The cool book-like brochures that you used to pick up at the dealerships when you were car shopping are starting to go the way of the dinosaur as more and more of the populous invest in tablet devices like the iPad and XOOM. Car companies like Audi and now Mercedes Benz are saving money and trees by producing brochure apps instead of books for their new models. The latest app from Mercedes Benz is for the new 2012 CLS. Within this app you can take virtual tours of the inside and outside of the car to get a closer look. You can also customize a 2012 CLS within the app using all the available options to spec one out just the way you’d want it. If you want to start playing around with your own virtual CLS just search the Apple App store for “Mercedes-Benz 2012 CLS”
MONTVALE, N.J. – Taking its digital reach to the next level, Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) has introduced the Mercedes-Benz MY ’12 CLS-Class iPad App. This application is the first of a series of MY ’12 product apps and is available now through the Apple App Store for free. Users can find the app by searching “Mercedes-Benz 2012 CLS.”
The new CLS-Class iPad App puts a spin on traditional communications by providing a media-rich, eco-friendly channel for prospects to learn more about the CLS-Class. Although this app has been created as a tool for dealership sales associates, it can easily be obtained through the Apple App Store by consumers as well.
Through logical placement and smart navigation, the app provides a smart, user-friendly experience that includes virtual tours of the interior and exterior of the vehicle, as well as an “Explore” section that allows users to customize the CLS. The app also offers a wide selection of videos that demonstrate the groundbreaking technical innovations of Mercedes-Benz.
Additional apps for MY ’12 vehicles will launch throughout 2011 to coincide with the retail release dates.
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 12 model lines ranging from the sporty C-Class to the flagship S-Class sedans and the SLS AMG supercar.
MBUSA is also responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans in the US. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com.
With the exception of the Smart Car, Mercedes Benz never really released any of their B-segment or A-segment cars here in the states. Which is a shame because they usually look pretty fresh but they have to worry about things like brand dilution and other jargon that you learn about if you’re a marketing major. Normally it’s a necessary evil but in the case of their new Concept A-Class it is a major bane to us all because this car is shaping up to be a lil’ badass! Besides the FRESH design the Concept A-Class sports a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, a dual clutch transmission, and a radar based collision warning system! How’s that for a grocery list of awesome?! While I am impressed with what the Concept A-Class would be if produced I’ll admit I also met it with a bit of cynicism since its a slim chance that this car will be produced and if it was we would probably never see it in America. Although it will be making an appearance at the 2011 New York Auto Show so maybe not all hope is lost. Why show a concept in America that would never be sold here if produced? Here’s crossing my fingers that some version of this will make its way to our shores in the not-too-distant-future!
GruppeM stuff is hard to come by but if you have the will and the cash its well worth it. They usually make decent power and they just look tough! I am loving the carbon fiber ram air intake for the new C63AMG. It reminds me of inlets from a freakin fighter jet! FRESH indeed.
If you’re tired of reading about supercars and want to see a few up close, I suggest you head over to the Petersen Automotive Museum in downtown Los Angeles. Last Saturday was the opening day of their new “Supercars: When Too Much Is Almost Enough” installation. This exhibit lets you get up close and personal with everything from a vintage Lamborghini Muira to the extremely rare Mercedes Benz CLK-GTR! I visited the exhibit myself over the weekend and I was dumbfounded with the examples on display. It was my first time ever seeing a Mercedes Benz CLK-GTR up close and I can honestly say I was speechless. This exhibit should be a must on every car guys bucket list! If you’re worried about missing out because you don’t live near by you will be happy to know that the exhibit will be open until October of this year. So even if you don’t live in California you have more than enough time to book a plane ticket or better yet, plan a road trip to the City Of Angels to see all the supercar goodness up close. There are a few shots below and more in our facebook gallery to pique your interest but trust me when I say that pictures don’t do any of these cars justice. You need to get out here and see it all for yourself !
At the Geneva Auto Show HAMANN has just debuted their new tuning program for the Mercedes Benz AMG SLS dubbed the “HAMANN Hawk“. I think the name is apt since this program kind of makes the SLS look like a Klingon “Bird Of Prey” star ship! Before you ask, no they wont throw in the matte gold wrap when you pick up the program. However, they do include the aero package, forged wheels, titanium exhaust, and ECU tune (the last two bump the power output to 636HP). As usual HAMANN treatments can be hit or miss. So what do you think about the HAMANN Hawk? Hit? Miss?
