Mercedes-AMG E43 4Matic revealed

Powered by a 390bhp, 3.0-litre V6 engine; gets all-wheel-drive and a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Mercedes-AMG will introduce the latest E-class with the ‘E43’ moniker. What that translates to is a high-performance version of the executive sedan. Visually, you would easily mistake the sporty E-class for the regular sedan, the ’43’ differentiating itself only with a subtle body-kit. What gives it away however are the quad-exhausts and the five-spoke gloss-black AMG wheels.

Like in the GLE 450 AMG recently launched in India, this E43 packs a 3.0-litre V6 petrol under its hood, instead of the fire-breathing 4.0-litre, V8 bi-turbo which you’d find on fully-blown AMG models. The V6 though churns out a more than respectable 390bhp (30bhp up on the GLE 450 AMG) and 53kgm. A nine-speed automatic transmission transmits power to all four wheels via Mercedes’ AWD 4MATIC system. All of the hardware in conjunction propels the 1.8-tonne-plus sedan from standstill to 100kph in a sports car-like 4.5 seconds and a top-speed of 250kph.

The sedan also gets and beefed-up brakes and suspension with a three mode (Comfort, Sport, and Sport) adaptive damping to handle the extra fire-power.

World-debuting at the York Auto Show later in March, the E43 will hit European showrooms in September 2016. The fifth-generation E-class is slated for Indian shores in 2017, and given Mercedes’ aggressive strategy for our market, it would be safe to assume the E43’s arrival on our roads soon after.

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Mercedes GLC, S-class Cabriolet to get Auto Expo reveal

The S 600 Guard and the Mercedes-AMG F1 car will also be on display at the Auto Expo 2016, along with the cars and SUVs already on sale in India.

Mercedes has announced its line-up for Auto Expo 2016. The carmaker will showcase the all-new GLC SUV for the first time to the Indian audience. With the GLC, Mercedes-Benz will finally have a direct rival to the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. As the name suggests, the new SUV is based on the C-class and resembles it quite closely from the front. The similarity continues inside, where the cabin is luxurious and well laid-out with a flowing single-piece centre console, rotary air vents, hooded instrument binnacle, touchpad, and the latest version of the COMAND Online infotainment system. India will initially get two diesel versions, the 220d with 168bhp and 250d with 201bhp, both from Merc’s 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine. A GLC 350 3.0-litre petrol V6 version could come later. Expected to go on sale in the second half of 2016, the GLC will be priced around the Rs 50 lakh mark to take on its rivals.

The next exhibit at the Mercedes-Benz pavilion will be the S-class Cabriolet. The new car marks the return of the drop-top S-class since the previous cabriolet model was phased out in 1971. The S-class Cabriolet’s styling is similar to its coupé model, with an identical overall length of 5,027mm and width of 1,899mm, essentially making the car a soft-top convertible version of the Coupe. The soft-top, as per the company, is the longest seen on any of its cars and can be extended or folded away electrically in 20 seconds at speeds up to 60kph. The roof can also be operated through the key fob.

Also to be showcased is the S 600 Guard, the armoured version of the top-spec S-class saloon sold globally. Offering protection to occupants against bullets, explosions, grenades and mines, the new S-class Guard offers the highest level of ballistic protection available, VR9. Mercedes says the Guard is the first car to have been certified this level. Modifications to the car, including reinforced body shells, double-plated welds, and toughened and thickened glass, has resulted in a significant increase in weight over the standard S 600's 2,165kg.

Also on display will be the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team’s FIA World Championship winning W06 F1 Hybrid car. The standard range of Mercedes cars and SUVs already on sale in India will also be on display.  

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Mercedes-Benz plots return of its straight-six engines

Mercedes-Benz's new modular straight-six engines will spawn three- and four-cylinder engines as well.

Development of Mercedes’ new in-line six-cylinder engines is well underway, Autocar has learned.

