Tag Archives: mercedes-benz
Top 3 Features of the Mercedes-Benz CLS Launched at LA Auto Show
Mercedes-Benz just launched a new addition to its dream cars in the form of the all-new CLS. The Mercedes-Benz CLS is classified as a four-door coupe and it is currently in its third generation series.
1. Design
The CLS sits between the mid-range E-Class luxury car and Mercedes’ flagship S-Class. What makes the car distinct from its close four-door siblings is its fastback roofline that is also reminiscent of the E-Class Coupe.
The new CLS features a major overhaul in its design compared to its predecessor. The new model has smoother surfaces in its hood, boot lid and side panels, thanks to its less prominent body lines and more curvaceous corners. The other noticeable changes include the sharper lights and diamond grille styling.
The interior of the car carries many high-end design elements from the E-Class. Among them are the circular air vents and widescreen digital displays. The vents are visually enhanced by their illuminated background.
The third-gen CLS gets a new seat design exclusively made for its range. The car can hold up to five occupants, including the driver.
2. Technology
The new Mercedes-Benz CLS has no shortage in tech features that help improve its comfort, safety and driving performance. In addition to its digital cockpit, the auto has ambient lighting system to set the mood of its occupants. Optional is the Energizing comfort control that manages the heating, massage, climate and musical theme of the vehicle.
Then, its safety and navigation are enhanced by the advanced elements found in the S-Class like the Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Speed Limit Assist and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE. More advanced features are provided by the optional Driving Assistance and Driving Assistance Plus packages of Mercedes.
3. Engine
At launch, the CLS comes with a six-cylinder engine in three trims. The CLS 350 d 4MATIC has 286 hp. The CLS 400 d 4MATIC has 340 hp. The CLS d 450 4MATIC has 367 hp plus 22 hp coming from its EQ Boost.
3 Ways to Prevent Thieves From Hacking Your Car’s Keyless Entry System
Recently, a couple of car thieves caught in a CCTV footage displayed that the keyless entry system of Mercedes-Benz could be exploited. The crooks were able to drive away with the car in just a minute. The more alarming part of this event though was the fact that devices similar to the ones they used can be easily acquired online. So, how can you prevent this from happening?
In a video shared by West Midlands Police in UK, a car can be seen approaching a parked Mercedes. Then, two hooded figures disembarked from it. One positioned himself beside the parked car and the other was near the house of the victim.
Using identical devices, they were able to unlock the Mercedes and start its engine. One drove off with the Mercedes and the other left using their getaway vehicle.
Watch how the whole Mercedes hacking incident transpired in the video below:
According to authorities, the crooks were using a relay system. The person near the house picked up the signal from the electronic key of the car. The data from the key was then transmitted to the other man who used it to unlock the car’s door. The second phase involved starting the engine of the auto using the same method.
Reports said that similar hacking devices can be easily bought online at Amazon and eBay. ADAC, a German motorists association, conducted a series of tests using the hacking devices against the latest keyless entry systems of popular car brands. They found out that 110 cars from 27 different automakers were at risk.
Security experts and the authorities advised car owners to be vigilant about the latest exploits that take advantage of the technical flaws in keyless entry systems using these methods:
- Make sure that the software of your car’s computer is updated at all times.
- Buy an electronic key fob that can prevent your electronic key from transmitting signals when not in use.
- Use a steering wheel lock.
BMW M140i Bombs the Test Drive Video of the New Mercedes-Benz CLS
A new video revealed the all-new Mercedes-Benz CLS having its usual test drive in Nurburgring before its official unveiling. Apparently, it is not as quick and nimble as the BMW M140i.
The BMW M140i packs 335 hp in its 3.0-liter turbo inline-six engine. That allows it to sprint from zero to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
Details about the specs of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLS are not officially available yet, but the basic model of its predecessor possesses a 4.7-liter biturbo V8 engine capable of delivering 402 hp. The new CLS should be along that line, so it was quite a scene when the BMW M140i was seen approaching the car at the 1:10 mark of the video.
The CLS looked like it was just minding its business when suddenly the M140i swooped pass the Merc during a sharp bend on track. Look at the 1:13 mark of the video where the Bimmer showed how agile it was.
