THE MERCEDES-BENZ A 45 AMG

Driving Performance for the new generation

The most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world

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DRIVING PLEASURE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL: PASSION, SPORTINESS, INTELLIGENCE

New: E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet

Like the Saloon and Estate models, Mercedes-Benz has completely revised the Coupé and Cabriolet members of the E-Class family. New additions include powerful and efficient BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engines featuring pioneering injection technology and trend-setting assistance systems, which come under the heading "Intelligent drive". These are systems which can help to prevent accidents with crossing vehicles or pedestrians, Active Lane Keeping Assist or anti-glare, permanent high-beam headlamps, for example. Visually, both the Coupé and Cabriolet draw on the new Mercedes-Benz design idiom. Exclusive, luxurious equipment for sublime refinement underlines the close affinity with the E-Class family.

The classic Coupé and the four-seater Cabriolet of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class are amongst the most desirable vehicles at the higher end of the mid-class segment. By combining intelligent, efficient technology with luxurious equipment that offers superb comfort, neither model compromises when it comes to indulging a passion for superlative driving enjoyment. That is why they are regarded as highlights of the successful E-Class family. The design of the exterior and interior alike is fresh and sharp, as befits many of the stand-out new technical aspects.

According to Dr Joachim Schmidt, member of the Management Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars and responsible for Sales and Marketing: "Three words sum up both the E-Class Coupé and the four-seater Cabriolet model: captivating, athletic, passionate. It is especially pleasing that the two vehicles also incorporate the most intelligent technology ever. This makes them true dream cars."

Design: e-motion at its best

The main feature of the new look E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet is the revised front with new headlamps comprising a single headlamp lens over all functional elements. The headlamps are fitted with anti-dazzle LED lights as standard, with full LED technology now available for the first time in this class as an option. Flowing light elements within the headlamps reinforce the "twin-headlamp" look which is typical of the E-Class.

New front bumpers with a more pronounced V-shape and large air intakes considerably accentuate the dynamism of these agile vehicles. As a whole, the front with sports car radiator has an autonomous, sporty face, while at the same time emphasising the close affinity between the Coupé and Cabriolet and the new E-Class Saloon.

As a visible sign of this sporty car's rear-wheel drive, the muscular-looking rear wing has been retained. New tail lamps and a wide-effect rear bumper with "wing design" and chrome-look trim serve to discreetly underline the athletic appearance of these model series.

The Coupé has classic proportions with a long bonnet, elongated side line, flat roof line, and powerful tail end. Traditional stylistic features which render the Mercedes-Benz Coupé models unmistakeable define the striking lines of the two-door variant. For example, uninterrupted by a B-pillar, the side windows can be opened to their full extent.

The four-seater Cabriolet model also has fully retractable side windows, with a continuous shoulder line that ascends slightly as it runs from the front to the boot lid emphasising its clear proportions.

A fine interior

Mercedes-Benz has additionally updated the interiors of the new-generation E‑Class Coupé and Cabriolet, carefully coordinating them with the expressive exteriors. Inside the vehicles, stylish materials dominate alongside clean-cut surfaces and the two-part trim which stretches across the entire dashboard. It can be selected in a wood or aluminium look, thereby rounding off the high-quality overall impression made by each interior.

Also new are the three-tube instrument cluster with dials backed in white and the trapezoid-shaped, high-gloss framed display in the head unit with flat-frame look. The kindred nature of the new E-Class family is indicated by an analogue clock between the redesigned air outlets, as well as by controls in silver chrome.

The interior is characterised by the redesigned centre console without selector lever, as well as a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with DIRECT SELECT lever and shift paddles in conjunction with automatic transmission.

One special benefit of the new E-Class Cabriolet is that, thanks to the acoustic soft top with its particularly high-grade insulation, the vehicle has the lowest noise level in its class. The unique acoustic soft top ensures that even at high speeds, only very little wind noise is heard in the interior.

