Mercedes-Benz USA is reporting that for the month of June, sales dropped to 15,155 new units – a decrease of 22.6 percent when compared to June 2008.  As a result of this figure, MBUSA's sales total 85,088 new units through the first half of the year, down 28.7 percent when compared to 2008's six-month YTD total of 119,279 new units.

As for the models making headlines, a single Mercedes managed to achieve a sales gain for the month.  That model, surprisingly, is the R-Class, which noted a sales increase of 18.1 percent with 680 vehicles sold.  The volume leader for the month was the C-Class, which noted sales of 4,583 units (-23.3 percent compared to June 2008), while the E-Class noted the second highest sales volume with 2,781 new units sold (-36.2 percent compared to June 2008)...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz USA Sales Drop 22.6 Percent In June 2009"

Daimler and Mercedes-Benz today have published a lengthy look at current and forthcoming technologies for their vehicles, with topics covered including a look at their electric drive systems, driver assistance systems, engine development and virtual crash simulations, just to name a few.  They've also been kind of enough to offer this information via a nicely formatted PDF file, saving you the pains of having to scroll through paragraphs and paragraphs of plain black-and-white text...

Keep Reading "Daimler And Mercedes-Benz July 2009 HighTech Report:  The Fascination Of Technology"

Although we still have a good amount of time to wait before the next generation Mercedes M-Class is unveiled, spy photos of the 2012 model have begun to surface.  As you would expect from a model roughly two years away from its unveiling, the ML is heavily disguised, leaving us to speculate what exactly is in store for the next version of the SUV.

Early rumors indicate a diesel-electric hybrid M-Class is in the works, a strong possibility considering a gas-electric hybrid M-Class should be arriving later this year.  Other rumors indicate the model could receive a plug-in variant – one that features an 80hp (60kW) electric motor paired with a twin-turbocharged and direct-injected 3.5L V6 while boasting the ability to travel up to 18 miles on electric power alone...

Keep Reading "2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Spy Photos Emerge"

If you're one of the first to get your hands on the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class and are now contemplating how best to tune your new model, you'll soon have another option to consider.  Japanese tuning firm Wald has unveiled the first glimpse of their styling package for the new E, and as you can see above, it looks to provide a significantly more aggressive appearance to the sedan (judging from the front at least)...

Keep Reading "Wald 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Black Bison Edition Tuning Package First Glimpse"

Now that the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is officially on sale here in the U.S., it's time to start the countdown for the next soon-to-be-released model.  That model, of course, is the 2010 Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet, the drop top version of the Mercedes E-Class Coupe that debuted back in February.

Unfortunately, there's no clear confirmation as to when the model will be officially unveiled – some rumors place its premier at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall; others think it will be next March in Geneva – but whatever the case, here are the latest nearly undisguised photos of the model...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet Spied With Top Down"

The high safety standard typical of the S-Class is further improved by a unique combination of new camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. Innovations such as Speed Limit Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and Adaptive Highbeam Assist or the PRE-SAFE® Brakes take occupant protection on board the S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG to a wholly new level.

A combination of ultra-modern assistance and protection systems turns the AMG S-Class into an "intelligent" partner that can see, feel, respond reflexively and act independently in relation to a perceived danger and so prevent accidents or mitigate their effects. For the first time cameras are also used that are able to look well ahead, monitor the car's surroundings and interpret typical critical situations. One example is the Adaptive Highbeam Assist (standard for S 65 AMG). This system recognises oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead with their lights on, and then controls the headlamps to ensure the best possible beam range without dazzling other road users...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And S65 AMG:  Active And Passive Safety"

The AMG sports suspension and ADAPTIVE BRAKE high-performance braking system are every bit a match for the effortlessly superior drive units: the two top-of-the-line models, the S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, raise the bar in terms of driving dynamics thanks to new high-tech systems.