It should be reminded though that the CLS is heavier than the M140i. Mercedes classifies it as a “four-door coupe”. It is defined by its elegant styling rather than its performance. After all, it sits along the middle of Merc’s E-Class and S-Class flagship car. However, having at least a V8 or an improved inline-six that is rumored to produce at least 500 hp, the expectations are heavy on this one. The current CLS can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.
The new Mercedes-Benz CLS is set to make its public unveiling at the Los Angeles Auto Show starting from December 1 to 10. Those who want to see the car in the flesh should go to the LA Convention Center during the said dates.
Mercedes-Benz CLS Test Drive at Nurburgring Track
Check out the test drive video of the Mercedes-Benz CLS here that was bombed by the BMW M140i:
Three Mercedes-Benz G-Class Models Will Be Discontinued
The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class will be streamlining its offerings. The German brand is looking to discontinue three models in its longest-running SUV’s lineup.
According to MB Passion, the variants to be axed in the near future are the Mercedes-Benz G350d Professional, Mercedes-AMG G65 and the Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4².
Mercedes-Benz G350d Professional
Among the three mentioned models, the G350d Professional will still see the light of day in a few years. The report claimed that Mercedes still needs to accommodate consumer demands for it.
Mercedes-AMG G65
The Mercedes-AMG G65 will get a special send-off. A Final Edition model for the V12-powered unit will be released. This will signify the end of its production. Only a few samples of the Mercedes-AMG G65 Final Edition will be made.
Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4²
The G500 4×4² is the successor of the massive Mercedes-Benz G63 6×6 AMG. It carries the same portal axles found in the six-wheeler but with a tuned down engine. Sadly, it will be put out of its pasture without much fanfare.
New Mercedes-Benz G-Class Coming Up
A new G-Class is set to debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2018. There is no official confirmation about its features yet and all we have seen so far are its spy shots. However, those who have witnessed the prototype in the flesh and other insider sources have claimed that the upcoming G-Class has a longer wheelbase and wider track.
The G-Class coming in 2018 will retain the signature look of its range. It still has that boxy shape together with the same styling featuring wide fenders flares, low beltline, narrow radiator grille and round headlamps.
The new model will run on diesel and petrol powertrains. A 4.0-liter biturbo V8 unit will probably be carried in the base model of the auto sold in the United States.
3 Things To Note About The New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
When it comes to Mercedes-Benz, it’s hard to think about it without elegance and style in the equation. Harder is to define the concept of a tall commercial van with something akin to the sophistication that the German auto brand is known for.
The new Sprinter Van is a third-generation model of the large van that Mercedes has conceptualized for road trips and even cargo shipping. The rendering of the third-generation model was shown this week in Atlanta during the North American Commercial Vehicle Show.
1. Close Resemblance To The Vision Van Concept
Last year, the Vision Van concept was unveiled, much to the delight of Mercedes enthusiasts. The idea of the Sprinter Van was to focus on autonomy, mobility, and even selling, leasing, and renting capacities to deliver cargo safely and with style. The rendering was a little bit too modern for the general taste, so Mercedes produced production models with a bit more conventional styling than expected.
The production Sprinter has A-pillars that match the van’s color. It also has more defined lines along the body and a more conventional grille. The “athletic” horizontal headlights look the same as the one found on the concept, but there’s no information yet whether the rooftop drones will come into fruition.
2. New Technology Arrives In The Sprinter Van
There’s not much detail yet on what the Sprinter Van is offering exactly. What Mercedes-Benz has been reporting is that the new Sprinter Van will feature new driver-assist and connectivity programs with telematic technology. This will allow the easier and more efficient management of vehicles.
3. Sales Of Sprinter Van Steadily Growing
According to the German company, it has sold more than 3.3 million units of the Sprinter Van since it was introduced to the market in 1995. From January to March 2017, it posted a nearly 10 percent growth in sales as compared to the same period last year.
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQ A Teased Ahead of Frankfurt Show
Can you still remember the Generation EQ concept by Mercedes-Benz that made its debut at last year’s Paris auto show? That signaled the German automaker’s commitment to finally introduce a fully electric lineup. It was set to preview on the new crossover model called the EQ C.
Mercedes’ latest EV concept, the EQ A, is going to the Frankfurt Auto Show. Surprisingly, though, the German brand has given us a taste of what’s to come.
