Mercedes

• 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class spy photos reveal next-gen sedan

  This camo is disguising next-gen bodywork

  What appears to be the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan was spotted testing in Europe this week under some pretty substantial camouflage. While it may be difficult to tell where the body stops and the disguise begins, one thing is for sure: Mercedes appears determined to keep its foothold in the midsize luxury sedan market.

  

  The E-Class sedan may not seem like the sort of car that ends up on the chopping block, but given the proliferation of lifted hatchbacks and premium SUVs, it's hard to take a sedan's continued existence for granted. In fact, reports have suggested that the two-door version of this platform is being consolidated with that of the smaller C-Class, carrying on the fine tradition of Mercedes-Benz models whose names offer no hint as to what size they are.

  What we do know is that this will likely be the final E-Class to be offered with internal-combustion power. The company plans to introduce three new full-EV platforms in 2025: MB.EA for midsized and larger passenger cars, AMG.EA for performance cars and VAN.EA for electric vans and light commercial vehicles, meaning the next-gen E-Class should sneak in just under the wire.

  

  Not to be confused with the forthcoming, all-electric EQE (which is also a midsize), our spies tell us the new E-Class should arrive in time for the 2024 model year. A 2023-2024 introduction would set it up for sunsetting right around 2030 – just in time to meet some world governments' aggressive targets for full electrification.

  (https://www.autoblog.com/2021/12/01/2024-mercedes-eclass-spy-photos/)

• 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQG
   
   
   

  Overview

  Over several decades the Mercedes-Benz G-class built a reputation as an all-conquering off-roader before becoming a six-figure status symbol for celebrities. Now, with the automotive landscape shifting away from gas-powered cars, the G-class is spawning the all-electric EQG. So far Mercedes has only shown the Concept EQG, which it refers to as a “near-production study.” The EQG retains the classic boxy styling of the G-class, and Mercedes says that the EQG will continue to be an extremely capable all-terrain vehicle. The 2024 Mercedes EQG is expected to have four electric motors, one per wheel, and will integrate its batteries into an old-school, robust ladder frame.

  What's New for 2024?

  The EQG will be an all-new model for the Mercedes brand when it launches. We expect it to arrive for the 2024 model year, meaning it could go on sale in late 2023. Although it will probably share a similar suspension and chassis with the gas-powered G-class, the batteries and electric motors will be new to the EQG.

  

  Pricing and Which One to Buy

  EQG

  $150,000 (est)

  We estimate that the price of the 2024 Mercedes EQG will be in the $150,000-range when it reaches dealerships. We’ll know more about the different EQG trims and their pricing closer to the electric off-roader’s on-sale date.

  Engine, Transmission, and Performance

  The EQG is expected to be powered by four electric motors, one near each wheel, that will be individually controllable, which should improve on- and off-road driving performance. If the concept is any indication, the EQG will also come with a shiftable 2-speed gearbox for traveling far off the beaten path. The EQG will use a similar chassis setup to the gas G-class, with a sophisticated independent front suspension, which should help with on-road driving, and a rigid rear axle.

   

  

   

  Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

  The Concept EQG is fitted with a lockable box in place of the traditional spare wheel housing, to store the charging cable and provide some additional storage but we still expect the EQG to offer a rear-mounted spare tire unlike the concept.

  (https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/eqg)

• Daimler's head of design states that electrification will kill the traditional limousine

  You don't have to be an expert in the automotive industry to predict that the future of the German Mercedes is strictly electric, writes Motor1.

  But what does that direction mean for company design? If we ask Daimler's head of design, Gorden Wagener, this whole process means that we will soon see the end of the traditional limousine. And judging by the EQE and EQS electric vehicles, it seems that the new wave of high-tech electric vehicles from Mercedes will be shaped as a mixture of sedan, hatchback and probably coupe.

  "Electrification will kill a three-volume sedan for several reasons," Gorden Wagener told TopGear during the Munich Motor Show.

  "Aero is one. Secondly, with a six-inch battery, the three-volume sedan just doesn't look good, it looks s ***. You have to do something that visually increases the height. "

  Although the transition to electric drives generally gives designers more options, there are some limitations. What Wagener is talking about is the fact that the top EV sedans need a large battery and that destroys the elegant proportions of a traditional sedan.

  The solution? "That's why we came up with that bold design with EQ models, because it looks stretched, it looks elegant. So [electrification] will change the proportions of the car. We have to make sure that not everyone looks the same, but that fear has existed for about 30 years. We have managed to make them different and I am convinced that we can do that in the future. "

• Driven: The 503-HP 2020 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Wagon You Can't Have

  The compact AMG station wagon is a sportier utility vehicle—but it's not available here.

  Many Americans still think of "mom" and "station wagon" in the same sentence, ignoring that the ubiquitous modern SUV is essentially the 21st century's Wagon Queen Family Truckster. But in Europe, wagons are still cool, still the preferred utility vehicles for people with sporty lifestyles. And the faster the wagon, the cooler it is. Which makes the 2020 Mercedes-AMG C63 S wagon about as cool as long-roof load luggers come.

  

  The C63 S wagon is of course the E63 S 4Matic+ wagon's little brother, 11.5 inches shorter, 3.8 inches narrower, 1.3 inches lower, and rolling on a 3.9-inch-shorter wheelbase. It's powered by the same 503-hp, 516-lb-ft version of Daimler's versatile 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 as the AMG GLC63 S Coupe sold Stateside, rather than the big-hitter 603-hp, 627-lb-ft engine of the E-Class version. Can't have the 600-pound-lighter—and, in the U.K., the 23 percent cheaper—little brother upstaging things, can we?

  The C63 S wagon's lighter weight is partly because, well, it's smaller, and also because it doesn't have the bigger car's 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. By Daimler's own numbers, it's about half a second slower to 62 mph than the E 63 S 4Matic+ wagon, which suggests a zero to 60 time of about 3.5 seconds. Given the heavier, all-wheel-drive AMG GLC63 we tested a few years back recorded a zero to 60 time of 3.2 seconds, that might be a touch pessimistic. And there's nothing in it in terms of top speed between the two; Daimler says the E 63 S is good for 180 mph, while the C63 S will do 174.