For exceptional comfort when driving with the top down, the speed-dependent AIRCAP system is available as standard in the UK. This reduces wind swirl within the vehicle interior and therefore noise levels, too. New: the AIRCAP system deploys automatically at speeds exceeding 25 mph and the wind deflector in the front windscreen frame automatically retracts again below 9 mph. This ensures that the E-Class Cabriolet appears at its purest and most alluring when driving slowly and when stationary. The draught-stop between the rear head restraints responds to the number of vehicle occupants (passengers in the rear are detected if the rear seat belts are in use). The positions of the extendable wind deflector in the windscreen frame and the draught-stop are then adjusted accordingly.

Also optionally available: AIRSCARF neck-level heating. This addition extends the cabriolet season by ensuring it is comfortable to drive with the top down, even when it is cold outside.

Limitless individual appointments

The E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet offer virtually unlimited scope for individualisation. Examples include new interior colours and colour combinations such as deep-sea blue to contrast with silk beige in the interior. This brings a breath of fresh air to the exclusive ambiance of the two sportier E-Class models.

"Intelligent drive" with futuristic new assistance systems

As for the Saloon and Estate models, new assistance systems that combine comfort with safety have found their way into the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. Mercedes-Benz refers to this development as "Intelligent drive".

One basis for all this is formed by state-of-the-art sensors such as a Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror that provides a three-dimensional view up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle. Intelligent algorithms merge the data from the stereo camera with data from installed radar sensors, performing an evaluation of three-dimensional visual information in order to detect vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a large field of vision. The algorithms also spatially classify moving objects.

As standard in the UK, both the Coupé and Cabriolet models are fitted with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive brake assist systems. It helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision. Also forming part of the standard equipment is ATTENTION ASSIST, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about their level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since their last break. It also offers an adjustable sensitivity level.

As for the Saloon and Estate models, a number of assistance systems are also optionally available which are either new or now feature significantly extended functions. The following is an overview of the innovations:

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can help to take the burden off the driver when it comes to keeping the vehicle in its lane and also track traffic in tailbacks semi-automatically

for the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Junction Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians too, and boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly

the PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 31 mph

PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision. The driver of the vehicle following behind is warned by activation of the rear warning lights with increasing frequency. The PRE-SAFE® system then triggers occupant protection measures to reduce the forces to which occupants are subjected. It can also firmly apply the stationary vehicle's brakes in the event of a rear-end collision to prevent secondary accidents

Active Lane Keeping Assist can now detect when the adjacent lane is occupied, including detection of oncoming traffic. When there is the risk of a collision, the system can also prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally, when continuous lines are present, by applying the brakes on one side. As such it makes the ideal supplement to Active Blind Spot Assist

Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS allows the main-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams' cone of light

Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces (standard in the UK)

in addition to speed limits, Traffic Sign Assist can now also detect and display no-overtaking zones and the respective signs signalling their end. In the case of signs imposing access restrictions, it can also provide visual and acoustic warnings the 360-degree camera covers all four sides of the vehicle, thus enabling a uniform all-round view, including virtual bird's eye view – a top-down view of the vehicle and its immediate surroundings. Dynamic guide lines help with entering and leaving parking spaces as well as manoeuvring

Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development: "The new E-Class represents a major step forward in every respect. The design elicits plenty of emotion, causing a stir in its segment. Its technical highlights are unique. For example, new assistance systems from the upcoming S-Class take the burden off the driver by automatically keeping the vehicle in its lane and also tracking traffic in tailbacks. For the first time, there are also systems that can help to prevent accidents involving crossing traffic or pedestrians. What is more, with its new engines the E-Class achieves optimum values in terms of efficiency, offers an internet-enabled infotainment system, and boosts safety when driving at night thanks to advanced LED headlamps and permanent high-beam with no dazzling. The E-Class is absolutely packed with high-tech features and altogether makes a very attractive package."

Powerful drive system delivering exemplary efficiency

There is a wide choice of powerful petrol and diesel engines for the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. All are highly efficient and equipped with the ECO start/stop system. At launch, there will be two petrol engines available; E 200 BlueEFFICIENCY and E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, and there are also three diesel engines; E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and E 350 BlueTEC.

