1 for customer retention originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Customer Retention Studycustomer retention surveyCustomerRetentionStudyCustomerRetentionSurveyJD POwerjd power and associa...JD Power and AssociatesJD Power associatesJD Power rankingsJdPowerJdPowerAndAssocia...JdPowerAndAssociatesJdPowerAssociatesJdPowerRankingsmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes customer retentionmercedes jd powermercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesCustomerRetentionMercedesJdPowerpower customer retentionPowerCustomerRetentionSun, 13 Dec 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MEC Design takes another (eyeball) stab at the SLS AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MEC Design SLS AMG
2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG by MEC Design - Click above for image gallery

Germans are generally so conservative that we sometimes wonder if their aftermarket scene exists only to provide for the anomalies that every society needs. Not many of you fell for MEC Design's first attempt at visually tuning the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and we would have thought it was something from Tron Legacy if not for the fact of it being yellow. It appears that boys from Berlin returned to their easels and now present the MEC SLS, take two.

It's called a "style study" and to its credit, MEC has deleted the most obscene gestures from the previous rendering: the mommy-make-it-stop nose and horrendous wheels. Nevertheless, MEC's Erector-Set-and-Laffy-Taffy design ethos has only been barely restrained, and the result is still quite troubling. If you have suggestions, you can leave them in the comments section below. We think MEC is reading...


Gallery: MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


[Source: Caradisiac]

MEC Design takes another (eyeball) stab at the SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mercedes-benz sls amg2010Mercedes-benzSlsAmgaftermarketAMGgermanymecmec designMecDesignmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgSLSSLS AMGSlsAmgSun, 13 Dec 2009 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[At 211 mph, the Brabus GLK V12 can't outrun ugly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/750-hp-mercedes-benz-glk-v12-by-brabus-cant-outrun-ugly-or-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/750-hp-mercedes-benz-glk-v12-by-brabus-cant-outrun-ugly-or-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/750-hp-mercedes-benz-glk-v12-by-brabus-cant-outrun-ugly-or-a-b/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 by Brabus - Click above for high-res image gallery

It ain't pretty, but it's fast. Actually, with a claimed 211 mph top speed, the Brabus Bi-Turbo V12 GLK is the fastest SUV in the world. Which is kinda like being the winner in a Twinkie-eating competition: It's an epic feat of embarrassing proportions.

To pull it off, the Brabus crew stuck with its tried and true formula of shoving entirely too much engine into a small package. Underneath the vented hood lies a Mercedes-sourced V12 that's been stroked from 5.5- to 6.3-liters. From there, the Bottrop boys fit a duo of turbos, two intercoolers, a couple high-flow cats and a stainless steel exhaust. The effect is typical Brabus: A staggering 740 horsepower and 995 pound-feet of torque, which is actually limited to 811 lb-ft (at 2,100 rpm) to avoid the gearbox, diff and rear tires from vaporizing in an oily, metallic haze. And naturally, the absurdity doesn't stop with the engine.

Twelve-piston front calipers clamp onto 15-inch discs, with six-piston calipers and 14.2-inch rotors in the rear, while a height adjustable coilover suspension with ten settings for bound and rebound join 22-inch wheels wrapped in a choice of Pirelli or Yokohama rubber. The exterior and interior have been restyled to match, and while Merc's diminutive 'ute isn't exactly a beauty queen to begin with, Brabus' blocky aftermarket brutalization lends itself well to the GLK's squat proportions.

But aesthetics aside, there's a bigger problem. Actually, there are 397,000 of 'em. That's how many euros you'll need for the GLK V12. For that kind of scratch ($580,000 using a straight conversion), there's a host of high-power exotica available. And when you consider the GLK's sprinting stats -- 0-60 in 4.2 seconds and 124 mph in 12.8 ticks -- the far less expensive BMW X5 M is easily on par and was actually designed from the onset to be an offensively quick grocery-getter. Then again, the M can't break the double-century mark at Nardo... something to consider during your trip to Costco. Press release below the fold.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 by Brabus