  

  A 2018 face-lift added the toothy AMG grille up front and a new rear diffuser, plus the option of 19-inch forged alloy wheels instead of the regular 18-inchers. Interior upgrades included a 12.3-inch digital dash and 10.5-inch infotainment screen, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with touchpad controls on the spokes, and a rotary mode controller similar to Porsche's Sport Chrono unit.

  While the engine remained untouched, the old seven-speed torque-converter auto was replaced with AMG's nine-speed wet-clutch automatic, and it added an e-diff. AMG Traction Control—the same nine-stage system first seen on the AMG GT R—was made standard on the S. The AMG Dynamic Select system offers five predetermined driver modes, along with an Individual mode that allows you to choose the engine, gearbox, steering, and exhaust settings. AMG Ride Control manages the steel springs and adaptive shocks, and the AMG Dynamics system enables you to manage the ESP settings and torque distribution to the rear axle through four further settings: Basic, Advanced, Pro, and Master.

  

  What's it all add up to? A rambunctious little thug of a wagon, that's what. Next to the C63 S, the E63 S seems calmer, more mature—if any station wagon with Saturn V thrust, a rolling thunder soundtrack, and Drift mode could be called calm and mature. The C63 S feels livelier, noisier, busier, especially at 120 mph or more on the autobahn, where the shorter wheelbase and different suspension settings mean high-speed turn-in response feels more aggressive, and there's much more vertical motion through the chassis. The rear drive balance is real rather than digitally remastered; accessing Drift mode in this thing simply requires turning the traction control off, instead of the video-game cheat code sequence of button presses, paddle pulls, and menu fiddling E63 drivers must engage to defeat the AWD and access its rear-drive mode.

  

  It might not have the brute power of the E63 S, but Lordy it's still fast. On a trip that saw us in a single day dispatch the 700 miles between London and Dresden in eastern Germany, we averaged 100 mph on one 55-mile stretch of autobahn that included more than 5 miles of slow running through construction. The C63 S cruised easily at 130-140 mph when traffic allowed, and on one stretch we saw an indicated 156 mph.

  The best thing about the C63 S wagon? Not just that it flies, but that it flies below the radar. Unless you're an enthusiast, it could be one of tens of thousands of diesel C-Class wagons running around Europe on fancy AMG wheels. There's something deeply engaging about a supercar that to most people looks like an ordinary grocery getter. It has utility. But it's very, very sporty.

  Source: motortrend.com

• First look at the EQA - Mercedes' smallest electric model

  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.

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• German manufacturers warn: There are more and more fake spare parts

  German car manufacturers warn that there are more and more fake auto parts on the market. It harms them, and it can be very dangerous for road users.

  When Lita Silje Jeniš talks about her job, she sounds like a police detective. A story about raids, hidden production facilities, about organized crime. A story about a network of counterfeiters, about people who organize it all, about seizures. However, Jeniš does not work in the police.

  She is a lawyer and works for Mercedes-Benz. It deals with brand protection and tries to detect counterfeit Mercedes parts and remove them from the market.

  "Counterfeit products pose a significant risk to customers," says Jenish.

  For example, brake parts with less valuable components, which in practice means a longer braking distance. Or brake discs that contain toxic substances such as lead or arsenic. Windshields made of ordinary window glass. Air filters that are not made of fire resistant material. The list is long.

  More and more fakes

  According to data from car manufacturers, counterfeit parts are often discovered and withdrawn from sale. Volkswagen announced that counterfeit parts worth 14 million euros were seized last year for that brand of vehicle alone. That is almost twice as much as a year earlier (eight million).

  More than 1.86 million counterfeit parts were discovered at Mercedes in 2021 as part of 650 raids by the German authorities. That is six percent more than in 2020.

  "There is nothing that is not there," says lawyer Jeniš. The offer includes Mercedes stars, aluminum rims, airbags, windshield wipers, and even parts for brakes and spark plugs for the engine.

  Engineer Thomas Schuster from the KÜS organization, in charge of the technical inspection of vehicles, says that this trend is increasing. Some parts, he says, are of such poor quality that they can endanger traffic safety. But there are also parts that are good enough, so to speak, faithful copies of the original - this in turn causes huge economic damage to the manufacturers.

  Danger for road users

  Counterfeit parts are often quickly detected during a technical inspection of the vehicle, at least those that are visible at first glance. Original parts or parts that have been "copied" with the express permission of the manufacturer have a control number on them. But what about the parts that aren't visible unless the car is taken apart?

  "Air filters, spark plugs or brake discs are installed so we can't see if they're counterfeit," notes Schuster. In contrast, fake rims or lights are easy to see. The latter is dangerous in traffic because bad headlights can dazzle drivers from the opposite direction.

  Often the drivers themselves can suspect that they are being tricked by a fake.

  "Consumers should be aware that in the case of a large price difference compared to original parts, something is simply not right," says Schuster.

  The automotive industry invests great efforts in the fight against counterfeit parts. The VW concern has strengthened its cooperation with the authorities in Germany and abroad. Mercedes, as lawyer Jeniš says, collects information, cooperates with customs, digs online stores and helps investigative authorities during raids.

  Porsche did not provide specific data on counterfeits, but they said that they are carefully monitoring what is happening on large platforms such as eBay, Amazon or Alibaba.

• Mercedes E-Class hybrid review

  "The smooth and quick Mercedes E-Class plug-in hybrids combine luxury with impressive fuel efficiency”
  
  Those who live out of town might only encounter heavy traffic during the latter stages of the daily commute to and from work. It's in these circumstances, where the roads get congested, slow and polluted, that a plug-in hybrid really makes sense, and the Mercedes E 300 e and E 300 de plug-in hybrid’s are compelling options for those who want a decent amount of pure-electric range and low running costs for the daily commute.