Long regarded as a defining characteristic of the brand, its straight sixes were phased out in the mid-1990s.

The engines are part of a new modular powertrain architecture that will spawn three and four-cylinder units as well as the six-pot versions. The new engines are expected to be launched in 2016 under the bonnet of the next-gen E-class, codenamed W213.

The forthcoming C-class is likely to receive the new engine family in 2017 as part of a mid-life makeover. The engine line-up will include the new three-cylinder unit that is said to boast enough refinement to satisfy Mercedes customers.

What’s being dubbed ‘Autobahn Pilot’ is also likely to arrive in 2016 on the E-class and in 2017 on the C-class. Company insiders say the system is an “autonomous driving assistant with an overtaking function”.

For the short term, sources have now confirmed that the new C-class AMG model will get a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine. It will drive a seven-ratio Speedshift automatic transmission and have the option of all-wheel drive. A nine-speed Speedshift is also under development and is expected to appear during the 2017 mid-life refresh.

Development work on the C-class plug-in hybrid is in its final stages, too, with Mercedes hoping to achieve a CO2 rating of 60g/km when the vehicle’s certification process is completed.

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Final Edition uncovered

Limited-run Final Edition will be the last version of the SLS before production finishes next year

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Final Edition has been revealed ahead of its debut at the LA motor show later this month.

Set to be built in a limited run of just 350 units, the Final Edition will be the last batch of SLS models to be sold before the car is retired next year. The car will also be seen at the Tokyo motor show alongside the new S65 AMG.

The Final Edition is powered by a 6.3-litre V8 engine producing 583bhp, and includes additional bespoke bodywork. It is also expected to include an upgraded interior over the standard car.

According to Mercedes-AMG boss Tobias Moers, the SLS Final Edition represents the "ultimate, particularly attractive variant of our super sports car".

The Mercedes-Benz SLS will be replaced next year by a new model, codenamedC190, which will look to take on the Porsche 911 Turbo when it launches in 2015.

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Mercedes-Benz to launch SLK 55 AMG on December 2

New SLK 55 AMG gets a 5.5-litre V8 engine that puts out 416bhp and 55kgm of torque.

Mercedes-Benz will launch the new SLK 55 AMG on December 2, 2013 in India.

The new SLK 55 AMG is powered by a 5.5-litre V8 engine that puts out 416bhp and 55kgm of torque. It comes mated to an AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic transmission that has three driving modes – Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). 

It completes the 0-100kph dash in a claimed 4.6 seconds and goes on to an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

The new Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG will come with the usual enhancements like an AMG body kit, 18-inch AMG wheels and AMG sport seats, among others.

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Mercedes teases GLA compact SUV

The GLA will be Mercedes's newest model to be spun off its latest front-drive MFA architecture.

 

 

Mercedes Benz has teased the upcoming GLA compact luxury SUV by putting up an official sketch of the same on the brand's Facebook page.

The German carmaker previewed the GLA in concept form at the Shanghai motor show held earlier this year. The GLA will also be the latest model to be spun off Mercedes’ latest front-drive MFA architecture, following the latest A-class and B-class models and the CLA saloon, which will also come to India soon.

The GLA is expected to be 4383mm long, 1978mm wide and 1579mm high. The wheelbase is believed to be the same 2699mm employed by its siblings - the A-class and B-class. These dimensions closely match the Audi Q3 and BMW X1, the chief rivals that the GLA will face when it hits international markets next year.

The front features perhaps the most modern treatment yet of Mercedes’ familiar core design, with just two horizontal bars used for the front grille, which places the marque’s three-pointed star logo at its centre.


The five-door GLA’s gently sloping roofline flows into the tailgate to give a sleek and sporty silhouette. This profile is enhanced by flared wheel-arches and a beltline that rises towards the C-pillars that wrap around to the rear over slim tail-lights to visually widen the rear of the car at the bottom, giving a sporty, squat stance.