A new element is the BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engine with spray-guided direct injection, based on the same trend-setting technology used in the latest generation of six and eight-cylinder engines from Mercedes-Benz. Its technology package includes fast-acting piezo injectors for multiple injection, quick multi-spark ignition, turbocharging, fully variable camshaft adjustment on the inlet and exhaust side, as well as a controlled oil pump.

The BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engine also sees the world's first use of the stratified lean burn process in combination with exhaust-gas turbocharging and external high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. As a result the Coupé and Cabriolet achieve outstanding emission and consumption figures. In addition, the new BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines already meet the EU6 standard which will apply from 2015.

The six-cylinder diesel engine for the Coupé and Cabriolet is available as BlueTEC models fitted with the established SCR (selective catalytic reduction) technology and as such meets the EU6 emissions standard.

Mercedes-Benz will also offer two transmissions for the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet in the future: a six-speed manual transmission with high ease of shifting and short shift travel, and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT SELECT shift paddles. This latest stage of evolution of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS provides significant advantages in terms of efficiency and ease of maintenance.

A new feature is the short-term M mode. The benefit of this: if the driver has shifted up or down manually, after a set period of time the transmission independently switches back to the fuel-efficient automatic shift mode.

The suspension – the basis for superior handling

As standard, the Coupé and Cabriolet are fitted with the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system. The shock absorbers adapt to road surface conditions, thereby ensuring a high level of ride comfort. Sporty handling is enabled while still delivering the comfort on long journeys that is typical of the brand.

An AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension with selective damping system and firmer damping characteristics is available as an alternative along with the Dynamic Handling package. The latter offers a choice of driving mode settings for sportier accelerator pedal characteristics and gear shift points, as well as electronic damping control. This allows the driver to adjust the damping to their requirements at the touch of a button, depending on whether they want a comfortable or sporty ride.

Like the Saloon and Estate models, in future the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet will be equipped with the electromechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. This combines speed dependent power assistance from speed-sensitive steering systems with a steering ratio that varies with the steering angle. The electromechanical Direct-Steer system ensures a more direct response, comfortable handling and high levels of steering comfort across all speed ranges. It also offers the potential to make considerable savings by only calling up energy for the steering action and making innovative assistance systems, such as Active Parking Assist systems, possible for the first time.

Source: News Press

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Photos & Info: Mercedes-Benz E-350 Coupe

This exclusive Mercedes-Benz E-350 Coupe was hiding from the eyes of Exotics in India for quite some time now and we broke the wait today, as we spotted this elegantly looking rigid beast. Man, I adore this car!

The Coupe model of the E-Class was first premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009. E-coupe is for the first time distinctly different from its sedan stablemate, though it is based on the sedan, the design shows various distinctions, a good example is the headlamps, which exhibit a more exclusive nature, as are the rear light clusters with more sporty design.

The Mercedes-Benz E-350 Coupe comes with a new 302-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine combining numerous advances to deliver more torque over a wider range of rpm.

Exterior

The exterior styling of the E-350 Coupe is alluring, especially when the four windows are down, the car gives you a feel of the CLS amongst the E class styling.

Interior

A quick glance through the window and I was amazed to see the details and the appearance, like its set to seduce the occupant. There was plenty of room in the front, however, the occupants on back seats would certainly complain on long trips.

The Mercedes-Benz E-350 Coupe is truly is a unique car, the designers at MB have spent great man-hours managing airflow through, under and around the E-class segment, as a result which makes it the world's most aerodynamically shaped car in the world.

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The new SLS AMG GT: Enhanced driving dynamics

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT boasts enhanced driving dynamics and even better race track performance. With a maximum output of 435 kW (591 hp), the optimised AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission and the redeveloped AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension, the SLS AMG GT – which is available both as a Coupé and a Roadster – has raised the bar even higher. As a further highlight, the new high-quality AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather is now also available as an optional extra for all SLS AMG models. According to Tobias Moers, Board Member and Head of Overall Vehicle Development for Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new SLS AMG GT demonstrates the sort of potential which lies in AMG's super sports cars. With its even higher levels of performance, the SLS AMG GT excites out on the race track in particular by providing an emotionally enjoyable and passionate driving experience."

