Autoblog

Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG

Noah Joseph — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Mercedes-Benz

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

REPORT: New Chinese-market Cadillac SLS and Buick Excelle XT to debut in Guangzhou

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, China, Buick, Cadillac, GM, Misc. Auto Shows, Luxury

General Motors' China's sales are up 60 percent year-on-year, and The General wants to keep the momentum going at its Chinese outpost. Automotive News China reports that the Guangzhou Auto Show will play host to the unveiling of the market-specific Cadillac SLS and Buick Excelle XT, the latter described as a four-door "coupé-like sedan."

The Excelle XT will take a place between the Excelle and the new Regal. The Cadillac gets 3.0-liter and 3.6-liter engines with GM's SIDI technology that also grace Australia's new Holden Commodores. The luxury sedan, a lengthened version of our STS with a superior interior, will also be China's introduction to OnStar.

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

REPORT: New Chinese-market Cadillac SLS and Buick Excelle XT to debut in Guangzhou originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

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

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG now has an order form and a price. While it's not cheap, it's nowhere near the most expensive car in the range: for €177,310 ($265,531 U.S. - note: that is a straight conversion, not an indication of the car's U.S. cost), you can put one of the gullwinged wonders in your - probably climate-controlled - garage.

That fits well in between the prices for the SL63 AMG at €148,155 and the SL65 AMG at a blistering €224,672. You get four more cylinders, 40 more hp and a folding hartop on the SL65; yet the SLS gets you gullwing doors, retro styling and €47,000 left over in your pocket. And you're still cooler than the folks in a Mercedes-McLaren SLR, who spent €450,000 when it was new.

What the SLS AMG purchase price won't get you is expedited delivery: the car still won't arrive until Spring of 2010. If you're one of those who needs to keep up, some gent named Matthew K. has been designated "the SLS AMG reporter" and he'll be posting all manner of info and clips online. You can read about it in the press release after the jump, check the car out again in the gallery of high-res photos below, or call your Luxembourger account manager in three, two, one...

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

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

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #152 - Paukert enhanced!

Dan Roth — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Etc., Plants/Manufacturing, Cadillac, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Rumormill

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

The usual suspects of Chris, Sam, and Dan are joined this week by Autoblog Editor Extraordinaire Chris Paukert. It's a packed 'cast, starting with the apparent go-ahead of the Cadillac Converj. The future of the Dodge Viper figures in to a few minutes of debate, as does Chrysler's marathon presentation about the company's plans going forward. Moving from Chrysler to the company's former overlords at Daimler, we talk about Mr. Paukert's Wild Ride in the AMG SLS, and take a complete left turn into Ford Ranger land and talk about the one we won't be getting. Toyota's floor mat/throttle controversy finishes up the topics before we take a couple questions and call it a night. A good, solid hour and a half for your enjoyment.

Let us know what you think 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, we'll see you next week!

Gallery: Podcast listener pictures

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #152 - Paukert enhanced!

Autoblog Podcast #152 - Paukert enhanced! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Gullwing America takes on Mercedes' latest supercar, creates SLS Panamericana

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

Gullwing America SLS Panamericana - click above image for high-res gallery

Few cars are as classic and iconic as the original Gullwing, also known as the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Created by a loophole in racing rules when MB realized that, "Nowhere is it written that a door can only open sideways." Hence, Mercedes was allowed to retain the strength of the 300SL's (as well as the 300SLR's) tubular space frame by hinging the doors from the roof. A legend, as they say, was born.

Fast-forward more than fifty years and Mercedes-Benz (via AMG) is about to launch a new gullwing, this time called the SLS AMG. While it's no doubt a great car (553 horsepower tends to do that), some might say it's slightly lacking in the retro SL looks department. Enter Gullwing America (you might remember their updated 300SL) and their new SLS Panamericana.

Created to be a more proper "300SL from the 21st century," the Panamericana consists of seven body pieces including the all important "eyebrows" on top of the fenders. Everything is made from either lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber. Plus, you get those snazzy racing stripes. As well as a swath of Alcantara on the seats set off by contrast stitching. You also get a set of GWA wheels, 19-inchers up front, 20-inches in the rear. While we do like most of what we see, we're honestly not sold on the brows... how about you? Thanks to everyone for the tips!