Less steering effort, more agile handling with the same outstanding straight-line stability – the new Direct-Steer system in a nutshell, which is now fitted as standard on the S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG. A key feature of the Direct-Steer system is the variable-ratio steering rack that operates using purely mechanical means. While the power steering around the central position utilises an indirect ratio to promote excellent straight-line stability, this alters from a steering angle of around five degrees: really small steering angles are all it takes to perform precise cornering, noticeably improving handling on winding country roads. The steering angle requirements have also been modified, enabling the driver to steer the AMGsaloons far more easily, particularly on urban roads. Compared with a steering system with a constant ratio, the number of revolutions from lock to lock is reduced by around 25 percent with the Direct-Steer system...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And S65 AMG:  AMG Sports Suspension And High Performance Braking System"

Powerful eight and twelve-cylinder engines are a traditional strength of AMG – and no less so than with the S 63 AMG and the S 65 AMG, the S-Class top-of-the-line models. The S 63 AMG is powered by a high-revving V8 naturally aspirated engine developing 386 kW/525 hp, the S 65 AMG comes with a biturbo V12 engine that delivers 450 kW/612 hp. Despite no changes having been made to the engine and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the two high-performance saloons...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And S65 AMG:  Engines And Drive System"

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend.  As you may remember, back in April, Mercedes detailed the revisions they made to their new S63 AMG and S65 AMG variants, and today they've done so again, this time in even greater detail.  In total, there's about five press releases dedicated to the model, so to bring you the info as quickly as possible, I'm going to publish the straight press content, starting with a general overview of the changes made to each...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And S65 AMG:  Model Overview And New Features"

For lovers of exclusive cars Mercedes-Benz is proud to announce the arrival of an eye-catching new version of the C-Class on the scene. The new Special Edition is set to draw admiring glances with its sporty, elegant design features, reserved for this model only, a high-quality interior plus some exciting technical highlights as part of the standard specification, including AGILITY CONTROL, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, BlueEFFICIENCY and the Intelligent Light System, ensuring that even the most discerning requirements are met for those looking for refinement, motoring pleasure and a car with a distinctive character. The Special Edition is available as a saloon and an estate and with all the C-Class engines...

Keep Reading "New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Special Edition Offers Exclusive Style And Features"

To coincide with its 30th birthday, the legendary G-Class benefits from new additional features that primarily enhance comfort and exclusivity in the interior.

Mercedes-Benz is once again going its separate way with the G-Class. Instead of modernising the visual appeal of the striking design icon and relaunching it with a new design, those in charge have left its indestructible, hallmark traits untouched since 1979. At the same time, the consistent effort which Mercedes-Benz has put into the evolution of the "G" has helped safeguard its leading position...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Receives New-And-Improved Equipment"

Known for their bold designs, the tuning firm Hamann recently turned their attention to the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG, transforming it into a model they're calling the Hamann Typhoon.  From a power standpoint, its figures are impressive:  600hp (441kW) and 576lb-ft (782Nm) of torque, enough to propel the SUV from 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds and help it reach a top speed of 162 mph...

Keep Reading "Mercedes Tuner Special:  The Hamann Tyhphoon Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG"

If the first tuning package from Wald wasn't enough to meet your aftermarket Mercedes needs for the day, here's another that may do the trick.  It's again entitled the Wald Sports Line Black Bison package, but this time it's designed for the W215 Mercedes R-Class. Highlights again include a new front apron (with new fog lights), new vented front fenders, side skirts, a new rear apron, and a sport exhaust system, while completing the package is a set of multi-spoke Wald wheels painted in black...

Keep Reading "Wald Sports Line Black Bison Edition Tuning Package For The W251 Mercedes-Benz R-Class"

I don't know about you, but I can't think of a better way to kick off a beautiful summer Friday morning than with a healthy dose of Mercedes tuning goodness, and thanks to the fine gentlemen at Wald, that's exactly what we have for you today.  First up is a new tuning package for the W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, entitled the Wald Sports Line Black Bison Edition.  Highlights of the kit include a new front apron (with new fog lights), new vented front fenders, side skirts, a new rear apron, and a sport exhaust system...

Keep Reading "Wald Sports Line Black Bison Edition Tuning Package For The W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class"

Mercedes yesterday tipped us off to a new web special they launched recently highlighting the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, but we didn't quite find the time to bring it to you.  It's called the "Virtual Photo Shoot," and it features an impressive array of beautiful women gathered around the new model.  When viewing the web special, you have the ability to see the scene through the eyes of any of the women, and then take a snapshot of the scene, should you so desire.  After doing so, you can then set your image as a wallpaper, and subsequently email it to yourself or your friends...

Keep Reading "New 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Virtual Photo Shoot Web Special Launched"

The ESF 2009 is the first Experimental Safety Vehicle Mercedes-Benz has built since 1974. Like its historic predecessors, it attractively combines trailblazing innovations in the field of safety and makes the progress achieved visible. Integrating all the ideas and implementing them for a clear appreciation was an extraordinary challenge for the team in the test vehicle workshops.

