Mercedes-Benz is celebrating the world premiere of the redesigned 2011 MY R-Class luxury crossover at the New York International Auto Show, open to the public April 2-11, 2010 at the Jacob Javits Center. The 2011MY R-Class combines the spaciousness of a luxury SUV with the safety, style and exclusivity of a Mercedes-Benz sedan.
Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, the R350 4MATIC produces 268 hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque, while the R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC features a 210-hp 3.0-liter turbodiesel delivering an impressive 18 mpg city and 24 mpg in the highway driving cycle. Available in 6- and 7-passenger seating configurations, all models feature the sure-footed confidence of standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
E-Class Wagon Makes North American Debut
The new 2011MY E350 4MATIC wagon joins the sedan, coupe and cabrio models to complete the versatile E-Class lineup. Featuring standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 7-speed automatic transmission, the V6 E350 4MATIC wagon features a 3.5- liter V6 producing 268-hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque. Detailed with expressive aluminum roof rails, the sleek 2011 E-Class wagon appears to have continuous side windows from the front windshield all the way to the rear lift gate, thanks to flush roof pillars trimmed to blend with the side glass.
A 60-40 fold-down rear seat makes for cavernous cargo capacity that’s highly flexible; the E350 4MATIC wagon is the only vehicle in its market segment to feature sevenplace seating as standard. With coil spring suspension up front and electronicallycontrolled air springs at the rear, the load-leveling air suspension keeps the car level regardless of the cargo weight.
SLS AMG GT3 Makes U.S. Debut
Automobile fascination paired with spectacular race car design – that is the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. The racing version of the 2011 SLS AMG has been conceived as a customer sport vehicle for participation in race series based on FIA
GT3 regulations. Meticulous lightweight construction and optimized chassis, brakes and aerodynamics deliver uncompromising dynamics. The extra special SLS AMG will make its race track debut in 2011.
The MY2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class – Safety, Luxury and First-Class Comfort
Bold New Look
One look is all it takes to see that the new MY2011 R-Class conveys a new level of assertiveness, underscoring the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. The completely redesigned front end completely transforms its overall appearance, taking its inspiration from Mercedes-Benz sedans and SUV models. Alongside its fresh exterior, the inner values of the redesigned MY2011 R-Class also speak for themselves. These include the spaciousness of a luxury SUV, as well as the safety, style and exclusivity of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. At the same time, the latest generation offers the interior versatility central to the R-Class vehicle concept, while also delivering the all-weather confidence of 4MATIC allwheel drive as standard (U.S. models only). The R-Class celebrates its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) March 31, 2010.
Efficient Engines
For the U.S. market, the R-Class is offered with a choice of two fuel-efficient engines. The R350 4MATIC delivers 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, yet achieves an estimated 14/19 mpg (city/hwy), while the R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is one of the world’s cleanest diesel vehicles. The V6 turbodiesel engine generates an output of 210 hp (155 kW) and an impressive torque of 400 lb-ft. Equipped with the highly-effective AdBlue© exhaust treatment system for low emissions, the diesel engine achieves an estimated 18/24 mpg (city/hwy).
A New Level of Style and Versatility
The redesigned R-Class features an assertive new design, further emphasizing the unique personality of this multi-talented vehicle. Designers focused their attention on completely restyling the front end, giving the R-Class a look that is both harmonious and powerfully dynamic. In addition to the hood, fenders, radiator grille, front fascia, headlamps and bumpers — with chrome simulated underguards — have all been completely redesigned. The face of the R-Class can be further enhanced with chrome trim incorporating optional LED daytime running lights in combination with bi-xenon headlamps.
Viewed from the side, the R-Class sets itself apart from conventional crossovers with the coupe-like line of its windshield and its distinctive, redesigned exterior mirrors and wheels. U.S. models feature standard 5-spoke, 19-inch wheels, with a 20-inch rim available on the R350 4MATIC as part of the Sport package. International market versions offer 5-spoke, twin 5-spoke and 10-spoke designs ranging from 17 to 21 inches (43.2 to 53.3 cm). The front-end design language continues through to the rear of the R-Class, with a restyled rear bumper with reflectors, standard LED rear taillights and integrated exhaust pipes.