As seen from the interiors of the concept shown at the Shanghai motor show, the layout on the centre console and the positioning of the round air vents, multimedia screen and instrument binnacle are recognisable from other MFA models such as the A-Class and the B-Class will also feature in the production GLA.

Power is expected to come from the similar range of petrol and diesel engines seen on other Mercedes MFA platform-based cars. On the GLA, drive will channeled to all four wheels through a seven-speed, dual-clutch, automatic transmission and Mercedes’s proprietary 4-Matic system. The four-wheel drive system should be offered with the more potent engines in the range with front-wheel drive supplied as standard.

Later next year, the Mercedes-Benz GLA range will be crowned by a GLA45 AMG version. The hot range-topper will use the same running gear as the A45 and CLA45 models, which means power will be sent to all four wheels by a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine with 355bhp.

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Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV unveiled

Mercedes's BMW X1 and Audi Q3-rivalling GLA compact SUV has been revealed. It's based on the carmaker's MFA platform, joining the A-class and B-class.

 

The new Mercedes GLA compact SUV is the fourth member of Mercedes’ new small compact family based on its front/all-wheel drive MFA platform, joining the A-class, B-class and CLA.

The looks of the Concept GLA have been toned down for the production car, particularly at the front and rear ends and with some of the surfacing. But the result is still one of the sportiest and most dynamic-looking cars in the class, with a look clearly in line with the rest of the models in the MFA family.

It is 4417mm long, 1805mm wide and 1494mm high, which makes it slightly longer, narrower and lower than the concept version. It is also 125mm longer than the A-class on which it is based, the pair sharing the same 2699mm wheelbase.

Internationally, the GLA will be offered with a range of transverse four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines equipped with either front 
or four-wheel drive.

Front-wheel-drive models include a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol with 154bhp in the base GLA200 and a 134bhp 1.8-litre turbodiesel in the GLA200 CDI.

Engines offered with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system include a 168bhp 2.1-litre turbodiesel in the GLA220 CDI and a 208bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol in the range-topping GLA250.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on the front-wheel-drive models and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic on the all-wheel-drive variants. The automatic is optional with the front-wheel-drive models.

The 4Matic all-wheel 
drive system defaults to a front-wheel drive set-up in normal conditions, but it can send up to 50 per cent of the torque to the rear wheels when driving conditions require it.

As with the other MFA models, fuel economy figures are expected to be impressive. The usual array of fuel-saving tech features, such as automatic stop-start, make it on to the GLA, but its aerodynamic body also plays a role in its fuel-sipping ability. Features such as active radiator grille shutters and a streamlined body result in a drag coefficient figure of 0.29.

Inside, the GLA adopts a significantly higher driving position than the A-class’s. The seat height in the A-class is 276mm and in the GLA it is 549mm. The look of the cabin is instantly recognisable from the other MFA cars, with the three circular central air vents, centre console design, infotainment screen, steering wheel and instrument binnacle all carried over from the A-class, B-class and CLA.

The cabin has five seats and the rear-most three can be folded flat and reclined. The boot space is a maximum of 421 litres with the rear seats up, rising to 836 litres with the rear seats folded down.

A whole host of safety features are offered on the GLA, including the drowsiness-detecting Attention Assist, a Collision Prevention Assist that works from 6kph, and a more advanced Collision Prevention Assist Plus system that, in combination with the optional Distronic Plus cruise control, provides autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200kph. This system can also prevent rear-end collisions and collisions into stationary vehicles at low speeds.

When the GLA compact SUV makes it to India, it will compete with the likes of the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

 

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New 2013 Mercedes GL-Class spied in India

Next generation GL-Class to bring BlueTEC clean diesel technology to India.

We’ve got our hands on first-ever spy pictures of the new Mercedes GL  (codename X166) being tested in India sent by our reader Nishant Hingne.

As seen from the pictures, the GL spotted is the GL 350 BlueTEC diesel version. The distinct front bumper and additional trim-bits on the exterior point it to be as an AMG sport version of the GL.

