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2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan and Wagon Officially Unveiled

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 09:35:02 GMT

Although the leaks watered down our excitement a bit, it’s good to finally see the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class from its maker’s official big reveal. As expected, the car boasts a lot of S-Class components and new powertrains.

The new C-Class bound for North American customers will no longer be assembled in Mercedes’ Alabama plant. Its production has been moved to East London, South Africa. Despite the focus of Mercedes-Benz USA on its SUV units, the range’s sedan variant will still arrive stateside next year, and as usual, the wagon version will only be for European customers.

Here’s a quick look at the key features of the 2022 model-year Mercedes-Benz C-Class:

Exterior

On the outside, the C-Class looks like a downsized S-Class with some design elements borrowed from the smaller A-Class sedan. The car is characterized by its short front overhang, long wheelbase and rear overhang.

Like Mercedes’ flagship sedan, the C-Class has smoother panels and the body lines are kept to a minimum in favor of elaborately sculptured surfaces that aim to create visual effects for onlookers. Then its luxurious image is topped off with 17- to 19-inch wheels to offer a contrasting sporty appeal.

Interior

There’s a huge overhaul in the cockpit of the next-gen C-Class compared to its outgoing model. The longer wheelbase of the new car translates to more room in its cabin, which now offers 0.5-inches more headroom, 1.5-inches more knee room, and wider headroom thanks to its 1.9-inch wider rear track.

Tech

The fresher interior of the 2022 C-Class is highlighted by its 11.9-inches central screen with the MBUX infotainment system. It’s also equipped with a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The other technologies that trickled down from the S-Class to the C-Class include the updated driver assistance systems, fingerprint recognition, and augmented-reality navigation.

Engine

For now, the only trim levels of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class that were confirmed to hit the US market are the C300 and C300 4MATIC. Both come with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine with 255 hp at 5,800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 2,000-3,200 rpm distributed via a nine-speed automatic transmission. The mild-hybrid setup of the vehicle adds 148 lb-ft of torque into it.

Overall, the configuration allows the auto to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds while its top speed is electronically-capped at 130 mph.

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Mercedes-Benz X-Class v VW Amarok v Ford F150 Raptor v Ford Ranger Raptor

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 06:07:48 GMT

This is something you don’t see every day, a fleet of pickup trucks on a drag racing strip. Of course, our bet here is the Mercedes-Benz X-Class pickup that was axed in 2020. The other participants include the Volkswagen Amarok, Ford F150 Raptor, and Ford Ranger Raptor.

Before hitting play to find out how the German pickup trucks will fare against their American rivals, here’s a quick look at their key specs:

Mercedes-Benz X-Class

Representing the three-pointed star marque is the X350d model. Under the hood of the auto is a 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6 engine producing 258 hp and 550 Nm of torque.

VW Amarok

The Amarok is almost evenly matched with its German rival with its 3.0-liter V6 diesel power unit capable of up to 258 hp and 580 Nm of torque.

Ford F150 Raptor

The massive F150 Raptor is equipped with a gorgeous-sounding 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 that’s good for 411 hp and 585 Nm. This one has the most power compared to the competition but it is the heaviest, so its weight will surely diminish its power advantage.

Ford Ranger Raptor

The Ranger Raptor looks like the weakest leak of the bunch with a mere 2.0-liter diesel providing it 211 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

On to the Race

Now for the main event, the video below shows the four pickup trucks duking it out for bragging rights in a drag race, rolling race, and brake test.

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The Next-Gen 2022 Mercedes-Benz SL Teases Its Soft Top

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 05:11:23 GMT

The sixth-generation Mercedes-Benz SL goes way back in 2011 and its mid-production facelift came in 2016. Being already a decade old, it’s already ripe for an upgrade. Last year, spy shots of its camouflaged next-gen model were already out in the open, and recently, its prototype has started stripping down some of its covers.

The new photos of the auto taken by Motor1 show the upcoming SL convertible sporting a red fabric top. While many of us would prefer a hard top over a soft top, it turns out that Mercedes still made a good choice in going for the less preferred option favoring the more gorgeous design provided by the latter.

The rest of the car remains hidden, and it appears that the camo is also covering some paddings to conceal the true form of the new SL. Taking into consideration the cleaner and smoother surfaces of the new Mercedes models revealed lately, the convertible will likely adopt the same design elements for its production version.