Masculine and decidedly athletic: with darkened headlamps and tail lights as well as red-painted brake callipers, the new SLS AMG GT also features a unique look. The wing-shaped cross fins and the star recess in the radiator grille also retain a high-gloss finish, as do the exterior mirrors and the fins on the bonnet and wings. The AMG logo on the right of the boot lid also features the additional letters "GT".

One look at the technical specifications highlights the fact that AMG has succeeded in enhancing the dynamic profile of the SLS AMG GT even further. The maximum output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine is 435 kW (591 hp) at 6800 rpm, while the maximum torque is 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. The SLS AMG GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, and can reach a speed of 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds.

The key data at a glance:

	Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT
Cylinder arrangement	V8
Valves per cylinder	4
Displacement	6208 cc
Bore x stroke	102.2 x 94.6 mm
Compression ratio	11.3:1
Output	435 kW (591 hp) at 6800 rpm
Max. torque	650 Nm at 4750 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	13.2 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	308 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	3.7 s
Top speed	320 km/h*

* electronically limited

Mercedes-AMG has achieved the output of 435 kW (591 hp) through in-engine dethrottling measures in conjunction with an increase in peak pressure. The GT version of the AMG 6.3-litre eight-cylinder front mid-engine responds with even greater agility to accelerator pedal movements and excites with even sportier-tuned performance characteristics. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7‑speed sports transmission located on the rear axle is more direct and spontaneous in the manual "M" transmission mode: thanks to newly developed gear change functions and optimised transmission control, it has been possible to shorten reaction time significantly. When changing gears manually via the real metal shift paddles on the AMG Performance steering wheel, control commands right through to the noticeable gear change are executed markedly quicker than previously – all of which is ideal when striving to achieve some ambitious lap times on a closed-off race circuit.

The reaction time experienced by the driver is made even more emotional as a result of more distinct gear changes. The automatic double-declutching function when shifting down is also more pronounced in the SLS AMG GT. Due to an increase in engine torque in manual mode, the shift procedure is even quicker than previously – and is accompanied by some passionate acoustic feedback for the driver. Overall, the optimisation of the dual clutch transmission complements the sporty nature of the SLS AMG GT perfectly.

New AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension

But it is not just the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine and the optimised dual clutch transmission which are responsible for increasing the driving dynamics of the SLS AMG GT. The newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension also enhances the vehicle's sportiness. In the case of the SLS AMG GT, Mercedes-AMG has combined the sophisticated suspension layout with twin aluminium wishbones all round and variable, electronically controlled damping. Compared with the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the new AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension features basically stiffer spring/damper tuning and dispenses with "Comfort" mode.

"Sport" mode is recommended as the optimum setting for undulating road surfaces and routes requiring increased suspension travel – such as found on rural roads or the legendary North Loop of the Nürburgring, for example. The control algorithm of the AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension reacts best to fluctuations in the road surface with a tendency towards lower damper force levels. The resulting effect is the best possible performance by effectively preventing rolling and pitching and providing excellent contact with the road when adopting a sporty driving style. The enhanced driving dynamics and even better race track performance are measureable: as part of an internal comparison with the SLS AMG, the SLS AMG GT was able to achieve faster
lap times on a race track.

"Sport plus" provides higher damping forces and features specific control algorithms which have been adjusted for a decidedly sporty driving style on routes with a level road surface - such as when trying to achieve ambitious lap times on a race circuit such as Hockenheim.

Selection of suspension modes via the AMG DRIVE UNIT

Depending on the driving conditions, speed and vehicle load, the AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension adjusts the damping characteristics at lightning speed and automatically reduces the roll angle of the body. The two modes can be selected via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The activated suspension mode is indicated by means of indicator lamps on the button and the display in the AMG main menu.