Wellness program – relaxed ambience for long journeys and everyday use
If there was a versatility test for automotive interiors, the R-Class would surely be the top contender for first place. The seating variants in particular offer a wide range of possibilities – the R-Class was designed with a focus on comfort and security and with relaxed and safe travel in mind. Long wheelbase versions (short wheelbase not offered in the U.S.) offer seating for six people in the standard layout. Five, six and seven-seat configurations are also available (U.S. models offer standard seating for 6, with 7 passenger seating optional). Standard equipment includes partially poweroperated seats for the driver and front seat passenger. Active ventilated and heatedmulti-contour seats with full power adjustment and memory function are available as an option (special order in the U.S.) for front seat occupants.
The R-Class delivers a further benefit in the shape of its large, versatile luggage compartment. The short wheelbase version (not available in the U.S.) has a luggage capacity of up to 1,950 liters, while the long wheelbase version offers a maximum of 84 cu. ft./2,385 liters. All five-seat variants come with a separate load compartment beneath the floor of the main luggage area. The optional power liftgate — controlled remotely from either switch or key fob — facilitates easy entry to the cargo area. This makes the R-Class the most versatile and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle lineup.
In the finely appointed, airy interior — which feels even more spacious with the optional panorama glass roof — new materials and color combinations raise the premium feel and quality of this luxury crossover. They also add to the hallmark Mercedes ambience onboard. U.S. models offer a choice of standard MB-Tex in Cashmere and Ash in addition to popular Black. European customers can select from a range of upholstery combinations that include “Aspen” fabric and MB-Tex simulated leather.
New to the international range are the two-tone interior finishes. The base color of Almond Beige can be combined with the contrasting Mocha Brown. Alternatively, there is the base color Alpaca Gray contrasting with deep Basalt Gray (choice of beige/black or grey/black on U.S. models). Both color combinations are applied to the cockpit, steering wheel, center console, seats, door trim and floor coverings. Contrasting seat piping complements standard MB-Tex or optional leather upholstery.
The AMG interior sports package (not available in U.S.) comes as standard with black Nappa leather upholstery. Alongside trim elements in dark brushed aluminum and chrome trim in Silver Shadow, customers can also order from opulent wood veneer trim in high-gloss eucalyptus, high-gloss burl walnut or poplar anthracite. U.S. models feature standard burl walnut trim or special order eucalyptus wood trim.
Extensive Model Lineup
Even in its base versions, the R-Class offers a wide range of personalization options. All models come fitted as standard with a vast array of details that make both longdistance travel and short city runs safe and comfortable. These include the unique PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system, a comprehensive restraint system with eight airbags, NECK-PRO active head restraints, a tire pressure monitor and adaptive brake lights (not available in U.S.). Safety is further enhanced by powerful and user-friendly telematics systems like Audio 20, Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS.
U.S. models feature standard in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer with optional COMAND hard-drive navigation and harmon/kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound, as well as standard Bluetooth connectivity and available mbrace telematics. U.S. models features standard dual-zone climate control, while international market versions offer THERMATIC automatic climate control equipped with a combination filter for the further reduction of exterior air pollutants flowing into the cabin. The optional THERMOTRONIC (not available in U.S.) with its separate rear seat climate control optimizes interior air quality. The spacious glove box now comes with an AUXin jack for external audio and entertainment devices. Connectivity is further expanded by an optional media interface (UCI).