World premiere at the 81st International Motor Show in Geneva
HAMANN HAWK –
Precious bird of prey with 636 hp
An engine bursting with power wrapped into an exciting car body design coloured in Everose Gold. The Southern German specialist for exclusive automobile refinement, HAMANNMotorsport, turns the wing door Mercedes SLS AMG into the HAMANN HAWK with new plumage and significantly sharper talons.
Already in its basis version, the SLS provides a significant engine output. But the HAMANNengine department puts some additional power reserves into the V8 engine. The core part of the power enhancement is the high-performance exhaust system made out of titanium. In combination with new manifolds, sports catalysts and a sports air filter, this system also renders the earthy and powerful sound of the 6.2 litre aggregate. The components are precisely adjusted with the help of a new engine characteristic map for motor electronics. With a top performance of 636 hp / 468 kW and a maximum torque of 680 Nm at 4,850 r.p.m, the HAMANNengine exactly meets the wishes of its sports ambitious clientele. The performance enhanced wing door automobile provides first class measures. In race start mode, the two-seater accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.6 seconds and with a top speed of 320 km/h, the HAMANN HAWK also surpasses the basis model.
The superior driving performance is matched with a striking appearance and aerodynamics tested in the wind tunnel. The HAMANN HAWKfront apron replaces the serial bumper and due to its shape it reduces the uplifting forces at the front axle. Larger air inlets in connection with a new LED lights unit give the two-seater an even more dynamic look. In addition, the enlarged air inlets provide better access for the engine’s increased need for fresh air. Subsequently, the air is drawn out of new bonnet made of checkered flag carbon. Striking wing, 60mm on each front side and 70mm on each rear side, already render an impressive appearance even while the car has not started moving yet. Side skirts make the two-seater look additionally lower and more stretched and underline the rims. In order to perfectly balance out the downforce of the front- and rear axle, HAMANN gives the SLS a rear wing also made of checkered flag carbon. The new rear apron with the diffuser enhances the air flow under the bottom of the car and provides room for four enormous end pipes each measuring 90 mm in diameter.
In order to perfectly combine comfort and control, HAMANN uses the single-part, especially light forged wheels “Unique Forged Anodized“ in 21 inches. These are fitted in 9Jx21 with tyres measuring 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 12.5Jx21 with tyres measuring 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear axle.
The coilover kit has been especially refined for the HAMANN HAWK. Equipped with four height-adjustable dampers and four progressively wound springs, the centre of gravity can be lowered by up to 30 millimetres.
HAMANNentirely redesigns the interior of the SLS and turns it into a VIP lounge with motorsports characteristics. Most delicate leather and ultra-suede, applications and embroideries replace the serial interior. HAMANN additionally adorns the air inlets, door sill protectors and centre console with checkered flag carbon. Black anodized aluminium pedals render a comfortable grip. The technical highlight of the new interior is the new steering wheel which has been ergonomically redesigned.
For more information about the extensive HAMANN tuning programme, please visit the web site www.HAMANN-MOTORSPORT.com
The guys over at Carlsson decided that they didn’t want to wait for the AMG CLS63 to come out so instead they built their own version set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. What you see here is Carlsson’s full tuning program for the 2012 CLS that includes a twin-turbo treatment that boosts output to 600hp! They don’t go into too much detail when it comes to how they pulled that off but they do say they start with the same engine block that is found in the AMG CLS63 so that’s a big clue.
The exterior of the car received an aero treatment that I think looks pretty sharp, albeit subtle. Carlsson also dropped the car on their patented “C-Tronic” suspension system which analyzes the road surface every 150 milliseconds and will adjust the dampening accordingly. No word on if it will automatically raise itself every time you go over a speed bump but hey, I guess you can’t have everything right?
Carlsson says sales of this tuning program will start in April of this year but there was no word if it will be available stateside. Although I would be willing to guess that if you can find the proper channels you can get this program here if you really want it but don’t anticipate it to be cheap!