Gallery: Gullwing America SLS Panamericana

[Source: Gullwing America]

Gullwing America takes on Mercedes' latest supercar, creates SLS Panamericana originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series coming in 2013

Noah Joseph — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

After initially announcing the project back in 2006, Mercedes-Benz finally lived up to anticipation when it unveiled its new top-of-the-line SLS AMG at the Frankfurt Motor Show. But despite the supercar's superlative performance figures, the stock SLS is emerging as only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. In addition to an upcoming all-electric version and anticipated roadster, reports are popping up again to confirm that the German automaker is indeed working on a Black Series version that will take the car's performance to the edge of the envelope.

The report in Autocar equates the difference between the existing SLS and the upcoming Black edition to the distance bridged from the Corvette Z06 to the ZR1. That's some standard to live up to, but if reports prove accurate, the SLS AMG Black Series should be up to the task. Whereas the stock SLS offers 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque from its 6.2-liter V8, the Black version is tipped to produce upwards of 600 hp and more than 500 lb-ft of twist from the same engine, tweaked with a larger air manifold, higher compression, new camshafts, a mechanical locking diff and more.

Driving through the same 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and coupled to a revised aerodynamics package and aggressive weight-reduction program, the SLS Black is tipped to drop the stock 0-62 time down from 3.8 seconds to below 3.5 seconds and boost the top speed from 195 to 208 miles per hour. A commensurate 50% price hike to around £155k (~$250k) would put the SLS AMG Black Series on par with the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano with the HGTE handling package, set to hit the scene some time around 2013.

Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series coming in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: Gran Turismo 5 box art and packaging, SLS AMG may be cover car

Chris Shunk — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:19:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Toys/Games

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Gran Turismo 5. We've teased you in the past with constantly shifting debut dates and posted most every video we can find. But today is a new day, and this time we're going to show you... another video. GT5 creator Kazunori Yamauchi sat down with GT Planet to discuss how much work goes into the five-year project known as Gran Turismo 5, along with some speculation as to which vehicle will grace the game's cover.

It's no secret that the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG will be featured in GT5, and Yamauchi actually took the uber-exotic gull-winged supercar for a spin on the legendary Nürburgring to ensure that GT5 has the proper driving dynamics. Both the 'Ring and the SLS AMG were digitally rendered pixel by pixel, aided by the game's physics calculation model. Yamauchi calls the game a driving simulator because the calculation model adds exact information about every physical aspect of each vehicle, ensuring that each one behaves in the game exactly how it drives on the road because "that's something we can't actually touch. If the original car is made well, it'll drive well."

Yamouri likes the SLS AMG so much that the vehicle could hold the honored position of being the cover girl on the upcoming game's packaging. And speaking of the game's cover, the video also shows a few seconds of Yamauchi handing over what appears to be a GT5 box set to a co-worker. The glossy box contained what appears to be black, red and blue Blu-ray cases. We're thinking it's a special edition box set for the most rabid of fans, and we hope we're right.

Hit the jump to check out the video. Let's hope that Daimler's newest supercar isn't ready for a refresh by the time GT5 finally hits stores.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in Gran Turismo 5

[Source: Joystiq]

Continue reading VIDEO: Gran Turismo 5 box art and packaging, SLS AMG may be cover car

VIDEO: Gran Turismo 5 box art and packaging, SLS AMG may be cover car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG looks good in Gran Turismo 5, too [w/VIDEO]

Alex Nunez — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Toys/Games

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in Gran Turismo 5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here at Autoblog, some of the background chatter re: Forza 3 vs. Gran Turismo 5 reaches Ford vs. Chevy levels of fervor - this blogger and our Editor-in-Chief get into it on IM fairly regularly. You see, Forza is one of few topics that gets our generally mild-mannered Neff all exercised. We usually go back and forth a bit, with Neff touting the virtues of Xbox Live and dissing the PS3 in general. The conversation usually ends after he's asked how many Xbox 360s have died on him (Editor's Note: Only one, thank you very much).