As standard, the vehicle comes with 265/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 295/30 R 20 tyres on the rear, fitted to weight-optimised AMG forged light-alloy wheels featuring a 10-spoke design and painted in matt black and with a high-sheen finish. Three additional AMG light-alloy wheels are also available.

Interior with consistently sporty highlights

The interior too features a consistently sporty design: the SLS AMG GT combines the high-quality, exclusive ambience of a true AMG model with the functional atmosphere of a racing car. The sports seats not only have an embossed badge on the head restraints, but the centre sections are also finished in Alcantara ® . Continuing the theme, Alcantara ® is also found on the door centre panels. The black interior appointments are combined with red seat belts, plus all of the contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the centre console and the door panel lining is finished in red too. The floor mats also feature red edging.

The high-gloss black AMG trim on the centre console and door panel lining perfectly matches the high-gloss black edging on the adjustable cross-shaped air vents and the high-gloss real metal insert on the AMG Performance steering wheel with flattened lower section. The grip area is finished in Alcantara®, while the upper part of the steering wheel has a red 12 o'clock marking. The AMG instrument cluster is fitted with a black faceplate – at the top it also features an upshift indicator with seven LEDs.

AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather for all SLS AMG models

Also now available for all SLS AMG models is a new, highly exclusive optional extra in the form of AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather. This high-quality extra is available in single or two-tone finishes and comprises distinctive upholstery with a diamond design with contrasting stitching. The lavishly finished diamond design features not only on the AMG sports seats, but also on the door centre panels.

Other highlights include a designo leather finish for the entire dashboard, the beltlines and door armrests, the handrest on the centre console, AMG floor mats in black with porcelain leather edging, roof lining in Alcantara ® porcelain, and the parcel shelf (Coupé) or roll-over bar (Roadster). Seams finished in contrasting colours create exciting highlights and underscore the high-quality, hand-finished nature of this new leather package. Available colour combinations include mocha brown/porcelain, titanium grey pearl/porcelain and mystic red/porcelain. The colours of all of the elements of the interior appointment such as the roof liner, carpet and centre console are perfectly matched to each other.

Other attractive optional extras for all SLS AMG models include (extract):

§  AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirrors

§  AMG carbon-fibre engine compartment cover

§  AMG Interior Carbon-Fibre package (carbon-fibre trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels)

§  AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system

§  AMG Performance Media

§  AMG 10-spoke forged wheels in other colour variants

§  AMG carbon-fibre trim

§  AIRSCARF (Roadster)

§  Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system

Six SLS AMG models

The SLS AMG Coupé presented in 2009 was the first vehicle developed independently by Mercedes-AMG. The spectacular gullwing model was followed in 2011 by the open-top SLS AMG Roadster as well as the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports racing car. Having secured 26 victories and the FIA GT3 European championship title, the SLS AMG GT3 was the most successful newcomer to the world of motorsport in 2011. With the new SLS AMG GT, available as a Coupé and Roadster, the model range has now grown to five variants. The sixth model is expected to follow in 2013 in the form of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL: Mercedes-AMG is planning an exclusive series-production run of the purely electric-driven super sports car.

The specific assembly area for the SLS AMG is located in the largest Mercedes-Benz production plant in Sindelfingen. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine comes directly from the AMG engine workshop in Affalterbach, where it is hand-assembled according to the traditional "one man, one engine" philosophy.

40 significant awards for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The SLS AMG has succeeded in winning numerous comparison tests against a host of international competitors conducted by the international specialist media – both as the gullwing model and the Roadster. Since its world premiere at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 2009 and the presentation of the SLS AMG Roadster in May 2011, the super sports car from Mercedes-AMG has picked up a total of 40 awards – including such major prizes as the "German Design Award", the "Red Dot Design Award", the "Golden Steering Wheel 2009", "Classic of the Future", "Sports Car of the Year", "Best Performance Car" and "Legends on Wheels".