  The E-Class hybrid range underwent a midlife facelift in 2020, getting a subtly tweaked exterior design that included a new grille and restyled LED headlights. The interior was also given a tech refresh with the latest touchscreen version of Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system.

  

  Unlike plug-in hybrid rivals such as the BMW 530e and Volvo S90 T8 Recharge, which can only be had with a petrol engine and electric motor, the E-Class hybrid is available as a petrol or a diesel, badged ‘E 300 e’ and ‘E 300 de’ respectively.

  Both versions combine their conventional internal combustion engines with a compact battery and an electric motor that's capable of propelling the car using only pure-electric power, while emitting zero CO2 emissions. Mercedes claims both cars are capable of triple-digit fuel economy figures, low CO2 emissions and over 30 miles of pure-electric range.

  In fact, make frequent use of that capability and you could come close to realising Mercedes' fuel-efficiency claims, while emitting less than 50g/km of CO2 – a figure far lower than a petrol or diesel car can deliver. The former is good news for anyone who has to pay for fuel and the latter will be appreciated by company-car drivers who have the cost of Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax to worry about.

  

  Away from what's under the bonnet, the cars conform to the usual E-Class template. That is to say you get an elegant, upmarket-looking car that continues to impress when you take a seat inside, finding yourself surrounded by high-quality materials, attractive finishes and advanced technology. A highlight of the latter is the dual-screen digital dashboard and infotainment system, as well as the smart blue mood lighting unique to the plug-in hybrid.

  Every Mercedes E-Class is a smooth, quiet cruiser and the E 300 e and de are no exception. Although the four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines aren't as pleasing to the ear as a six-cylinder might be, it's certainly not obstructive and settles into the background once up to cruising speed. The ride is smooth and wind noise is minimal, so motorway cruising is relaxed.

  The E-Class doesn't embarrass itself on winding roads, either – it doesn't have quite the steering precision of a BMW 5 Series or feel quite as agile when you pitch it into a fast corner, nor does it resist body lean as stoically as an Audi A6, but it's responsive, safe and well controlled, so you can take the rural route home in a hurry if you want to. There's no shortage of power, either – the E 300 e petrol engine produces 208bhp and the 121bhp electric motor provides a handy boost, for a total of 316bhp when you need it. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes less than six seconds.

  

  The E 300 de diesel version is no slouch either, taking 5.9 seconds, and might be better suited to those who make frequent long high-speed journeys with an urban portion at either end.

  Overall, the E-Class is a fantastic executive saloon that makes plenty of sense for business drivers. Its range and technology impress, as does refinement and the interior, but we'd stick with the AMG Line Edition without adding expensive Premium packs for the best value.

  MPG, running costs & CO2
  Business drivers stand the best chance of saving money in a Mercedes E 300 e or de

  If your daily commute runs to no more than 15 miles each way, both the petrol and diesel versions of the Mercedes E-Class plug-in hybrid can get you to work and back without having to burn any fuel at all. This is courtesy of a claimed all-electric range of over 30 miles, which also helps the E 300 e to return a claimed fuel-economy figure of 176.6mpg, with the E 300 de even more efficient at up to 235.4mpg. The digital dashboard gives suggestions for economical driving, which can actually be curiously engaging to follow, gamifying the driving experience.

  

  However, the testing procedure under which these economy figures were achieved assumes that owners can maximise the use of electric mode for a majority of their driving. If you cannot recharge the battery, or are making longer journeys where the battery becomes depleted, then you will be relying on the engine more often, which will make the official fuel consumption figures impossible to achieve.

  During our test of the E 300 e, we spent the majority of our time running in pure-electric mode. One of the most impressive aspects of the car is its realistic electric range estimate, with a mile of range falling for every actual mile travelled - sadly this isn’t the case in every electrified car.

  While Mercedes claims 33-35 miles of range with a fully charged battery, most drivers should be able to manage close to 20-25 miles in mixed driving, with around 30 miles possible at slower speeds in town. With the battery depleted, fuel economy is liable to fall to around 35mpg.

  When compared to the petrol version, the E 300 de is a slightly different prospect that’s aimed at higher mileage drivers. While the claimed fuel economy of over 200mpg is a little fanciful, regular charging of the battery and careful use of the car’s driving modes returns around 51mpg across a mix of town and motorway driving. When running on pure-electric power, we were able to eke out around 15-20 miles, which is somewhat short of the 32-34 miles claimed by Mercedes. Once the battery was depleted, fuel economy fell to around 43mpg.

  

  Every E-Class hybrid offers different driving modes to either hold onto battery charge (until you reach a town for instance), stay in electric mode, or use a mixture of engine and electric power. All aim to help the driver to maximise fuel economy.

  The official CO2 emission figures of both cars are cast in stone regardless of your driving habits, with the E 300 e emitting 37g/km and the E 300 de just 33g/km. This means that company-car users can enjoy a low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rating, which is far lower than any pure petrol or diesel version of the E-Class; the likes of the E 200 and E 220 d sit close to the top of the BiK ratings.

  The 13.5kWh battery can be charged via 7.2kWh wallbox in 1.5 hours. Opt for a three-pin plug socket and you can expect to wait around five hours for charging to complete. Unlike fully electric cars, there’s no fast-charging option.

  Other running costs are unlikely to differ from the Mercedes E-Class norm, which is to say expensive servicing but reasonable parts prices and tyres that are a fairly common, sensibly priced size. You can take out a service contract to help manage the cost of routine servicing, and there's a three-year/unlimited-mileage warranty, which can be extended at extra cost.

  

  The E-Class hybrid costs more than £40,000 to buy, incurring an additional tax surcharge of £325 a year. After this period, tax falls to the typical reduced rate for hybrids.

