Displaying items by tag: Mercedes

Friday, 08 January 2021 06:47

Mercedes GLC SUV review

“The Mercedes GLC is an SUV that benefits from a lot of C-Class pedigree, but with a raised ride height and improved practicality”

Mercedes has had a car battling against the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 since 2009, but to UK buyers this may not have been obvious because the old GLK-Class was only sold in left-hand-drive markets. However, since 2015, the GLC, which replaced the GLK, has been sold here and is an SUV version of the popular Mercedes C-Class saloon on which it’s based.

Mercedes gave the GLC a mild facelift in 2019, which involved some tweaks to the exterior design, some new engines and a plethora of technology upgrades inside. The updates were needed given how competitive the SUV market had become, and 2021 ushers in a plug-in hybrid version for the first time too.

Best 4x4s and SUVs
The revised GLC borrows engines and equipment from the C-Class. The similarities between the two models are harder to spot in style terms, however, unlike the Mercedes A-Class and GLA, which have more in common. The GLC is an attractive car in its own right, with the latest design including slimmer headlights and tail lights, and the latest Mercedes grille.

Every GLC comes with Mercedes' 4MATIC four-wheel drive and a smooth nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Versions badged 220 d and 300 d are fitted with the same 2.0-litre diesel, but tuned differently to produce 191 and 242bhp respectively. The 220d returns up to 45.6mpg and has CO2 emissions starting at 175g/km, while you can expect 42.8mpg and 184g/km from the 300 d, which are competitive figures. These are trumped by the GLC 300 e plug-in hybrid model, which can manage 26-31 miles of electric range and 122mpg. What’s more, its low CO2 emissions mean company-car tax is a third of the petrol and diesel engines.

A clear highlight of the GLC is its attractive and well built interior, which also has enough room for front and rear occupants to be comfortable, along with heater controls for people sitting in the back, which is surprisingly rare. There are lots of thoughtful cubbies and the 550-litre boot puts the GLC in the same territory as the X3 and Q5, while the Discovery Sport is more practical and has the option of seven seats.

The introduced the latest Mercedes MBUX infotainment system, but unlike all-new models, there's still a tablet-style central screen perched on the dash, that looks slightly incongruous. The software is a major upgrade, though, and the main screen now responds to touch as well as the central control pad. A regular set of dials are standard, while a large 12.3-inch digital version is available as an option.

On the road, it soon becomes apparent that Mercedes concentrated on comfort when developing the GLC. It’s very smooth on the standard suspension and even more cosseting if the optional air-suspension is fitted. Drivers on the hunt for thrills may feel short-changed, though – while the Volvo XC60 is even softer, the newer BMW X3 is more responsive and poised on a country road.

There are effectively three trim levels, consisting of the core AMG Line trim, plus Premium and Premium Plus versions. The 220 d engine is only available in AMG Line Premium and below; the more powerful 300 d is the AMG Line Premium and up. Desirable items like a powered tailgate, reversing camera and Artico leather upholstery are all included, along with sat nav and LED headlights. AMG Line Premium GLCs gain distinctive body styling and an interior makeover, as well as even bigger 20-inch alloy wheels.

AMG Line is now the most appealing trim for company-car drivers and we'd recommend spending the extra monthly finance cost for private buyers too, to benefit from all the GLC has to offer. The Premium equipment line includes adaptive headlights, running boards, a larger instrument display, ambient lighting, augmented reality navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and wireless smartphone charging.

Before it was facelifted, the GLC came 61st out of 100 models in our 2019 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, but reliability wasn't a strong point, so owners will be hoping issues have been remedied. Further peace of mind should be provided by the GLC’s five-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating.

Mercedes GLC SUV - MPG, running costs & CO2

The Mercedes GLC is actually quite economical given its size

SPECIFICATIONS
The Mercedes GLC is pretty economical for an SUV, with its claimed figures rivalling the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. Mercedes also offers competitive warranty and servicing plans.

Mercedes GLC MPG & CO2
The 220 d version of the 2.0-litre diesel engine can return up to 45.6mpg, reducing slightly in top trims with optional wheels fitted. CO2 emissions of 175g/km mean it sits in the highest BiK band, which won’t appeal to company-car drivers. The more powerful GLC 300d is a shade less economical, at up to 42.8mpg, with emissions of 184g/km. By comparison, the BMW X3 xDrive 30d offers more pace and returns 46.3mpg with 159g/km.