World premiere in Geneva:
Carlsson refines the new CLS
V8 Biturbo with up to 600 hp
Complete aerodynamics package
Handcrafted leather interior
Innovative 20 inch alloy wheel 1/10
Stylish use of shape is the trademark of the new generation of Mercedes-Benz CLS models (type C 218). This has provided the automobile manufacturer Carlsson with the ideal platform from which to perfect the new model with even more style and athleticism. Carlsson premieres its refinement at the Geneva Motor Show to the world public.
Carlsson chief designer Rolf Schlepp incorporates coupé-style contours and lends the vehicle’s exterior a touch of sophistication with the comprehensive aerodynamics package. The new front spoiler and the RS front spoiler lip (available in real carbon) ensure an athletic look for the luxurious saloon car, a look which is underscored further by the stainless steel grille inserts.
The rear spoiler, the rear apron and its built-in diffuser (which functions as a tailplane) ensure extra downforce and more stable road holding at high speed. Under the long bonnet an engine optimized by Carlsson performs up to 600 hp (441 kW) in the flagship model based on the CLS 63 AMG. Carlsson also offers technically sophisticated performance kits with the general Carlsson guarantee for smaller engines.
The CLS 350 CDI for example achieves a power output that is a full 20 percent greater than the standard engine thanks to the Carlsson C-Tronic® DIESEL POWER additional control unit. Instead of 265 hp (195kW), the self-igniting engine now manages 320 hp (235 kW) while maximum torque has increased from 650 to 780 Newton metres. This allows the vehicle to go from 0 to 100 kph in 5.9 seconds instead of the standard 6.2 seconds. The performance-boosting kit continues to meet the EURO5 exhaust emission standards, of course.
In addition, the stainless steel rear silencer and the two oval tailpipes so typical of Carlsson make a great sound. The stainless steel tailpipes can also be ordered separately.
The vehicle’s alloy wheels in 1/10 design and up to 20 inch also emphasise the sporty yet stylish contours of its new aerodynamics package which has been developed in the wind tunnel. With the combination of five simple and five double spokes, the automobile manufacturer from Merzig in Germany is setting a design trend. The five top spokes are designed in such a way that they terminate flushly on the edge of the wheel rim while the five double spokes begin deeper inside the wheel receptacle and are arranged outside on the upper edge of the wheel rim. The fact that there is no wheel well and that the spokes are drawn out over the edge give the 1/10 wheels a particularly sporty character. The forged wheel generates a weight advantage of 40 percent compared the ordinary serial wheels because of its production process while achieving more strength and distinctly improved rolling quality at the same time.
Carlsson’s patented C-Tronic SUSPENSION is responsible for delivering excellent road holding for vehicles with the standard AIRMATIC suspension. This intelligent suspension lowering system drops the vehicle by up to 30 millimetres and continuously monitors the situation of the road. Depending on the road conditions, the controlling device adapts the residual spring travel every 150 milliseconds, thereby ensuring optimum comfort and excellent driving dynamics with an appealing look. The C-Tronic SUSPENSION switches to serial conditions when the speed drops under 20 kph, as a lowering of the vehicle at that speed is part of the serial adjustment.
The vehicle’s refinement reaches its peak in the interior. The automobile manufacturer cultivates traditional craftsmanship by using finest materials such as leather, exclusive alcantara, carbon, best root wood, and several other exclusive nature materials. The selections of the materials and the excellent workmanship attest the uncompromising quality requirements of Carlsson’s own upholstery. The seats and the doors panels have been covered in Carlsson Nappa with contrasting Carlsson stitching. This leather is exclusively produced for Carlsson as barrel pigmented aniline leather which is available in all conceivable colour variations. For Carlsson Nappa only middle European raw materials and German production is used. Carlsson also takes responsibility for the environment: the water needed in production leaves the tannery in drinking-water quality.
The same high quality is reflected by all wooden inlays which have been refined with black piano varnish. The Carlsson Signature Line in the contrasting colour underscores the demands for design and aesthetics. The alcantara sports steering wheel, pedals and foot rest made of brushed aluminium, velours foot mats featuring the Carlsson logo and the matching boot mat support the stylish appearance of the CLS’ interior.
With its comprehensive finishing package for the CLS model, Carlsson has once more proven its refined sense of taste when it comes to Mercedes design. Thanks to its efforts, the already stylish standard CLS has really turned into a unique individualist. The CLS by Carlsson premieres at the Geneva Motor Show, sales start in April 2011.