  Engines, drive & performance
  Plug-in hybrid power serves up strong performance, but doesn't bring excitement

  The Mercedes E 300 e plug-in hybrid is very similar in concept to its BMW 530e hybrid rival. Both cars use a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a battery pack and an electric motor. The Mercedes is faster, though.

  With 208bhp from the petrol engine alone, 121bhp available from the electric motor and a total of 316bhp to call upon when you need it, the E 300 e can sprint from 0-62mph in 5.7 – and sprint is the operative word, with the electric motor capable of delivering all its power instantly. This makes it feel surprisingly urgent when you nudge the throttle, despite its size and weight.

  However, the four-cylinder petrol engine can sound somewhat strained if you floor the throttle, with a noise that isn't as smooth or pleasing to the ear as the V6 in the Mercedes-AMG E 53; it just emits a nondescript wall of sound under full acceleration. This fades away when you take it easy, though, and is quieter than the E 220 d's diesel engine when cruising on the motorway. It's a shame, though, that such exciting acceleration doesn't come with an equally appealing soundtrack, and that the petrol engine has to work that much harder once the battery is depleted.

  The E 300 e doesn't offer the last word in driving pleasure on a twisty road, either. Instead, the E-Class focuses on comfort and refinement over outright handling prowess. It feels planted and secure in corners but falls short for driver involvement when compared to a BMW 5 Series or Audi A6, even if its steering has a nicer feel.

  

  In terms of overall refinement, the E-Class excels against its rivals and the E 300 e is no exception. It absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, especially if you add the optional air suspension. There's barely any wind noise at motorway speeds, and engine noise only becomes noticeable when overtaking or joining fast-flowing traffic.

  During normal driving, the switch between petrol and electric power is barely noticeable, but is perhaps not as smooth as it could be. Once in all-electric mode at lower speeds, there's barely any noise at all, aside from a faint hint of tyre roar and the whirr of the electric motor.

  With a combined 302bhp and 700Nm of torque, the diesel powered E 300 de feels as quick as its petrol power sibling, with the benchmark 0-62mph time taking 5.9 seconds. In real-world driving, it offers more shove than the E300 e thanks to the increased pulling power from the 2.0-litre diesel engine.

  Switching between electric and diesel power is fairly unobtrusive, with a distant thrum letting you know the engine has started. On occasions in electric mode, the car did hesitate slightly under hard acceleration as it decided whether to fire up the diesel engine.

  Much like the petrol-powered version, the E 300 de is smooth and refined on the move, with only the occasional hint of diesel clatter making its way inside the car. The additional pulling power of the diesel engine means there’s always enough power in reserve for getting up to speed or overtaking.

  Again, the E 300 de cannot match the dynamics of a diesel 5 Series, but offers a greater level of refinement. It feels planted though, with plenty of grip and accurate turn in. In sharper corners, the additional weight of the diesel engine is noticeable, but the handling is good enough for most drivers.

  Interior & comfort
  The Mercedes E 300 e has a hi-tech look inside, without feeling cold or unwelcoming

  The ability to cruise so quietly on the motorway makes it easier to enjoy the E-Class hybrid’s comfortable and well-designed interior. Both the petrol E 300 e and diesel E 300 de are identical inside, and while the Audi A6 may offer a more futuristic look and improved material quality, many will prefer the more traditional, comfortable feel of the Mercedes.

  In terms of overall refinement, the E-Class excels against its rivals and the E 300 e is no exception. It absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, especially if you add the optional air suspension. There's barely any wind noise at motorway speeds, and engine noise only becomes noticeable when overtaking or joining fast-flowing traffic.

  Dashboard
  The specification of the E-Class plug-in hybrid range is the same as the standard car, with every version getting a pair of 12.3-inch displays mounted in parallel to create the illusion of a seamless display that flows from in front of the driver to the centre console. It incorporates a fully configurable digital instrument cluster that can display a rev counter or an 'efficiency' gauge that can help you eke the most range from the car’s battery.

  The left-hand panel hosts the touchscreen infotainment display, which incorporates sat nav with 3D mapping, Bluetooth smartphone connection, DAB radio, and access to Mercedes' online services. These include a concierge service that can provide real-time information about parking spaces and local petrol prices.

  As part of the 2020 facelift, the infotainment system has been improved and is easier to navigate. The addition of a responsive touchscreen makes it easier to operate with Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system, which is on par with the best in the class. Top versions even feature augmented reality sat nav, which overlays directions on a live video view of the road ahead. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included, and are far more straightforward to use via the touch interface. The addition of the full-screen digital dials is a nice touch as well, adding a luxury element from the S-Class.

  The facelifted E-Class boasts an all-new steering wheel, which features a number of physical buttons. This layout is slightly confusing at first but is easy to get used to.

  Equipment
  Every version of the E-Class plug-in hybrid is well-equipped, with the entry-level AMG Line Edition (an exclusive trim for the PHEV models) getting 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, heated seats, leather-trimmed upholstery, three-zone climate control and an array of standard safety kit.

  Plusher AMG Line cars get multibeam LED lights and different interior trim. Stepping up to the AMG Line Premium trim adds to the kit list further still, with a 360-degree camera, augmented reality sat nav and keyless go.

  The range-topping AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus is fitted with a panoramic sunroof and gloss black detailing. Inside you get a premium Burmester stereo system and ash wood interior trim but the additional outlay means we think the standard AMG Line car is better value.

  Practicality & boot space
  The Mercedes E 300 e boasts lots of space for passengers, but batteries reduce boot space
  On top of its elegant, high-quality interior and generous list of standard equipment, the Mercedes E-Class has lots of space for passengers to stretch out. It's not short of luggage room, either but does feature a smaller boot than the conventional models.

  The latest E-Class was designed with a longer wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels) than its predecessor, and that extra length has gone towards increasing interior space, particularly legroom. The front seats have lots of adjustment as standard, with fully electric memory seats available if you do find the perfect driving position elusive.