The SL pictured here is clearly an AMG variant, judging from its Panamericana vertical grille styling, rear spoiler, front lip spoiler, and 20-inch wheels. The car is still in its early development phase so information about its powertrain is scarce at the moment. However, if rumors are to be believed, it might start with the rear-wheel-drive SL 43 up to the all-wheel-drive SL 73e with plug-in hybrid configuration boosting its output near the 800-hp mark. Between the said trims will probably include the all-wheel-drive SL 53, SL 53e, SL 55 S, and SL 63.

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Why the Next Mercedes-AMG C63 is Abandoning the V6 and V8 Engines

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 03:28:50 GMT

Spy shot of the Mercedes-AMG C63 from Carscoops

It won’t be long until we see the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class. As hinted by teasers, spy shots, and unofficial leaks before its unveiling, there are plenty of things to look forward to in the new W206. However, one of the bombshells that got quite a mixed reaction with the true fans of the range was the decision of the three-pointed star marque to drop the V6 and V8 power units from the high-performance trims of the car in favor of an inline-four engine that will go all throughout the C-Class lineup, including the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63.

Quoting W206 chief engineer Christian Fruh in his interview with Automotive News Europe, he said, “With the 3.0L (straight-six M256) engine, the front end would have grown by 2 inches in length, not to mention the higher axle load and its impact on driving dynamics.”

Although he did not mention the AMG models of the new C-Class in his statement, it is already implied here that the full lineup of the range will stick with the four-pot bangers instead of the V6, and obviously, it also rules out the V8 from the equation.

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class leaked image

Based on the earlier Mercedes-Benz C-Class leaks, the car looks like a downsized version of the S-Class flagship car. It comes as a good thing that its maker didn’t hold back with its design, but that makes its engine bay smaller and only limited to house an inline-four unit.

On the bright side, the new Mercedes-AMG C63 promises up to 550 hp from the combination of its petrol-fed four-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid setup. So everything should be okay.

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Magnus Walker Drives the Silver-Sau: The Red Pig Reincarnated

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 02:35:04 GMT

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG, popularly known as The Red Pig, marks an important milestone in AMG history. The tuned car’s first outing at the 1971 24 Hours of Spa wherein it landed second made the world notice the company that was established by two former Mercedes engineers. To commemorate its success 50 years ago, 22-year old director Cameron Thurman released a film tribute for it titled “The Spirit of AMG: The Silver-Sau”.

The film shows the silver version of the Red Pig driven by Magnus Walker, who is a known Porsche aficionado. He is also notable for starring in a 300 SL Gullwing video from Mercedes as well as 45 Years of Boost and Ascension with him behind the wheel of classic and modern Porsche cars.

Thurman’s latest film reimagines the dramatic hours leading to the historic 1971 Spa 24-hour race using archival footage from AMG and intercut with mixed-medium footage showing the Silver Pig carrying on the legacy of the Red Pig. Walker takes on the role of a determined underdog recalling that time when the 300 SEL AMG went against the high-performance Alfa Romeo cars tuned by Auto-Delta, BMW sports coupes from Luigi Racing, and other vehicles from the more popular tuners of that era. It also adds an unheard-of story about the classic race car along the way.

The Silver Pig featured here was made by Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, CA. Basically, it’s a reincarnation of the Red Pig under a silver-finished 300 SEL boosted by a 6.8-liter V8 engine with 420 hp. The film captures all the iconic elements of the tribute car, and it gives us a feel of what it feels like to drive one. Even the symphonic roar of the auto has been highlighted to heighten the emotions of the audience.

Overall, the film establishes why the Silver-Sau is truly worthy of carrying the torch of the Red Pig.

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New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Leaked Before Its Big Reveal on Tuesday

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 12:01:19 GMT

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class is scheduled to be launched on Tuesday, February 23, at 8:00 am EST but photos of it without any camouflage were already leaked online. The unofficial unveiling happened via the Facebook account of the French website The Automobilist last weekend.

As hinted by Mercedes, the C-Class is fitted with an S-Class level of technology inside, which is highlighted by the second-generation MBUX infotainment system. It also has a large central display positioned in the center dash just below the distinct air conditioning vents in the middle. There is an incredible amount of detailing on the design of the dash and steering wheel of the auto too.

