SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class scooped in RHD version

By | Published Tuesday, 24 January 2012

The GLK (X 204) was revealed in 2008 and, although there were speculations it would hit UK stores around 2010, it was never produced in right-hand-drive (RHD) version. The situation is about to change with the arrival of the facelifted model for 2013.


The latest spy pics show a camouflaged prototype fitted for 'RHD countries', meaning Mercedes-Benz have finally made up their minds and solved the complicated issues of adapting the modified 4MATIC platform of the GLK for the this configuration. Apart from the position of the steering wheel, this version is identical to the standard model. The headlights, the radiator grille and the bumper will be refreshed, in addition to the new tail lamps and the revamped interior, heavily influenced by the C-Class. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz USA will add a diesel option for the new GLK beginning with this autumn. The GLK 250 CDI uses a 2.1-litre 4-cylinder engine rated at 204 hp and is the sixth model to join the diesel fleet for the U.S. market, alongside the E-, GL-, M-, R- and S- classes.
Image Credits: Autobild

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SPY: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG scooped in Stuttgart

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Automedia's spy photographers have recently spotted a barely disguised G-Class prototype which looked to be the anticipated limited version G 65 AMG. The test vehicle was exiting the Research & Development Centre in Stuttgart when it was 'captured on tape'.


As previously said, this is the last time the Gelandewagen receives a solid update before its production is discontinued after 2015. While the exterior modifications will be mild, the interior will be almost completely rehauled and the 4x4 will also receive a complete technologycal package, including Merc's latest safety, assistance and infotainment systems. The entire range of engines is set to be revised with the constructor's brand new creations: the range-topping G 500 is expected to receive the V8 biturbo BlueDIRECT gasoline engine rated at 435 hp. If we talk about the Big Daddy G 55 AMG, sources state it is destined to use the new 5.5-litre V8 with peak outputs starting from 525 hp up to 571 hp (Performance Package). Caught in the latest shots, the special G 65 AMG super-SUV will sport some crazy tweaks to the powertrain and chassis - the engine under the massive bonnet will most probably be the good ol' 6.0-litre V12, which was lately upgraded to 630 hp of maximum output. According to recent reports, the new G-Class fleet is bound for the official premiere in March 2012, at the Geneva Motor Show.
Image Credits: Autobild

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Riding high with the Unimog U 5000

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The Unimog 5000 meets even the most challenging objectives: it is used between May and October each year to carry the streams of tourists from the Etna cable car station at 2500 metres up to the Torre del Filosofo. Here, at 2935 metres above sea level, is where the hiking trail begins for those tourists who want to be as close as possible to the lava fields. More than 300,000 tourists are drawn each year to Sicily by the prospect of climbing Mount Etna.


The Unimog range, which has been built since 2002 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, is the ideal candidate for use in the harsh conditions that prevail on Etna: the only vehicle concept of this type in the world, it guarantees the ultimate off-road capability. A flexible ladder frame, all-wheel drive with differential locks in both axles, which are in fact portal axles, and the central tire inflation system Tirecontrol – every single technical detail plays its part in ensuring that the "Universal-Motor-Gerät", or "Universal Motor Device" – the German version of which provides the acronym that makes up the Unimog name - remains a dependable partner on the rough tracks and ash fields of Europe's highest active volcano.

Transport, maintenance procedures, construction work – full programme on Mount Etna
The extremely versatile Unimog carries out vital duties against a spectacular backdrop: a bus body on the U 5000 provides seats for the tourists, carrying them safely from the cable car station all the way up the steep track. Also in service on Etna is a U1550 L, fitted with the necessary attachments for its task of clearing snow or ash from the tracks. The versatility of the Unimog has also come into its own during the building of a new cable car to replace one that was destroyed by volcanic eruptions.

Award-winning model series with a 60-year history

In 2011, the readers of the specialist magazine "Off Road" voted the series 4000 to 5000 Unimog the best off-road vehicle of the year in the category of special-purpose vehicles. Its use on Mount Etna provides renewed evidence of how worthy of the honour the award-winning Unimog is. The principle areas of application for this model series are in tricky off-road terrain far off the beaten track, for example in situations involving the fire services, disaster control or expedition support, or for service and maintenance work in poorly accessible areas.

The broad scope of its potential areas of operation, the unique vehicle concept and the longevity of the vehicles all help to explain the popularity that the various Unimog model series have enjoyed for over sixty years now. Since production started, more than 380,000 units of the Unimog have been built.
Credits: Daimler AG

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"iF product design award 2012": Five-fold success for Mercedes-Benz design

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The designers at Mercedes-Benz have picked up yet another prize for no fewer than four models in the form of the internationally renowned "iF product design award 2012". A top-class specialist jury has bestowed the award on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster, and the Concept A-CLASS show car, as well as the smart electric mobility concept, all for their outstanding designs.


First presented in 1953, the "iF product design award" ranks among the world's most important design awards and represents the seal of approval for good design. For 2012 the 24-member jury was again faced with the task of choosing its favourites, this time from more than 2000 candidates. Four models from Mercedes-Benz stood out in particular: the M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster and the Concept A-CLASS show car.