The go-ahead for the ESF was given in October 2008, and the decision was received with great enthusiasm in the test workshop: "Making safety visible – I was quickly able to assemble a highly qualified team for this interesting project", says Axel Wittig, the team leader for the entire workshop facility. "The complexity of this assignment was a welcome challenge, as we not only had to integrate the numerous innovations into an S 400 HYBRID, but also make them fully functioning in demonstration mode and provide a look behind the technical scenes by incorporating eight inspection windows in the bonnet, bumpers and doors..."

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle: Creation And An Interview With Mercedes' Head Of Safety"

Mercedes engineers have thought about how children might travel even more safely in a car.  The two major advantages of the Mercedes concept study "Child Protect" over conventional child safety seats are an improved protective effect and greater comfort for the child. This is accompanied by a high level of quality and attractive visual integration of the seat into the interior of Mercedes models. This system jointly designed with the restraint system specialist Takata is suitable for children aged between three and 12 years (weight categories II and III). One special feature is its modular construction, as the height and width can be individually adapted to the child’s physical proportions...

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle: Child Protect & Cam, PRE-SAFE 360 And Size Adaptive Airbags"

With the multiple award-winning PRE-SAFE® system, Mercedes-Benz has once again been underlining its role as a pioneer in the safety field since 2002: once the system recognises certain critical driving situations, PRE-SAFE® activates occupant protection measures as a precaution. As a further development, PRE-SAFE Pulse is able to reduce the loads acting on the torsos of the occupants by around one third during a side impact by preventively moving them towards the centre of the vehicle...

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle: PRE-SAFE Pulse, Side Reflect And Belt Bag"

PRE-SAFE Structure:  It sounds like science-fiction – concealed metallic structures that wait patiently in a collapsed, space-saving state until they are required to go into action. Daimler researchers working together with the gas generator specialists at Autoliv spent two years actively researching such active metal support systems, and tested a variety of applications. For the very first time, inflatable metal side impact protection can be seen in the ESF 2009...

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle:  PRE-SAFE Structure, Braking Bag And Vehicle Communication"

Yesterday we brought word of a new concept vehicle based on the new Mercedes S400 Hybrid, and today, Daimler has officially unveiled the model along with a lengthy description.  It's called the Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle, and it's the first safety vehicle to be built by the company since 1974.  In total, the Mercedes ESF 2009 features more than twelve safety systems, the majority of which are fully functioning.

According to Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars:  "Safety is a central element of the Mercedes-Benz brand. In this respect we have been setting the pace in the market for almost 70 years. For the benefit of our customers and for road users in general. The ESF 2009 shows that we still have plenty of ideas and the absolute will, to lead the automobile industry in this field even in future..."

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 Experimental Safety Vehicle:  General Overview"

The first details have emerged today of a vehicle that's being called the Mercedes ESF 2009 Concept – a model that will reportedly be unveiled next week and one that demonstrates Mercedes' ongoing commitment to develop the safest vehicles in existence.  It's based on the new Mercedes S400 Hybrid, and it features a number of innovative safety enhancements, starting with an inflatable brake under the vehicle that in the event of an accident, helps create friction and thus, slow the vehicle down more quickly...

Keep Reading "2009 Mercedes-Benz ESF Concept Vehicle Makes Its Debut"

Daimler AG is reporting today that worldwide sales at its Mercedes-Benz Cars divisions dropped 12.4 percent in May 2009 to 97,300 new units, bringing total sales of the Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart brands to 433,100 units through the first five months of the year (a decrease of 21.1 percent).  Individually, sales at Mercedes-Benz were down 12.1 percent on the month (86,300 units), while smart noted a slightly larger decline, with sales trailing 14.9 percent when compared to May 2008 (11,000 units).  As a result of these figures, year-to-date sales at Mercedes-Benz are off 22.3 percent (383,000 units), while smart is down 9.9 percent (50,100 units) compared to 2008's five-month ytd total...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Cars Worldwide Sales Drop 12.4 Percent In May 2009"

Mercedes-Benz would like to remind you today that the new C-Class is the most economical C-Class ever.  Thanks to three direct-injection models – the C220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the C250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY – you can enjoy fuel consumption of just 4.8 liters, 5.1 liters and 7.2 liters (per 100 kilometers), respectively. For my American readers, that's about 49 mpg, 46 mpg and 32 mpg, respectively...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz C-Class Models With Direct Injection The Most Efficient C-Class' Ever"

The sales figures for the month of May 2009 are in, and Mercedes-Benz USA is reporting that for the month, sales dropped a total of 30.5 percent to 15,134 new units.  As a result, sales at MBUSA now total 69,933 new units, down 29.9 percent when compared to 2008's five-month year-to-date total.