Petrol engines are offered too. A GLC 300 model promises up to 33.6mpg, while the AMG 43 and 63 models above are even thirstier. They certainly prioritise speed over running costs; you can expect 26 and 22mpg respectively. All petrols are in the top BiK band.

A plug-in hybrid GLC 300 de version is now available, pairing the 2.0-litre diesel engine with a 13.5kWh battery. It offers 27 miles of electric range and up to 156.9mpg if you regularly recharge the battery, while business users will be drawn to its 12-13% BiK rate. It’s also exempt from the London Congestion Charge until October 2021. In 2021 it was joined by the GLC 300 e, with a petrol 2.0-litre engine and an electric range of 26-31 miles. It can officially manage up to 128.4mpg with emissions of 62g/km and it takes around 2.5 hours to charge the battery using a 7kW home wallbox.

After the first year's CO2-based road tax (generally included in the on-the-road price), Mercedes GLCs cost £150 a year to tax, or £10 less if it's a hybrid. Every GLC now has a list price (including options) of more than £40,000, making it liable for an additional surcharge of £325 a year in years two to six, bringing the annual bill to £475 during that period.

Insurance
Insurance groups for the facelifted Mercedes GLC are quite high, with diesel versions starting in groups 32 and the GLC 300 de in groups 44-45 out of 50. Oddly, this is just as high as the AMG versions in groups 41-44.

Warranty
Mercedes provides a three-year/unlimited-mileage warranty on all of its new models, which is the same as BMW offers on the X3. Pan-European Mercedes Roadside Assistance is also included, that can last up to 30 years if you keep the car maintained within the dealership network.

Servicing
Mercedes offers fixed-price servicing plans that cover all scheduled maintenance. You can pay all in one go up front or spread the cost over monthly instalments, which should be about £35 for a diesel GLC.

Mercedes GLC SUV - Engines, drive & performance

Its diesel engines are smooth, but the Mercedes GLC is more of a comfortable cruiser than an exciting driver’s car



SPECIFICATIONS
Engine choice is reasonably limited in the Mercedes GLC, but the two diesel options are very smooth on the move. All also come with four-wheel drive as standard – a system Mercedes calls 4MATIC. The GLC is almost car-like to drive and as comfortable and sophisticated as a luxury limousine – a happy consequence of sharing a platform with the C-Class saloon.

The GLC is at its best when driven in a relaxed, unfussed manner than on spirited back-road jaunts. Although all models have clever dampers as standard, they seem optimised for soaking up bumps and improving ride comfort rather than providing sharper responses. For a truly rewarding SUV driving experience, the BMW X3 and Jaguar F-Pace remain the cars to beat, although in the comfort stakes, the Merc trumps the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The Volvo XC60 is even more comfortable still.

Mercedes GLC SUV nose20
The GLC leans a little during hard cornering, but not so much as to feel unsettling and less than the Audi and Volvo. The steering is accurate enough, yet feels rather light and requires quite large inputs, so there’s little to encourage fast driving anyway. It’s far better to ease off the accelerator and cruise, which the Mercedes does very well.

All models use a smooth, responsive nine-speed automatic gearbox, which does a good job of keeping the engine revs low in the interest of fuel economy. The four-wheel-drive system is permanently engaged and uses traction control to ensure a firm grip on the road – any wheel found to be slipping is lightly braked and the engine's power is sent to the wheel on the opposite side to get you moving again.

Mercedes GLC diesel engines
Many people buying an SUV of this size will choose a diesel, and there are two available, badged 220 d and 300 d. Both are different versions of Mercedes' four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine, which is smoother and quieter than the 2.1-litre diesel it replaces, but still slightly more clattery than the best diesel engines found in rivals.

It might not appear like it if you look at the official performance claims, but most drivers will be satisfied with the slower 220 d, and it suits the GLC well. Mercedes claims 0-62mph times of 7.9 for the 200 d and 6.5 seconds for the 300 d, both of which will be more than fast enough for most SUV owners. That means our top pick is the cheaper 220 d, and it's a shame this isn't available with every trim level. Unlike the coarse old engine, the GLC 300 d we sampled was as smooth and quiet as a petrol, but with even more urge in real-world driving.

Petrol engines
Talking of petrol, the GLC 300 with 254bhp is available, featuring a new turbocharger, engine design and particulate filter all aimed at reducing emissions. It's also fitted with a mild-hybrid system that can recoup energy as the car slows down, then use it to aid acceleration. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 6.2 seconds, while its top speed is 149mph. AMG models are even faster - the 43 model cracks 0-62mph in under five seconds, and the 63 and 63 S reduce this to four seconds or less. With the speed limiter removed, the GLC 63 S will carry on all the way to 174mph.