The AMG Sport package consists of 21-inch alloy wheels, perforated 19 inch disc brakes, custom front and rear AMG bumpers, flared wheel-arch extensions and illuminated running boards. 

The GL 350 BlueTEC is powered by a 2987cc turbo-common rail diesel motor which is good for 255bhp and 63.2kgm of torque mated to a 7-speed G-Tronic automatic gearbox.

Initially, all GLs will be imported as completely built units. Like the smaller M-Class, Mercedes plans to assemble the GL in India from SKD kits imported from the USA by end of this year.

What is BlueTEC?

BlueTEC is a patented clean-diesel technology by Mercedes Benz that brings together an array of steps consisting of advanced technologies to help create extremely low fuel-emissions. This system consists of various advanced components ranging from a high-pressure fuel injection to a variable-vane turbo which are used to create more complete and powerful combustion. This technology also incorporates use of an innovative liquid solution called AdBlue (solution of urea and water). When injected into the exhaust, it converts the nitrogen oxide emissions into harmless nitrogen

 and oxygen. AdBlue is carried in an on-board tank which can be replenished when the car is serviced.

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Mercedes unveils new E63 AMG at Detroit

Tweaked styling and more power refresh Mercedes' performance exec in the face of increasingly talented competition

Mercedes-Benz has given the E63 AMG saloon and estate a bold new look and increased output along with other performance enhancing upgrades as part of a comprehensive mid-life facelift that aims to keep them in the hunt against powered up luxury car. 

The heavily revised E63 AMG saloon and estate preview a radical change in direction for the styling of all future AMG models with a distinctive exterior treatment that aims to provide both greater differentiation from standard Mercedes-Benz models together with improved aerodynamic properties.

 

Included is a more aggressive front end that combines the twin headlamp treatment of the newly facelifted E-class with a unique grille and bumper – the latter distinguished by huge air ducts and a central splitter that is claimed to improve air flow underneath the car. The exterior mirror housings have been given a new carbon fibre look and the side sills are altered with a new two tone treatment. The rear sports a more unique looking bumper that houses a revised diffuser element and quad trapezoidal shaped tail pipes.

 

Mercedes-Benz’s latest performance model runs a lightly retuned version of AMG’s twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine. It now develops 549bhp in standard trim and 577bhp in combination with an optional performance package – increases of 31bhp and 28bhp respectively. This performance package is now badged 'S-Model'.

 

Torque loading has also increased, with the standard engine now delivering an added 2.07kgm at 73.41kgm and the performance package specification unit remaining at 81.6kgm but developed across a 750rpm broader range of revs between 1750rpm and 5000rpm.

 

The heady reserves continue to be channeled through AMG’s seven speed Speedshift MCT automatic gearbox to the rear wheels. It offers four different driving modes: C (Controlled Efficiency, S (Sport), S plus (Sport plus) and M (Manual) as well as automatic stop/start and brake energy recupation. The performance package option also adds a differential lock.

 

Mercedes-Benz claims the standard E63 AMG saloon now boasts a 0-100kph time of 4.2sec, with the optional performance package at just 3.6sec – improvements of 0.1sec and 0.6sec respectively. Top speed remains at a limited 250kph and 300kph.

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Mercedes reveals India game plan for 2013

German carmaker plans to launch the GL, A, CLA and B-Class variants.

Mercedes has revealed the line-up of new models it will be launching in India this year.

First off the blocks will be the new-generation GL-class full-size luxury SUV, which is slated to launch very soon. The seven-seat GL adopts styling cues from the M-class launched in 2012, and will sit above it in the company’s line-up.

 

Hot on its heels will be the much-anticipated diesel version of the B-class sports tourer – likely to be a 1.8-litre, 134bhp motor, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, in the form of the B200 CDI. This should add more appeal to the B-class, which has until now only been available with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine.