As for the models making headlines, all of MBUSA's model sales were in the red for the month, save for the GLK-Class, of which 2,598 were sold.  Then again, the GLK wasn't on sale last year, so it's not really a fair comparison.  Looking at the models that were on sale, the month's biggest loser award goes to the CL-Class, with sales of the coupe dropping 77.1 percent to just 68 units.  Sales of the CLS-, R-, S-, and M-Class were all down significantly as well, with the group dropping 64.8 percent, 59.4 percent, 54.9 percent and 47.5 percent, respectively...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz USA's Sales Drop 30.5 Percent In May 2009"

It's June, ladies and gentlemen, which means it's time to get outside and start enjoying the beautiful summer air.  To help you get started, Mercedes has launched their Mercedes-Benz Bike Sports Selection 2009/2010 – a collection of bikes that covers a diverse of array of cycling enthusiasts.  For the off-road lovers, there's an aluminum framed full-suspension mountain bike featuring SRAM gearing, Avid Elixier CR disc brakes and a set of DT Swiss X 1800 wheels. The price:  3999 Euros...

Keep Reading "New Mercedes-Benz Bike Sports Selection 2009/2010 Makes Its Debut"

While the Mercedes C63 AMG Estate is by all accounts an impressive vehicle on its own merits, the fine gentlemen at Väth felt it was capable of more – and by more, I mean 585 horsepower and 690 Nm of torque.  It's these figures that help Väth's tuned Mercedes C63 AMG Estate – a model they call the Väth V63RS Clubsport Wagon – achieve a top speed of 202 miles per hour.  Excessive?  Maybe.  But the Väth V63RS Clubsport Wagon is sure to meet the demands of adrenaline loving soccer moms everywhere...

Keep Reading "Väth Tunes The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate:  The Väth V63RS Clubsport Wagon"

With the new 2010 Mercedes E-Class Coupe officially on sale (in select markets, anyway), it's only fitting that we turn our attention to tuning programs for the new model.  Always ahead of the pack with their tuning prowess, the first such program comes from BRABUS, with the company offering substantial styling and performance upgrades for the new E Coupe.

Outside, changes range from a new BRABUS front spoiler, front quarter panels, rocker panels and a rear apron to new BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels in your choice of 17, 18, 19 or 20 inches.  Complimenting its sportier appearance, BRABUS boosted the E500 (and E550) Coupe's displacement to 6.1-Liters, resulting in a total output of 462 hp (456 bhp) / 340 kW and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at just 3,100 rpm.  As a result, the tuned E500 Coupe can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 196 mph...

Keep Reading " BRABUS Tunes The New 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe"

Going through our inbox this beautiful Tuesday morning, the fine gentlemen at MEC Design sent us details of a new body kit they've created for the Mercedes S-Class.  Up front, you'll notice a new front apron is in place which features your choice of either fog lights and driving lights or a mesh insert, while in the back, a new rear diffuser and one piece rear spoiler are both present.

Also featured on the kit is new side skirts and an MEC Design Electronic Lowering Module which lowers the S-Class between 40 and 70 millimeters, as is an MEC Design exhaust system with chrome tips...

Keep Reading "New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Body Kit Unveiled By MEC Design"

One can call the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class many things, but naming it "the best looking car in the world" is, by any stretch of the imagination, certainly wishful thinking.  How, you ask, was it determined that the new E-Class is the best looking car in the world?  I'm glad you asked.

First, the German publication AUTO BILD asked its readers to vote for the best looking car in each of five categories, with the prerequisite being that all of the vehicles must have made their debut in the last year.  Then, some 100,000 readers responded, voting the 2010 E-Class Coupe winner in the "Coupe and Cabriolet" category and bestowing the 2010 E-Class sedan with top honors in the overall ranking.  Based on this highly scientific, one-hundred percent definitive study, Daimler arrived at the only conclusion that one could derive from a study of this type:  that the E-Class business saloon is "the most attractive new car in the world..."