  In the back, the E-Class nips at the heels of the more expensive Mercedes S-Class when it comes to space. The curvaceous roofline means rear headroom is the one area that could be more generous, but most will find legroom to spare, and only when there's a fifth person in the centre rear seat do passengers rub shoulders.

  Interior storage is generous, too, with a large glovebox, storage area beneath the centre armrest and a wireless phone charging pad at the base of the dashboard.

  The car’s battery has been fitted under the boot floor, which affects boot space. At 370 litres, the hybrid E-Class loses over 100 litres when compared to a standard petrol or diesel model.

  Reliability & safety
  The E-Class has strong safety credentials, but Mercedes' reputation for quality varies between owners

  The Mercedes E-Class has yet to feature in our annual Driver Power owner satisfaction survey. However, taking into account all the Mercedes models that did feature, the brand finished in 28th place out of 30 manufacturers in 2020. Ending up towards the bottom of the table was an uninspiring result for a premium brand, but BMW actually finished just one place ahead of Mercedes. Both were beaten by 21st-place Audi, while Jaguar finished in a far more respectable 12th position.

  Mercedes owners seemed particularly disappointed by servicing and running costs. Interior styling and build quality received more praise than handling and ride comfort, and reliability was regarded as below average, with 24% of owners reporting a fault within the first year of ownership.

  The brand is often regarded as something of a pioneer when it comes to on-board safety equipment. The E-Class offers sophisticated features such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assistance, auto-dipping headlights and traffic-sign recognition, as well as active cruise control.

  The plug-in hybrid E-Class shares its five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating with other models in the range – the independent organisation awarded the Mercedes a 95% score for adult protection in a crash and rated it at 90% for how children are protected.

  carbuyer.co.uk

• 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

• 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

  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 the standard annual rate in VED (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 in years two to six, elevating the annual bill 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.

  

  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 & comfortThe

  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.

   Mercedes GLC SUV - Reliability & safety

  There’s an impressive amount of safety technology as standard, but there could be questions about long-term reliability of the Mercedes GLC
  
  SPECIFICATIONS
  The Mercedes GLC has an impressive suite of safety kit, which can be added to with optional equipment like adaptive cruise control. Although owners expressed reliability concerns in our 2019 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey.

  Mercedes GLC reliability
  Looking at the 2020 results of our Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, Mercedes as a brand came a disappointing 28th out of 30 manufacturers, with 16.5% of respondents reporting a fault within the first year of ownership.

  Things were even worse for the Mercedes GLC in particular, because despite coming a reasonable 61st out of our top 100 cars overall in our 2019 results, it came dead last for reliability. A worrying 44% of owners reported at least one fault in the first 12 months, including engine, electrical and interior trim problems. The GLC didn't appear in our 2020 results. Hopefully Mercedes will have identified these teething problems and recified them as part of the model's facelift.

  Safety
  Along with the standard spread of airbags and traction control, the GLC has an advanced stability program, Mercedes’ crosswind-assistance technology and a collision-prevention system. An optional semi-autonomous driving system is available. This takes adaptive cruise control a step further, maintaining a safe distance from the car in front, steering the car if you drift out of your lane and braking automatically if it detects an imminent collision.

  All this led to the Mercedes GLC scoring the full five stars when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP at the end of 2015. It scored an impressive 95% in the adult occupant protection category, as well as 89% in the child occupant protection category.

  The collision-prevention technology can get a little over-zealous, as it tends to flash a warning at you even when you’re a safe distance behind the car in front. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to deactivate if you find it to be more of a hindrance than a help when on the move.

  (carbuyer.co.uk)

• Mercedes is not sure about the future of the caravan either

  It seems that the German brand does not know what will happen in the next decade.

  Electrification is changing many rules in the automotive industry. Electric cars do not have as many parts as their SUS counterparts, and the powertrain is far smaller in size, which gives designers more freedom and opens up new room for maneuver.

  We read yesterday that Daimler doubts that the traditional sedan will survive the transformation or the transition to electric mobility. We’ve seen it with their EQE and EQS models that don’t really look like the sedans we’re used to seeing with the three-pointed star sign.

  Now we hear that they also doubt the bright future of the caravan. So says Marcus Schaefer, one of the board members of Mercedes. “The problem with caravans is the high pressure of the SUV segment. We have to see how that class will develop, technically everything is feasible ", said Schaefer.

  And indeed, there are very few electric caravans on the market. Tesla, which is the world leader in the EV sphere, does not offer any caravans, and it is similar with other brands. One of the exceptions is the Porsche, whose Taycan has a Cross Turismo variant, which can be placed in the station wagon category.

  We will find out in ten to fifteen years whether electrification will really be the end of caravan vehicles, until then there will be an opportunity to enjoy their charms…

• Mercedes is still not giving up on the V12 engine, which is again won by the strongest Maybach

  The crown jewel of Daimler's car line has dawned in the Russian configurator, where this extended, stretched, luxury sedan with a twin-turbo 6.0-liter engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission can already be configured and ordered.

  Only a day or two after the teaser of the label and photos announced the arrival of the top version of the new generation of Maybach, the first data began to be revealed, albeit by a detour. Namely, while the last mention of Maybach on Mercedes' press pages was in mid-April, announcing the company's 100th birthday, the strongest model first appeared and then disappeared from the company's Russian pages even faster (but not fast enough). So it became clear that the top version is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

  

  It develops 450 kW / 604 hp and the car fires from a standstill to 100 km / h in just 4.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h. As previously announced, with the V12 engine it gets an all-wheel drive system, instead of sending all that power to the rear wheels as was the case with the old S650 and AMG S65. The Russian configurator also reveals the weight of the car, the weight shows 2,350 kilograms, which makes the acceleration figure even more impressive. The power of 604 hp is lower by 17 hp compared to the previous generation S650. Although torque is not mentioned, it is assumed to be 1,000 Nm as before.