Hybrid engine
Most plug-in hybrids use a petrol engine, but the GLC 300 de has a diesel engine for long-range economy. The combination produces 302bhp, so the PHEV is quick too - 0-62mph takes 6.2 seconds. For 2021 the petrol-based GLC 300 e plug-in has also arrived, and it's even faster, taking just 5.7 seconds to get from 0-62mph.

Its 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and electric motor produce a combined 316bhp, and it does a good job of prioritising electric power when the battery is charged. In this mode it's almost silent, and even when the petrol engine kicks in it's almost imperceptible. There's also a clever regenerative braking system that can be adjusted using the paddles behind the steering wheel or left to work automatically based on the road and traffic.

Mercedes GLC SUV - Interior & comfort

The Mercedes GLC has a well built interior and even the entry-level model has loads of standard kit

SPECIFICATIONS
The Mercedes GLC boasts an impressive, high-quality dashboard and interior design that’s more luxurious and up-to-date than what you’ll find in many rivals. All models are well equipped, but you’d expect them to be considering the GLC’s price. We'd recommend choosing an AMG Line Premium trim or above to really experience all the GLC has to offer.

Thanks to a honed suspension setup and using some parts from the Mercedes C-Class saloon, the GLC is very comfortable on the move whether on the standard steel springs of the Sport or the optional AIRMATIC system. Road and wind noise are minimal and a clever crosswind prevention system helps to keep the GLC stable at high speeds. Even the more sportily tuned AMG Line models maintain the comfortable ride of the Sport, although the wider tyres do kick up a little more noise from the road.

Mercedes GLC dashboard
The GLC shines when you sit behind the wheel. The entire design looks like it’s been lifted straight from the C-Class saloon, as there’s loads of solid metal switchgear and clear instruments. The middle of the dashboard is dominated by a single piece of wood or gloss-black veneer that starts from just underneath the infotainment screen and swoops down to connect to the centre console.

The classic air vents look like they’ve been taken straight from a vintage aircraft and the control for the sat nav and infotainment is the only control interruption on the centre console. The steering column-mounted gear selector is a little strange to get used to, though. It's also a shame that the standard analogue gauges and central trip computer look dated compared with the digital instruments fitted in AMG Line Premium trim.

Equipment
The GLC now comes in AMG Line trim as standard but extra kit can be added by upgrading to Premium and Premium Plus versions. Even the entry-level model has a comprehensive amount of equipment: a reversing camera, Parktronic, a powered tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, LED headlights, leather seats, automatic climate control, sat-nav and DAB radio are all standard.

The AMG Line Premium version throws in a sports bodykit and interior makeover, sports suspension, 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, adaptive headlights, ambient lighting and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Premium Plus is even more lavish, thanks to a panoramic sunroof, Burmester stereo system, keyless entry, 360-degree camera view and memory front seats and steering wheel.

Options
The Driving Assistance package is worth considering if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel, adding blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control and a system that applies the brakes if it thinks you're about to hit the car in front. Air-suspension can also be fitted, further improving the ride quality. If you plan on towing, an official tow bar costs around £750.

 Mercedes GLC SUV - Practicality & boot space

The Mercedes GLC provides loads of storage areas and its boot is a decent size, if not class-leading



SPECIFICATIONS
Considering it’s an SUV, the GLC is easy enough to get into, as its doors open nice and wide. The steering wheel and driver’s seat have plenty of adjustment and there’s plenty of room in the back. Boot space is good, if not class-leading, but the plug-in hybrid offers noticeably less due to its batteries taking up some of the luggage room.

Mercedes GLC interior space & storage
The GLC offers a decent amount of leg and headroom in the rear, but the transmission tunnel can eat into space for the middle-seat passenger.

Interior storage is good, thanks to a generous space in the front armrest and a deep cubby in front of the infotainment dial in the centre console. The door bins can all hold bottles and rear-seat occupants get their own air ventilation and an armrest that features a storage cubby and two cup-holders.

Boot space
Total boot volume is about on par with a lot of the GLC’s rivals. The 550 litres on offer is the same as what you get in the BMW X3 and equal to the Audi Q5’s boot. However, it’s less than what’s available when you fold down the Land Rover Discovery Sport’s third row of seats. The GLC’s rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 configuration with the pull of a lever, offering extra versatility and more room in the boot if needed.