Alongside the extensive standard equipment, the R-Class also offers a vast range of assistance systems that define the highest level of comfort and safety and underscore the leading position held by the R-Class in this segment of the market. They include DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, AIRMATIC air suspension with ADS adaptive damping, which are both available as special-order options in the U.S., or the optional Blind Spot Assist that can make lane changes significantly safer. State-of-the-art voice activation makes using the telematics system even more straightforward, while a rear view camera enables fast and easy parking or maneuvering in tight conditions. As soon as the driver shifts into “R”, the camera image is displayed on the highresolution COMAND APS monitor. Rear seat passengers can enjoy their own entertainment program on board with the rear seat entertainment system. For increased comfort during the winter months, the second seat row can also be fitted with seat heating (special-order option in U.S.).
MY2011 R-Class – US model lineup and equipment options
Model overview*
R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
R350 4MATIC
*descriptions and data in this press kit apply to the Mercedes-Benz U.S. model lineup. Country-specific variations apply.
Standard equipment for first-class comfort and comprehensive safety
R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- Fuel economy (city/hwy): 18 mpg/24 mpg
- 50-state availability
- 19″ 5-spoke alloy wheels standard with all-season run-flat tires
- 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
- Sport front and rear bumpers
- Chrome fog lam
- Privacy glass
- Burl Walnut wood trim
- Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
- Power rear quarter windows
- Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
- PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
- NECK-PRO front head restraints
R350 4MATIC
- 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
- Sport front and rear bumpers
- Chrome fog lamps
- Power tilt/sliding glass sunroof with sunshade
- Power rear quarter windows
- Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
- In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer
- PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system
- 19″ AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (enhanced)
- Burl Walnut wood trim
- Privacy glass
- Premium leather multifunction steering wheel
- Chrome Package with dual chrome exhaust tips
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
Wheels
R350 4MATIC
- 19″ 5-spoke (8.0 x 19.0)
R350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- 19″ AMG 5-spoke (8.5 x 19.0)
Further attractive optional equipment adds to the R-Class experience:
Stand Alone Options
- Parktronic
- 7-seat option
- Wood /leather multifunction steering wheelmbrace
- Panorama Sunroof with electric sunshade
- Heated leather multifunction steering wheel
- Trailer Hitch — 3,500 lbs . (Class II)
- 3-zone climate control and rear air conditioning
- Rear Seat Entertainment System
- Rear Seat Entertainment System Pre -Wiring
- Heated Front Seats
Optional Packages
- Auto-dimming driver side and rear view mirrors
- COMAND system with hard-drive navigation
- Enhanced voice control for audio telephone and navigation
- Gracenote® media database
- HD Digital Radio®
- iPod/MP3 media interface (in glovebox)
- Memory Package for driver seat, power steering column and exterior mirrors
- Power folding mirrors
- Power liftgate
- Power steering column
- Rear view camera
- SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with SIRIUS real-time traffic service
- Zagat Survey® restaurant guide
- 115V AC power outlet
- 4GB hard-drive with Music Register for download of MP3 files
- Premium 2 Package
- harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system
- KEYLESS-GO
- Sport Appearance Package
- Dark tinted sport rear tail lamps
- Heat-absorbing blue tinted glass (first row only)
- 20″ AMG 5-spoke wheel
- The New SLS AMG GT3
Thoroughbred motorsport technology for the race track
Automobile fascination paired with spectacular race car design – that is the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. The racing version of the SLS AMG has been conceived as a customer sport vehicle for participation in race series based on FIA GT3 regulations. Meticulous lightweight construction and optimized chassis, brakes and aerodynamics deliver uncompromising dynamics. The extra special SLS AMG will make its race track debut in 2011.
The clean design and breathtaking form of the SLS AMG have been effectively accentuated by targeted modifications to the bodyshell. The new components, made largely from lightweight carbon fiber offer a clear indication of extraordinary race track performance and extensive aerodynamic development work.
From the front, the GT3 race car boasts a new front skirt with enlarged air intakes. The wide opening beneath the characteristic radiator grille bearing the large Mercedes star and the wing-shaped horizontal fins supplies air to the engine oil cooler and brake discs. The same function is served by the two intakes below the vertical bi-xenon headlamps. Downforce on the front axle is provided courtesy of four externally mounted side flics, as well as a carbon front splitter; it runs directly into the smooth underbody panel, which connects to the rear diffuser.