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

Source: Mercedes-Benz Media

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MERCEDES-BENZ WINS A BRACE OF FLEET WORLD HONOURS – FOUR YEARS IN A ROW

Mercedes-Benz UK is today celebrating yet another double win for both car and van at the Fleet World Honours – its fourth doubles win in a row!

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class has knocked the S-Class off the top spot to pick up Best Luxury Car, and the mighty Sprinter van has received the prestigious Safety Award; a Fleet World Honours award win every year since 2008 for the Sprinter. The trophies were presented at a special ceremony held at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall on Wednesday 16th May.

The CLS has the elegance and dynamism of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a saloon and was the first Mercedes-Benz vehicle to have frameless, all-aluminium doors, as well as being the first passenger car in the world to offer LED High Performance headlamps as standard (for Sport models).

With more than a dozen driving assistance systems including Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, which is now linked to ESP for first time, the CLS-Class builds on the pioneering four-door coupé design of its predecessor, while forging an entirely new identity.

Mercedes-Benz vehicles follow the philosophy that there is no such thing as too much safety. The Sprinter van has always led the way in this field, and was one of the first vans in the UK market to be fitted with ESP electronic stability control and a front bulkhead as standard.

With new additions like ADAPTIVE ESP®, an innovative driving dynamics control system which for the first time takes the load situation of the vehicle into account and combines the functions of the anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS) and the optional Start-off Assist system (AAS), the Sprinter is still one of the safest vans on the road today.

Commenting on the Best Luxury Car Award win, Fleet World Editor, Steve Moody, said: “It may not be the most practical, but the brilliant CLS offers luxurious, stylish motoring thanks to its elegant lines and classy cabin. For those at the top end of the executive sector, or somebody looking for a luxurious limousine at a very competitive price, the CLS provides the answer.”

Van Fleet World Editor, John Kendall, said of the Sprinter: “Safety has been ingrained in the Mercedes-Benz culture for many more years than many of its rivals and that’s as true of its commercial vehicles as its cars. The Sprinter was the first van to be fitted with ESP and load-sensing ESP as standard, followed by the Vito, while this feature is still not standard on all rival models. And there’s a long list of safety options available with Mercedes-Benz vans from airbags to reversing cameras, tyre pressure monitoring, headlamps with cornering function and many more. Most of these features have been available for some time and it’s only recently that rivals have started to catch up.”

The Fleet World Honours are presented annually to those motor manufacturers, service companies and individuals who have, in the opinion of the judges, achieved the highest possible level of excellence in their sector.

The judging panel is chaired by Steve Moody, Editor of Fleet World, and includes John Kendall, Alex Grant and Ross Durkin from the Fleet World editorial team. Residual value, maintenance and reliability data is provided by ALD Automotive, Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, Lex Autolease, LeasePlan and Arval. Market value data is provided by EurotaxGlass and VIPDATA.

Nick Andrews, Head of Fleet at Mercedes-Benz UK, added: “To be crowned as Best Luxury Car at the Fleet World Honours for the previous three years was fantastic, but to be crowned again this year with another exceptional product in the CLS, is truly outstanding.”

Steve Bridge, Van Sales and Marketing Director at Mercedes-Benz UK, concluded: “It is recognition of the strength of the Sprinter to be collecting an award at the Fleet World Honours for four consecutive years. For the 2012 award to be a safety one is a fantastic acknowledgement of the innovations that the Sprinter has championed.”

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Mercedes-Benz launched two new cars – AUTO SHOW 2012

Mercedes-Benz launched India’s most powerful open top vehicle: the SLS AMG roadster and the all new M-Class in India.

The SLS AMG: While it looks like a beauty, it does ride like a beast. The eight cylinder V8 engine produces rumbling 571 horse power at 6800 rpm with a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. It can go from 0-100 km/h in under four seconds (3.8s) and has a top speed of 317 km/h. The power and performance of a monster, the SLS AMG Roadster has all the trimmings of a formidable sports car.