In the boot you’ll find the usual range of neat practical touches like anchor points for smaller items and a cubby either side to store bits and bobs. The boot itself is square and the opening is large, so getting awkwardly shaped items in should be a breeze, especially with the power-operated tailgate.

Compared to the 550 litres you get in petrol and diesel cars, the PHEV’s boot is a bit smaller at 395 litres. That’s only 25 litres more than in the A-Class hatchback but at least the boot floor is flat, unlike the annoying step in the boot of the E-Class plug-in. It also benefits from underfloor storage, so you can keep your charging cables separate from your shopping.

Towing
All diesel GLC models can tow 2,500kg – more than most versions of the Land Rover Discovery Sport, and matching the D240. Both the GLC 300 de and 300 e can also tow up to 2,000kg, which is an impressive amount for a plug-in hybrid.

Source: carbuyer.co.uk

Published in Mercedes
Tagged under
Monday, 04 January 2021 05:47

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-class

Overview
With a complete redesign in store for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-class, the entry-luxury car segment is in for a shakeup. The C-class has long served as the entry-point to the Mercedes-Benz lineup, but new additions to the brand in recent years such as the A-class sedan have allowed the C-class to move upmarket and better battle rivals such as the Audi A4, BMW 3-series, and Genesis G70. We expect the all-new 2022 model to continue to be built on a rear-drive platform, powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and offer all-wheel drive as an option. The cabin is where we'll most likely see the most modernization, as the C-class is expected to borrow styling elements and technology from the newly-redesigned 2021 S-class sedan. Mercedes-Benz has been mum on details, and we've seen nothing more than some grainy spy photos, but the redesigned C-class appears to be on track for a debut sometime in 2021 as a 2022 model.

What's New for 2022?
In short: Everything. Spy photos of the redesigned C-class show a car that's clearly completely new and it's expected to launch for the 2022 model year.

Although we've only caught glimpses of camouflaged sedans so far, we expect Mercedes will continue to offer the C-class in coupe and convertible body styles as well. Without knowing more about the new car's standard and optional features, it's difficult to predict which one will be the best buy. When we learn more about the 2022 C-class, we'll update this story with details.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2022 C-class will likely continue to be powered by the same 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as the outgoing model, but we expect it to start using the "350" designation in lieu of the current model's "300" to line up with the E350 sedan and GLE350 SUV, both of which use the same engine. All-wheel drive will likely remain an option with rear-wheel drive being the standard setup. When Mercedes releases information about the 2022 C-class's powertrain, we'll update this story with details.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn't posted fuel efficiency estimates for the 2022 C-class yet, but the new car's ratings shouldn't deviate much from the current model, which is rated at 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we'll put the new C-class through our 75-mph highway fuel economy test and report its results here.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
A full modernization of the C-class's cabin is expected and should include a digital gauge display, touch-sensitive controls, and a host of amenities. From the limited spy photos we've seen, we predict the car will have a steering wheel that looks similar to that of the redesigned S-class sedan's. The current C-class's interior is already one of the nicer cabins in the segment, with fine leather, real wood trim, and tasteful metallic accents, and we expect the 2022 model's cabin to be even nicer. Overall, the C-class looks to be similar in size to the outgoing model, so passenger and cargo space should be about the same.

Infotainment and Connectivity
If the redesigned S-class sedan is anything to go by—and we think it is—the C-class should launch with a large vertically-oriented center touchscreen similar to the 12.8-inch unit in the brand's new flagship. Regardless of screen size or orientation, the 2022 C-class will undoubtedly offer the most up-to-date version of Mercedes's MBUX infotainment system, complete with the voice-activated digital assistant, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and online access via a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have released crash test or safety information for the 2022 C-class. We are expecting Mercedes to pull out all the stops on driver-assistance features, though, and the new model should come standard with plenty of tech. Key safety features are likely to include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Although rivals such as BMW, Genesis, and Volvo offer three years of complimentary maintenance, Mercedes-Benz omits that benefit from its standard warranty offerings. Otherwise, all new Benz's come with an industry-standard plan that covers most things for up to four years or 50,000 miles.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance

Source: caranddriver.com

Published in Mercedes

Hood ornaments are dying. They have been for a long time, due to both safety concerns and automotive fashion trends. Jaguar laid down its leaper years ago, Lincoln’s crosshair thing was shot down years back, and Cadillac’s ornate wreath crest fell off its vehicles’ hoods and into the grille decades ago (then lost its wreath!). Mercedes-Benz remains one of the few bastions in the automotive space for the seemingly quaint marker, alongside Bentley and Rolls-Royce. But the majestic, hood-mounted three-pointed star is facing down a similar fate, at least here in the U.S.