The hood features a central opening for the extraction of heat from the engine, while side openings in the front fenders facilitate air flow through the wheel arches. Weight optimization measures include the application of extremely lightweight polycarbonate for the side and rear windows and, if desired, for the front windshield as well.
The fenders have been widened front and rear to accommodate the large racing tires. With a breadth of 78.3 inches, the GT3 bodyshell is a good 2 inches wider than the series production SLS AMG. The new sills feature openings for cooling the rear brakes, with the smooth underbody visible along the underside of the sills. The B-pillar houses the standardized fuel tank adapter for the rapid refueling system. The 31.7 gallon fuel tank is located centrally behind the driver.
Wide rear carbon spoiler
The rear view of the SLS AMG GT3 is dominated by its imposing width. Above the rear hatch sits a wide carbon fiber spoiler; it is extensively adjustable and facilitates perfect setup to suit individual race track characteristics. The new rear skirt accommodates two openings for extracting air from the rear wheel arches. A further visual highlight is the rear carbon fiber diffuser; it rises smoothly from the rear axle area as a continuation of the smooth underbody, its form adding to the downforce. The overall aerodynamic concept of the SLS AMG GT3 was analyzed and defined through extensive wind tunnel and race track testing.
The black exhaust end pipes deliver a fascinating and, at the same time, characteristic AMG eight-cylinder sound. The regulation rain lamp is integrated into the rear hatch – it must be switched on by the driver in poor weather conditions.
Close to series production AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine
As defined in the FIA GT3 regulations, the AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine is virtually identical to that of the series production vehicle. Thanks to its low weight, the acceleration figures for the GT3 – 3.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 60 mph – are considerably below the already excellent figures for the series production vehicle. Depending on gear ratio, the top speed is more than 186 mph.
The AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine uses dry sump lubrication in the racing vehicle, too. The application of a suction and pressure pump, as well as an external oil tank means that the conventional oil sump can be omitted. This technology ensures reliable lubrication of the engine under high lateral acceleration, of the kind usually experienced on the race track.
Dry sump lubrication also facilitates a low mounting position for the V8 power unit – one of the key technological highlights of the SLS AMG. The solution – installing the eight-cylinder as low as possible and as a front mid engine behind the front axle, combined with a transaxle transmission layout – results in excellent weight distribution.
Six-speed racing transmission with sequential shift
In contrast to the series production vehicle, the SLS AMG GT3 is equipped with a sixspeed racing transmission with sequential shift. Thanks to its compact construction, the race-tested transmission offers considerable packaging benefits – ultimately, the GT3 version has less ground clearance than the series production vehicle. The driver shifts gear using two shift paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission is mounted directly on the rear axle and connected to the V8 engine via a torque tube, which has a very high degree of flexural and torsional stiffness. This delivers considerable benefits when it comes to dynamics, as this sophisticated solution enables the entire driveline to be laid out with significantly less play. Alongside the traction control, a multi-plate locking differential integrated into the transmission delivers outstanding acceleration characteristics. Inside the torque tube, a drive shaft rotates at engine speed. As in the series production model, and in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM touring car, the shaft is made from carbon fiber.
With its long wheelbase, low center of gravity and wide track, the SLS AMG vehicleconcept was predestined for the race track – its strengths include precise turn-in characteristics, first-class agility, low inertia under sudden changes of direction and a high cornering limit.
It required only minimal modification for perfect race track performance. The lightweight aluminum chassis with double wishbone suspension at all four corners has modified kinematics to take into account the lower vehicle height. The array of adjustability options facilitates optimal modification to suit individual race track characteristics and varying weather conditions. As well as the ability to vary the spring and damper setup, there is also the freedom to adjust track and camber, vehicle height and the stabilizers on the front and rear axles.
Like the series production SLS AMG, the GT3 version is also equipped with rack and pinion steering with speed dependent power assistance. The more direct input ratio facilitates even greater handling agility on the race track.