The EQ A looks very similar to the Generation EQ concept shown last year. It has the same basic architecture—long hood, gaping front grille, and flared fenders. We can’t be sure about that front grille, though, since the teaser photos have been darkened to keep features secret until the motor show.
What we can derive from the darkened photos is that the new concept will have sharper headlights divided from the rest of the car’s grille and a standard hexagonal Mercedes-Benz family grille design language. The Generation EQ is being powered by an electric motor on each axle with a lithium-ion battery that has a range of 310 miles. Will we see the same one on the EQ A? We’ll have to wait for the motor show for that.
The German auto brand plans to use the EQ concept for its range of electronic vehicle lineup. Before 2020, Mercedes-Benz promised to come up with at least four electric-powered vehicles. It will also be fitted in the hybrid setups of Mercedes’ lineup of vehicles, the first one being the Formula 1-derived Project One. But don’t expect the hybrid cars for the Formula 1 Project One and the EQ to have any shared components because of the former’s race history.
The Mercedes-Benz EQ A will make its debut during the Frankfurt Auto Show, so stay tuned for more details.
3 Possible Things That Could Happen To The Alpine Crossover
The new Alpine A110 is not for everyone’s taste. It’s a bit too cramped and of course, doesn’t address the crossover segment that seems to be missing in Renault’s lineup. Now, the French automaker’s performance sub-brand is working on an Alpine crossover that will battle the Porsche Macan out of its lofty porch (or so Alpine aims).
According to a source, the new Alpine crossover will most likely arrive in 2019 to up Renault’s sales and revitalize this segment that the French car manufacturer hasn’t dominated just yet. Since Renault has little experience in the production of SUVs and crossover, they will most likely turn to Mercedes and Nissan for the new Alpine SUV’s platform.
1. Powertrain From Standard Renault
Incidentally, Renault has a technical alliance both with the German and Japanese car manufacturers, so that should make it easy enough. Power will be coming from Renault’s 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is capable to push out 300 horses. There could also be a hybridized variant of the Alpine SUV, but there’s no word yet on whether this is in the works already.
2. Styling From Alpine A110
The styling of the incoming Alpine SUV should be based on the Alpine A110 sports car, including the front fascia. Inside, the SUV won’t be as spartan as the coupe, of course, providing maximum comfort and luxury to the owners. It will, however, have an aggressive seat and sporty steering wheel. All over the interior, you’ll find leather, aluminum, and carbon fiber.
3. Not Available in the US
Unfortunately, if you want to own this “replacement” for the Macan, you’d have to be somewhere in Europe, the UK, or Japan because it won’t be brought to the United States. Renault has no plans of bringing the Alpine brand to the US, much to everyone’s chagrin.
New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Shows Self-Driving Feature
The production of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class commenced on July 3 at the Sindelfingen plant of the three-pointed star brand. The first S560 model produced by the facility showed its self-driving capability during the event.
The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a facelifted version of its range’s sixth-generation platform introduced in 2014. Among the notable visual upgrades of the car include the new bumpers, lighting system and radiator grille. At present, the vehicle is available in different trims including the S350d 4MATIC, S400 4MATIC, S560 4MATIC and the range-topping AMG S63 4MATIC. The non-AMG models come in long-wheelbase versions and the S560 is sold with a Mercedes-Maybach variant. Daimler confirmed that a plug-in hybrid version of the S-Class will also come out.
The self-driving feature of the S-Class was demonstrated by a S560 model. An obsidian black metallic-finish model aided by built-in cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors drove itself for 1.5 kilometers from the assembly line to the loading area of the plant. A software governing the Intelligent Drive, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steer Assist made the feat possible.
In the video below, Markus Schafer, Member of the Divisional Board Management of Mercedes-Benz Cars Production and Supply Chain Management, can be seen sitting in the front passenger area of the S560. No one sat on the driver’s seat of the car as it accelerated and steered itself autonomously.
Click play in the video below to watch the demo of the self-driving Mercedes-Benz S560:
Mercedes started the sale of the S-Class in May. The price of the car starts at 88,446.75 euros in Germany (inclusive of 19% VAT). The high-performance Mercedes-AMG S63 4MATIC comes with a 160,293 euros price tag (including a 19% VAT).