From the photos shown by the French publication, the C-Class looks like a scaled-down S-Class on the outside. The sloping roofline, narrow headlamps, and thin taillights all appear to have been from the flagship car of the three-pointed star brand. Meanwhile, the standard Benz trim of the C-Class kept its single bar styling on its front grille and its pair of exhausts on the rear.

The new C-Class is expected to carry a four-cylinder engine on all its trims. The powertrains will be boosted by a mild-hybrid system, including its C300 base model.

According to sources, Mercedes opted to ditch the inline-six engine for the C-Class in favor of the four-pot units. That’s because the former would no longer fit in the engine bay of the car as it would need at least two-inches extra space in the engine bay, and it would also add more to the weight of the vehicle, which would compromise its handling and aerodynamics.

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5 Ways to Take Care of Your Mercedes in Harsh Winters

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 11:06:48 GMT

If you’re the proud owner of a Mercedes, well done on owning one. While it is by no means among some of the least expensive cars to maintain, you can still reduce maintenance costs by doing routine inspections and following some precautions. Even though your vehicle is a great specimen, the harsh winters of North America can beat even the best vehicle into submission as the temperature drops below freezing.

In sub-zero conditions, it can be difficult for any car to survive, whether it’s on or off the road. Freezing car parts and fluids can play a part in your car’s downfall, as well as poor visibility and driving conditions on the road. No one wants to damage their Mercedes-Benz due to something as trivial as the weather.

With that in mind, here we bring you 5 ways to take care of your Mercedes in harsh winters!

1. Get your Mercedes serviced before winter

Before winter truly strikes, take your car to a Mercedes specialist for a pre-winter service. There doesn’t need to be anything wrong with the car currently – it’s just a good way to check everything is well before hitting those icy roads.

For example, during a service, the mechanics will check the tire pressure, visibility, fluid levels, and more. They can also check things such as your serpentine belt, which can become brittle and prone to breaking in cold weather.

2. Switch to low-viscosity oil

If you’ve got it available, consider switching to low-viscosity engine oil before winter begins. This engine oil is resistant to thickening in freezing temperatures, helping it to stay nice and liquid when the temperature plummets.

If you stick with regular engine oil, you might have problems with oil going thick and stopping the engine from running properly, which could cause further issues.

3. Keep your antifreeze topped up

Recommendations differ, but most places recommend that you keep your Mercedes’s anti-freeze topped up at a 50-50 ratio with water.

Generally speaking, this is the best way to supply your car’s engine with coolant.

If you don’t check your antifreeze levels, you might find that your engine coolant freezes in colder temperatures, eventually leading to overheating in your engine.

4. Invest in Mercedes winter tires

When your car tires are cold, they naturally decrease in pressure. When there’s snow and ice on the road, they naturally lose a ton of their grip too. Using regular tires in winter is a bad idea, but at least check that they’re inflated to the recommended level if you must.

Even better is to get some specialist Mercedes winter tires from a dealer near you. These tires have improved grip to help them handle the ice, and the mechanics will ensure that their pressure is high enough.

Some owners also buy snow chains for their vehicles, though it’s not ideal. Still, chains can help to reduce skidding, slipping, and getting stuck in snow… so they could be worth it if you’re in a very cold region that’s highly affected by snow.

5. Make sure that your battery is in good condition

As temperatures drop, your car battery can struggle to turn on. There’s nothing worse than turning your key in the ignition and realizing that your car isn’t going to start, so we recommend checking your car battery carefully.

Ensure that the connections are tight and consider checking the voltage if you have the tools to do so. Make sure that you’re using the car enough to keep the battery in good shape – leaving it for days at a time is a bad idea, especially in cold conditions.

At the very least, get some jumper cables.

We hope you enjoyed these 5 ways to take care of your Mercedes in harsh winters. Good luck out there!

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Mercedes-Benz EQC Electric SUV is No Longer US-Bound (For Now)

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:07:12 GMT

The Mercedes-Benz EQC has been on sale in Europe since the middle of 2019. Initially, the electric SUV was expected to be sold in the United States in the first quarter of 2020, but it was later pushed to the following year. Then, its maker changed its plans again, which put the launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQS in the country ahead of the EQC in 2021. Fast-forward to the present, the three-pointed star marque made the announcement that it won’t be offering the EQC stateside this time.

“Following a comprehensive review of market developments, the EQC will not be offered in the United States for now,” said a spokesperson of Mercedes via Autoblog. Due to the official statement of the company that ended with “for now”, all hope is not lost yet. That means it is not entirely dismissing its original strategy of selling it on American soil.

The move of Mercedes came as a surprise to many because the EQC was poised to take on the Tesla Model X, Audi E-Tron, and Jaguar I-Pace in the US. However, it should be noted that BMW also pulled away from its plan on selling the iX3 here.

Aside from the EQS being its priority in the US-bound EQ models at the moment, Mercedes didn’t elaborate further as to why it no longer aims to sell the EQC in America. Previously, Daimler CEO Daimler AG CEO Ola Kallenius explained that its delay was due to the automaker’s “strategic decision to first support the growing customer demand for the EQC in Europe”.

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Feast Your Eyes on the Rarest Mercedes-Benz CLK AMG Out There

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 07:11:02 GMT

The car featured here may not look like an ordinary Mercedes-Benz CLK, but don’t let its looks fool you. This vehicle does not feature any aftermarket mod magic, and everything on it was made from the factory of the three-pointed star marque.

The auto is called the Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG. It’s actually one of the rarest Mercedes cars ever made that it’s even more exclusive than the limited-production Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. With that, it was one of the most sought cars of its time particularly by racers such as Juan Pablo Montoya, Mika Hakkinen, Kimi Raikkonen, and Jenson Button.

As its name suggests, the special CLK was made to celebrate the entry of Mercedes-AMG in the relaunched Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) racing series back in 2000. The unit is so scarce that only 100 coupes of it were produced for the 2004 model year, and 80 convertible versions of it were rolled out for the 2006 model year. The car was only available in Europe during its limited run.

The CLK DTM AMG was even more track-focused than the latter CLK 63 AMG Black Series. It has a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine with 582 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. All that power goes to the rear wheels and distributed via a Mercedes 5G-Tronic five-speed automatic transmission. The mechanical configuration of the unit allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds while its top speed can go up to 200 mph.

According to RM Sotheby’s that sold a coupe variant of the vehicle for £209,000 last year, the convertible here is just one of five samples with Fire Opal Red finish. It was imported new from Germany to the Middle East, and its first owner was a member of the royal family in the emirate of Sharjah. It changed hands from there to two other royalties. It only has 15,200 km on its odometer.

Among the other notable features of the CLK DTM AMG include one-piece race buckets replacing the standard sport seats, cross-bracing replacing the rear seats, microsuede-wrapped steering wheel, and carbon fiber inserts.

As of writing, the DTM edition Mercedes-Benz CLK AMG is still on sale for €215,000.

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How to Keep Your Mercedes-Benz Looking Amazing

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 00:55:39 GMT

Owning a Mercedes-Benz should fill you with utter pride every time you take your car keys out of your pocket. It is one of the best luxury cars in the world, after all, and there’s not much that can go wrong once you make that purchase. However, with such an investment, you will want to keep your Mercedes-Benz looking as sharp as possible for as long as possible – here is how you can do this.

Keep it Clean

This one is a little obvious, but it’s necessary. A clean car equals a good-looking car, so it’s crucial to spend some time washing the outside and vacuuming the inside. Have a look around for some car shampoo to really get into the dirt and dust, allowing the car to shine once more. After all, why wouldn’t you want to take good care of your pride and joy?

Personalise it

A Mercedes-Benz already stands out on the road, but there’s no harm in making it shine a little more. Give it a touch of personalisation by getting some private number plates and updating the interior. Not only will people think it looks amazing, but you’ll feel like you are one with the vehicle.

Notice Small Changes

The first step to noticing changes is knowing your car through and through. Know the way it sounds, smells, and looks as if it’s the back of your hand, and you’ll be able to detect when something is amiss. Catching a problem early on means you can fix it before the car is affected. Plus, it’ll cost you less!

Keep it in the Garage

Having your Mercedes-Benz on full display may seem enticing, but it causes more problems than it is worth. Instead, keep it tucked away and safe inside your garage, or at least put a cover on it. By being outside, the elements end up damaging the exterior. Keep the car looking shiny and fresh by only allowing it outside only when you’re behind the wheel.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule

The maintenance schedule you were given on purchase is the most personalised schedule for your car, so make sure you follow it perfectly. By doing so, you ensure that your car stays healthy for longer.