AMG race braking system using composite technology
Shortest stopping distances, highest stability and optimal control are guaranteed by the AMG race braking system. All four corners feature brake discs in motorsport-tested composite technology. Gray cast iron axial and radial floating discs are fixed to an aluminum hat via stainless steel composite elements. This sophisticated technology enables perfect heat dissipation and thus reliable stability. The SLS AMG GT3 is also equipped with precisely calculated cooling channels – openings in the front skirt and ahead of the rear wheels direct cool airflow over the brake discs. All four brake discs are ventilated, slotted and drilled. Six-pot fixed calipers on the front axle and four-pot fixed calipers at the rear, finished in anthracite with the AMG logo in white, provide plenty of brake pad surface. An anti-lock brake system with special race track settings is fitted as standard. Due to space restrictions, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system, available as an option on the series production vehicle, is not compatible with the 18-inch wheels prescribed by FIA regulations.
The AMG center-locking alloy wheels – 12×18 inches front and 13×18 inches rear – are fitted with racing tires in formats 11.3 x 26.9 inches (front) and 12.4 x 27.9 inches (rear). Depending on the application, the tires are available as profile-free slicks, intermediates or wet weather tires. The classic multi-spoke design aids ventilation of the braking system. Fast pit stops and wheels changes are ensured by the pneumatic lift system integrated into the underbody. Four pneumatic rams raise the GT3 race car by around 7.5 inches, enabling the pit crew to change the racing tires in double quick time.
Interior with racing bucket seat and race steering wheel
On opening the gullwing doors, the SLS AMG GT3 displays a functional interior with a distinctly race car feel. The driver sits in a racing bucket seat fitted with a six-point harness and the HANS system (Head and Neck Support) that fixes the helmet in place in the event of an accident, thus minimizing the risk of injury. Additional safety comes courtesy of the steel roll cage, which also serves to further stiffen the aluminum spaceframe.
A steering wheel with a diameter of 13 inches facilitates perfect vehicle control. Because it is open at the top, the driver always has a perfect view of the central display, which provides all relevant information such as road speed, engine speed, operating temperatures, lap times and gear selection. The steering wheel is fitted with a quickrelease mechanism that makes entering and exiting the vehicle considerably easier. The switches on the steering wheel hub enable the driver to activate additional functions such as the pit radio, headlamp flasher and the drink supply. Further operating elements are mounted on the center console and include the start/stop function for the AMG V8 engine, the traction control, reverse gear and – just in case – the integrated fire extinguisher. The control for adjusting brake balance is located on the torque tube tunnel.
The close relationship between the GT3 and its series production sibling is demonstrated by the instrument cluster, with its powerfully taut wing profile providing visual breadth. Integrated into the dash are the highly distinctive air vents galvanized in “Silver Shadow” and with adjustable cross-shaped nozzles – their form evocative of a jet engine.
Deliveries of customer vehicles to start early 2011
The new SLS AMG GT3 has been developed in accordance with FIA GT3 regulations and is entitled to participate in all GT3 race series – including the popular 24-hour races in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, and on the Nürburgring in Germany. Interested customers can order the vehicle starting in autumn 2010, with delivery scheduled prior to the start of the 2011 racing season. Homologation will be completed in March 2011.
Mercedes-Benz Unveils Next-Generation E-Class Wagon
New E-Class Wagon Features More Style, Safety and Utility
NEW YORK – Mercedes-Benz is launching its next-generation E-Class wagon at the New York International Auto Show, open to the public April 2-11, 2010 at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan. Packed with useful new safety technology, the stylish 2011 E350 4MATIC wagon is expected to reach U.S. dealerships this summer.
The Look of a Sedan, the Utility of an SUV
While the new E-Class wagon is styled more like a traditional sedan than an SUV, it boasts outstanding utility. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive provides an extra measure of traction, whether the road surface is wet, dry or covered with snow.