The ’21 E-Class represents a remarkable mid-cycle update of an existing car, with Mercedes having improved and made over the luxury sedan, coupe, and wagon so deftly the E earned our MotorTrend Car of the Year award. It also represents the latest Mercedes model to lose its old-timey hood ornament, after the C-Class, SL-Class, and others, even though it had already been relegated to the fringes of the E-Class lineup here in America. The option is missing from the 2021 E-Class’s online configurator, and Mercedes has confirmed it no longer is available.

Previously, the E-Class was available in so-called “Luxury” trim, with a classic-style Mercedes grille—empty, with only chrome slats—and a three-pointed star perched atop a small plinth rising from the hood. The other trim, “Sport,” represents the vast majority of pre-refresh E-Classes and is the version you’re probably most used to seeing; where the hood ornament would be, it wears a flush button with Benz’s crest on it, and a more modern-style grille with a huge three-pointed star embedded in the center. The Luxury line also brought a more comfort-tuned suspension, tamer wheel designs, and other selections geared toward old-school Mercedes luxury instead of new-age, racetrack-tuned aggression common in the luxury car market these days.


 
Both the E-Class sedan and the station wagon were available in genteel, distinguished Luxury trim; now, there is no Luxury styling package available. But before the days of Luxury and Sport lines, the E-Class came with the hood ornament by default. That was phased out after the W211 generation was replaced in 2009 (pictured second from right, below); in that generation, even the high-performance E55 AMG model wore a proper hood ornament. It was the following generation (pictured far right), the W212, that introduced the star-in-grille style favored across the Mercedes lineup today to the E-Class.

Why, you might be asking, does any of this matter? Hood ornaments have been on the outs for years, what’s one more? The removal of the star hood ornament from the E-Class brings the well-worn trend to the doormat of Benz’s very core. Today’s E-Class can trace its lineage back through iconic mid-size vehicles that helped establish and cement Benz’s luxury credentials, including the W123-generation 200- and 300-series models, which are renowned for their bulletproof reliability, excellent build quality, and signature ka-chunk door closing sounds (a delight which today is only known to G-Class SUV buyers). What did all of those E-segment cars have in common? Hood ornaments keeping watch over a simple horizontal-slat grille.


 
It may come as small consolation, but Mercedes-Benz seems aware of the history and character tied up in its iconic hood star. Just look at the vehicles it continues to offer the hood ornament on: The all-new S-Class sedan, the standard-bearer for full-size luxury sedans, as well as the super-luxurious Maybach GLS SUV and S-class sedan. So, while the hood-mounted star may be gone from the E-Class’s option sheet, it’s not totally gone yet.

Should you want to indulge in today’s best mid-size luxury sedan, coupe, or wagon but just can’t stand the Mercedes star in the grille, we can offer you some hope. Mercedes-Benz designed and sells a version of the 2021 E-Class in Europe with the old-school grille and ornament treatment. We reckon that, were you to purchase the parts from Germany, you could (perhaps with some fabrication or creativity, depending on market-driven bumper and hood differences) fit them to your very own E-Class. After all, the grille shape suggests that piece is interchangeable, and the U.S.-market E-Class’s flush-mounted hood “button” appears to be in the same spot (and the same shape) as the hood ornament’s mount. Because there is just something special about driving a Mercedes and seeing that star hovering out over the edge of the hood and pointing the way. mercede-world.com

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes

In March, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 2021 E-Class All-Terrain Wagon complete with a handful of updates and confirmed that it is coming to the United States.

The high-riding version of the E-Class Wagon follows the same recipe of rivals like the Audi A6 Allroad and Volvo V90 Cross Country with features including an increased ride height and black body cladding. The E-Class All-Terrain also features a bespoke front grille and a distinctive skid plate. It all looks rather nice and the car was recently put through its paces by Autogefühl.
 
The example tested is the E450 4Matic All-Terrain. As such, it is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost technology producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, while the 48-volt mild-hybrid system adds an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque, for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time in approximately 5 seconds.

Like the regular E-Class, the interior of the 2021 All-Terrain is extremely nice and filled with loads of impressive technologies. A good portion of the interior review focuses on the MBUX infotainment system that houses features like the ambient lighting and massage seats.