Keep Reading "New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Voted Best Looking New Car By AUTO BILD"

Spring 2009 sees the GLK receive not only a number of new items of equipment but also a special distinction: compact and distinctive, it is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV model family to receive the sought-after Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard 14062. In awarding the certificate, the independent specialists at the TÜV test organisation have once again recognised the company's commitment to environmental protection, as also laid down in the policy guidelines for the entire Daimler Group. These require the premium manufacturer to go much further than merely considering the environmental effects which a vehicle has while it is actually in use. Instead, the entire lifecycle from development through the production process and the use phase right up to disposal is examined and optimised. The Environmental Certificate is based on a complete life cycle assessment of the GLK which comprises some 40,000 separate processes. In addition to the GLK, the A, B, C and S-Class models have already been awarded the TÜV Süd Environmental Certificate...

Keep Reading "The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Awarded TÜV Environmental Certificate"

The S 400 HYBRID is the first passenger car model with hybrid drive to be introduced by Mercedes-Benz. Its combination of a further developed V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the S 400 HYBRID the world's most efficient luxury saloon with a petrol engine. In the New European Driving Cycle, the combined fuel consumption is only 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. This produces the world's lowest CO2 emissions in this vehicle and output class - just 186 grams per kilometre...

Keep Reading "The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:  The S400 HYBRID"

With trailblazing innovations for even more safety, comfort and functionality, the 2009 S-Class once again sets the pace and provides decisive impulses in automobile technology. The high technological level of the luxury saloon is combined with an intriguing design that exudes the serenity, self-assurance and elegance of the vehicle even at first glance.

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provides a choice of two body variants and nine engine variants. Customers are also able to choose between rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Engine output ranges from 170 kW/231 hp to 380 kW/517 hp. The V6 and V8 models are optionally available with a 130-millimetre longer wheelbase; the luxurious S 600 flagship model is available only with the long wheelbase...

Keep Reading "The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:  Model Range"

Highlights, technical features and options of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class at a glance:

Keep Reading "The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:  At A Glance"

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen;  I hope you all had a fantastic weekend.  Today, we've got a comprehensive look at the recently announced revision to the consummate Mercedes-Benz S-Class.  As you may remember, we first told you about the 2009 S-Class last month, and subsequently detailed its AMG variants as well.  Today, we'll be taking it a step further, publishing a number of press releases highlighting the model along with a wealth of photos showcasing its various design and technicall attributes...

Keep Reading "The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:  General Overview"

Daimler AG is reporting today that in April, sales of its Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart brands totaled 90,900 new units (compared to 119,000 new units in April 2008), a decrease of 23.6 percent.  As a result, year-to-date sales at Mercedes-Benz Cars now total 335,800 new units, down 23.3 percent when compared to 2008's four month ytd total.

Individually, sales at Mercedes-Benz dropped 23.4 percent for the month, down to 80,700 new units.  To date, the luxury division has sold 296,700 new units, down 24.9 percent when compared to the prior year...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Cars Worldwide Sales Drop 23.6 Percent In April 2009"

For those of you looking to add a bit of customization to your new Mercedes M-Class, Cobra Technology & Lifestyle has unveiled a few new products that may be of interest to you.  First and foremost, there's a product they're calling the CITYGUARD.  Constructed out of stainless steel, the CITYGUARD attaches to the underside of the front bumper making installation straightforward, and in addition to providing added protection in the event of a minor collision, it also features dual LED daytime running lights, thus improving active safety...

Keep Reading "Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Upgrades Mercedes-Benz M-Class With CITYGUARD And New Wheels"

Mercedes-Benz today has unveiled an updated version of the largest member of its SUV family – the GL-Class – while at the same time introducing a range of new BlueTEC SUV models.  On the new GL, key exterior changes include modernized bumpers, redesigned chrome underbody protection at the front and the rear, a new radiator grille and fog lights/daytime driving lamps connected by a chrome bar, new light-alloy wheels measuring between 18 - 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes.  Also available are two exterior paint colors:  "Tenorite Gray" and "Palladium Silver..."

Keep Reading "World Premier Of The Updated Mercedes-Benz GL-Class And New BlueTEC SUV Models"

In April 2009, sales at Mercedes-Benz USA mimicked those noted by the majority of other automakers, with MBUSA noting yet another double digit decline of 28.1 percent.  In total, April sales amounted to 14,565 new units, compared to 20,271 new units in April of 2008.  As a result of the figures, year-to-date sales at Mercedes-Benz USA now amount to 54,799 new units (compared to 77,918 new units in April 2008), or in percentages, a 29.7 drop compared to the prior year...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz USA Notes 28.1 Percent Sales Decrease In April 2009"