 

The big news is Mercedes has confirmed that the CLA-class compact saloon, only recently revealed in production guise at the Detroit Motor Show, will make its way to Indian shores sometime this year. The CLA is the third model to be based on Mercedes’ new modular front-wheel-drive architecture (MFA) platform. It follows on from the B-class and A-class, with which it shares its mechanical package, electronic architecture and interior appointments. The new model will sit beneath the C-class in Mercedes’ line-up. 

 

Mercedes will also launch the A-class hatchback in India by summer 2013, also built on the MFA platform. While the B-class was launched with only a petrol engine, the A-class will be offered in both petrol and diesel guises right from launch. The A-class will share its engines with the B-class, so expect an A180 petrol and a A200 CDI. It will get a similar, high-quality interiors to the B-class already on sale here.

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Mercedes ML 250 CDI review

Does the loss of two cylinders and a few features less in comparison to its elder sibling make the ML 250 CDI a less appealing buy? We find out.

In the ML 250 CDI, Mercedes-Benz has quite a tempting car on offer. At Rs 46.50 lakh, the M-class undercuts an Audi Q5 in terms of price, and the Mercedes is a size bigger than the Audi. The four-cylinder ML 250 CDI also costs a whopping Rs 10 lakh less than the top-end ML 350 CDI. But this is not a case of Mercedes cutting corners as, apart from losing two cylinders (the full-spec ML 350 CDI has six cylinders), there isn’t much else you’re losing out on, and here’s why.

The 2.2-litre, twin-turbocharged engine under the bonnet of this SUV makes 201bhp and a very healthy 50.1kgm of torque. And while 201bhp to power the M-class’s considerable 2160kg isn’t much, it’s the torque this engine musters that makes all the difference. Flat out, it will hit 100kph in a respectable 8.8sec and will go on to a top speed of 210kph, and this is more than adequate for most of our conditions.

 

On the downside though, the smaller-engined ML takes more time to gather speed when attempting to overtake than the more powerful 350 CDI. Now, four-cylinder motors aren’t particularly quiet, but this one is special with its smoothness and refinement. It’s very quiet at idle and hums along gently till 3000rpm, after which there is a rather pleasing growl as you rev it to the redline. Merc’s engineers have done a stellar job at keeping this engine hushed. We just wish the seven-speed automatic gearbox was a bit quicker-acting. It shifts leisurely, with no jerks through the gears, but sometimes when you want a quick overtake, it doesn’t respond with the urgency that you demand. Even tugging at the paddle-shifters doesn’t help here – the gearbox responds a few seconds after you’ve asked for an upshift or a downshift.

 

Another difference is that the Ml 250 CDI makes do with conventional steel springs, as opposed to the air suspension that its bigger brother gets. This is not as bad as it sounds because the 250’s ride isn’t all that different from the air-suspension version. The low-speed ride is a bit firm, but it flattens out beautifully as you go faster. And like all Mercs, this one is absolutely, unshakeably stable at high speeds. This unflustered nature and the incredibly well-insulated cabin make for a very calm and relaxed motoring experience.

 

The ML 250 CDI is not as engaging to drive as some of its rivals – it’s not particularly eager at quick direction changes and you can feel the near-2.2-tonne weight moving about under sharp manoeuvres but, then again, it’s not too sloppy. With all-wheel-drive grip and a steering that’s wonderfully fluid in its action, you can extract some pleasure from driving it on a smooth, flowing road.

 

In all other aspects, the ML 250 CDI is as nice and capable as its bigger brother, the ML 350 CDI. You get the same spacious interiors, fantastic build quality, five comfortable seats and the special appeal that’s a part of owning a Three-pointed Star.

 

One of the most impressive aspects of the ML 250 CDI is that it doesn’t lose as much as you’d expect in terms of features. In addition to the air suspension, the things missing on this one’s equipment list from the 350 are the 19-inch alloys (the 250 gets 18-inch wheels), there’s no seat memory, no electrically operated tailgate closing and it doesn’t get the COMAND driver interface system, which, all things considered, are things you can live without.