Earlier today Mercedes Benz released a few teasers of their first ever Super Bowl add that will air this weekend during Super Bowl XLV. Then, some guy decided to leak the entire commercial so I’m just going to show you that instead. The commercial is pretty cool for their first shot and it teases a few upcoming cars like the SLS Roadster and the C63 coupe. There is also a cameo in the 60 second film but I’ll let you watch it to figure out who it is.
AMG has blessed the new Mercedes Benz C-Class and transformed it into the 2012 C63. Just like before the 2012 C63 will have the same 451HP V8 but there is a performance package option that will increase power to 481hp. What’s in the performance package that gives you the extra ”oompf”? Well for starters they throw in the same forged pistons, rods, and crankshaft that are used in the SLS Gullwing. Then, they add a “variable intake manifold” which is painted titanium grey. All of the grunt from the engine will be put to the ground via AMG’s “SPEEDSHIFT MCT” 7-speed transmission. If you spring for the performance package the C63 will get you from a stand still to 60mph in about 4.3 seconds.
The styling is still as tough you would come to expect from an AMG variant. The C63′s bodylines are very ”angular and beautiful” as Dieter would say (that’s a Mike Myers joke by the way). They’ve updated the gril to be consistant with the SLS styling and it has a SLS style steering wheel waiting for you inside as well. There are a few color options you can go with for the upholstery as you’ll see in a few of the pics below. All in all AMG put together a nice setup in the new hot rod. The 2012 C63 should hit dealerships this fall but so far Mercedes Benz hasn’t announced an MSRP. However, I’m going to go ahead and guess that the sticker price will be north of $60k.
The high-performance Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG sedan is now more attractive than ever thanks to restyling for the 2012MY. The C63 AMG sedan is complemented by numerous enhancements help maximize performance while significantly reducing fuel consumption. The sedan now features the award-winning AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with standard “Controlled Efficiency” mode along with a new power steering pump that helps reduce the combined fuel consumption by about ten percent (estimated figured for U.S. models pending). The output of the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is unchanged at 451 hp and can be increased to a maximum of 481 hp with the optional AMG Development Package. Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimize the AMG sports suspension. New assistance systems and a new generation of telematics increase both safety and comfort. The U.S. market launch for the 2012 C63 AMG Sedan begins in autumn.
The 2012 C63 AMG sedan features a new radiator grille with a large Mercedes star and a single transverse louvre, as well as a new AMG front apron with a lower cross member painted in high-gloss black. Additionally highlights include special AMG daytime running lights and side air outlets which recall those found on the SL63 AMG high-performance roadster. New clear-lens headlamps emphasize the car’s distinctive, confident presence especially when equipped with the optional Lighting Package featuring bi-xenon headlamps. The wide front fenders with the “6.3 AMG” badge and the new 5 twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels — , finished in titanium grey. Good contact with the road is provided by the wide 235/40 R 18 and 255/35 R 18 tires at the front and rear.
The rear of the C63 AMG now features a new AMG rear apron featuring a distinctive, black diffuser insert with three pronounced fins.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission from the SL63 AMG
Under the skin, the top C-Class model boasts a wealth of new technology including the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission – another advanced feature adopted from the SL63 AMG. This innovative transmission uses a wet start-up clutch in place of a traditional torque converter to deliver a much more efficient, agile and direct response. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced thanks to the “Controlled Efficiency” mode and a new power steering pump.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its exceptional flexibility: with four driving modes as well as rev-matching and RACE START functions, it delivers comfortable shifts around town as well as instant response in high performance driving situations. The Controlled Efficiency “C” mode is programmed to provide smooth, comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed to help maximize fuel efficiency. The “S”, “S+” and “M” modes deliver increased agility through fast, responsive gear changes and higher revs. Gear changes in the “S+” and “M” modes take just 0.1 seconds.
The naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine with its large displacement of 6,208 cc develops 451 hp at 6,500 rpm and attains a peak torque of 443 lb-ft. at 5,000 rpm. The 2012 C63 AMG retains its predecessor’s position as the top performing model in its segment with 0 to 60 acceleration in just 4.4 seconds while the top speed is 155 mph (electronically regulated).
AMG Development Package: technology transfer from the SLS AMG
Even more dramatic performance is available with the optional AMG Development Package offering 481 hp and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds. The Mercedes- AMG engine experts have achieved this increase in output thanks to a technology transfer from the SLS AMG with forged pistons, connecting rods and the lightweight crankshaft all coming from the gullwing model’s engine. The reduced mass inertia of the components – which are 6.6 pounds lighter than those of the standard version – allows the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine to rev up with even greater ease and agility. Models equipped with the Development Package can be identified by the variable intake manifold painted in titanium grey under the hood, the AMG high-performance braking system with two-piece front discs and red painted brake calipers at all four corners, a carbon-fiber spoiler lip on the trunk lid and the AMG performance steering wheel in premium leather with a unique grip area.
Key data at a glance:
C63 AMG
Displacement
6,208 cc
Bore x stroke
4.02 x 3.72 in
Compression ratio
11.3 : 1
Output
451 hp at 6,500 rpm 481 hp at 6,500 rpm*
Max. torque
443 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm
Engine weight (dry)
432 lb
Acceleration 0 – 60 mph
4.4 s 4.3 s*
Top speed**
155 mph** 174 mph*
* with AMG Performance package; ** electronically limited
Optimized suspension, new steering system reduces fuel consumption
The AMG sports suspension includes a redesigned front axle, reinforced rear axle and wider front and rear track has undergone thorough modification and offers greater driving enjoyment and ride comfort at all times. The new stiffer elastokinematics, revised axle kinematics with more negative camber and new rear-axle anti-roll bar with a larger cross-section, result in higher agility and greater lateral acceleration. Additionally, new spring and damper rates have optimized both the responsiveness of the suspension as well as the road noise and tire vibration characteristics.
The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with a direct ratio (13.5 : 1) has a redesigned power-steering pump which contributes to reduced fuel consumption. This new pump only requires energy when the driver is actually making steering movements. Reliable deceleration at all times is provided by the AMG highperformance braking system with internally ventilated and perforated discs all around.
High Quality Interior
Even a quick glance at the interior of the 2012 C63 AMG sedan reveals the considerable updates, such as the completely new dashboard design with an integrated screen. The new 3D color TFT display in the middle of the redesigned speedometer welcomes the driver upon entry with the AMG logo. The new threespoke AMG performance steering wheel – a feature adopted from the CLS63 AMG – is trimmed in premium leather and features metallic trim elements with a flattened top and bottom sections as well as grip areas which are specially shaped and trimmed in perforated leather for perfect steering control. Aluminum shift paddles facilitate manual gear changes.
Fine trim elements in brushed dark aluminum are found on the dashboard and doors. Situated in the center console surrounded by high-gloss black piano lacquer trim is the new rotary control for selecting the transmission modes C, S, S+, M and RACE START. The special AMG sports seats with integrated head restraints and adaptive backrests are available from launch with combined M-B Tex/DINAMICA black upholstery. (DINAMICA is a new type of breathable manmade fiber). The side bolsters of the AMG sports seats are covered in M-B Tex while the center panels of the seat cushions are also upholstered with DINAMICA.
Available as an option, designo leather appointments give the interior of the C63 AMG a very exclusive character: four single colors and three two-tone combinations are available. As a further option, these can be complemented with “extended black designo leather appointments” for the top section of the dashboard and the upper section of the door linings.
Five new driver assistance systems already established in the S-Class and CLS
The 2012 C63 AMG features five new driver assistance systems which are already established in the S-Class flagship model line and the trend-setting CLS. These assistance systems use the latest camera and sensor technology and are designed to combat common causes of accidents. They raise the safety of the C-Class to a new level by warning the driver of a hazard.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist
ATTENTION ASSIST
PARKTRONIC including parking guidance
Lane Keeping Assist
Blind Spot Assist
New generation of telematics
The C-Class sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will gradually be introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer via Bluetooth®, wireless music streaming and a USB interface in the center console.
The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions including a 3D display with virtual city views, eco-routes and the ability to add waypoints along your journey.
C63 AMG – fast-track to best-seller status
Launched in the U.S. in April 2008, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG rapidly established itself within the performance sedan segment. Over the past three and a half years more than 17,000 AMG enthusiasts world-wide have purchased the C63 AMG. The AMG Development Package has proven especially popular, with over 30 percent of all the C63 AMG models delivered in 2010 featuring this attractive option.