The S350d 4MATIC is equipped with a 210 hp diesel-fed 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The S400 4MATIC is offered in petrol 3.0-liter inline-six engines configured to produce 250 hp and 340 hp. The S560 is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 in 345 hp and 469 hp powertrain. The AMG variant is packing a 4.0-liter V8 in 450 hp and 612 hp trims.
New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Price Guide
Daimler just announced the sale of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class in its Global Media Site. The car is only a facelift of its current model but it gets a new set of engines and the standard tech within the auto takes a couple of updates.
Here are the different models of the S-Class as well their respective pricing in Germany (including 19% VAT):
1. Mercedes-Benz S350d 4MATIC
The diesel-fed S-Class houses a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The unit produces 210 hp and 600 Nm of torque. It is the most frugal when it comes to fuel consumption with its efficiency rated at 5.5 l/100 km. Then the combined CO2 emission of the auto is 145 g/km. The vehicle costs 88,446.75 euros, which is the cheapest in the bunch.
2. Mercedes-Benz S350d 4MATIC LWB
A 3.0-liter inline-six is also fitted in the longwheelbase diesel-powered S-Class. However, the power is cranked up to 286 hp. The other engine specs are the same with the standard S350d model. The vehicle is valued 91,719.25 euros.
3. Mercedes-Benz S400 4MATIC
The car is equipped with a 3.0-liter petrol inline-six engine. The unit’s output is 250 hp with 700 Nm of torque. Prepare to dish out 93,206.75 euros for this one.
4. Mercedes-Benz S400 4MATIC LWB
The 3.0-liter inline-six engine longwheelbase auto produces 340 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The price of the car starts at 96,479.25 euros.
5. Mercedes-Benz S560 4MATIC
Beneath the vehicle’s hood lies a 4.0-liter V8 engine. The output of the unit is 345 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The price tag of the product is 11,3960.35 euros.
6. Mercedes-Benz S560 4MATIC LWB
The longwheelbase version raises the power of the 4.0-liter V8 to 469 hp matched with 700 Nm of torque. The vehicle is worth 116.994.86 euros.
7. Mercedes-Maybach S560 4MATIC
The Maybach variant of the S-Class puts more touches in its luxury and comfort features. The 4.0-liter V8 of the auto can bring out 469 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The car costs 143,508.05 euros.
8. Mercedes-AMG S63 4MATIC
For now, the AMG S63 is the most powerful variant of the S-Class in the market. The 4.0-liter V8 engine of the vehicle comes in 450 hp and 612 hp configurations with 900 Nm of torque. The range-topping model is valued 16,293 euros.
Special Edition Mercedes G-Class and CLA Released in Japan
Mercedes-Benz Japan just launched special editions of the Mercedes-AMG G-Class and the Mercedes-Benz CLA. The new G-Class version commemorates AMG’s 50th anniversary while the new CLA variants pay homage to the Star Wars Day.
Mercedes-AMG G63 50th Anniversary Edition
The special edition Mercedes G63 comes in Mauritius Blue metallic paint with black bumpers, fenders, roof, thin horizontal body strips, mirror caps and 20-inch AMG wheels. The interior of the sport utility vehicle is covered in black Designo leather with diamond trim. In addition to the all-black scheme, its surfaces also come in two-tone themes which combine black with mocha brown, saddle brown and porcelain white highlights.
Only 50 units of the vehicle will be made and it will be exclusive to buyers in Japan. Each model costs 22.2 million yen, including taxes, which is around $194,604.
Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Star Wars Edition
May 4 is considered to be Star Wars day by fans of the film franchise. As a tribute to the most popular space saga of all-time, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Star Wars Edition was released.
Only 120 units of the special CLA will be produced and it is available in two themes. One is finished in Calcite White, which represents the Stormtroopers of the film. The other is in Night Black as a nod to the main villain, Darth Vader.
The Stormtrooper-based car offers a two-tone exterior that combines the white finish with black mirror caps, window sills, side skirts and front lip. The surfaces of the auto is covered in black leather with complementing white and gray stripes plus silver stitching. The ambient lighting of the vehicle produces a blue hue.
The Darth Vader-inspired version of the CLA comes in a sinister all-black finish. The interior mirror the dark exterior surface of the car too. To put emphasis on the evil character of the Sith lord, the leather is combined with red stitching and scarlet ambient lighting.
Photos
Check out the images of the Mercedes-AMG G63 50th Anniversary Edition and the Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Star Wars Edition in the gallery below: