Car Parts 2011

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Geneva, Switzerland, Mar 01, 2011

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT sports transmission increases efficiency: New design and enhanced technology for the C 63 AMG

The successful Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is now more attractive than ever: the modified design of the top-of-the-range C-Class model is complemented by numerous enhancements to its technology which deliver even more driving enjoyment while reducing fuel consumption significantly. The introduction of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with the "Controlled Efficiency" mode as standard along with a new power steering pump helps to reduce the combined NEDC fuel consumption by about ten percent to 12.0 l/100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km). The output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine is unchanged at 336 kW (457 hp) and can be increased to a maximum of 358 kW (487 hp) with the optional AMG Performance package. Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimise the AMG sports suspension. New assistance systems and a new generation of telematics with internet access increase both safety and comfort.


The latest 2011 generation of the C 63 AMG is now more dynamic and athletic than ever. Thanks to its new radiator grille with a large Mercedes star and a wing-type transverse louvre, as well as a new AMG front apron with a lower cross member painted in high-gloss black, special AMG daytime running lights and side air outlets, the front section recalls the look of the SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster. The new bonnet with its modified powerdomes is now made of aluminium. New clear-lens headlamps emphasise the car's distinctive, self-confident presence, especially when the optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) is also specified. The wide front wings with the "6.3 AMG" legend and the new 5 twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels which are painted in titanium grey and have a high-sheen finish dominate the side view. Good contact with the road is provided by the wide 235/40 R 18 and 255/35 R 18 tyres at front and rear respectively.

The rear view of the C 63 AMG also evokes the SL 63 AMG: the new AMG rear apron has a distinctive, black diffuser insert with three pronounced diffuser fins. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system are as pleasing to the ear as they are to the eye.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission from the SL 63 AMG

Under the skin, too, the top C-Class model boasts a wealth of new technology including the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission – another advanced feature adopted from the SL 63 AMG. Rather than using a torque converter, this innovative transmission has a wet start-off clutch which allows it to deliver a much more efficient, agile and direct response. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced significantly thanks to the "Controlled Efficiency" mode and a new power steering pump: at 12.0 litres per 100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km) the combined NEDC fuel consumption of the C 63 AMG is 1.4 litres (Estate: 1.3 litres) lower than that of the predecessor model; this represents a reduction in fuel consumption of some ten percent. The CO2 emissions figure is now 280 (Estate: 288) grams per kilometre. Both power variants have identical fuel consumption and emission figures.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its exceptional flexibility: with four driving modes as well as double-declutching and RACE START functions it is as compatible with a relaxed, fuel-saving driving style as it is with high-speed laps on a closed racing circuit and extremely dynamicovertaking manoeuvres. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode is programmed to provide early, comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed to help the driver keep fuel consumption down. The "S", "S+" and "M" modes deliver increased agility through fast, responsive gear changes and higher revs. Gear changes in the "S+" and "M" modes take just 100 milliseconds.

The naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine with its large displacement of 6208 cc develops 336 kW (457 hp) at 6800 rpm and attains a peak torque of 600 newton metres at 5000 rpm. A look at the performance figures confirms that the new C 63 AMG retains its predecessor's position as the top performing model in its segment: acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h takes just 4.5 seconds (Estate: 4.6 s) while the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Performance package: technology transfer from the SLS AMG

Even more dynamic performance is available with the optional AMG Performance package: this offers 358 kW (487 hp) and allows a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.4 seconds (Estate: 4.5 s). The Mercedes-AMG engine experts have achieved this increase in output thanks to a technology transfer from the SLS AMG: the forged pistons, connecting rods and the lightweight crankshaft all come from the gullwing model's engine. The reduced mass inertia of the components – which are three kilograms lighter than those of the standard version – allows the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine to rev up with even greater ease and agility. Models equipped with the performance package can be identified by the variable intake manifold painted in titanium grey under the bonnet, the AMG high-performance braking system with composite front discs and red painted brake calipers all round, the carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the boot lid (Saloon) and the AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather with an Alcantara® grip area.

Key data at a glance:


Optimised suspension, new steering system reduces fuel consumption

The AMG sports suspension with a special front axle, reinforced rear axle and wider track all round has undergone thorough modification; the driver benefits from this in two ways as the C 63 AMG now offers greater driving enjoyment and ride comfort at all times. The new, stiffer elastokinematics, the revised axle kinematics with more negative camber all round and the new rear-axle anti-roll bar with a larger cross-section result in higher agility and greater lateral acceleration. But driving dynamics is not the only area in which progress has been made: new spring and damper rates have optimised both the responsiveness of the suspension as well as the road roar and tyre vibration characteristics.

The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with a direct ratio (13.5 : 1) has a newly developed power-steering pump which plays a decisive role in reducing the fuel consumption. This is because the power assistance for the steering only requires energy when the driver is actually making steering movements. Reliable deceleration at all times is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with internally ventilated and perforated discs all round.

Interior: high quality and perceived value

Even a quick glance at the interior of the C 63 AMG reveals the considerable progress which has been made: the completely new dashboard design with an integrated screen impresses with its particularly attractive appearance and the superior quality of the details which immediately bring the new CLS 63 AMG to mind. The quality look and feel meet the highest standards. The new, all-colour, three-dimensional TFT display in the middle of the redesigned speedometer welcomes the driver by showing the AMG logo. The new three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel – another feature adopted from the CLS 63 AMG – which is trimmed in nappa leather and features a metallic trim element has flattened top and bottom sections as well as grip areas which are specially shaped and trimmed in perforated leather for perfect steering control. Aluminium shift paddles allow manual gear selection.

Fine trim elements in brushed dark aluminium are to be found on the dashboard and doors. Situated in the centre console, which is enhanced with high-gloss black piano lacquer trim elements, is the new rotary control for selecting the transmission modes C, S, S+, M and RACE START. The special AMG sports seats with integral head restraints and adaptive backrests are available from launch with combined ARTICO/DINAMICA black upholstery. DINAMICA is a new type of breathable man-made fibre which is pleasant to the touch and is characterised by low emissions and a high degree of lightfastness. The side bolsters of the AMG sports seats are covered in ARTICO while the centre panels of the seat cushions are also upholstered with DINAMICA.

Available as an option, designo leather appointments give the interior of the C 63 AMG a particularly exclusive character: four single colours and three two-tone combinations are available. As a further option, these can be complemented with "extended black designo leather appointments" for the top section of the dashboard and the upper section of the door linings.
Other attractive optional appointments are also exclusively available for the C 63 AMG from the AMG Performance Studio:

- AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey with a high-gloss finish, with 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) tyres
- AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey with a high-gloss finish, with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres
- AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in matt black with a high-gloss finish on the rim flange, with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres
- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package
- AMG rear axle differential lock
- AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/high-gloss black piano lacquer
- Illuminated AMG door sill panels
- AMG velour floor mats

Eleven new driving assistance systems already established in the S-Class and CLS

The C 63 AMG features eleven new driving assistance systems which are already established in the S-Class flagship range and the trend-setting CLS. These assistance systems use the latest radar, camera and sensor technology and are designed to combat common causes of accidents, such as insufficient distance to the vehicle ahead, drowsiness and darkness. They raise the safety standard of the C-Class to a new level by warning the driver of a hazard, or, if necessary, taking active corrective measures.

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- DISTRONIC PLUS
- Speed Limit Assist
- PARKTRONIC including parking guidance
- PRE-SAFE® Brake
- Reversing camera
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Assist

New generation of telematics is the first to feature internet access

The C-Class sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will also be gradually introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer via Bluetooth®, wireless music reproduction and a USB interface in the centre console.

The top-of-the-range COMAND Online system now provides internet access for the first time. When the car is stationary the customer can browse freely or surf to a Mercedes-Benz Online service whose pages load particularly rapidly. The integrated services include weather information and a local search function as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with virtual city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be entered and stored and three alternative routes can be displayed on the screen - one of them a particularly economical variant.

As a first in the C-Class, the Becker®MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the COMAND Controller and the Audio 20 display.

C 63 AMG – fast-track to best-seller status

Launched in summer 2007, the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG rapidly established itself as a real best-seller in the AMG model range. Customers all over the world appreciated this unique combination of a powerful and torquey naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine, a distinctive sound, an agile sports suspension and expressive design. Over the past three and a half years more than 17,000 AMG enthusiasts have chosen the C 63 AMG, 88 percent of them opting for the Saloon (Estate: 12 percent). The AMG Performance package, which has been available since autumn 2009, is proving particularly popular: over 30 percent of all the C 63 AMG models delivered in 2010 were specified with this attractive option.

The new C 63 AMG is available as a Saloon and as an Estate; the market launch starts in July 2011. All prices at a glance (incl. 19 % VAT):

- C 63 AMG Saloon:€ 71,340.50
- C 63 AMG Estate:€ 73,899.00
- AMG Performance package:€ 7116.20 / € 6461.70 Euro (Saloon / Estate)

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Geneva, Switzerland, Mar 01, 2011

World premiere in Geneva: The perfect shape: the C-Class Coupé

- In a class of its own: expressive, dynamic coupé design
- Drive and vigour: five powerful direct-injection engines to choose from
- Efficiency: ECO start/stop function fitted as standard
- Help at hand: numerous assistance systems available
- Experience: new generation of telematics with internet access

What more dynamic way to celebrate the invention of the automobile? The expressive C-Class Coupé sees Mercedes-Benz, now in its 125th year of corporate history, entering a new market segment and for the first time offering a compact, classic coupé. This youthful, sporty two-door car will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in early March then make its way to customers from June.


The new model deploys the progressive technology featured on the recently launched new generation of the C-Class to deliver an impressive coupé format that combines pure fun at the wheel with exemplary efficiency. In terms of attitude, this debuting model is tailored to a customer group aged 35 to 45 for whom professional success, love of life and a strong sense of responsibility are all important.

"By extending the C-Class portfolio, we are consciously targeting new customers," says Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars Management responsible for Sales and Marketing. "The new model is youthful, stylish and dynamic. What we are offering is an exceptionally sporty way to enter the world of the Mercedes-Benz coupé."

The design: dynamic with classic coupé proportions

From the side, the new coupé beguiles the onlooker with its compact proportions, low silhouette (41 mm flatter than the saloon) with powerful shoulders and a narrow C-pillar in a classic three-box design. Typical coupé features include the short front overhang, long bonnet, steeply raked windscreen and long, stretched out roof. The greenhouse extends far beyond the rear axle over the rear window in its flat position to a sportily short tail end.

While the wedge-shaped, sloping beltline demonstrates affinity with the C-Class, its strong upsweep into the C-pillar is an entirely distinctive element. The final part of the beltline trim moves sharply upwards to meet the roofline trim. This upsweep not only adds a sporty flourish to the way the side windows look; the shaping at the bottom of the C-pillar also enhances the powerful shoulders.

Front and rear: truly a coupé, truly C-Class

At the front, the new coupé shares the same styling as the latest C-Class and yet still has its own twist. The front view is dominated by the prominent radiator grille surround including the bumper. The centre air intake opens upwards, forming a visual base unit for the radiator grille which has the double-louvre style typical of a coupé. Two chrome louvres extend left and right either side of the central star, tapering off at the outer edges and creating a sporty, arrow-shaped horizontal sweep which gives the front end a pronounced V-shape.

This continues into the side sections which extend from beneath the headlamps and blend into the feature lines along the vehicle flanks, thereby linking the front end with the sides. The side air intakes in the bumper featuring integrated, horizontal daytime running lamps are positioned low down, giving the coupé a road-hugging appearance. The shape of the clear-lens headlamps creates a dynamic impression, and acts together with the bonnet, radiator grille and bumper trim to reinforce the pronounced front section.

From the rear, the new C-Class Coupé looks sportily short. Because the roof flows beyond the rear axle with the steeply raked rear window and fluid C-pillars, the appearance of length is reduced. A wide chamfer at the top of the boot lid, which is based on the side panel, highlights the rear's compactness. Positioning the tail lights as far apart as possible emphasises width. The particular impression of depth is achieved by a centrally located LED indicator, which appears to float in front of the red upper and lower light bands with their more deeply set LEDs.

Continuous, horizontal light-catching contours in the bumper further accentuate the broad, deep-set effect. A diffuser towards the bottom of the rear bumper between the exhaust system's tailpipe trim makes the rear end look lighter and gives the vehicle a distinctively sporty and dynamic quality.

The interior: highest quality with exclusive colour accents

The dashboard instrument panel features a strong, sporty and high-quality design. Three tube rings with a galvanised finish demonstrate the car's sporty credentials to the driver. As standard, the coupé comes with the new generation of three-spoke steering wheel with its chromed central spoke that first appeared on the new CLS. The touch surfaces of the controls are finely detailed and galvanised. The stepped top of the instrument cluster also accommodates the central display and continues onto the front passenger side as a discreet light-catching contour. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the round vents on the outside are highlighted in detail by galvanised trim. The control panel of the new generation communication and information unit has silver-coloured keys. The combination of matt keys, high-gloss areas and a new thumbwheel design underlines the high perceived value of the interior.

A large section of trim is a high-quality part of the dashboard instrument panel. This extends from the centre air vents across the front passenger side to the outer air vent, emphasising the interior's generous proportions. For the first time in automotive engineering, the trim parts are available in the style package and in a porcelain piano-lacquer look for the Edition 1 to complement the car's exclusive interior feel. Alternatively there is a choice of a black piano-lacquer look, nougatine burr walnut wood, dark aluminium or brown ash burl.

The C-Class Coupé is a fully fledged four-seater featuring four sporty, comfortable integral seats. If desired, the backrests in the rear can be folded down to make the boot larger.
The new telematics generation: enhanced ease of operation and attractive good looks
The C-Class Coupé features a new telematics generation which received its global premiere on the saloon and estate models. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, phone book transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface now accommodated in the centre armrest.

The multimedia system COMAND Online now provides internet access for the first time. When the car is stationary, customers are able to browse freely or surf to a Mercedes-Benz Online service whose pages load particularly rapidly and are also easy to use while on the move. The integrated services include weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with plastic city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be saved or imported via an SD card and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map, one of them a particularly economical variation.

The Becker® MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls and the Audio 20 display, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.

The drive system: plenty of performance, low fuel consumption

There is a choice of three petrol engines and two diesel powerplants for the C-Class Coupé. All are equipped with direct injection and the ECO start/stop function as standard. All the engine variants are classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally friendly in their use of fuel. All automatic versions feature the further-enhanced 7G‑TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission (standard with the C 250 and C 350 petrol engines). The C 220 CDI and C 250 CDI diesel variants and the basic C 180 petrol engine come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

The top engine variant is the V6 petrol engine in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY featuring the efficient BlueDIRECT method of injection. It delivers 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm. Average fuel consumption is 6.8 litres per 100 km. The four-cylinder petrol engines have direct injection and are turbocharged, offering high performance and exemplary economy.

The most economical coupé model is the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with manual six-speed transmission and the standard ECO start/stop function. It has an average diesel consumption of 4.4 litres per 100 km. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY contents itself with a combined diesel consumption of just 4.9 litres per 100 km. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 128 grams per kilometre.

The range of engines for the C-Class Coupé at a glance:[1]


Chassis: agile handling and a high level of comfort

The AGILITY CONTROL suspension, which is standard equipment, complements the dynamic engines to perfection. This is based on an amplitude-dependent damping system: when driving normally with low shock absorber impulses, the damping forces are automatically reduced for a noticeable improvement in road roar and tyre vibration characteristics – but without any compromise in handling safety. When shock absorber impulses are greater, for example when cornering at speed or performing evasive manoeuvres, the maximum damping forces are set and the car is effectively stabilised.

The AGILITY CONTROL suspension is complemented by a rack-and-pinion steering system. Speed-sensitive steering with variable centring and a constant steering ratio is available as an option.
Precision suspension: three-link front axle, multi-link independent rear suspension
The front axle has a three-link construction with McPherson spring struts.

The lower control arm consists of two separate elements which serve as torque and cross struts and are both made of aluminium. The third link in the front suspension is the tie rod which connects the transverse steering gear to the wheels. The reinforced anti-roll bar is connected to the spring strut which is likewise actively involved in directing the front wheels.

With multi-link independent rear suspension, the wheel is attached to five flexibly mounted, independently acting control arms which restrict five of the available spatial movements: owing to this intelligent control arm construction, each rear wheel basically retains freedom of movement in one plane only, namely during controlled compression and rebound.

In addition to AGILITY CONTROL suspension as standard, there is an optional extra on the coupé in the form of a 15 mm lower sports suspension with harder, shorter springs, tauter shock absorbers and stronger torsion bars. Speed-sensitive sports steering is also included.

Driver assistance systems provide warnings and intervene

With seven airbags as standard, belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for all seats, the C-Class Coupé has extensive safety features. The airbags, which can deploy in milliseconds in the event of an accident, include front airbags and sidebags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag on the driver's side, and headbags. The side protection system – comprising headbag and thoraxbag – optimises the level of protection afforded to individual parts of the body. To protect pedestrians, the coupé has an active bonnet made of aluminium.