Find the Right Repair Shop

With a Mercedes-Benz, you cannot just go to any repair shop. Ideally, you would find one that specialises in Mercedes, as they will have the right equipment and technique for the job at hand. Once you’ve found a reliable shop, you should stick with it, so the mechanic can work on your car over time and even come to know it.

Polish and Wax Regularly

To make your Mercedes-Benz looking great on the road, you should get it regularly polished and waxed. Doing so will give it a shine achieved nowhere else, allowing you to show off your luxury car in style.

Owning a Mercedes-Benz comes with a lot of responsibility. By keeping up its appearance, you ensure a long, healthy, and fun ride.

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Toyota Supra GTS and Mercedes-AMG A45 S Go Head-to-Head

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 06:43:54 GMT

The Toyota Supra GTS and Mercedes-AMG A45 S come from a different breed. They may be an odd pairing but the two should not be taken lightly on the race track. After smoking the Alfa Romeo Giulia at some point, find out how the AMG hot hatch will fare against the Japanese sports car.

We may be looking at a coupe versus a hatchback, but a careful examination of their features reveals that both cars valued below the 100,000 AUD mark may be evenly matched.

The updated Supra possesses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 285 kW (382 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The sports car is fitted with a rear-wheel-drive system.

On the other hand, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine of the AMG A45 S is at an advantage against its rival because of its 310 kW (416 hp) output but with the same level of torque according to the presenter. The all-wheel-drive system of the hatch is also expected to play a major role in the race.

It should be noted though that the Toyota is capable of reaching 500 Nm at only 1,800 RPM compared to the 5,000 RPM needed by the Merc to get those numbers. In addition, the Supra is about 130 kg lighter than the AMG A45 S. But then again, the German hot hatch boasts a better launch control mechanism than its Japanese rival.

Now, without spoiling much the results, check out the video below to find out which one is quicker in a drag race from a total halt and rolling start. The end of the 17-minute clip demonstrates the braking capabilities of the Toyota Supra GTS and Mercedes-AMG A45 S too.

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No One’s Buying Michael Jordan’s Custom 1996 Mercedes-Benz S600 Lorinser Coupe

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 03:10:11 GMT

A famous name attached to an automobile’s ownership history can add a lot to its value. Take for example Clark Gable’s 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, which sold for $1.85 million—usually priced in the market between $1 million and $1.4 million in good condition. With that, there were high expectations when Michael Jordan’s custom 1996 Mercedes-Benz S600 Lorinser Coupe was put up for auction last year. That trick doesn’t seem to be working this time though.

The rare S600 Coupe customized by Lorinser was bought by Michael Jordan and then-wife Juanita in 1995. The W140 S-Klasse coupe comes with the Mercedes aftermarket specialist’s widebody kit, 20-inch monoblock wheels, and twin exhaust pipes. The customization was only limited to the exterior of the car, so its 6.0-liter M120 V12 engine retained its 389 hp powertrain and five-speed automatic transmission. It was owned by the NBA GOAT until 2003.

The car was notable for its brief appearance in The Last Dance ESPN docuseries that chronicled the basketball career of Jordan particularly in the 1997-1998 season he spent with the Chicago Bulls. After that, the Beverly Hills Car Club was quick to capitalize on the fame of the vehicle by putting it on eBay for auction. The initial bid was $23, which was a nod to Jordan’s jersey number with the Bulls. The numbers quickly peaked at $202,200, and the sale seemed successful at that time.

Just three days ago, the same car was posted on Bring A Trailer for auction. To date, the price for the vehicle is still at $6,000, which puts into question just how much MJ’s star power could contribute to its price. Some also doubted the previous eBay sale as a mere fishing expedition.

The seller explained that the last sale was legitimate. However, the winner of the auction failed to raise the required amount of cash in time.

Another possible reason for the dismal performance of Michael Jordan’s 1996 Mercedes-Benz S600 Lorinser Coupe in the market is its condition. Its noticeable issues include signs of rust on the underside plus cracks and tears on some areas. Furthermore, the vehicle has not been serviced for a decade already.

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New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Teased, Unveiling to Take Place Next Week

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 01:53:19 GMT

The last time we saw the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class in spy photos, it has already shed a lot of its camouflage to the point that only its nose and boot lid area is covered. Usually, it indicates that the unveiling of the product is near. Recently, Mercedes-Benz just confirmed that.