Continue reading At 211 mph, the Brabus GLK V12 can't outrun ugly

At 211 mph, the Brabus GLK V12 can't outrun ugly originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C-Classc-class us productionC-classUsProductionmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz c classmercedes us productionmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzCClassMercedesUsProductionus productionUsProductionFri, 11 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Schnuerer Toys for Tots drive bigger than ever with a gullwing surprise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/schnuerer-toys-for-tots-drive-bigger-than-ever-with-a-gullwing-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/schnuerer-toys-for-tots-drive-bigger-than-ever-with-a-gullwing-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/schnuerer-toys-for-tots-drive-bigger-than-ever-with-a-gullwing-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


6th Annual Schnuerer Toys for Tots charity car show - Click above for huge high-res image gallery

This past weekend was a busy one for us, and it was for some of our local Marines as well. Our efforts were for a worthy cause, however, as we were busy collecting toys for needy children so they might have something to unwrap during the holidays. We also happened to be surrounded by some of the nicest people and coolest cars ever made at The 6th Annual Schnuerer Toys for Tots drive in Huntington Beach.

The event was highlighted by the surprise appearance of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Even parked amidst two classic gullwing SLs and beside a new SL65 Black Series, the neo-gullwing drew the lion's share of the attention from the crowd. The car sounded fantastic and we had to admit we'd be hard pressed to choose between it, the Black Series, the nearby CLK DTM cabrio, the SLR or SLR Roadster as our favorite modern Mercedes. The Audi R8 V10 that was parked around back would probably be in the mix as well for most fun to drive. Follow the jump to read how the day played out - and don't forget to check out the huge gallery by clicking any image below.


Gallery: 6th Annual Schnuerer Toys for Tots charity car show


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Schnuerer Toys for Tots drive bigger than ever with a gullwing surprise

Schnuerer Toys for Tots drive bigger than ever with a gullwing surprise originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mercedes-benz sls amg2010Mercedes-benzSlsAmgDave KunzDaveKunzGerhard SchnuererGerhardSchnuerergullwingJustin BellJustinBellMarinesmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgMercedesBenzRosemarie SchnuererRosemarieSchnuererSchnuererSchnuerer Toys for TotsSchnuererToysForTotsslssls amgSlsAmgtoys for totsToysForTotsworld war IIWorldWarIiwwIIWed, 09 Dec 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jay Leno gets behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/video-jay-leno-gets-behind-the-wheel-of-the-mercedes-benz-sls-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/video-jay-leno-gets-behind-the-wheel-of-the-mercedes-benz-sls-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/video-jay-leno-gets-behind-the-wheel-of-the-mercedes-benz-sls-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Jay Leno drives the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - click above to watch the video

Like Jay Leno, many of us Autobloggers are oil-in-the-blood car freaks living in Los Angeles, California. Only thing is, we can't seem to recall Mercedes-Benz dropping off their new gullwinged supercar - the SLS AMG - at our garage. Of course, Leno is an international superstar that knows most presidents on a first name basis and we wear sweatpants most of the time. Oh, and we don't even have a garage, let alone two Miuras and an Espada, among dozens of other pieces of drooly metal.

And sure, we've driven the 2011 SLS AMG. In California, no less. Liked it quite a bit, too. Still, we think you'll get a kick out of the video. Why? Well, it's good to see the SLS in motion, even though from certain angles at least one of us (*ahem*) thinks it resembles a third generation Mazda RX7. We also like how Jay reviews cars, as if he's talking to his buddies during a long lunch. Which is probably pretty close to what's actually happening. We also like how he just keeps hammering and hammering the press car - something we can (*double ahem*) relate to.