  

  The V12 version will not remain the most powerful S-Class of this generation for long, as Mercedes-AMG is preparing two versions of its luxury sedan. Both should be plug-in hybrids, the S63e with about 700 hp coming later this year and the stronger S73e with about 800 hp arriving later. Meanwhile, the S680 will be one of the most expensive vehicles in the world, not counting supercars and hyperautomobiles. The Russian configurator states the starting price in the equivalent of 310,000 EUR.

• Mercedes is towing vehicles due to a fault in the emergency call system

  More than 1.3 million Mercedes Benz vehicles will be withdrawn, because the emergency call system can send the wrong location after the accident due to a software error.

  The car manufacturer made that decision after the accident that happened in Europe when the automatic system sent the wrong location of the vehicle.

  During the investigation that began in October 2019, more similar cases were discovered, but according to the company's spokesperson, none in the United States.

  Mercedes will withdraw a large number of vehicles from 2016 to 2021, including the CLA, GLA, GLE, GLS, SLC, A, GT, C, E, S, CLS, SL, B, GLB, GLC and G classes.

  Daimler has announced that it will also withdraw the Metris 2016-2020 and Sprinter 2019-2020 cars.

  Mercedes-Benz announced that it will inform the affected owners and update the software systems free of charge.

  The withdrawal of the car is expected to begin on April 6.

• Mercedes presented the redesigned A class PHOTO/VIDEO

  As expected, the visual changes compared to the current model are minimal.

  Halfway through its life cycle, Mercedes refreshed the entire A-Class range, including the sedan version. Cosmetic changes are minor and include slightly revised headlights with optional LED lights along with a redesigned radiator grille with a texture made up of miniature three-pointed stars.

  At the rear, the German premium brand has installed a new diffuser and standard LED stop lights. Four new wheel design options have also been added, and the dimensions of the alloy wheels go up to a maximum of 19 inches.

  

  In the passenger cabin, the updated steering wheel is wrapped in Nappa leather as standard, while the center console has received some minor revisions.

  The latest MBUX multimedia system continues to use two digital screens as standard. The smaller, 7-inch one is placed in front of the driver and serves as an instrument panel, while the right one, sensitive to touch, has a diagonal of 10.25 inches.

  In addition, a configuration with two 10.25-inch displays is available as an option.

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  As for the engine, the petrols have received the "mild" hybrid treatment and are paired with a seven-speed or eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard.

  Electric 48-volt technology provides an additional 13 horsepower (10 kW) of power.

  In the plug-in hybrid version, the electric motor now delivers an additional 7 hp (5 kW), so the total electric power is now 109 hp (80 kW).

  

  Owners can charge the battery with alternating current on a charger of up to 11 kW or direct current up to 22 kW. In the case of the latter, it takes 25 minutes to charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent capacity.

  Mercedes also presented the AMG A35 versions in hatchback and sedan formats, while the A45 S remains available only as a 5-door model.

  The weaker of the two performance models gets stylish ones that visually bring it closer to the top range. In addition, the AMG A35 gets a "light" hybrid system and switches to an eight-speed DCT, instead of the previously used seven-speed automatic.

  Power remains unchanged, 306 hp (225 kW), with 400 Nm of torque.

  The Mercedes-AMG A45 S gets a Street Style edition with an assortment of visual enhancements. The Limited Edition is painted in Mountain Gray Magno and features an aero kit as well as new 19-inch matte black wheels with red brake calipers.

  

  You'll also notice retro decals on the body, along with bright orange accents inside, along with aluminum trim.

  The Mercedes A 45 S still has 422 hp (310 kW) and 500 Nm, but it is no longer the most powerful four-cylinder engine installed in a production car.

  Placed longitudinally in the new AMG C63, the same M139 generates an incredible 476 hp (350 kW) and 545 Nm. The smaller version of the four-cylinder still allows the AMG A45 S to reach 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h.

  It will be interesting to see if there are any plans to put a more powerful engine in the compact car, but one should not hope too much for that.

• Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Charon Has More Than Meets The Eye

  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

• Mercedes-AMG E 53 2021 Launched With 423BHP

  Mercedes has unveiled an updated version of its entry-level AMG E 53 performance saloon, hot on the heels of the facelifted standard E-Class range. The brand’s updated rival for the Audi S6 is on sale in the UK now, with prices starting from £64,750 for the saloon and £66,750 for the estate.

   The updated AMG E 53 4MATIC+’s styling tweaks mirror those of the standard E-Class range, albeit with a more hardcore appearance. Up front, there’s a new radiator grille which mimics the design of the AMG GT Coupe’s – and at the rear, there’s an aggressive new diffuser which houses a quad-exit exhaust system.

   The E 53 is available in a choice of two trim levels. The base model features 19-inch twin-five-spoke AMG alloy wheels, a 360-degree parking camera, keyless go and AMG-branded brake calipers. Inside, buyers get a pair of leather-trimmed sports seats, carbon-fibre trim and Mercedes’s 12.3-inch dual-screen infotainment system.

  The E 53’s infotainment set-up also includes AMG-specific functions, such as a lap timer, telemetry settings and track mapping. There’s a new flat-bottomed steering wheel, which is similar in design to the rest of the range, but is fitted with a pair of AMG buttons to adjust the car’s driving modes.
   
  The more lavishly equipped AMG E 53 Night Edition Premium Plus is priced from £68,250 and adds a set of matte-black 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof, privacy glass, gloss-black window surrounds and an improved 13-speaker Burmester sound system.

  Both E53s are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine, which is supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Combined, the unit has an output of 423bhp and 520Nm of torque which, thanks in part to the car’s four-wheel drive system, is enough for a 0–62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.
   