 

So in conclusion, the ML 250 CDI comes across as a great value buy. It loses some features and two cylinders to its elder sibling, but it comes with a killer price tag and is actually bigger than the more expensive Audi Q5. Add that to the fact that it doesn’t feel like the poorer cousin, and it makes the ML 250 CDI quite a worthy buy.

 

Fact File

Price Range (in lakhs)*

Ex-showroom price

Rs 46.5 lakh

Engine

Fuel	Diesel
Installation	Front, longitudnal
Type	2143cc, 4 cyl in-line, common-rail, twin-turbo-diesel
Power	201bhp at 4200rpm
Torque	50.98kgm at 1600-1800rpm

Transmission

Type	All wheel drive
Gearbox	7-speed automatic

Dimensions

Length	4804mm
Width	1926mm
Wheel base	2915mm
Boot volume	690 litres

Chassis & Body

Weight	2160kg
Tyres	255/55 R18
Spare	Space saver

Suspension

Front	Independent, double wishbone with coil springs, air suspension
Rear	Independent, 4-link with coil springs

Steering

Type	Rack and pinion
Type of power assist	Electric

Brakes

Front	Ventilated discs
Rear	Solid discs

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Refreshed Mercedes E-class coupé unveiled

Revised two-door models join the recently announced saloon and estate

Mercedes-Benz has revealed a facelifted version of the E-class coupé and cabriolet.

Following hot on the heels of the facelifted E-class saloon and estate, the two door duo eschew the quad headlamp treatment of the outgoing model for a more cohesive look that brings a pair of larger headlamps configurations. The grille has also been made larger and now boasts Mercedes-Benz’s latest propeller-inspired look for a cleaner appearance.

The engine line-up for the facelifted E-class coupé and cabriolet continues to mirror that of the standard E-class saloon and estate with a single petrol and two diesel units. All are carried over from the outgoing model with detailed upgrades that are claimed to provide incremental improvements in fuel economy and emissions.

Global lineup includes the entry-level turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine which develops 181bhp in the E200 and 208bhp in the E250. It is supported by a 2.1-litre four-cylinder common rail diesel with 168bhp in the E220 CDI and 201bhp in the E250 CDI. Topping the range is a 3.0-litre V6 common rail diesel unit that endows the E350 with 248bhp. It receives urea injection to reduce emissions and ensure all engines comply with upcoming EU6 emission standard.

The E500 coupé, with its twin-turbocharged 4.6-litre V8 engine, has been deleted from some markets like the UK.

As with their predecessors, Mercedes-Benz’s new mid-range two door models also offer the choice of two gearboxes, depending on which engine they run. Included is a six-speed manual and an updated seven speed automatic with a steering wheel column mounted shift lever. Both gearboxes come with standard stop/start and brake energy recuperation systems.

Mercedes-Benz is flagging up increased levels of standard equipment, too. Collision prevention assist (a radar-based collision warning system, with the ability to brake the car in order to reduce the severity of an impact) and attention assist (a system used to detect drowsiness) are fitted as standard.

In line with Mercedes-Benz’s aim to further consolidate its reputation as a leader in safety technology,  the new E-class coupé and cabriolet also receive an optional stereo multi-purpose camera that provides a three-dimensional view up to 50 metres in front of the car. The camera also permits the inclusion of a range of hi-tech anti-collision systems, including Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, which helps to keep the car centred in a chosen lane and tracks traffic in tailbacks. And with Brake Assist Plus with Junction Assist, the car is able to detect cross traffic and pedestrians and can boost the braking power if the brakes are insufficiently applied by the driver to avoid an impact.