Smart-looking aluminum roof rails are standard, and inside, a 60-40 fold-down rear seat makes for cavernous cargo capacity that’s highly flexible. For example, the E-Class wagon can carry a grandfather clock and still accommodate three occupants, or a load of lumber can be carried with four people aboard.
Its normal five-seat configuration can easily expand to seven seats by unfolding a standard third-row seat from the luggage compartment floor. The E-Class wagon is the only vehicle in its market segment to feature seven-place seating. With coil spring suspension up front and electronically controlled air springs at the rear, its loadleveling air suspension keeps the car level regardless of the cargo weight.
An elegant luggage cover and cargo net are attached at the beltline so they don’t interfere with the fold-down rear seat. At the same time, the cover can be attached to the folded seatbacks if needed, and it can be raised conveniently whenever the standard power liftgate is opened.
4MATIC Four-Wheel Drive Sets a Trend
The new E350 wagon comes standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. As modern allwheel-drive systems become more refined, they are becoming increasingly popular, especially in the luxury car market. With negligible weight and fuel-efficiency tradeoffs, full-time four-wheel drive provides year-round traction and stability benefits on both wet and dry roads.
The latest Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC system is cleanly integrated into the automatic transmission so it fits right into the standard body and utilizes the existing front suspension. Fuel efficiency has been improved, due to a number of innovative measures that minimize the energy needed to turn the extra gears and shafts.
Sport and Luxury Models
Fitted with standard 17-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels, the E-Class wagon is available in Sport or Luxury trim that is designed to appeal to a wide range of customer tastes. All Luxury models come with a comfort suspension and can be identified by a four-lamella front grille, contemporary yet elegant body styling and an interior featuring burl walnut trim. Sport models have a three-lamella grille, expressive sport body styling and are fitted with sport suspension that includes a slightly lower ride height. Inside, the Sport model includes a unique tone-in-black interior theme featuring black-ash wood trim.
ATTENTION ASSIST Cautions “Time For A Rest?”
Among the many standard life-saving features on the E-Class is the innovative ATTENTION ASSIST system that can alert the driver to the first signs of drowsiness, a factor that causes more than 100,000 accidents a year in the U.S. A steering sensor is coupled to smart software that uses 70 parameters to establish a unique driver profile during the first 20 minutes of driving. Between 50 and 112 mph, the system identifies the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy and triggers an audible warning, and a “Time for a Rest?” message with a coffee cup icon in the instrument cluster.
More New Safety Systems Assist the Driver
Other examples of trailblazing innovations include: Lane Keeping Assist, which alerts the driver by simulating rumble strip vibration in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on. At any speed above 37 mph, the system recognizes lane markings, thanks to a small camera in the windshield and a computer that analyzes the video images.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a small video camera to sense both headlights and taillights, then softly and automatically transitions between high and low beam operation to avoid dazzling other drivers. With this system, the range of the headlights can be varied infinitely from their current 220 feet to up to 1,000 feet.
Night View Assist PLUS can now enable a driver to see pedestrians up to 300 feet earlier than before. When the system recognizes pedestrians, they appear in the display with an outlined frame highlighting each person. In contrast to passive systems that rely on thermal imaging, this active system bathes the road ahead with invisible infra-red light from two beams mounted in the headlights.
Extending the driver’s ability to see ahead to nearly 500 feet, Night View Assist PLUSuses an infra-red camera in the windshield and displays the reflected images as highly detailed black & white video images in the COMAND display.
The optional DISTRONIC PLUS system now includes Blind Spot Assist, which monitors both blind spots alongside the vehicle. Whenever a turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, the driver gets visual and audible warnings.
Its optional Parktronic system also incorporates Parking Guidance, which utilizes ten ultrasonic sensors mounted behind the front and rear bumpers. At low speeds, the system scans available parking spaces and displays a “P” in the dash if the car will fit in the space. When reverse is selected, Parking Guidance displays a pictogram of the steering wheel and provides helpful steering guidance.