According to Daimler, which will be soon renamed as Mercedes-Benz, the new C-Class is making its debut next week. The car will be unveiled via the Mercedes me media platform virtually due to the ongoing travel restrictions and social distancing protocols.

The event will be attended by Markus Schäfer, Daimler Board Member and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO, as well as other executives, designers, and engineers who were crucial in the development of the C-Class. They will be highlighting the key features of the auto and interacting with the press and experts in the automotive world.

The official announcement came with some teasers of the new C-Class. The photos give us a glimpse of the headlamps and a silhouette of the unit’s sedan and wagon variants.

“With the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz is setting off into a more efficient and even more digital world, creating an all-round future-proof comfort zone – a refuge that combines apparent opposites, such as sportiness and comfort with efficiency, emotion, and intelligence, thus defining modern luxury. The new model generation is the manufacturer’s first series to be electrified throughout,” Mercedes said in a press release.

The new C-Class also promises to adopt many technologies introduced by the new S-Class, which includes the second-generation MBUX infotainment system.

The digital launch of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will be aired at https://media.mercedes-benz.com/c-class on February 23, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. Central European Time.

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How Does Mercedes-Benz Maintain Its Lead in a Crowded Field

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 07:15:05 GMT

Mercedes-Benz has more competition than ever. There are many luxury car makes and models, and there are some that offer premium rides at far lower prices. What is keeping Mercedes-Benz competitive in face of these rivals?

Tradition and History

Luxury automakers do better if they have a long history behind them. Mercedes-Benz has been a household name for almost a century. They have never gone through long periods where their vehicles weren’t praised. This has happened to such giants as Ford, Volkswagen, and General Motors.

As a brand, Mercedes-Benz has managed to sustain its reputation through many economic ups and downs. There’s a definite cache to the brand name that you won’t find with something like a Hyundai Genesis. There’s also no doubt that every element will be of the highest quality. It’s a big contrast when you look at the flawed quality of many wannabe brands, such as Chrysler.

Luxury brand leadership doesn’t happen overnight, and it must be cultivated if it is to continue. You only have to look at the way that the brand now covers both the car and SUV market to understand that the automaker recognizes its place at the top.

Innovation and Excitement

While Mercedes-Benz could have coasted on its fame for a long time, the manufacturer keeps upping its game. Performance is emphasized when others are trying to capture elusive fuel economy gains. Handling and ride quality are essentials that cannot be neglected. There’s a consistency to the march of progress. Each year improves on the last in some real and meaningful way.

As a brand ahead of its time, Mercedes-Benz is capturing the luxury used car market as well. Shoppers who can’t afford a new one are happy to find a used one with reasonable used car mileage. They know that the brand name signals a long and better road life.

So many luxury brands get called out for plastic pieces or uneven material quality. The upholstery may be the finest fabric, but it isn’t sewn well. The soft-touch dash looks good today but is worn down in just a few years. Mercedes-Benz stays above these types of mistakes, and its cars last longer as a result.

Value and Pricing

The price of a Mercedes-Benz is directly proportional to its value. This cannot be said of all luxury vehicles. Many lose their value within a year of purchase. They just don’t have the staying power that Mercedes-Benz has. This isn’t just an illusion of the marketplace. It is directly tied to the high material quality and champion engineering of the brand’s vehicles.

Rivals must work hard to compete in this marketplace where a brand is so dominant. New Lexus SUVs, such as the 2021 Lexus RX hybrid, generally cost less and offer more technologies. They are using the latest safety technologies to lure customers away from the better known Mercedes brand.

For those who own a Mercedes-Benz, whether it’s a classic or a brand new model, there are some natural bragging rights. The many rivals don’t seem to have put a dent in that, and it seems unlikely they will in the near future.

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Mercedes-Benz Reaches 50-Millionth Production Milestone

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 03:19:36 GMT

Mercedes-Benz is celebrating another milestone this February as it just rolled out its 50-millionth passenger car from its production line. The unit that hit the mark happened to be a Mercedes-Maybach S-Class that was produced from the company’s Factory 56 at its Sindelfingen plant in Germany. The figures already include the units produced under the smart banner.