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Next Mercedes C63 to get 4.0 V8

Latest downsized AMG powerplant to appear in C-class before the mooted SLC sports car

Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance off-shoot is planning to provide the successor to today’s naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 powered Mercedes C63 AMG with an all-new turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powerplant – the same unit earmarked for the company’s upcoming Mercedes SLC sports car.

The new unit has been developed along modular lines and is said to share the same individual cylinder capacity, bore centre spacing and other specific details with the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder earmarked for the Mercedes A45 AMG and Mercedes CLA45 AMG.

Insiders indicate the new unit, which is claimed to deliver over 450bhp in an initial state of tune but is said to be capable of pushing out up to 600bhp, will eventually replace the naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V8 used exclusively by the Mercedes SLK55 AMG, providing a stepping stone to AMG’s larger turbocharged 5.5-litre V8.

AMG boss Ola Kallenius stopped short of officially confirming the new engine to Autocar at the Los Angeles motor show at the tail-end of last year, but hinted smaller engines were coming.

“We’ve already had downsizing to 5.5 and sophisticated direct-injection technology – we’ll see more of that in the future,” he said. We’ve already gone down to 5.5 and that's the technological road we’re on.”

As well as flaunting a new engine, the replacement for the C63 AMG will be the first of the German car maker’s performance saloons to offer the choice of rear- and four-wheel drive in right-hand drive versions.

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Mercedes CLA compact saloon revealed

First pictures of the A-Class based compact saloon. Will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Detroit Motor Show.

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Refreshed Mercedes E-Class revealed

The E-Class gets the 'most comprehensive makeover' in Mercedes' history.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its significantly updated E-class. The mid-life makeover includes revised styling, updated engines, a higher level of standard equipment, new safety features and hi-tech options. The changes are described as the most comprehensive in Mercedes’ history. The heavily revised E-class is set to get its first public outing at the Detroit motor show in January. 

The major thrust of Mercedes’ efforts to increase the appeal of the E-class centres around its styling, which has been altered more significantly than is usual for a mid-life facelift, most notably at the front. The quad headlamp treatment, which had been a key design feature of the E-class since 1995, is gone, to be replaced by more conventional, prominent single-assembly headlights that feature LED daytime running lights as standard.

Further changes have been made to the grille, where there are now two options, one sporty and the other more traditional. The front bumper and bonnet are also revised.

The heavily structured rear wheelarches have been smoothed to give the car a more cohesive appearance. A new crease line runs from the rear door through to the tail lights, which retain the same shape but receive new LED-imbued graphics, whose horizontal emphasis is meant to widen the car visually. There is also a re-profiled rear bumper.

Globally, the standard E-class range will be offered with just one petrol engine in two states of tune. The turbocharged 2.0-litre unit is available with 181bhp in the E200 and 208bhp in the E250. A third petrol option will be offered in the yet to be revealed E63 AMG, which is tipped to offer an incremental increase over the 518bhp of the current twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8.

Two carried-over diesels are planned: a 2.1-litre four-cylinder with 134bhp in the E200 CDI, 168bhp in the E220 CDI and 201bhp in the E250 CDI, and a 3.0-litre V6 with 248bhp in the E350.

Among the new safety systems incorporated on the revised E-class is Collision Prevention Assist, a radar-based collision warning system with the ability to brake the car in order to reduce the severity of an impact.

The range of new and/or improved optional systems includes Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, which helps keep the car centred in a chosen lane and tracks traffic in tailbacks, and Brake Assist Plus with Junction Assist, which is able to detect cross traffic and pedestrians and can boost the braking power if the brakes are insufficiently applied by the driver to avoid an impact.

Expect the updated E-Class to reach our shores late next year. 

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Mercedes-Benz reveals new SUV concept

Mercedes' Ener-G-Force concept hints at a future Land Rover-rivalling SUV line-up.

Mercedes has revealed a first set of images of the new Ener-G-Force SUV concept.

This new Mercedes-Benz G-class-based concept may be the first indication of the carmaker’s plans to launch a direct rival to the Range Rover.