Then, of course, while admitting that a dual-clutch transmission can shift faster than any human, he still states that he'd prefer three pedals. Seriously, our kind of guy. And really, if you think about it, Jay Leno is little more than every gearhead's fantasy writ large after hitting the lotto (vis-à-vis, cars at any rate). For instance, he starts this video standing next to his 1955 300 SL Gullwing. Meaning that we're so jealous, we can't stop smiling. Hit the jump to watch Jay at play in the streets of Burbank.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno gets behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

VIDEO: Jay Leno gets behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mercedes2010Mercedes2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG2011 SLS2011 SLS AMG2011Mercedes-benzSlsAmg2011Sls2011SlsAmg300 SL300 SL Gullwing300Sl300SlGullwingAMGbenzgullwingJay LenoJay Lenos GarageJayLenoJayLenosGarageLenoMercedesmercedes benzMercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz SLSMercedes-benz SLS AMGMercedes-benzSlsMercedes-benzSlsAmgMercedesBenzSLSSLS AMGSlsAmgTue, 08 Dec 2009 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next-generation Mercedes-Benz ML caught winter testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/spy-shots-next-generation-mercedes-benz-ml-caught-winter-testin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/spy-shots-next-generation-mercedes-benz-ml-caught-winter-testin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/spy-shots-next-generation-mercedes-benz-ml-caught-winter-testin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Mercedes ML spy shots -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The next iteration of the Mercedes ML-class has been caught braving the European cold and snow for some testing as it gets ready for its debut.

There will probably be plenty of subtle stylistic changes to distinguish it from the current model, but the biggest news about the coming SUV is that it will be smaller. Of course, it's hard to tell from the cloak of darkness camouflage on the prototype pictured, but it does look slightly less imposing than the current hauler. Early indications are that the various engine offerings in the next ML will focus on efficiency over performance, but we suspect it won't be a slouch dynamically.

We can expect it to appear in the middle of 2011 as a 2012 model.


Gallery: 2012 Mercedes ML Spy Shots

Spy Shots: Next-generation Mercedes-Benz ML caught winter testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren range - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the end of one's life approaches, individuals are prone to reflect and wonder how they'll be remembered. A car, on the other hand, can't think for itself, so we'll have to take up the task in its stead.

A joint effort between Mercedes-Benz and its erstwhile Formula One racing partner McLaren, the SLR spawned five variants: the original coupe and roadster, the 722 coupe and roadster and the Stirling Moss edition... not to mention a racing version or two. Over the course of its five-year production run, more than 2,000 examples were built, making the SLR one of the most prolific supercars in automotive history. As the final examples of the Stirling Moss roll out of the McLaren factory in Woking, its parents are going their separate ways: Mercedes has sold its stake back to McLaren, acquired its own F1 team, and each has produced its own successor: the SLS AMG and the MP4-12C.

So with its production run drawing to a close, we can't help but wonder how will history remember the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. As the purest embodiment of the Gran Turismo? A fitting tribute to the original 300 SLR that dominated racing in the Fifties? The flawed result of a conflict of interests? Or perhaps as the roadgoing product of one of the most intriguing partnerships in automotive history? Read through the history lesson in the press release after the jump and peruse the gallery of high-resolution images below and you'll get Daimler's perspective. We invite you to share yours in the comments section below.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren retrospective


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other

Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren slrMclarenSlrmercedesmercedes slrmercedes slr mclarenmercedes-benzmercedes-benz slrmercedes-benz slr mclarenMercedes-benzSlrMercedes-benzSlrMclarenMercedesSlrMercedesSlrMclarenslrslr mclarenSlrMclarenThu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/confirmed-mercedes-to-shift-some-production-of-next-gen-c-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



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

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

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

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes c-class2014 mercedes-benz c-class2014Mercedes-benzC-class2014MercedesC-classalabamabremenC 230C 250C 300C 350c-classC230C250C300C350mbusimercedesmercedes c-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-classMercedes-benzC-classMercedesC-classsindelfingentuscaloosaThu, 03 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gah-mec-design-fantasizes-over-tuned-mercedes-sls-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gah-mec-design-fantasizes-over-tuned-mercedes-sls-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gah-mec-design-fantasizes-over-tuned-mercedes-sls-amg/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


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

Say what you will about the retro design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Some call it a contemporary take on a classic shape, others may deride the lack of originality. But at least it's consistent. Which is a heck of a lot more than we can say for what MEC Design has done to it.

