Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class (C 117) makes new appearance on German and Italian roads

By Adji | Published Monday, 28 May 2012

The future Mercedes-Benz CLA is quite a frequent presence on streets these days. The latest bunch of spy shots were captured in Stuttgart and in an unknown Italian town. As the model is taking the final of its on-road development phase, more and more styling details come to light to our desire. The front-driven 4-door coupé is following the CLS design theme seeing the heavily rear-dropping roofline, but it looks clear some of the elements premiered on the Concept Style Coupé will eventually make it onto the series production car.

The visual attribute of the so-entitled executive coupé is the powerful front end, which is sure to turn heads. The main centrepoint is the iconic SLS-esque radiator grille with the Star shining in the middle, which could not be complete without the streamlined headlights, an evolution of the design exercise seen on the Concept A-Class.

It seems the new-generation GLK 2013 will create a trend at Mercedes-Benz concerning the inner graphics of the tail lamps. It is visible from these scoops the CLA gets a similar light arrangement, divided into two areas: above, a bigger area comprising the brake/daytime/fog lights, and below, a thin strip for the LED indicator and the reverse-gear signal.

There is indication Mercedes-Benz is preparing an exquisite array of appointments for the new CLA. There will be new colour combos, attractive wheel designs and new premium materials, which together with the designo customization programme and the original accessories range of the constructor, will certainly suit even the most pretentious personalities.

The 2013 CLA-Class is packed full of the ultimate technology, once destined exclusively for the high-end Mercedes-Benz models. The safety equipment includes a full set of airbags (front, side, window, knee), the PRE-SAFE crash anticipatory system, Brake Assist Plus, ATTENTION ASSIST and the revolutionary Collision Prevention Assist. Connectivity aboard the C 117 is enhanced with the help of the COMAND Online infotainment system which incorporates Apple Siri-compatible technology and a complete media and social profile integration.

Engines come from the new A-Class and start from the entry-level CLA 180 CDI equipped with the 109 hp 4-cylinder Renault diesel engine and climb up to the high-end CLA 250 sporting the Mercedes-Benz 2.1-litre 4I gasoline unit delivering 211 hp. We are also expecting new additions to the existing lineup in the coming years, meaning more powerful IC versions could be planned - a 265 hp CLA 350 CDI sounds sweet. But as efficiency is the key term nowadays, the CLA will also be available with alternative power after 2015: take into consideration BlueTEC hybrid, F-CELL and E-CELL with range extender as main possibilities.

Engineers from Affalterbach are also busy at readying the range-topping CLA 25 AMG. When this rocket is unveiled next year, it will boast a new supercharged engine capable of releasing a peak output of 350 hp. All that impressive power will be channeled through a 7-speed automatic transmission to the four wheels, as the CLA 25 AMG sits on a specially-developed all-wheel-drive powertrain. 0 to 100 km/h should take less than 6 seconds, whereas the top speed is, how else, electronically-limited at 250 km/h.

Image Credits: WorldCarFans,Autoblog.it

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2013, C 117, CLA, cla-class, mercedes-benz, spy | Leave a comment

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class (C 117) shows more of its trailblazing design

By Adji | Published Wednesday, 16 May 2012

Enthusiasm is quickly building up after Mercedes-Benz made it official that a new compact 4-door coupe under the CLA-Class title will be available starting with 2013. Moreso, first shots depicting a FEP prototype of the future car have recently hit the internet. The test vehicle is already carrying the finished design elements, still carefully hidden under the camouflage. However, one can still judge the series CLA will be very close in terms of styling to the astonishing Concept Style Coupé revealed last month at Beijing.

The fact we can see the rear lights, the headlamps, the radiator grille and the basic shape of the body in their final form signals the entrance into the final experimental phase of the development programme for the new CLA.

The agile executive coupe goes on sale in spring next year and will launch in the USA as well as the first exponent of the new wave of compact class cars from Mercedes-Benz, shortly followed by the A-Class hatchback. Sitting on the same MFA platform as the other versions of the new family, the CLA will definitely be the standard in terms of dynamism and perceived comfort. Thanks to multiple assistance systems, life aboard the C 117 will always be a safe experience.

The impressive exterior will definitely be a special business card that invites you to step inside and enjoy the all-so-present wellness atmosphere. Premium quality are the perfect words to describe the interior in every sense, as the leading CLS has inspired the designers during the creation process for the CLA. Every button is where you'd want to find it and thus complete functionality is ensured. Telematics and entertainment means include, among other options, the internet-based Siri-compatible COMAND Online infotainment technology and a complete multimedia system fitted with high-end audio equipment, a DVD changer and liquid-crystal displays for the rear seats.