The U.S. market launch for the 2012 C63 AMG Sedan begins in autumn.
The new 2012 Mercedes Benz SLK has broken cover. Mercedes is officially dropping a few details about the next generation of its popular roadster. The first details are the visuals. As you can see in the pictures the SLK front end borrows a bit from the AMG SLS Gullwing. This isn’t the first time the SLK has taken styling cues from a flagship. A few generations back the SLK had a similar front end to the McLaren SLR. The 2012 SLK will have two engine options: a 201hp 4 cylinder and a 302hp 6 cylinder. The v6 will be available in the SLK 350 while the four-banger will come standard in the SLK 250. It would be great if MB decided to drop an 8 cylinder in this puppy but we probably wont see that anytime soon unless AMG has something to say about it.
The feature that is being touted the most by Mercedes is the “Magic Sky Control” option that will be available with the roadster. This option equips the SLK with a glass-roofed hard top which can go from solid black to transparent at the push of a button thanks to an advanced liquid crystal display system embedded in the glass. The Maybach 62 has a similar feature. Now even when the weather sucks outside you can still have an “open air” driving experience.
Some of the other gadgets available include “Air Scarf” which is basically a heater in the headrest to keep your neck warm when you drop the top in chilly weather. There will also be an “Attention Assist” option which will detect when the driver gets drowsey and will then proceeed to wake your ass up. It would be interesting to see some of those gadgets in action now but it looks like we’ll have to wait until the 2012 SLK hits dealerships this summer.
In the meantime check out the video trailer, a few pictures, and the official press release below.
The all-new SLK-Class, one of the most exciting and successful sports cars ever built, is entering its third generation. The 2012MY roadster takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to the next level by blending nimble handling with stylish comfort, striking sports-car design, everyday drivability, top performance and exemplary efficiency. In addition, the 2012 SLK-Class is proud to present the world premiere of the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which switches between light and dark transparency at the touch of a button. Exemplary efficiency and athletic flair come courtesy of powerful new 4 and 6-cylinder engines With superb levels of performance, they are more fuel efficient than their predecessors and with unique new safety equipment the 2012 SLK-Class sets the new standard in this segment. With its wealth of technical innovations, the SLK is once again the benchmark in its class. The 2012 SLK-Class goes on-sale in the U.S. this summer.
“The new SLK embodies the role of the trend-setter like no other car”, says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “I am convinced that with its passionate design, its high-quality interior and its modesty at the fuel station it will continue to provide an enormous amount of fun on the road in future, too, consolidating its status as a cult roadster.”
Innovations are part of the successful history of the Mercedes-Benz SLK:
In 1996, the first generation caused a sensation with the vario-roof, which transformed the wide-open roadster into a fixed-roof coupe at the touch of a button in just a few seconds.
The second generation placed the warm AIRSCARF around the neck and shoulders of the occupants as needed, ensuring open-top enjoyment even in cooler temperatures.
Now the third generation presents a unique highlight – the world premiere of the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be quickly switched to light or dark transparency at the touch of a button.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK unites premium comfort and high-quality equipment and appointments with an especially athletic flair. At the same time the new roadster is the most fuel efficient in its class matched with segment-leading safety. All-weather driving enjoyment – open or closed, during weekends or the daily commute – is firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes.
The designers have tailor-made a body for the new SLK that emphasizes its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight with a thrilling result. Behind the long hood is a compact passenger compartment and a short rear overhang. The SLK will tempt potential customers with these key attributes that characterize all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz.
The first eye-catching feature is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind and bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. The grille emphasizes the long and well-proportioned hood, and with its light-catching contours it already hints at the roadster’s dramatic qualities. The wide radiator grille bears the Mercedes-Benz star in a prominent central position and displays a powerfully contoured chromed fin at the front. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look of the new SLK’s face and resemble that of the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s, which is regarded by many as being the original “SLK”. However the designers did not just focus on the past; with the new SLK’s front end they also intentionally created a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG “gullwing model” and the new CLS.
The impressive result of this meticulously detailed work is that in spite of the more striking, steeper front and larger frontal area, the Cd value has been cut to just 0.30 – a brilliant achievement (the predecessor model’s Cd value was 0.32).