The Berlin-based tuner has been dreaming up how it could butcher the gullwing's lines, and from the looks of things, they've done a bang-up job. First thing you notice is the nose - you could hardly miss it - that apparently attempts to bring the preceding SLR McLaren's F1-inspired treatment back. But MEC hasn't stopped there. The full aero kit includes side skirts with integrated exterior lighting. The rear end fits in a spoiler, chrome tailpipes and a new diffuser. There are comically oversized and blinged-out rims. And they've theoretically fitted a carbon and Alcantara steering wheel.

And that's where the sigh of relief comes in. Thankfully, MEC Design hasn't actually gotten its hands on an actual SLS to perform these mods. And for the sake of everything we hold dear, we hope they never do.


Gallery: MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


[Source: MEC Design]

Continue reading Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG

Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Say it ain't so, Schu! The Daily Telegraph is reporting that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher is close to signing on with the newly formed Mercedes Formula 1 team. Mercedes is the new name of the former Brawn GP team, the current Constructors Champion. After a stellar rookie season that saw this former Honda team clinch not just the Constructors Championship, but also the Drivers Championship for Jenson Button, they had a bit of a dropoff as Button bolted for rival McLaren.

That left a seat to fill at Mercedes and if BBC Sport's Eddie Jordan is to be believed, none other than Michael Schumacher is about to sign a one-year contract to return to racing in that very car. The deal, which would net Schumacher the same salary that Button turned down at Brawn GP in favour of McLaren, would finally see the German teaming up with Mercedes, who were in the past unsuccessful in their bids to lure him away from Ferrari.

Ferrari almost lured the retired champ back this season when Felipe Massa went down following the infamous spring incident in Hungary. The Champ's sore neck put a stop to that comeback, but apparently it got Schumi's juices flowing again. Signing with Mercedes would create something of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg in the other car. If the deal goes through, MS will be reunited with Brawn GP-namesake and current Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, the man who guided Michael to all seven of his World titles.

Still just a rumor for the moment, the deal is said to give Schumacher the same salary Button turned down when he defected to McLaren. The Schumacher deal is just the latest volley in the silly season melee that has seen Kimi Raikkonen vacate his seat in order to make room for Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, which lost adviser Michael Schumacher as well. Whatever the future holds, it is only going to get more interesting. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph via Planet F1, BBC Sport | Image Source: Getty]

BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsF1Ferrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemclarenmercedesmercedes-benzmichael schumacherMichaelSchumacherMSschumacherFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The new Mercedes GP car rendered - Click above to view in high-resolution

With two manufacturers leaving the series, four new teams joining the grid and a giant game of musical chairs amongst the drivers ensuing, the off-season between the 2009 and 2010 Formula One World Championships is packing in as much action as the racing itself. But few developments have garnered as much attention as the coup orchestrated by Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, withdrawing from McLaren after fifteen years as its active partner in favor of a more conventional engine supplier role, while buying over 75% of the Brawn GP outfit to enter the sport as a full manufacturer team under the Mercedes Grand Prix banner.

The acquisition has drawn public criticism from Erich Klemm, employee representative on the Daimler board and chairman of its Corporate Works Council, who decried the move as an unnecessary cost when money is tight and other automakers are withdrawing from the series. Chairman Dieter Zetsche responded that the acquisition of the Brawn team will give the company more exposure for less cash: The deal reportedly cost the German automaker some $336 million, but its operating costs are expected to drop to about $74 million annually by 2011, analyzed as far less than what Mercedes was contributing annually to the McLaren budget.

Zetsche might have more trouble, however, explaining to the board how their star driver slipped through their fingers and defected to the team they just ditched. McLaren just announced the recruitment of Jenson Button to team up with Lewis Hamilton for a twin-champ "super team," and Rubens Barrichello is off to Williams next season, leaving the new Mercedes GP team looking for new drivers. Considering they're the reigning champions suddenly flush with cash, they shouldn't have much trouble, though.

Zetsche and Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug are reportedly keen to capitalize with an all-German line-up, fueling speculation that Michael Schumacher could rejoin Mercedes (whose junior driving program gave him his start) and Brawn (who orchestrated all seven of his world championships). Nico Rosberg is thought to already have signed on to switch places with Barrichello, while Nick Heidfeld has been linked with a switch from the departing BMW to its arch-rival Mercedes. Toyota's Timo Glock was also reportedly in the running, but the young German driver signed with newcomer Manor GP instead. Haug has indicated an announcement will come within the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned.