The M-Class won thanks to its characteristically distinctive SUV design and its variable interior with high wellness factor. The open-top SLS AMG Roadster, meanwhile, owes its victory to its exciting lines, which are reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. The SLK Roadster also dominated the competition with its powerful sports car design, which portrays its outstanding qualities to brilliant visual effect - stylish comfort, light-footed sportiness and exemplary ecology.

With the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-CLASS, the jury acknowledged the birth of a new vehicle generation which provides a glimpse of the expressive design of the future A-Class.

As an overall concept, the trend-setting developments achieved by the automotive brand smart in the field of electric mobility also received the coveted "iF product design award 2012". For its innovative e-mobility concept, smart created one-off vehicles such as the open-top smart forspeed, the smart e-scooter and also the smart e-bike, which is to be incorporated into the smart product line this year.
Credits: Daimler AG

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

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New on TRIVIA: Rétromobile 2012 & the Mercedes-Benz Type 320

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After some hibernation and some crucial decisions, Mercedes-Benz-Blog TRIVIA is reactivated and, as in the good times, will be the best place to find out the latest about the prestigious history and heritage of Daimler. From now on, every future article regarding Mercedes-Benz Classic topics and similar stories can be found on Mercedes-Benz-Blog TRIVIA. To make sure more people reach the TRIVIA website, we'll post here a digest whenever an update appears there.

And now back to action:

- 75 years ago, Mercedes-Benz was introducing the new Type 320 at the IAMA in Berlin. This model enabled the carmaker to fill the gap that existed between medium-sized and large-sized vehicle >> READ MORE

- Mercedes-Benz Classic takes part at the Rétromobile 2012 international trade fair in Paris (1st to 5th February) displaying a special exhibition of illustrious racing cars and the 60-year celebration of the SL >> READ MORE

Enjoy reading!


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A new digital campaign from Mercedes-Benz: The A-Class QR-Trophy

By | Published Friday, 20 January 2012

Mercedes-Benz launches hunt for the QR-code A-Class prototypes

They are hunted by the automotive press, followed by auto enthusiasts around the world and now you can win with them: the test prototypes of Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz launches an unusual and innovative campaign of digital communication for the new A-Class. Instead of the usual camouflage patterns seen so far, prototypes of the new A-Class used in Germany will be plastered all over with QR codes by the end of February. Whether on streets or in pictures, in the media or on the internet, car passionates can scan the codes and win an exclusive trip for two to the world premiere of the new A-Class in early March at Geneva. From the first week of next month, the free app "The A-Class QR-Trophy" for smartphones will be available for download from the Apple App Store and Android Market. A special webpage dedicated to this game is already available at http://qr-trophy.mercedes-benz.com/ (available in German only, at the moment). Mercedes-Benz' marketing/PR agency Jung von Matt / Alster directed the idea and the implementation of this special contest.


Scanning the QR code on a prototype - regardless of whether on the street, in the media or photos on Facebook, Twitter etc. - automatically creates a URL to access the mobile app. By registrating with the app you have the opportunity to participate in the competition. Various, so-called "badges" (character recognition) are hidden behind the QR codes and thus can be collected within the app.

Altogether there are four different badges. Three of them are turned over to scan the QR code, the fourth will be activated via sharing on social media platforms, and thus requires no QR code. Even with a badge, users can participate in the contest. Each one is valuable and further increases the chance of winning, as the user takes part with any of the four badges in the game.


Credits: Daimler AG

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Mercedes-Benz Announces Adam Scott Mercedes-Benz Golf International Brand Ambassador

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Mercedes-Benz, the German car manufacturer, is delighted to announce the appointment of Australian professional golfer, Adam Scott, as its new international golf brand ambassador. The 31 year-old Australian has had a hugely successful year, including his best finish at a Major championship when he finished in tied second place at The Masters in Augusta. He also triumphed at the 2011 WGC-Bridgestone International, earning him his first career World Golf Championship.


The Australian is currently ranked 10th in the Official World Golf Rankings. The association with Mercedes-Benz will begin in January 2012, and will entail global TV advertising, global print advertising, international PR and social media.

Scott commented: “It’s a real honour to be involved with Mercedes-Benz – a brand with a reputation which is second to none, and whose values mirror those of golf. The company is a huge supporter of the sport around the globe, partnering three major tournaments; The Masters, The Open, and The USPGA Championship as international automobile partner. Its involvement also impacts the amateur game with The MercedesTrophy, a tournament in its 22nd year, which attracts 60,000 amateur golfers from over 60 countries annually.”

Scott continued: “It’s great to be part of a brand that is extensively engaged not only in the world of golf but also other platforms that fit so well with my personal interests. Its motorsport activities are a given, but its sponsorship of Fashion Weeks across the world are fantastic.”

Mercedes-Benz Global Marketing Director, Lüder Fromm, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Adam Scott to the Mercedes-Benz family – our values of fascination, perfection and responsibility fit perfectly with Adam’s own principles. He has had such a great year, and we believe that he will be a valuable asset to the Mercedes-Benz golf. He’s a new breed of golfer who embodies Mercedes-Benz values both on and off the course – the best or nothing.”
Credits: Daimler AG

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