PRE-SAFE® Brake Can Automatically Apply 100 Percent Braking in Emergencies
When the E-Class is equipped with the optional DISTRONIC PLUS system, another revolutionary Mercedes-Benz safety feature – PRE-SAFE® brake – can now apply full braking automatically in emergencies, to reduce accident severity. When PRE-SAFE Brake senses an impending collision, the system sounds three warning tones.
About 1.6 seconds before a potential impact, partial braking is automatically initiated, and the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system are activated. If the driver still fails to react, full-power braking is initiated about 0.6 seconds before the collision, reducing the impact and effectively acting as an “electronic crumple zone.”
All E-Class models are equipped with “basic” PRE-SAFE – the world’s first system that can sense and take protective measures before a crash. The innovative PRE-SAFE system first automatically tensions the seatbelts if the car senses an impending collision. PRE-SAFE uses resettable electric tensioners in addition to the existing pyrotechnic belt tensioners.
In addition, if the front passenger seat is overly reclined or forward, PRE-SAFE automatically moves it to a more favorable crash position. If the seat cushion angle of the front passenger seat is too shallow, it is also re-adjusted to help prevent submarining. If the vehicle skids (often a precursor to rollover), the system closes the sunroof and side windows. If a crash is averted, the electric belt tensioners automatically relax and are ready to deploy again.
If necessary, PRE-SAFE reacts to fishtailing (or oversteer) as well as “plowing” (or understeer) by using existing sensors for ESC stability control to measure steering angle, vehicle yaw and lateral acceleration. Emergency braking can also trigger PRESAFE, which monitors sensors for the Brake Assist system as well.
Up to 11 Air Bags for Front and Side Protection
The E-Class now comes with a new knee air bag for the driver that minimizes leg injuries in frontal collisions, while new pelvic air bags work with the existing curtain and side air bags to provide extra protection for front passengers in dangerous sideimpact collisions. Combined with front airbags, the E-Class now boasts nine supplemental restraints, and rear side air bags are optionally available.
Edgy Design Uses Cubist Cues
The design of the new wagon begins with a “cubist” treatment of the trademark Mercedes-Benz twin-headlight face. Two parallelogram lights are recessed into the front fenders, bracketing the three-dimensional frame of the front grille.
The overall body shape features a sophisticated interplay between taut lines and large curved surfaces. The wagon appears to have continuous side windows from the front windshield all the way to the rear lift gate, thanks to flush roof pillars trimmed to blend with the side glass.
Luxury Defined
Mercedes-Benz designers paid careful attention to the E-Class interior, to ensure that every surface is appealing in form, color and material. The cockpit features five analog gauges, including two pairs that overlap each other. Standard equipment includes a premium leather-covered steering wheel with integrated multi-function switches and a Direct Select electronic shift lever mounted on the steering column.
First-Class Seating
14-way adjustable power front seats feature stylish divided seat cushions that cover steel seat frames featuring their own suspension. An optional Drive-Dynamic multicontour seat for the driver uses a series of air bladders and mechanical bolsters in the bottom cushion and seat back to offer impressively variable seat adjustments. To provide extra support during spirited driving, the Drive-Dynamic seat inflates the rightside bolster in a left turn (or the left bolster in a right turn).
In COMAND
Also standard is a COMAND system featuring a large seven-inch color display screen with a standard in-dash, six-disc CD/DVD changer and a Bluetooth interface that allows a phone still in a pocket or purse to be operated through the car’s audio system. A standard rear-view camera displays the area behind the car whenever it’s in reverse.
The COMAND system can also display maps and directions for the optional GPS navigation system, which can be set up to display Sirius real-time traffic information and Zagat restaurant ratings. The system can also be equipped with an optional iPod/MP3 interface, Sirius satellite radio, HD radio, and an advanced voice control system for audio, navigation and phone systems. Using a console-mounted controller, the central display can be operated by either the driver or front passenger.