{vembed Y=Cfb25cgEJGs}

The review then shifts to the Autobahn. Thee car is put through its paces at cruising speeds of 124 mph (200 km/h), with the presenter noting that it remains stable and is very quiet. Read more > https://mercedes-world.com/e-class/mercedes-benz-e-class-all-terrain-full-review-video

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes

In March, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 2021 E-Class All-Terrain Wagon complete with a handful of updates and confirmed that it is coming to the United States.

The high-riding version of the E-Class Wagon follows the same recipe of rivals like the Audi A6 Allroad and Volvo V90 Cross Country with features including an increased ride height and black body cladding. The E-Class All-Terrain also features a bespoke front grille and a distinctive skid plate. It all looks rather nice and the car was recently put through its paces by Autogefühl.
 
The example tested is the E450 4Matic All-Terrain. As such, it is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost technology producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, while the 48-volt mild-hybrid system adds an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque, for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time in approximately 5 seconds.

Like the regular E-Class, the interior of the 2021 All-Terrain is extremely nice and filled with loads of impressive technologies. A good portion of the interior review focuses on the MBUX infotainment system that houses features like the ambient lighting and massage seats.
 
The review then shifts to the Autobahn. Thee car is put through its paces at cruising speeds of 124 mph (200 km/h), with the presenter noting that it remains stable and is very quiet.

{vembed Y=Cfb25cgEJGs}

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been named Car of the Year by MotorTrend.

This year, the publication gathered together 18 different vehicles and 30 variants, including the likes of the Audi S4, BMW 4-Series, Cadillac CT4, Chrysler Pacifica, Genesis G80, Genesis G90, Kia K5, and the Polestar 2, among others. Six finalists were then chosen; the BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe, Hyundai Sonata, Mercedes-Benz CLA, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Nissan Sentra, and the Porsche Taycan.
 
Read More: See The Facelifted 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 And E53 Sedan, Estate And Cabrio From Every Angle
In determining its Car of the Year, MotorTrend has six key criteria for each car that it tests. These include Advancement in Design, Engineering Excellence, Efficiency, Safety, Value, and Performance of Intended Function. MotorTrend tested the new E-Class in a handful of guises during its 10-day testing programme, including the E 350, E 450, Convertible, Coupe, and the all-conquering E 63 S Wagon. It walked away the winner. 

Interestingly, the 2021 E-Class isn’t an all-new car, as many of the other vehicles in the Car of the Year test were. Instead, the 2021 model is a facelift of the W213 generation E-Class that has been in production since earlier 2016. While it may only be a facelift, Mercedes has made significant improvements to the car.
 
“They could have slapped on some new body panels, updated the engines, and called it a day,” MotorTrend’s Jonny Lieberman said of the 2021 model. “But the engineers went the extra mile. They pulled the all-nighter. Put in the hard work. The result? Car of the Year.”
 
The MotorTrend team added that the 2021 E-Class is made all the more impressive by the fact that each and every variant and body style excels in all conditions. For example, the pre-facelift E-Class Convertible had terrible cowl shake, according to Lieberman, but the 2021 model “feels like an E-Class: solid, refined, luxurious, better than the competition.”

{vembed Y=dgmefHYvoIQ}

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes

Mercedes has introduced the most prestigious edition of the S-Class, namely its Maibach version.

"For those who are looking for something exceptional, what other brands can't offer," say Mercedes representatives when talking about their new flagship. There is a lot to be said about the S-Class, which, with due respect to all competitors, is still a leader in its segment and a car that sets standards.

 So, how to raise such a car, which is in itself a synonym for prestige, to an even higher level? The answer lies in the Maibach treatment and attention to the smallest details. So, let’s say every Maibach S class has a unique two-tone body. Painting is done by hand, and this whole process can take up to a week for one car.

 As Mercedes says in press materials for the media, the Maibach S-Class is completely subordinated to the passengers in the back seats. Thus, the 18 cm longer wheelbase of this luxury sedan (as opposed to the extended S-Class) gave the addition of comfort for passengers in the rear of the vehicle.

 When looking at the exterior of the Maybach version, the differences are clear compared to the standard model. A new grille with vertically placed chrome dividers is placed in front. From the side, we can see that the rear door is larger than the "ordinary" class S, while on the C pillar there is a Maibach mark. Speaking of the last door, it can be opened by pressing a button with the driver's seat, so that the driver does not have to leave the vehicle for passengers to enter.

 The digitization that we saw with the new generation S class continued with the Maibach edition, and wherever you look, you can see it on a screen. In front of the driver, then on the center console, in the back of the front seats, between the rear seats ... Of course, the emphasis is on comfort and the comfort will be unprecedented for the passengers in the back.