The Ener-G-Force concept SUV is an imposing seven-seater that, in kitted-up highway patrol vehicle guise, is also Mercedes' entry into the annual Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge at next week’s LA motor show.

Sources claim the Ener-G-Force is the forerunner to a new three strong line-up of Land Rover-rivalling off-roaders set to join its line-up in coming years, based around existing platforms and driveline combinations, including a long-awaited replacement for the iconic G-class in production since 1979 and a Range Rover rival.

“The Ener-G-Force invokes the genes of the G-class,” said Mercedes' design Chief Gorden Wagener. “It could also be a clue about a new beginning for the off-road design idiom of Mercedes,” he added.

Styled at Mercedes-Benz’s advanced design studio in California, the Ener-G-Force updates the functional go-anywhere appearance of the 33-year-old G-class with a bold new look that provides clues to how the company’s new SUV line-up, which Autocar understands has been conceived to include compact, mid-size and luxury, may appear if current proposals are approved.

The taut surfacing and lack of fanciful crease lines throughout the body helps provide the concept with a particularly tough appearance. The Ener-G-Force's proposed driveline consists of four wheel-mounted hydrogen-powered electric motors. Water held in containers on the roof and a Hydro-Tech Converter provide electricity that is stored in batteries within the concept car’s broad sills, which also act as tread plates. Mercedes-Benz predicts the car would have a range of up to 800km.

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Diesels for Mercedes A-and B-class coming

Diesel-powered A- and B-class likely to be assembled in India at Chakan plant; 200 CDI version may be followed by 220 CDI and 250 CDI.

Mercedes’ recently launched B-class has generated quite a bit of interest. Unfortunately, there’s no diesel engine yet, and that has prevented Merc from committing to local assembly. Once that engine is finalised for India, Mercedes will begin to assemble the A- and B-platform cars here. The problem is that the current transversely-mounted diesels that power these new front-wheel-drive cars are all equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF) to make them Euro-V compliant.

DPFs, however, do not work in India. Our diesel has too much sulphur in it and our driving cycles aren’t intensive enough (they aren’t steady enough) to burn off the residue that coats these filters. Mercedes has been working on the problem for some time now and apparently a solution is almost at hand. Its engineers have successfully retuned the injection system for lower emissions, possibly altering the number of injections per stroke, making the engines Bharat Stage IV compliant. And that will mean that a 107bhp version of the 200 CDI could soon make it to India. More powerful versions will come later as well, notably the 220 CDI and later the 250 CDI, which could power the CLA saloon and GLA soft-roader.

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Mercedes ML250 CDI launched at Rs 46.5 L

ML250 CDI will be powered by a 2.2-litre diesel motor.

Mercedes has added a new variant to the M-Class lineup, the ML250 CDI which slots below the more-expensive ML350 CDI.
The ML250 CDI is first M-Class to be assembled in India via semi-knocked-down kits. The ML250 CDI is priced at an attractive Rs 46.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which is Rs 10.4 lakh cheaper than the more powerful 350 CDI variant. Mercedes has aimed the ML250 CDI squarely with the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 which are actually a segment lower. Mercedes doesn't have a direct competitor in the luxury SUV segment as the GLK is only available as a Left-hand-drive car.
The Mercedes ML 250CDI comes with a 204bhp 2.2 litre, twin turbo four cylinder diesel engine. It’s the same motor that powers the E250 CDI and the C250 CDI and makes a very healthy 51kgm of torque. The 350 CDI motor churns out 63.2kgm of torque. Clever gearing has also been used to make best use of the power and torque developed by the 2.2 litre motor.
The ML250 CDI gets most of the ML350 CDI’s features such as Intelligent Light System and Active Park Assist, among others.
Prices (ex-showroom Delhi):
ML250 CDI: Rs 46.5 lakh
BMW X3 3.0d: Rs 49.8 lakh
Audi Q5 3.0TDI: Rs 52.61 lakh

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