A comprehensive range of newly-developed powerplants takes care to put the CLA into motion. From the 109 hp CLA 180 CDI up to the 211 hp CLA 250 - there's a choice to suit any taste. Available from fall 2013 on the top engine variants, the 4MATIC system will add more traction and stability to the car, in combination with the refined 7G-DCT automatic transmission. A sports-oriented, all-wheel-drive CLA 25 AMG version cranking out a massive 350 hp is reportedly under development, with the official arrival planned for summer next year.

Photo Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2013, C 117, CLA, cla-class, mercedes-benz, spy | Leave a comment

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Facelift (W 212) shows heavy camouflaged front fascia

By Adji | Published Monday, 14 May 2012

Mercedes-Benz will unveil its new-generation E-Class next year, at the Detroit Motor Show. Testing programme began during winter 2011/2012, with the prototypes being spotted in the Arctic region and Northern Europe so far. Right from the beginning, E-Class development vehicles have worn a thick coat of black tape to cover the major visual changes lying underneath. And this is also the case of the recently scooped pre-series estate version that was just exiting the R&D Centre in Stuttgart when spy cameras went into action.

The classic "four eyes" style will be replaced by a more dynamic attitude with the advent the new single-piece headlights with LED technology, which obey the new design philosophy of the brand. Apart from these, the E-Class Facelift will also receive a new pair of air intakes which express a greater dose of youthfulness and attractiveness, as well as a slightly revamped, more aerodynamic chromed grille to honor the Mercedes-Benz tradition of luxury limousines. By contrast, the rear end will not undergo through consistent aethetics surgery: you'll find a new light arrangement, in GLK way, for the LED lamps and a sharper stance. Another important modification will be the dissappearance of the criticized Ponton crease from the sides of the car, so the profile should now look clean, smooth and more elegant.

The interior will be updated with new technology, new colour combos and premium quality materials. As the 2013 E-Class is launched right after the introduction of the new S-Class (W 222), it should also get some of the impressive innovations its bigger brother is debuting: @yourCOMAND integrated internet-based telematics, Head-Up Display and a new generation of enhanced driver assistants should be available on the options' list of the forthcoming E-Class.

Photo Credits: Autoblog.it

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2013, e-class facelift, mercedes-benz, spy, W 212 | Leave a comment

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz A 25 AMG 'glides gently' on the slippery Nürburgring

By Adji | Published Sunday, 29 April 2012

Mercedes-Benz is about to introduce the new A 25 AMG shortly after the market launch of the new generation A-Class in September. The compact sportscar promises to be the ultimate leader of the segment thanks to a series of special features that speak about the dynamic character of the car: the new supercharged gasoline unit, the integral traction system, the adaptive suspension and the multitude of ride management systems developed by AMG for a safe experience even at high speeds.

The 2013 A 25 AMG will sport a newly engineered powerplant at the High Performance Powertrains department in Brixworth, UK: experts and technicians used F1 know-how to tweak the engine for maximum performance. While the total displacement of just two litres might not sound very moving, then prepare to hear the rumored value for the peak output: 350 hp. The impressive amount of power is achieved through high-pressure supercharging and intelligent cylinder management. Handling the situation will be easier for the compact A 25 AMG as the car is set to premiere a new 4x4 platform enhanced to deliver an optimal ride and added grip under any condition. The 350 ponnies will reach the four wheels with the help of a double-clutch, 7-speed automatic transmission similar to those found on the C 63 AMG or SLS AMG.

Image Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2013, A 25 AMG, mercedes-benz, spy | Leave a comment

SPY: New shots of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222)

By Adji | Published Wednesday, 25 April 2012

With the reveal set for Paris Auto Salon this fall, the new S-Class should make an initial appearance in either late June or July. The trendsetter in the automotive industry enters the eighth model generation with a confident mission - to write a new chapter of the rich S-Class heritage book.

The new S-Class will be, how else, the best high-end premium limousine. Powerful and astonishing in every sense, the W 222 will incorporate intelligent technology that make it look like a moving luxury Swiss watch. The MAGIC RIDE CONTROL, the Autonomous Driving System and the integrated @yourCOMAND telematics will celebrate world debut on the new S-Class.

Furthermore, a new generation of active safety systems, such as the Speed Limit Assist or the Blind Spot Assist, will be available for the car as well. Powertrain will consist of the rear-driven MRA platform, on which new and efficient BlueDIRECT V6 and V8 engines, as well as an I4, a new V12 unit and several hybrid solutions, will be sitting on. A new automatic gearbox, featuring up to nine speeds, will also be launched with the W 222.

The new generation of the S-Class goes on sale beginning with 2013 and we expect the entry-level version to be priced at over 75,000 euros in Germany. The US market launch is scheduled for spring the same year.