Mercedes-Benz Unveils 2011 SL550 Night Edition
Making its auto show debut in New York is the limited-edition 2011 SL550 Night Edition. Based on the iconic SL-Class coupe/roadster, the highlight of the SL550 Night Edition is its matte-finish designo magno night black paint and Black premium leather interior. Limited to just 100 units, this exclusive model will be available in U.S. showrooms in early 2010.
The special designo magno night black paint finish — specially developed exclusively for the SL550 Night Edition — works particularly well with the dramatic design of the SL-Class. The Night Edition rolls on 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels in a twotone, high-gloss finish, silver-painted front brake calipers with “Mercedes-Benz” script and darkened headlamps/tail lights help distinguish the exclusive status of the SL550 Night Edition.
The interior features a striking contrast of dark Black premium leather and bright chrome trim, with numerous fine details. The newly-designed seats have arrow-shaped seams and silver-colored contrasting features, while the sports steering wheel, shift lever and roof lining are trimmed in black. The trim strip of the wind-deflector has a high-gloss finish complimented by the silver-colored vents of the AIRSCARF® system, which bathes the driver in warm air when the convertible top is down during cooler weather.
Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster Sets the Standard
A direct descendant of the legendary 300SL “Gullwing” of the 1950s, the current SL roadster line-up features the V8-powered SL550 (382 horsepower, 391 lb.-ft. of torque) and the V12-powered SL600 (510 hp, 612 lb.-ft.) as well as the high-performance V8-powered SL63 AMG (518 hp, 465 lb.-ft.) and the V12-powered SL65 AMG (604 hp, 738lb.-ft.).
Mercedes-Benz performed a comprehensive exterior redesign on the iconic SL roadster, which features dramatic styling with fenders that incorporate sharp, angular headlights and modified gill-type air outlets behind the front wheels. A front hood with two power domes and a bold single-lamella grille emphasize the width of the body and make a symbolic visual connection to the famous 1954 300SL, while larger side mirrors reveal built-in arrow-shaped turn signals.
At the rear, the SL looks more aggressive than ever, with an air diffuser in the bumper that adds a motorsports touch, as well as trapezoidal exhaust tips that emphasize its width and suggest all the power on tap. The cockpit reveals a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and an instrument cluster with eye-catching red tachometer and speedometer needles that swing to the max position and back to zero whenever the ignition is turned on.
AIRSCARF Around the Head and Neck
All Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters are available with AIRSCARF, an innovative feature that can extend the open-air driving season into the cooler months. Another first from Mercedes-Benz, AIRSCARF is an extra heating system built into the driver and passenger seats.
At the touch of a button, warm air flows from vents in the head restraints, acting as an invisible scarf around the head and neck. Testing revealed that warming just a relatively small area around the neck dramatically improves comfort in cooler weather. The AIRSCARF neck-level heating system blows warm air from the head restraints of the driver and passenger seats, allowing occupants to cruise comfortably with the retractable hardtop open in cooler temperatures. AIRSCARF uses a heating element made primarily of barium titanate, which heats up in a matter of seconds when electrical current is applied.
Its electrical resistance jumps once it’s heated, reducing the power needed – engineers call this balance “Positive Temperature Coefficient” or PTC for short. The PTC heater is only a few inches in size, allowing it to hide inside the SL seatback. Aluminum fins on the heater help transfer the heat to the air, and a small fan pushes the heated air through the vents in the head restraint. Standard on the SL600 and SL65 AMG models (and optional on the SL550 and SL63 AMG), the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system even compensates for changes in air temperature and vehicle speed.
An electronic control module monitors data from inside and outside temperature sensors as well as the speedometer. AIRSCARF automatically adjusts fan speed based on this information, and a three-speed switch can override the automatic settings.
SL63 AMG Features AMG-Designed V8
The SL63 AMG has one of the most powerful naturally aspirated production V8s ever, boasting a wealth of exciting features derived from AMG’s highly successful racing efforts. Built almost completely from a high-strength silicon-aluminum alloy, the 518 hp engine features four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, bucket-type cam followers (rather than rocker arms), and a variable intake manifold.