The M-Class: Continuing in true M-Class tradition the third generation of this vehicle sets new benchmarks in SUV design, technology and performance. Pioneering the interpretation of a contemporary SUV, the NEW M-Class sports a powerful exterior and an interior featuring high-quality detail. The vehicle leads the field in terms of safety, comfort, quality feel. It is the benchmark for comfort and load compartment capacity and offers ease of handling on and off-road. In a nutshell, the M-Class is the new benchmark for a Luxury SUV in driver’s delight, passenger convenience and overall safety, a testimony of which is the prestigious EURO NCAP 5 Star rating awarded to the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz also showcased the fresh, vibrant product design through the Concept A-Class; the car which will offer design cues to future Mercedes-Benz development.

Mercedes-Benz utilized the Auto Expo to launch a new platform apart from launching 2 new cars.

Mb.Inspired: The philosophy of Best or Nothing has always inspired Mercedes-Benz as a guiding philosophy. It has not just inspired Mercedes-Benz in pioneering many innovations, it has also helped Mercedes-Benz vehicles to be the best in the auto industry and many more. Mercedes-Benz would be promoting this philosophy in India through the mb.Inspired Initiative. A new India is on the rise and its all about youth and rising aspirations. It’s a India which is fearless about taking risks and doesn’t fear failure. Mercedes-Benz commemorates these young youth inspirational icons through mb. Inspired

Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India explains: “ As India readies itself for globalization, the young India seeks recognition for their talent & uncompromising attitude which have made many stand up & get recognition in their respective fields. mb Inspired is once such platform which shall recognize these individuals & collaborate with them to spread inspiration. This helps us in communicating our brand values of Best or Nothing seamlessly to the Indian consumers”

Debashis Mitra: Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India said; “mb. Inspired is an initiative which synergises the Mercedes Benz ethos across various creative , sporting, business and lifestyle universes. The result is a collaborative perspective that fuels new ways of thinking and spreads inspiration.”

Farhan Akhtar, Chetan Bhagat & Masaba Gupta are all reflections of these very brand values which inspire the younger generation to take up new challenges & risks. They demonstrate the philospy of “Best or Nothing” in their own fields & spread inspiration in their peer groups.

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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350

On my walk through the parking lot stands a beauty with a powerful soul, the Mercedes-Benz SLK350 2012 version. Exotics in India has covered the previous version of the Mercedes-Benz SLK350, however the 2012 version looks fantastic than its previous versions.

The 2012 version of the SLK350 illustrates a striking new Mercedes-Benz brand look by featuring an eye-catching radiator grill emphasizing on the well-proportioned long hood which creates a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG gullwing.

Professor Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars says "The SLK continues the illustrious roadster tradition of Mercedes-Benz, and excitingly takes it into the future. The design idiom accentuates its lively, athletic presence, and is also sculptural. It expresses personality and sensuality. The same applies to the interior. High-grade materials, lovingly crafted details and a very exclusive finish characterize the essentially very sporty atmosphere."

Stocked with a 3.5L V6 engine, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 easily puts out a massive 302hp and torque of 273ft. lbs. This beauty takes just 5.6 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h and hits a top-speed of 250 km/h.

As standard equipment the SLK350 includes, AIRGUIDE, ATTENTION ASSIST, 7-G TRONIC, PRE-SAFE system, Bi-xenon headlamps, PARKTRONIC, Intelligent Light System with bi-xenon headlamps; LED daytime running lamps to identify a few.

Mercedes-Benz divides their vehicle safety language “integral safety concept” into 4 phases,

1. Safe Driving: During the journey, the vehicle helps the driver to identify critical situations promptly and handle them safely.

2. In Critical Situations: In the event of danger, numerous preventive measures can be activated to reduce the risk of injury. In the event of an accident,

3. During an Accident: The occupants can benefit from effective, individualised protection provided by the comprehensive range of passive safety systems.

4. After an Accident: The phase after an accident, when for example the hazard warning flashers are automatically activated to reduce the risk of new accidents.

For the 2012 SLK350, Mercedes-Benz offers genuine accessories like the MercedesSport rear spoiler, the chromed fin attachments for the bonnet and the light-alloy wheels in various designs and sizes.

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