Posted in 2013, mercedes-benz, s-class, spy, w 222 | Leave a comment

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz A 25 AMG goes out for a ride in Germany

By Adji | Published Tuesday, 17 April 2012

With the introduction of the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz wants to grab a big slice of the market segment currently ruled by the premium rivals from Munich and Ingolstadt. Having caused a mass stir after the unveiling that took place in March at Geneva, the new compact hatchback from the Three-Pointed Star constructor comes fully prepared to win on all fields of battle with its direct competitors, the 1er and the A3. The comprehensive array of equipments and versions, designed to meet every customer desire, would not be complete without an AMG variant. The baby rocket from Affalterbach is bound to make its first appearance towards fall 2012, with the market launch planned for late this year or early 2013.

Development for the new A 25 AMG is fully underway, with a test prototype being spotted recently in Germany. The compact sports car is destined to have a striking outfit in true AMG style: an aggressive front apron with generously dimensioned air takes, a single-slat grille, a lowered ride height, 19" or 20" forged alloy wheels with special design features, a rear diffuser and double exhausts for the back end. The racing atmosphere feels at home inside the A 25 AMG courtesy of the carbon fiber/aluminium trims, the deep tone, perforated and stitched leather upholstery, the bespoke instrument cluster and the all-round quality.

Engineers from the High Performance Powertrains department of Mercedes-AMG, headquartered at Brixworth, UK, have readied a new petrol engine for this model: a 2.0-litre supercharged unit releasing a staggering 350 hp of peak output. Formula 1 know-how was also invested in the development of the new powerplant, which reportedly sports cylinder cut-off technology and further clever stuff from the motorsport world. To ensure more efficiency is achieved while the engine is functioning, AMG has also fitted this brand new unit with intelligent cylinder management programme for an accurate, spray-guided fuel injection, a revised exhaust system and the all so present ECO start/stop function.

That huge amount of power will be smoothly transferred through a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission to all four wheels of the vehicle, as the new A 25 AMG runs on a new 4x4 sports traction system that promises to offer best dynamics and safety in class.

According to latest reports, the new A 25 AMG will come in five-door body configuration only, as no three-door model is considered for the standard A-Class at the moment. While European stores are a certain destination, it remains unclear whether Mercedes-Benz will launch the A 25 AMG on the US market as well. What we do know is that the forthcoming CLA four-door coupe is set to arrive in Stateside showrooms next year, only to be followed shortly after by the new 350 hp, all-wheel-drive CLA 25 AMG.

Posted in 2013, A 25 AMG, mercedes-benz, spy | Leave a comment

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) is a mindblowing appearance on streets

By Adji | Published Monday, 16 April 2012

The S-Class is synonymous with automotive perfection. The premium limousine has been the all-time trendsetter in the luxury class: whether we talk about comfort, technology, safety or the upscale atmosphere, the S-Class symbolizes the epitome for a true representative car that always turn heads on the streets. This is the reason the engineers and all the personnel involved in the development of the all new W 222 generation of the S-Class have such a daring and complex task.

It is redundant to mention that the future S-Class will hold global supremacy among the high-luxury automobiles when it's launched this year during summer. The worldwide reveal is prone to happen in the beautiful city of Paris, at the French Mondial de l'Automobile 2012 starting late September. Testing phase has reached a very advanced stage, as these are the final months prior to the impatiently awaited unveiling.

When the curtains lift off, we will certainly witness an outstanding result no matter where we look - outside, inside or underneath. The new S-Class will be a competent fighter getting top marks in all disciplines. The progressive design the W 222 will display is the materialization of the styling seen on the F 700 research vehicle and Ocean Drive Concept. The interior will offer a futuristic experience thanks to the multitude of gadgets, telematics and assistance systems that help create a unique atmosphere.

The car will be packed full of clever technology and the ride will be more efficient with the help of a clean and powerful engine lineup consisting of I4, V6 and V8 gasoline and diesel (likely BlueTEC) units. For those who appreciate the alternative means of traction, Mercedes-Benz will offer the S 400 HYBRID ('mild') with over 300 hp and the all new S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID ('full') delivering around 415 hp. If you were wondering whether the range-topping S 600 version is gone forever, then we have some good news for you: a new V12 powerplant with over 550 hp is in the works at the moment and will be readied just in time for 2014 when the car is expected to be unleashed on roads. Last, but not least, come the well-known super limos from AMG: the S 63 AMG with 544 hp and the S 65 AMG with 630 hp.

You might also like to read:

- PREVIEW: Future Mercedes-Benz S-Class to display an outstanding tech bonanza
- The telematics future of Mercedes-Benz: @yourCOMAND - Always online for more information, safety and comfort
- SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) hits the fast curves of the Ring
- PREVIEW: A deep look into the next generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- The future Mercedes-Benz tech stuff is all about ... magic