With a number of driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the coupé provides a comprehensive level of driver support and protection. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology, and cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness.

Assistance systems – some of which only give a warning in hazardous situations, and some which actively intervene – at a glance:

- Anti-lock braking system ABS
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- DISTRONIC PLUS incl. BAS PLUS
- Electronic Stability Program ESP®
- Headlamp Assist
- Speed Limit Assist
- Intelligent Light Systems ILS
- PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance
- PRE-SAFE®
- PRE-SAFE® Brake
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Assist

The market launch of the C-Class Coupé commences in June 2011.

[1] Information relates to the German model range and may differ from country to country

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Geneva, Switzerland, Mar 01, 2011

World premiere of the C-Class Coupé: Mercedes-Benz at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Fun at the wheel and exemplary efficiency are the common factors of all the new Mercedes-Benz products on show at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The focus of attention at the show stand will be the world premiere of the C-Class Coupé, an expressive two-door model that represents Mercedes-Benz's first foray with a classic coupé into this segment. Together with the now even more athletic C 63 AMG, in both Saloon and Estate versions, the Coupé rounds off the recently launched current generation of the C-Class. Another model that is bound to attract attention is the new SLK, which takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to a new level. And, shortly before the first models go out to customers, the Mercedes E 200 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY with bi-fuel natural gas drive system will also be on show in Geneva.


What more dynamic way to celebrate the invention of the automobile? The expressive C-Class Coupé sees Mercedes-Benz, now in its 125th year of corporate history, offering a compact, classic coupé. From the side, the new coupé beguiles the onlooker with its compact proportions, low silhouette with powerful shoulders and narrow C-pillar in a classic three-box design. Typical coupé features include the short front overhang, long bonnet, steeply raked windscreen and long, stretched-out roof. The greenhouse extends far beyond the rear axle over the low-raked rear window to a sportily short tail end.

At the front, the new coupé shares the same styling as the latest C-Class, yet offers its own twist on it. The front view is dominated by the radiator grille, clearly emphasised as a central element by the line of the bumper. Two chrome louvres extend to either side of the central star in coupé-typical style, tapering off at the outer edges to accentuate the sporty, arrow-shaped sweep of the front end.

The dashboard reveals a strong, sporty and high-quality design. Three tube rings with an electroplated finish demonstrate the car's sporty credentials to the driver. A key element of the dashboard is a large decorative trim element that extends from the centre air vents across the front passenger side to the outer air vent, emphasising the interior's generous proportions. As a first in automotive engineering, the trim parts are available in "porcelain" piano-lacquer look, so complementing the car's exclusive interior feel.

There is a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines to power the C-Class Coupé. All are equipped with direct injection and the ECO start/stop function as standard. All models are classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally friendly in their use of fuel. All automatic versions feature the further-enhanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is now more attractive than ever, with an enhanced aura of dynamism and athleticism: new features include the radiator grille with its large Mercedes star and wing-type transverse louvre, the AMG front apron with lower cross member painted in high-gloss black, and a new bonnet with modified powerdomes. These modifications to the design of the top-of-the-range C-Class model are complemented by numerous technical updates that deliver even more driving enjoyment while also significantly reducing fuel consumption. The use here of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with "Controlled Efficiency" mode as standard, along with a new power steering pump, helps to reduce the combined NEDC fuel consumption by about ten percent to 12.0 l/100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km). The output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine is unchanged at 336 kW (457 hp) and can be increased to a maximum of 358 kW (487 hp) with the optional AMG Performance package. Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimise the AMG sports suspension.

In the form of the new SLK, one of the most exciting and successful sports cars ever built is now entering its third generation. The new roadster uncompromisingly takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to a new level. It blends light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, a striking sports-car design with total suitability for everyday use, top performance with exemplary ecology. What’s more, the SLK is proud to present the world premiere of the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which switches to light or dark at the touch of a button. Exemplary efficiency and sporty flair come courtesy of powerful new 4- and 6-cylinder engines featuring the standard-specification ECO start/stop function. Delivering superb performance, they are nevertheless up to 25 percent more economical than their predecessors. And a unique set of safety equipment bestows role-model status on the SLK in this segment. With its wealth of technical innovations the SLK is once again the benchmark in its class.