The timeless, classic shape of the side profile with the classic roadster proportions embodies aesthetics of the highest caliber and is a visual cue to the sportiness and driving pleasure in store. Fine details show the care that has been taken by the Mercedes-Benz designers. For example, a molding conceals the trunk joint, so that the side line cannot get in the way, as it usually does with similar roof designs. The ventilation grilles in the front fenders with a chromed fin are reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz roadsters of the 1950s. In the new SLK they form the perfect starting point for a feature line, which flows to the muscular rear fender, using light and shadow to add style and timeless aesthetics to the sides. Meanwhile the upper edge of the wide headlamps – which for the first time boast all-LED technology – also appears to flow into the feature line.
Interior with style and pure good looks
Despite the most compact dimensions in its class, the 2012 SLK has generous interior dimensions. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments that offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of quality and pure precision. The interior is characterized by stylish sportiness and genuine high-quality materials which have been processed with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Standard brushed aluminum trim covers the center console; wood trim can be ordered as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut. Four round, metallic air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS.
The SLK’s generous round dials are astride a display for the onboard computer. The color display for the communications and entertainment functions is housed in the center of the dashboard, and is easily read by both the driver and passenger.
Other high-quality pieces of equipment include a multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom section and a thick leather crown, plus available sun-reflecting leather that noticeably reduces seat temperature, ambient lighting
Unique equipment: MAGIC SKY CONTROL
For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK: in just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupe with a “fixed” roof at the touch of a button – and vice versa:
The standard version is a roof painted in the vehicle color.
Optionally available is a panorama vario-roof with dark-tinted glass.
The third option is a world premiere – the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof switches to light or dark at the press of a button. In light mode it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up from the sun’s rays. In other words: a comfortable atmosphere at the touch of a button.
Innovative AIRGUIDE wind-stop system
A comfortable alternative to the conventional wind-stop is a new pivoting wind-stop for the 2012 SLK, invented by Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics engineers. It consists of pivoting transparent plastic layers attached to the back of the roll bars. The driver or passenger can swing them to the center of the vehicle in an instant, thus taming turbulent air flow.
Spirit and efficiency
There will be two models of the 2012 SLK available in its first year, both powered by direct-injection engines. The completely redesigned V6 engine in the SLK350 develops 302 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph). Its fuel Later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimeters.
The SLK250 is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 27 mpg (combined). From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.
Suspension for the closest relationship with the road
A sports suspension with firmer springs and dampers ensures a sporty driving experience. Additionally the Direct-Steer system offers more handling and agility while also reducing the amount of physical effort required when parking.
During spirited driving, the Torque Vectoring Brakes produce a defined rotational movement about the vertical axis of the vehicle in fractions of a second through selective brake actuation at the rear inside wheel. This results in the SLK stabilizing without any compromises, and it steers into a bend precisely and under full control.
Clever use of materials and high levels of safety
The new SLK’s bodyshell has been further refined, with the hood and fenders now made of aluminum.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK also sets new benchmarks in terms of safety. The third generation of this icon will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, developed by Mercedes-Benz and fitted as standard equipment. Available through special order is DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE¨ Brake, which can autonomously apply the brakes in the event of an impending safety requirements.
Optionally available is the Lighting Package that not only provides headlamp cleaning but cornering and active light functions.
The 2012 SLK-Class makes its U.S. showroom debut in summer 2011.
The feature of the Mercedes Benz exhibit at the 2010 LA Auto Show was the “Sprinklesmobile” Mercedes Sprinter Van that gave away free cupcakes! OK, that isn’t totally true. The real feature was the North American debut of the 2012 CLS63 AMG. As I scarfed down my delicious frosted treat I was instantly struck by the new CLS63 AMG’s appearance. The car looks so rough yet so classy at the same time. If I had to personify the style of the CLS63 AMG I would liken it to a heavyweight MMA fighter wearing a three-piece suit.
I wanted to know more about what the CLS63 AMG would have to offer once it was released so I spoke to Greg Clark. Mr. Clark is the Manager of Exclusive Vehicles for Mercedes Benz and took the time to take me through the ins and outs of the new CLS63. From what Mr. Clark told me, this car will really be a contender in its class once it becomes available. The numbers and features on the CLS63 AMG are absolutely staggering. View the interview below for all the info as well as plenty of pictures.
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