 They are privileged, so they have the possibility of massage in the seats, and even massaging the lower legs, and their seats also have neck heaters. In addition, there is a new ambient lighting system that can be commanded by voice or simple hand gestures. Mercedes especially emphasizes the Maibach S class model, which offers absolute silence in the vehicle.

 When it comes to driving, the Maibach S-Class takes over the range of engines that the standard model also offers. So, through six-cylinder units, but also V8 and probably V12 propulsion units. However, not all engines will be available globally, as certain versions will only be reserved for certain markets.

 The variant with V8 engine is marked S580 Maibach and is distributed with 496 hp and 700 Nm. Power is transmitted to all points via a nine-speed automatic transmission, there is also a mild hybrid system of 48 V to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Mercedes has not announced details about the V12 version, and the question remains whether it will be offered at all.

 Such a long sedan will not be easily turned in the conditions of urban exploitation, so Mercedes decided to give Maibach variants of steering and rear wheels, which significantly reduces the turning circle. In addition, the S-Class Maibach is a fully adaptable air suspension, which transforms the car from a sporty beast into a comfortable cruiser.

 During the presentation, it was announced that it will upgrade the electric counterpart of the S class - EKS, it will have its own version of Maibach, which will include this subbrand in the EV model. Maybach is of great importance for the whole of Mercedes, and the head of this brand, Ola Kelenius, has already announced a further diversification of the offer of ultra-luxury vehicles.

 Thus, the Mercedes-Maibach S-Class already boasts excellent sales, especially in China. Since this model hit the market in 2015, more than 60,000 units have been sold, of which about 700 units were delivered in China in 2019. Maybach definitely has a bright future.

Published in Mercedes

The E-Class’s mid-life facelift is limited to a few minor styling changes and some tweaks to the cabin, but it remains an all-round impressive package. It’s still not as sharp as a BMW 5 Series to drive, but the interior blows its rival out the park; some of the tech feels like a bit of a gimmick, but quality, fit and finish are second to none. The E-Class now offers true S-Class luxury at a fraction of the price.

 Executive saloons are consistently popular with UK car buyers and still take a sizeable slice of the new car market. However, the sector is changing, with many buyers and fleet managers turning away from diesel in favour of plug-in hybrid drivetrains. 

Therefore it’s fitting that our first taste of the facelifted Mercedes E-Class comes in the shape of the E 300 e plug-in. The revisions are limited to a handful of cosmetic tweaks and cabin upgrades with revised infotainment, but the 300 e’s engine and electric motor have been left well alone. 

The new infotainment system is an improvement, thanks to the updated and responsive touchpad; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included, and are much more intuitive to use now that the screen can be operated via touch. 

The upgraded cabin also features a new steering wheel, with two pairs of thin spokes branching out from the hub. They’re festooned with buttons, which is slightly confusing at first, but no hardship once you’re familiar with it. It also features ‘capacitive hands-off detection’ for use in conjunction with the adaptive cruise control, which includes route and road-based speed adjustment. 

The E-Class’s overall feeling of quality is impossible to ignore. From the plush seats to the leather-trimmed doors and centre console, it’s hard to see where Mercedes’ new S-Class flagship will improve on the E-Class’s winning formula. The cabin is perhaps less driver-focused than that of a BMW 5 Series, but you can’t argue with the faultless fit and finish. 

Every E-Class bound for the UK gets twin 12.3-inch digital screens as standard; previously, entry-level cars used a set of analogue dials paired with a large central infotainment display. New LED lights also feature, alongside 17-inch alloys, heated leather seats and a suite of safety kit. 

If you’re after the sharpest-handling executive saloon, then the 5 Series still edges the Merc, while the latest Audi A6 arguably pips it for involvement, too. The E 300 e wafts along in a way the BMW can’t, yet it can feel disconnected from the road at times; fine on the motorway, but less engaging on a twisting country road. 

The upside of this is that the Mercedes rides well at high speeds – especially on our car’s 18-inch wheels. It’s not perfect around town, but driver and passengers are shielded from the very worst lumps and bumps. Smaller potholes are of little concern, and even larger ones are absorbed with reasonable confidence. 

With no changes to the hybrid model’s powertrain or chassis, the E 300 e retains its 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor. Combined they produce 316bhp and an impressive 700Nm of torque. As such, performance isn’t lacking; the electrical system’s instant torque allowing access to all that power from a standstill. 