  Like all Mercedes-AMG models, the E 53 gets a host of extra chassis technology, including adaptive dampers, a sophisticated five-stage traction control system, uprated disc brakes, dynamic engine mounts and a limited-slip differential for the rear axle. Read more > https://mercedes-world.com/e-class/mercedes-amg-e-53-launched

  Source: mercedes-world.com

• Mercedes-AMG E 63 Estate Stig Drifts

  They say that he once did the Cannonball run on a unicycle, and that he broke the record by doing so. Also, he just can’t seem to stop drifting the cars he gets a hold of, and his newest conquest is a Mercedes-AMG E63 Station Wagon. We guess the AMG part of that sentence kind of makes everything click together.

  Now, in the world of motorsports, you rarely get to see a station wagon competing alongside other. regular cars. But there are exceptions indeed. Like the globally acclaimed Volvo 850 back in the day, that competed in the Touring Car Series. Also, in drifting, there have been several pro drifters that felt the need to make a statement by competing in such a large body type of vehicle.

  

  This would be the second time the Stig is checking out the sideways going capabilities of a Mercedes Benz in the new series, and the first one, the AMG C63 Black Series, was quite impressive, albeit a bit slouchy. This time things do look like they might be slightly easier, as the longer wheelbase should allow for a more stable slide, and the engine is now turbocharged, providing copious amounts of torque to play with.

  The AMG E63 comes with a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8, which gives the driver access to a whopping 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque. But weight has gone up for this attempt, as compared to the smaller C63, with the E class weighing 628 lbs (285 kg) more, which is not to be taken lightly.

  

  As expected, the long wheelbase does the trick, and the car looks quite good while going sideways, leaving just enough room to imagine what this vehicle could do after a massive weight loss and the proper drivetrain upgrades. That’s if anyone is enthusiastic enough to actually turn a nearly $100,000 Mercedes into an actual pro drift machine. Read more > https://mercedes-world.com/e-class/mercedes-amg-e-63-estate-drifts

  Source: mercedes-world.com

• Mercedes-AMG G63 (2021) review: excess all areas

   

  ‘The old G-Class was a second or third car for most customers,’ Gunnar Guethenke (unsurprisingly nicknamed ‘Mr G’ as the head of Mercedes-Benz’s off-road division) told us back in 2018. ‘With the new model, we think it is a viable only car.’

  That was a very big claim to make. Having tested one abroad and in the UK, though, we’re inclined to agree.

  This G-Class represented the biggest shake-up in the model’s 40-odd-year history; the W463 model we all know and quietly admire had been on sale from 1990 until 2018. While there’s been little arguing about the streetside posing and rap-attack creds of the outgoing G, it drove, packaged and wobbled like a car knocking on the door of its 30th birthday party.

  

  Here, we test the all-out AMG G63 variant.

  What has changed with the latest G63?

  Almost everything. Only three parts are carried over: the headlamp washers, the push-button door handles and the giant spare wheel cover bolted to the rear tailgate.

  It’s still based around a sturdy (but new) ladder-frame chassis, built like steel girders to support a nearby suspension bridge more than a rich person’s plaything. Off it are hung steel and aluminium body panels, cleverly designed for maximum stiffness and a little less weight (mass falls by around 170kg, to a still-portly 2.5 tonnes).

  

  Much of that heft is attributed to the serious off-roading hardware; the new Mercedes-Benz G-Class range comes as standard with three fully locking differentials (one at each axle and a central clutch, to maintain traction in all conditions) and a low-speed transfer box. Daimler claims this provision is unique among off-roading brethren.

  Climb aboard the new G and you won’t confuse old and new cabins. The old G-Class had a woefully cramped passenger compartment; your elbows felt pinched by the door cards, rear-seat passengers had nowhere to put their feet and the instruments and electrical architecture reflected the Betamax generation from which they hailed.

  The new car is bigger, for starters: 53mm longer and 64mm wider, for superior packaging. It shows – even full-sized adults will be comfy in either row, and the rear bench can accommodate two, or even three, grown-ups thanks to thinner front seats and an impressively almost flat floor. The boot is an adequate 454 litres, pinched by the sub-woofer on the left and fuel tank on the right. Access it via the mother of all side-hinged, heavy tailgates which now locks into place at any extension so it won’t blow shut in a high wind.

  Most striking of all is the E-class instrumentation that’s transformed the dashboard: giant twin 12.3in digital displays are standard in UK models (elsewhere you can order retro physical dials, should you fancy) and all the latest Merc trickery is present and correct. So you can now enjoy Apple CarPlay to sync your phone, skip around the menus using wheel-mounted thumb trackpads and there’s even a wifi hotspot. On a G-wagen!

  

  Oh, and there’s still a sturdy grab handle in front of the passenger, as a permanent reminder that this car is still all about scaling serious inclines more than the next playlist.

  What’s the AMG G63 like to drive?

  You quickly sense how thorough this overhaul is. The G might look incredibly similar from outside, all the way down to those faux rain gutters and sturdy exposed hinges that riff on the G aesthetic, but it’s essentially very modern.

  This full-monty AMG G63 which brings the mother of all twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8s with a faintly ludicrous 569bhp and 627lb ft all the way from 2500-3500rpm. There’s also a G350d available in the UK, which we’ve ran as a long-termer.

  

  The AMG G63 So it’s neck-snappingly quick, with 0-62mph in a claimed 4.5sec and you can derestrict it up to 149mph if you’re feeling especially brave. Performance is accompanied by the rudest of V8 blare, exaggerated in Sport mode to bounce off walls and draw even more attention than the set-square boxy G-Class already musters.

  The old one was fast, too, but felt like it was about to hurl you off the road at the first sign of a corner or bump. The new chassis delivers a quantum leap in ride and handling, soaking up the majority of road scars and – praise be! – delivering something approaching steering response and feel.

  Thank the new electric rack and pinion steering, replacing the stick-in-porridge accuracy of the old recirculating ball set-up. Look: the new G-Class might be lighter but it’s still nearly 2.6 tonnes and you’ll never make that much metal truly agile, but the new G-Class has a damn good go at it. There’s still some hefty body roll – something you clearly have to expect from an enormous box that’s lifted several feet off the ground – but, again, it’s a marked improvement from the old one.

  The chunky tyres (up to 22 inches in diameter, and down to 18s on Euro-spec models) give up the ghost first, squealing like a pig escaping the abbatoir, but body control and general poise are to be applauded. Driving the G-wagen is a lesson in upright boxiness, those perpendicular windows affording a fine view out – the bubble-wrap front indicators acting as a gun sight as you haul in the hot hatch hooligan up ahead.

  

  Will the new G-wagen off road like a Land Rover?

  You bet. The G-Class has always been about genuine mud-plugging, as befits its ongoing military application among governments around the world. And the new one (still codenamed W463; it’s too iconic a badge to change, apparently) does more of the same.

  Proper ground clearance (241mm), stubby ends for goat-like departure (30º), approach (31º) and breakover (26º) angles mean the new G-Class can scamper up the most extraordinary terrain.

  The locking differentials help here, and you can adjust them on the fly at speeds of up to 30mph. You can feel each individual wheel grabbing at the ground and the low-speed transfer case means you can descend steep hills on tickover, as engine braking does its thing. It’s frankly incredible off-road – right up there with the best from Land Rover or Jeep.

  Mercedes-AMG G63: verdict

  There’s some truth to Guethenke’s claim that the new G is a jack-of-all-trades. It can be a viable only car – so long as you don’t mind the ostentation, the steep running costs and the image, which is part gangster-swagger, part military, part supercar slayer. It’s an extraordinarily versatile car and one gifted with that oft-forgotten automotive talent: character.

  Source: carmagazine.co.uk

• Mercedes-AMG GT63 E-Performance in the new announcement image

  Mercedes-AMG GT63 E-Performance
  The car will be part of the AMG E-Performance strategy, and according to some information, it will carry the designation Mercedes-AMG GT63 E-Performance (some sources mentioned the name Mercedes-AMG GT 73e).

  Either way, it’s a Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe that got a Plug-In Hybrid drivetrain with a combination of a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo petrol, electric motor, lithium-ion batteries and all-wheel drive.

  The propulsion system will have a combined disposal of up to 600 kW / 816 hp and 1001 Nm, and acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour (96 km / h) should be less than three seconds.

  It has not been announced yet how much autonomy there will be in Electric mode, but earlier announcements mention 50-60 km.

  

  This model will, among other things, have a refined aero body kit, lighter wheels, as well as "V8 Biturbo E-Performance" markings.

  The driver will be able to choose between five driving modes: Electric, Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Race and Individual.

  After the premiere on September 1, this car will be exhibited at the Munich Motor Show (September 7-12).

• Mercedes-AMG One postponed for next year

  Some media published unofficial information that AMG will not start delivering its super car One before the first quarter of 2022, most likely because it still has to solve "certain hardware problems".

  The Mercedes-AMG One combines a 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine from an F1 car, four electric motors, lithium-ion batteries, all-wheel drive and an automated 8-speed manual Xtrac transmission.

  The combined power is 746 kW / 1014 hp, although some unofficial information says that it is actually 895 kW / 1216 hp.

  Only 275 pieces will be made, at a price of 2.7 million dollars, and all of them were sold in advance, according to earlier information.

   

• Mercedes-Benz E 220 d 2021 Executive Car Of The Year

  If you were going to list the key attributes any executive saloon needed to posses, it would read like a checklist for the new Mercedes E-Class: style, space, comfort and an element of luxury, efficiency, performance and technology.

   The updated E received a mid-life boost earlier this year, which elevated it to the top of its class. As well as some styling tweaks designed to bring its look into line with newer models of the family, Mercedes’ revised MBUX infotainment system, complete with twin 12.3-inch screens, was key to the upgrades.
   
  With more connectivity, sharper graphics and features such as augmented reality for the sat-nav, it’s as advanced as in-car tech comes. That’s supported by the availability of Mercedes’ excellent semi-autonomous driver aids – which will help take the strain off during the long motorway trips cars like this routinely make – as well as a strong level of safety tech, because these saloons (the E-Class is also available as an estate, coupé or convertible) double as family transport for many buyers, too.
   
  There’s pure-diesel power, mild-hybrid petrol or a pair of plug-ins available. The E 220 d is still the entry point, and a fine power unit with even more refinement, but for business users the E 300 e (petrol) and E 300 de (diesel) EQ Power plug-ins could be of more interest, with a claimed all-electric range of 34 miles for both cars and efficiency of up to 235.4mpg for the diesel PHEV. When you consider that it takes just 90 minutes to recharge its 13.5kWh battery using a home wallbox, it shows how far this class has come.
   
  The E-Class rides as well as ever, absorbing bumps with a languid flow to its damping to deliver plenty of comfort to occupants. While the saloon handles well enough, it’s the refinement and quality the Mercedes offers that’s key.
  New versions of rivals are set to hit the market soon, with updated plug-in powertrains, so the Mercedes faces a stiff challenge in the future, but the ability that has cemented the E-Class in top spot in this Executive Car class means it has the potential to reign supreme for some time to come.
   
  Our choice

   Mercedes E 220 d AMG Line (£41,555)
  AMG Line trim offers style and substance, with nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as part of the dual-widescreen infotainment display, plus heated seats and wireless phone charging on top of some strong safety kit. The 220 d engine combines refinement, punch and efficiency, claiming economy of 53.3mpg.

  
   
  Commended

  Audi A6
  With a plug-in model joining the range, the high-tech, well built and spacious A6 delivers an incredible breadth of ability across the range. Audi’s usual level of infotainment and quality means the A6 is a tempting alternative to the E-Class.

  
   

  Volvo S90
  If you don’t want a German saloon but do like the idea of electrification, with plug-in hybrid power offering huge performance and efficiency potential, the Volvo S90 offers a slice of Scandi cool with real eco appeal, too. 

  

  Source: mercedes-world.com