The most economical Mercedes E-Class model to date is now even more frugal than ever: thanks to the further-enhanced 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and standard ECO start/stop function, the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY uses just 4.9 litres of diesel/100 km according to the combined NEDC fuel consumption figures, 0.4 litres less than hitherto. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 129 grams per kilometre. The all-wheel drive version E 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY also benefits from these efficiency-enhancing modifications, with an average fuel consumption of 6.3 litres/100 km.

In March, in parallel with its appearance at the Geneva Show, the new E 200 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY with bi-fuel natural gas drive will be rolled out to the company's European sales partners. The basis for the eco-friendly and cost-effective natural gas engine is provided by the tried and tested four-cylinder supercharged "Kompressor" engine with an output of 120 kW (163 hp). This has been modified with the addition of further injectors on the underside of the intake manifold and can run on either natural gas or unleaded premium-grade petrol. A pressure regulator with sensor and electromagnetic shut-off valve is fitted near the engine to regulate the supply of natural gas and maintain the required system pressure at a constant level. Imperceptible to the vehicle's occupants, an innovative engine management system ensures a smooth, jolt-free switch between modes - even when the vehicle is moving.

Along with the conventional petrol tank from the standard model, four gas cylinders are neatly concealed in the natural gas-powered vehicle – one behind the rear seat backrest and two underneath the floor of the boot. They have a total capacity of 121.5 litres of natural gas (corresponding to 19.5 kg).

The output and torque characteristics of the sophisticated four-cylinder power unit are maintained even when it is running on natural gas. In conjunction with a five-speed automatic transmission, the E-Class Saloon accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, while its top speed is 224 km/h. Fuel consumption in petrol-driven mode has been reduced compared with the predecessor model by 1.2 litres to 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). In CNG operating mode, consumption could be reduced by 0.6 kg per 100 kilometres to 5.5 kg – corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 g per kilometre. Running on natural gas, the car has a range of around 360 kilometres, while its standard 59 l fuel tank gives it a petrol-driven range of around 730 kilometres: in other words almost 1100 kilometres in total. The advantages of running on natural gas: a reduction of around 10 percent in fuel consumption, a more than 20 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and significantly cleaner emissions than comparable models with petrol engine only.

The new look that comes with the Viano Avantgarde Edition 125 is not for the faint-hearted: this new top-of-the-range model runs on exquisitely designed 16-spoke 8J x 19 light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish. High-gloss chromium-plated exterior mirror housings and side sills, plus chrome trim on the front bumper and a chrome-plated finishing strip on the tailgate serve to emphasise its special look. Inside, the driver and front passenger, along with four rear-seat occupants, take their places on comfortable yet at the same time sporty seats in finest leather with piping edges and reinforced lateral support. The individual rear seats are fitted on rails and can be adjusted in increments of 25 mm. They also feature integrated three-point seat belts, height-adjustable head restraints and adjustable armrests.

The sporty appearance of the Viano Avantgarde in the Edition 125 is complemented by the dynamic power of its Mercedes-Benz V6 engines, which are unique in this vehicle class. The V6 CDI 3.0 combines power and eco-friendliness with an output of 165 kW (224 hp) and exceptional traction of 440 Nm. High torque and superb smooth running characteristics are combined in the alternatively available V6 petrol engine with a displacement of 3.5 l and 190 kW (258 hp). On top of this, there is a specially tuned sports suspension. The Mercedes-Benz Viano Avantgarde in the Edition 125 is available from this spring in "compact" and "long" versions.

Since 25 February, the F-CELL World Drive has been underway in a second continent. That was the date on which the three distinctive green B-Class F-CELL vehicles set off on the first US leg of their journey, from Fort Lauderdale on the east coast of North America to New Orleans. All in all, the hydrogen-powered vehicles will be covering 7500 kilometres through the US and Canada before embarking from Seattle to continue their journey in Australia.

Before beginning their journey in the US, the vehicles had already shown their mettle over a distance of more than 3000 kilometres through southern Europe. The symbolic start for the trip came during the gala celebration to mark the 125th anniversary of the automobile on 29 January, before the B-Class F-CELL vehicles set off the following day for Paris on the first leg of a journey that would take them through France and Spain to the Portuguese capital of Lisbon.

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