“Mercedes-Benz has always been synonymous with luxury. That’s why I’m very proud of this very special production anniversary: Fifty million vehicles produced is a significant milestone in the history of our company, and an exceptional achievement by the team. I would like to thank the colleagues in the plants around the world for their work and their commitment. Their expertise and passion in the production of our stars make the wishes of customers all over the world come true day after day,” said Jörg Burzer, member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG, Production and Supply Chain.

The Mercedes-Maybach S580 pictured here is the 50-millionth car of the company. It comes with a two-tone black and silver exterior finish. The ultra-luxurious auto is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a mild-hybrid system that brings its total output to 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Currently, the Maybach S-Class has a starting price of $173,000, so the special edition model should be somewhere north of that.

During the event, the automaker also reiterated its focus on the electrification of its vehicles. The three-pointed star marque is looking to integrate at least six EQ models going to 2022.

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Mercedes Recalls 1.3 Million Cars and SUVs Due To Problem in Emergency Call System

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 10:06:18 GMT

Around 1.3 million vehicles sold by Mercedes-Benz USA are subject to recall because of a potential issue in their eCall emergency call system. The problem may result in the system sending the wrong location to emergency responders in case of an accident.

The National Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) traced the problem to the emergency communication module of the software. The fix can be as simple as an over-the-air update, but some units may be required to undergo repairs in dealerships.

The agency identified 1,292,258 affected luxury cars and SUVs made from 2016 to 2020 by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG. The Mercedes recalls include the derivatives of the A-Class, B-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, SLC, CLA, CLS, and AMG GT. Meanwhile, the SUVs include all trims of the G-Class, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, and GLS.

It should be noted though the model years of the affected units differ. A comprehensive list of the Mercedes cars and SUVs for recall can be found on the NHTSA site.

So far, only one incident stemming from the issue was reported in Europe. To date, no US owners experienced the problem yet based on the investigation of NHTSA. Nevertheless, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so those who are covered by the notice should address the problem as soon as possible.

The fix for the communication module software of the vehicles is set to be rolled out on April 6, 2021. Those who have a Mercedes Me subscription can conveniently avail of the over-the-air update but those who don’t will have to schedule their visits with their respective Mercedes dealerships.

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For Sale: Custom Mercedes-Benz X-Class Pickup From Chelsea Truck Company with Special Plates

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 13:36:35 GMT

The three-pointed star marque may already have given up on the Mercedes-Benz X-Class, but some tuners are not yet done with the limited-run luxury pickup. Recently, Chelsea Truck Company posted one customized unit of the auto for sale with an optional special license plate.

The X-Class is priced at £45,999 ($63,591), but that does not include the “HE11 WAR” license plates yet. The pair of special plates are available for an additional £20,000 ($27,648).

The Mercedes pickup truck comes with a couple of cosmetic enhancements that include a new front bumper, hood vents, Panamericana-style front grille similar to the ones fitted in AMG vehicles, protective door guards, flared arches, and a set of 22-inch RS-XF wheels. The highlight of the upgrades is the canopy over the bed of the unit. Bulletproof glass is also available for order from the company.

The British tuner didn’t skimp on the interior design of the auto too. Inside are front and rear seats covered in black quilted soft leather with red contrasting stitching. Kahn door panels plus “The Road Is My Catwalk” badges adorn the interior as well.

No changes in the engine department of the vehicle were mentioned by Chelsea, but as a refresher, the most powerful trim of the series is the Mercedes-Benz X350d released from 2018 to 2020. It comes with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine with 255 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque distributed via a seven-speed automatic transmission.

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2021 Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe Gets 927 HP From Posaidon

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 12:15:17 GMT

The Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe is one of the best that the three-pointed star marque has to offer. It comes from the German automaker’s flagship car lineup and boosted by the luxury brand’s performance division. For those who want to push the car to its limit though, Posaidon has what it takes to anger the beast within it.

Don’t let its appearance fool you, the car may look the same as when it came out from the AMG factory on the outside, but within it is a major engine tune. With a €52,000 ($63,048) price tag in Germany, one can upgrade the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine of the car from its original 603 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque configuration into a whopping total of 927 hp and 944 lb-ft.

The ultimate stage of Posaidon’s tuning package is achieved by fitting the AMG S63 Coupe with new high-performance turbochargers. The turbos feature new ball bearings, downpipes with sport catalytic converters, a sport air filter, cylinder head porting, valve seat alternation, and a water/methanol injection system with an optional tank. It also comes with engine and transmission software remapping.