[Source: F1 Live]

Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barrichellobuttonbutton mclarenButtonMclarendaimlerDieter ZetscheDieterZetscheerich klemmErichKlemmglockhamiltonhaugheidfeldheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjenson buttonJensonButtonlewis hamiltonLewisHamiltonmclarenmercedesmercedes gpmercedes grand prixmercedes-benzMercedesGpMercedesGrandPrixnick heidfeldNickHeidfeldnorbert haugNorbertHaugrubens barrichelloRubensBarrichellotimo glockTimoGlockzetscheWed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with Hughes Telematics to begin offering a new system that allows drivers to enable dozens of their vehicles features with their Apple iPhone or Blackberry.

Dubbed "mbrace," the telematics setup covers everything from locking and unlocking doors to contacting roadside assistance and pinpointing an mbrace-equipped Mercedes-Benz in a parking lot.

The system will be included on all new Mercedes products, and current customers with the automaker's outgoing Tele Aid system are eligible to retrofit their aging Mercs with mbrace. The technology could also be used to stream music from the web, upload video content and connect to users PCs, however, that's further down the road. The system is available now for $280 a year, and you can get all the details in the press release below the fold.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry

Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blackberryhughes telematicsHughesTelematicsiPhonembracemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenztelematicsTue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash test - click above to watch the video after the jump

It's a sad fact that incredibly expensive, highly desirable cars have to be smashed to bits in the name of safety, but we have to admit we quietly enjoy watching the carnage. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG had to endure its time with the crash barrier, and the video proves that the $200,000 supercar can hold its own against the international wall of destruction. The offset impact crash showed that virtually all of the energy was absorbed by its long front end while the cockpit remained largely intact. But what if the SLS flipped on its lid, rendering the gullwing doors inoperable?

In order to comply with federal standards that mandate that a door must be operational in the event of a rollover crash, MB built explosive charges into the hinge pins so that the doors could be blown off in the event of a rollover. As evidenced by the video after the jump, the charges worked, although in the video shown here, the explosives were triggered by an outside switch. In the event of a real-wold crash, yanking on the door handles would trigger the explosives once the SLS AMG was upside-down for a pre-determined amount of time.

If you haven't seen the vid already, click past the break to view it in full. It's a bit long and boring at the beginning, but it gets interesting around the halfway point when the merciless destruction begins.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brawn Grand Prix officially announced this morning that Daimler AG and Aabar Investments PJSC has bought a 75-percent stake in the team that won the world championship in its first year of existence. The team run by ex-Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn was born just under a year ago out of the ashes of the former Honda F1 team after that automaker pulled out of the sport. With Brawn taking over the reigns, the team secured a supply of engines from Mercedes and went on to win numerous races in 2009 along with both the constructors and drivers world championship for driver Jenson Button.

Rumors of Mercedes expanding its involvement with the Brawn team have been ongoing throughout most of the season. The Stuttgart automaker has been gradually pulling away from the McLaren team following the scandals of recent years and end of the SLR road car program. The McLaren Group will buy back the 40-percent stake in itself that Daimler currently holds by the end of 2011. The deal leaves the door open for Mercedes to continue supplying engines to McLaren through 2015. However, there has been speculation about McLaren attempting to buy the former BMW F1 engine shop to build its own powerplants.

The Brawn team will now be known as Mercedes Grand Prix and Ross Brawn will continue as the team principal. Thanks to Peter and Oliver for the tips!

[Source: Mercedes-Benz, Brawn GP]

Continue reading Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz buys 75% stake in Brawn GP, rebrands

Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz buys 75% stake in Brawn GP, rebrands originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawnBrawn GPBrawn GP Teambrawn racingBrawnGpBrawnGpTeamBrawnRacingmercedesmercedes brawn buyoutmercedes grand prixmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBrawnBuyoutMercedesGrandPrixMon, 16 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST