Tag Archives: dampers

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupé

The CLE 53 comes as customary with AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers, which modify to the street floor and driving situations. Cruise round in Comfort mode and it is stress-free and easygoing, even when the big alloy wheels and sporty suspension do decide up sharper edges. 

Sport and Sport+ modes each make the automobile firmer, however neither of those are as harsh as Race. Sure, you get the advantages of higher throttle response and a extra reactive gearbox, however this comes at a price of experience consolation. And you get a extra noticeable jolt in your again whenever you shift up utilizing the paddles. Thankfully, you’ll be able to combine and match settings.

On steep and twisty roads, the CLE 53 consists and interesting. Turn in to a bend at tempo and there is an preliminary dose of physique roll earlier than the automobile tightens up by way of the nook. You do really feel the burden by way of bends, however it maintains a impartial stance. 

There isn’t a lot really feel to the steering, nonetheless. Sure, it’s correct, however there isn’t any change to its weight as you flip right into a nook. Four-wheel-steering comes as customary on the CLE 53: you discover its impact extra when manoeuvring at decrease speeds, for instance round roundabouts. When urgent on, its results are properly refined.

There’s loads of grip, due to four-wheel drive, though this does restrict the automobile’s playfulness. In Sport mode or above, the 4Matic+ system will get extra rear-biased and the ESP extra lenient, but the automobile not often feels prefer it’s going to interrupt traction, even with extra abrupt throttle inputs.

There’s a Drift mode as a part of the Pro Performance Pack, which sends all the energy to the rear wheels, however we should await some observe time to check that.  

First ride: 2024 Mercedes-AMG G63

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG G63 is set to bring some exciting changes to the G-Class. One notable improvement is the replacement of anti-roll bars with semi-active dampers, which not only enhances the vehicle’s performance but also provides an as-yet-unspecified weight reduction.

Another enhancement to look forward to is the improved wheel articulation, which is expected to enhance the G63’s off-road capabilities. Additionally, the 2024 G63 will feature a new mild-hybrid powertrain, similar to the one used in the GLE 63.

This powertrain combines AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre petrol V8 with a 48V starter-generator, resulting in a combined output of 603bhp and 627lb ft of torque. This innovative powertrain brings both power and efficiency to the G63.

New 2024 Mercedes G-Class first ride review

During our test drive of the upcoming G63 near Leipzig, Germany, Ralf Haug, head of suspension at Mercedes-AMG, describes the G-Class’s new kinetic suspension set-up as a significant advancement in suspension development.

The idea to implement this kinetic suspension system in the G-Class came after AMG started developing it for their new SL and GT models. Haug further explains that the benefits seen in their sports cars sparked the idea to bring similar advantages to their off-road vehicles.

Although it’s still in the early stages of development, the prototype we rode in gave us an insight into the improvements to expect. The 2024 G63 seems to offer better handling and a smoother ride compared to the current model.

First drive: Inverted Range Rover Classic

The Inverted Range Rover Classic has undergone several upgrades. The rear springs have been made stiffer to handle the battery’s weight, and adjustable dampers from Fox (known from the Ford Raptor) have been installed. While the rear brakes are standard, the front brakes now feature four-pot calipers and discs from Alcon.

Many components are sourced either from a donor Tesla (such as the brake booster) or from aftermarket suppliers (like the battery management system).

Despite being Inverted’s first project, the Inverted Range Rover Classic feels comfortable to drive, especially once you select the appropriate setting. The standard mode has a lot of dead travel at the top of the throttle pedal and no regenerative braking. However, if you switch to Off-Road mode, it functions similar to a Tesla: the dead spot is replaced by regenerative braking, although the brake pedal still only affects the friction brakes. Inverted offers customization options for the amount of regen based on customer preferences.

Unlike a Tesla, power delivery is not instant. You need to keep your foot on the pedal for a while as the power gradually increases. While this may sound inconvenient, the vehicle always has enough power, adding a sense of engagement. Just imagine the thrill of unleashing 450bhp on a 1970s off-roader. Sport mode provides a more direct response but is still gradual enough for a smooth driving experience.

Inverted claims that the motor has the potential to deliver 600bhp, although 200bhp would suffice. It is important to note that this is not a vehicle designed for high-speed driving. The grip levels are modest, there is significant body roll, and the steering is both slow and humorously vague, lacking self-centering.