Despite its prodigious output, the four-cylinder motor can sound a little strained when you floor the throttle and extend it into the upper rev range. Still, the E-Class more than makes up for this with its incredible refinement – especially when running around on electricity. 

Mercedes still claims an electric-only range of around 32 miles on a full charge, and our test drive showed this is a realistic estimate. Even on faster roads, the E-Class’s range read-out dropped very nearly in line with actual mileage covered. The various drive modes allow you to prioritise or hold battery power, or let the system work out what’s best for maximum efficiency. 

The transition between petrol and electric power isn’t perhaps quite as smooth as it could be, but you’re unlikely to notice the car switching between the two in normal driving. We’d recommend using the battery hold function as much as possible; there’s nothing quite as satisfying as running around town on electric power alone – especially at the end of a long journey. 

Charging the E-Class plug-in hybrid is pretty straightforward, thanks to the fact that every E 300 e comes with two cables – one to use with a wallbox or at public charge points, and one for standard three-pin domestic sockets. Owners using the latter are able to top up the battery in around five hours, or just 90 minutes using a 7.4kW home wallbox. There’s no option for high-speed CCS rapid charging, though.
 
One thing to take into consideration is that the battery does eat into boot space quite significantly, reducing the overall capacity by 100 litres to 370 litres. 

Of course, the main reason many buyers will opt for a plug-in hybrid over a diesel is for the generous tax breaks. The plug-in car grant no longer covers PHEVs, but the E 300 e’s low CO2 emissions mean company car drivers can take advantage of an appealing Benefit-in-Kind rating of 10 per cent for the current tax year. In this regard, an E 220 d can’t come close, although the E 300 de diesel plug-in will hold even greater appeal than the petrol for high-mileage drivers. Read more > https://mercedes-world.com/e-class/mercedes-benz-e300e-amg-review

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes

Mercedes-Benz has already announced a real revolution in the segment of electric models, so several novelties from the EQ family are expected in the coming period. The smallest among them will be EQA, which arrives next year.

Although it was primarily said that compact Mercedes models will arrive only in 2025, today the German manufacturer showed a video in which it announces the smallest model EQA for next year.

This model will be a counterpart to the GLA class in terms of base and dimensions. So, it is a small crossover, but with an electric drive, and of course, a slightly different design.

Recall that future Mercedes EQ power models will be developed on two platforms: EVA for oversized models and MMA for medium and compact electric models. EQA (GLA class) and EQB (GLB class) will be based on the second.

It is speculated that the EQA could use two electric motors (one on each axle), with a total power of 268 hp. Also, the range is expected to be around 400 km.
While we are waiting for most of the novelties, some electric "Mercedes" are already known to the public, and they are: EQC (electric GLC), then EQV (V-class on electricity), as well as EQS, whose premiere is expected soon.

The EQS will practically be an S-class on electricity, which the Nova.rs portal has already written about, so find out the details about the luxury sedan, which are known so far, at this link.

Take a look at the first spy shots from driving the smallest electric Mercedes.

{vembed Y=gqj4EaHWM_M}

Published in Mercedes

Poland-based Auto Dynamics just unloaded its new tuning package for the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S codenamed as “Charon”. On the outside, the Merc appears almost the same as its standard version but as the saying goes, “beauty is only skin-deep”, there’s more to the car than what the eye can see.

 Beneath the hood of the base AMG C 63 S lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. However, thanks to the AD850+ performance package of the tuner, additional 340 hp and 200 lb-ft can be squeezed out from the car, which brings its total output to a whopping 843 hp and 716 lb-ft of torque.

 The package includes an ECU tuning as well as a new set of TTE turbochargers, a sports catalyst, Supersprint downpipes, and cat-back exhaust system with adjustable valves from Remus Innovation. The power modifications are also complemented by Eventuri carbon-fiber intake with upgraded air intakes for better air circulation, Weistec ASV/BOV blow-off adapter, Wagner Tuning carbon air injectors, and Weistec sump for the AMG Speedshift transmission. 

Meanwhile, the exterior of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S gets a mild makeover with the AD Black Star body kit of Auto Dynamics. The package includes a blacked-out Panamericana grille, door handles, and the tuner’s badges. Lastly, it is topped off with a set of 20-inch BBS wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot 4S tires complete with lowering springs by Eibach and Fischer Stahlflex brake lines.

Source: mercedes-world.com

Published in Mercedes
Page 5 of 7

The latest news from the world of the auto industry

"It's time for Europe to respond to the threats posed by Chinese car brands," said Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo, urging European Union countries to collaborate in addressing the i...