The new setup allows the high-performance two-door S-Class to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Meanwhile, its top speed is limited to 217 mph to prevent the tires from wearing off quickly.

Is 927 HP Too Much?

If 927 hp is too much for you, there’s Posaidon’s stage 1 kit that provides a subtle 690 hp and 701 lb-ft of torque to the car for €4,200 ($5,092) with a mere software upgrade. That’s good for a 0-62 mph run in 3.2 seconds and a max speed of 205 mph.

The €24,000 ($29,099) stage 2 tune squeezes 818 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque, thanks to upgraded turbochargers. That takes the auto from 0 to 62 mph in 3 seconds.

The stage 3 package does not offer a new injection setup, valve seat tinkering, and cylinder head porting like the stage 4, but it improves the output of the vehicle to 868 hp and 885 lb-ft of torque. The boost gives it an acceleration time of 2.9 seconds from 0 to 62 mph. The top speed is the same as stage 4.

There’s More

Posaidon is working to further up the ante with the Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe. The upcoming stage 5 kit is expected to give it over 1,000 hp.

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2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS Strips Down Its Top Camo

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 03:26:57 GMT

The Mercedes-Benz EQS may be related to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but its changes go beyond fitting it with electric motors and ditching its petrol-fed engine. The electric vehicle continues to lose more camouflage in new spy shots as its unveiling draws near, which exposes more of its hidden exterior features.

Exterior

The new spy photos from Motor1 continue to show us why the EQS flagship EV of Mercedes is a completely different thing than its flagship sedan relative. For one, the electric car is actually a liftback and not a sedan.

A closer examination also reveals that the EQS is sleeker than the S-Class, thanks to its coupe-like outline. This design actually resembles that of the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door.

Among the other highlights of the zero-emission vehicle include a light bar bridging the taillights, glass fixtures on the front and rear pillars, new headlamps, and a closed front grille.

Interior

The cockpit of the EQS will receive the 56-inch long MBUX Hyperscreen previewed by Mercedes at the CES digital-exclusive event last month. The components of the new technology include a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen infotainment system, and passenger-side display. Its maker noted that the tech will eventually trickle down to the other EQ EVs but the S-Class won’t be getting it because it is based on a “different derivative”.

Power Unit

There’s no available information yet about the output of the EQS’ electric motor. However, Mercedes already confirmed that it will offer more than 435 miles (700 kilometers) electric range based on WLTP cycle.

World Premiere

The all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS is expected to debut in the summer of 2021 coming as a 2022 model-year car. The EV will be assembled at Mercedes’ Sindelfingen plant in Germany where the S-Class is produced.

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1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL with AMG Restomod Appears in Super Bowl Halftime

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 02:43:58 GMT

In the prestigious Super Bowl annual event that saw Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes face-off, and a victory by Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the Kansas City Chiefs in a 31-9 affair, one of the most talked-about segments of the show was its halftime. The spotlight was on The Weeknd on this part who made quite an impression when he opened his performance with a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster.

Say what you want about the result of the Super Bowl LV and The Weeknd’s performance, but true Benz fans can most probably collectively agree that the vintage 300 SL was nothing short of spectacular. With that, let’s take a look at the highlights of the car.

The 300 SL used in the Super Bowl halftime features a restomod by S Klub. The tuner swapped the engine of the 3.0-liter naturally-aspirated six-cylinder engine of the car with a 3.2-liter supercharged V6 engine sourced out from a 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 32 AMG. This brings the output of the car to 349 hp, and the V6 sound is further amplified by the vehicle’s quadruple exhausts.

The S Klub speedster build for the vintage Mercedes also includes a cut-out on the hood to show off the new engine of the auto. It is complemented with a fiberglass body kit showcasing reworked character lines, new fender flares, red leather upholstery with Porsche Speedster seats, Porsche 356 Speedster windshield, Airlift air ride, larger Brembo disc brakes, and HRE wheels. Meanwhile, the tuner fitted the car with a front grille purchased from Mercedes Classic Center that has specialists capable of handcrafting classic 300 SL grilles. All other original parts from the 300 SL like the headlights, taillights, and badges were retained.

Check out the video below detailing the restomod made by S Klub to the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster:

Here’s also the Super Bowl halftime performance of The Weeknd:

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