Jibber-jabber aside, one thing that's obvious to all interested parties is that that both games look great, and that car variety won't be a problem. Earlier this week, word circulated that the gull-winged Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG would be one of the cars making the GT5 roster. Today, Daimler released images of the car in-game. Spoiler alert: it looks cool. What's not cool is that Gran Turismo aficionados are likely at least six months away from the promised land. Check out the images in the gallery below, as well as the video embedded after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in Gran Turismo 5

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG looks good in Gran Turismo 5, too [w/VIDEO]

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG looks good in Gran Turismo 5, too [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Everything you wanted to know about the Mercedes SLS AMG

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the microsite for the SLS AMG called "From the Ground Up," and it has all the information you need on gullwinged retro rocket from the space from to components to the magnesium backrests in the seats.

At the end of it all, there's a visualizer so you can start building the SLS you ~~would~~ will order when they go on sale in a little over a year, so start saving. We would say that the microsite will has enough info to keep you busy until the car shows up next year, but you won't have to wait that long -- we'll be bringing you even more info from its unveiling next week in Frankfurt. Hat tip to USB!

Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Everything you wanted to know about the Mercedes SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG leaks out

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:28:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for an image gallery

Despite an achingly long roll-out, the first cracks in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dam have begun to appear, courtesy of CarPoint.

Due to be revealed at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show, the 300SL-inspired "Gullwing" is packing a front/mid-mounted version of the venerable 6.3-liter V8 fitted to the majority of AMG's offerings, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox channeling 563 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. Weight is pegged at around 3,500 pounds, allowing the SLS to run from a rest to 60 in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 197 mph and optional carbon ceramic discs should bring the party to a halt with supreme authority.

Although we've seen an endless string of spy shots of the SLS over the past year, we finally get a clear view of its upright fascia, drawn headlamps and curvaceous rump that draws a few cues from the departed McMerc and modern M-Bs.

Color choices will include Alubeam Silver, Syvanite Grey, Alanite Grey and red, complimenting the leather and alcantara interior and ten-spoke forged wheels. Production will begin in late 2010 with sales starting the following year, and early pricing suggests a €177,310 MSRP in Germany. Get your first eye-full in the gallery below before all the official details are delivered next week.

Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: CarPoint]

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG leaks out originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLC convertible caught in Monterey

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Convertible, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG Convertible - Click above for a high-res gallery

With the Frankfurt Motor Show right around the corner, Mercedes-Benz is putting the finishing touches on its 565-hp, 6.3-liter AMG SLC supercar. A North American media event is likely scheduled for next month, and lo-and-behold, when we stepped out of the Intercontinental Hotel in Monterey, CA yesterday morning, four mildly camouflaged SLS prototypes were waiting outside.

According to one of our insiders, the M-B crew will be holding a press event in and around the Monterey peninsula (undoubtedly with track time at Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca), and the engineers on hand were scouting roads and drive routes ahead of the September shindig.

Although we've seen countless spy shots of the SLS over the last year, this was our first opportunity to see Merc's newest supercar up close, along with the upcoming convertible variant that's likely to be revealed along with the coupe in Germany, or shortly thereafter.

In person, the SLS' dimensions are nearly perfect, with its elongated hood and squat rear end coming off as far more subdued that its McMerc predecessor. Two things to note in the gallery below: first, the Aston-esque door handles are mounted directly in the middle of the doors, which seems like an odd choice considering there's no apparent reason not to install the units below the window on the SLS' strong beltline. Secondly, the convertible variant features a cloth top, although the vinyl camo appears to have a non-functioning zipper that follows the line of the gullwing coupe's doors. We're assuming the camouflage was just adapted to fit the convertible or perhaps it was a bit of visual trickery employed to throw off would-be spy photogs, but it still struck us as strange. Regardless, enjoy the images below and check out the massive carbon ceramic brakes complete with gold Brembo calipers.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC Convertible

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLC convertible caught in Monterey originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mercedes SLS AMG gullwing order guide revealed; includes optional $10,000 paint!

Chris Paukert — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dealer order guide - Click above to view

While we patiently await our turn to drive Mercedes-Benz's upcoming SLS AMG gullwing wundercar, we have a new way to occupy our time: the dealership ordering guide. Thanks to an anonymous tipster, we have the full document for your perusal, which includes all relevant details and estimated option prices for spec'ing out an SLS of your very own.

The guide doesn't provide us with many new images of the 563-horsepower production coupe, but we do see the options list and associated pricing, including lots of interesting tidbits like the model's available colors (including special $10,000 "ALU-BEAM liquid metal" paint); performance options including $12,000 carbon-ceramic brakes and a modestly priced $1,500 sport suspension kit; along with interior niceties on the order of various seat leathers, an $11k extended carbon fiber kit, a $6,400 Bang & Olufsen stereo upgrade, and so on.

What are you waiting for? Click on the gallery below to see how much money you'll need to liberate from the couch cushions before you can order the SLS of your dreams.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS Order Guide

Mercedes SLS AMG gullwing order guide revealed; includes optional $10,000 paint! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG hot-laps the 'Ring

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz, AMG

Click above to view the video after the jump

You know the stats. You've seen the leaks. Now, it's time for some video. The crew at MotorTrend were invited to the preview drive of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in Germany, and the buff book's Editor-At-Large, Arthur St. Antoine, enjoyed some passenger seat time with Bernd Schneider as the five-time DTM champion put Mercedes' new gullwing supercoupe through its paces. Make the jump to check out the full 13-mile hot-lap around the Nordschleife. Top tip Dan!

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG hot-laps the 'Ring

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG hot-laps the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG gets driven, details revealed

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

The recent spate of leaks surrounding the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG were a clear indication that a few select members of the press were invited to a pre-debut debut ahead of the gullwing's official unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show and that we could expect some initial driving impressions soon. Well, with the embargo dam critically injured, the first round of reviews have hit, revealing some critical details about Mercedes' all-new supercoupe.

Get the scoop after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG gets driven, details revealed

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG gets driven, details revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rendered or Spied? Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG pops up on mag cover

John Neff — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz, AMG

We can't tell you for sure whether or not this image of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG on the cover of Autobild is the real deal or a well done rendering based on some spy shots, but it does appear to have that quality of an actual photograph rather than a Photochop special.

The SLS AMG will mark the first appearance of a production car fitted with gull-wing doors since, well... we suppose the DMC-12 DeLorean, though we're certain that Mercedes hopes its car conjure an image of the original 300SL on which this supercar's styling is based. The cues are all there, including a grille that looks like a guppy with its mouth wide open, fender vents aft of the front wheels and, of course, those doors.

Power will surely be provided by the biggest AMG-sourced V8 that will fit under the long hood, though we have heard rumors of an all-electric version arriving in 2015. We'll see about that, but in the meantime you can compare the shot above to spy shots of the car that were officially released by Mercedes back in April.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Rendered or Spied? Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG pops up on mag cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS taking shape

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz, AMG

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

The gestation of the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS has spanned almost two years, and what started with a Viper-bodied mule, a few drawings and a full-scale interior mock-up has evolved into this, the latest super coupe prototype caught outside AMG Headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany.

Although there's still plenty of camo obscuring the finer points of the SLS' design, the shape is obviously evolving into something similar to the highly-stylized sketches revealed in New York. The elongated hood stands in stark contrast to the tiny trunk, while the short overhangs lend a bit more balance to the disproportionate profile. A few of the smaller details can be seen peering through the camo, including the front LED running lamps, trapezoidal dual exhausts and vents aft of the front wheels and on the hood towards the windshield. The massive piece of vinyl covering the center part of the grille will undoubtedly house a sizable three-pointed star, while out back, the sculpted fenders appear to have lost some of their edge (compared to this rendering), and instead rely on a set of bulbous tail-lamps and a small spoiler to shape the boot.

The SLS is expected to debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, complete with a 6.2-liter V8 putting out 563 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, with a curb weight of 3,571 pounds and a price tag north of $200k.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS taking shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: Mercedes-Benz SLS Roadster coming in 2011

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:22:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz, Rumormill

In a story that's sure to surprise no one, France's L'Automobile magazine is reporting that the upcoming Mercedes-Benz SLS supercar will be available in Roadster form sometime in 2011. According to the report, the gull-wing SLS will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September and will go on sale in the spring of 2010. Like the 300SL inspiration, the SLS will be available in fixed-roof and drop-top guise, with both versions powered by an AMG-fettled 6.2-liter V8 putting out 571 hp. However, it's unclear whether M-B will utilize a folding hard-top or a more traditional canvas roof design.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: L'Automobile]

Rumormill: Mercedes-Benz SLS Roadster coming in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Gullwing Returns: Official details on Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

John Neff — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:55:00 EST

Filed under: Supercars, Mercedes-Benz

Click above for high-res gallery of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Mercedes-Benz has used the occasion of the 2009 Geneva Motor Show to release the first official details about a car that won't even be shown in Switzerland at all. It is the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which has long been referred to as the SLC or modern day Gullwing. Mercedes has confirmed that the car will feature the same gullwing-style doors made famous by the classic 300SL, and from there things get very interesting.

While not ready to unveil the final design of the car, Mercedes did release dozens of images of SLS prototypes being tested by its engineers. It's readily apparent that the SLS looks smaller than Mercedes' current supercar, the SLR McLaren, but the smaller shape just hints at extensive weight saving measures. An all-new aluminum space frame contributes to a curb weight of just 3,571 lbs, a full 300 lbs less than the SLR McLaren. The SLS also rides on a long 105.5-inch wheelbase with a front track that's 1.2 inches wider than the rear.

Power will be provided by a tuned version of AMG's familiar 6.2L V8 producing 563 hp at 6,800 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. The engine, which sits low and behind the front axle, will send all that power across a carbon-fiber driveshaft to the rear axle where a new seven-speed dual clutch gearbox carves it up. There will even be a Race Start launch control function that guarantees an estimated 3.8-second 0-62 time every time. Top speed: 196 mph. Stopping? 15.4-inch discs in front squeezed by six-piston calipers and 14.2-inchers with four-piston calipers out back, and a full set of carbon ceramic rotors will be optional.

Pricing hasn't yet been released, but expect to drop at least 200 large on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG when it goes on sale. The car is clearly not ready for the showroom yet, but Mercedes just wanted us all to know it's coming... fast.

UPDATE: Official press release added after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Gullwing Returns: Official details on Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Gullwing Returns: Official details on Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Cadillac SLS sneaks closer to US market, sorta

Dan Roth — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: China, Cadillac, GM

Click image for 2 new SLS photos

Back when Cadillac dropped the long-wheelbase SLS on the Beijing motor show, we were all incredulous. How could Cadillac deny us the 4-inch longer STS variant (with an improved interior, too)when other stretched luxury sedans garner sales here. Now, the car will be edging a little closer to us. It's still not coming here, but it will be exported to the Middle East beginning in 2008. Cadillac sales in China have increased over 100 percent since the SLS went on sale. The Middle East is another region where the larger rear compartment appeals to business customers who have their driving taken care of for them. Tiptoeing westward is a good first step. We still want it. You can read Cadillac's full press release after the jump.

[Source: Cadillac]

Gallery: Cadillac SLS

Continue reading Cadillac SLS sneaks closer to US market, sorta

Cadillac SLS sneaks closer to US market, sorta originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: Cadillac advertising in China

Chris Shunk — Mon, 21 May 2007 08:03:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Cadillac

Advertising a product on television can be a very complicated exercise, as each demographic and market get its own specialized message. Many people who travel overseas notice that commercials are peculiar outside their native market, and anybody that sees GM's new Cadillac commercial for the Chinese market has to be scratching his or her head.

In the commercial, a large group of 18th century Englishmen (or American colonists?) are trying to wrangle a wild horse, when a Cadillac SLS comes in to tame the beast while the wig-wearing gentlemen in puffy Seinfeld shirts and petticoats run for cover. We think the premise of the commercial is that the beauty of the SLS tames the savage horse, but with all those makeup-wearing colonists running around, we're too distracted to know for sure. Hey, here in the States we have Abe Lincoln pitching insomnia medication, so anything is fair game. Hit the jump to view this bizarre pitch, and chime in to let us know what you think.

[Source: YouTube via GM Inside News]

Continue reading VIDEO: Cadillac advertising in China

VIDEO: Cadillac advertising in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2007 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments