Tag Archives: Mercedes

Motorsport

Mercedes G650 Landaulet Spied With Camo Has Us Scratching Our Heads

Mercedes introduced the G650 Landaulet over six years ago as a farewell to the previous generation of the G-Class. Limited to just 99 units, this version of the iconic off-roader was equipped with a powerful V12 engine and featured unique elements such as an electrically folding roof, portal axles, and large fender flares.

Despite debuting in March 2017, recent spy shots reveal that a prototype of the G650 Landaulet is still covered in camouflage. The vehicle was spotted alongside the upcoming all-electric EQG, set to be released next year. Based on the previous-generation G-Class, the prototype appears to be almost identical to the production model, complete with a beige fabric top and 22-inch wheels. However, the wheels sport a dark finish instead of the polished surface found on the customer cars of the G650.


News

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupes

The new Mercedes-Benz CLE will initially be available only as a coupe. However, a convertible version with an automatic multi-layered fabric hood is set to be launched later this year.

There is no information yet on the pricing for either model in the UK, but it is expected to be above £50,000.

First Ride: New Mercedes CLE

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to replace the C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets with the CLE coupe and cabriolet models. This means that instead of four models, there will now only be two.

During an initial ride in a validation prototype with low mileage on smooth roads near the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen, Germany, it became clear that the new CLE maintains the overall on-road character of its predecessor models.

Inside, there are numerous styling cues taken from the C-Class saloon and estate. However, the CLE coupe has a lower seating position in the front, giving it a sportier feel. Improved perceived quality can be seen in comparison to the old C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets, as well as better performance of the infotainment system. The system uses the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz MBUX operating system, providing faster response times and higher resolution on new-generation displays.

In its initial configuration with a top-of-the-line six-cylinder petrol engine, the CLE coupe delivers smooth and effortless performance. The prototype also excels in mechanical refinement and effectively reduces wind noise at typical motorway speeds.

Motorsport

Valtteri Bottas Takes Delivery Of Bluetiful Mercedes-AMG One

Valtteri Bottas, who recently moved from Mercedes to Alfa Romeo for the 2022 season, has taken delivery of his Mercedes-AMG One hypercar. He shared pictures of the car on his Instagram, showcasing its stunning blue color and exposed carbon fiber accents.

The delivery of Bottas’ AMG One comes after Mercedes has already started delivering the long-awaited hypercar to customers since January 2023. Other Formula 1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg are also among the 275 buyers who have purchased the AMG One.

The AMG One, which was initially shown as a concept in 2017, faced development challenges that delayed its production start until August 2022. Mercedes eventually resolved these issues, including finding a solution for the turbocharged 1.6-liter V6 engine to idle at 1,200 rpm instead of 5,000 rpm, in line with F1 car regulations. Stricter emissions regulations also posed a challenge during its development.

This hypercar features a fragile six-cylinder engine that needs to be rebuilt every 50,000 kilometers. However, considering the rarity of the AMG One and the fact that Mercedes has announced it won’t produce another F1-engined road car, owners are likely to preserve its value by keeping it in climate-controlled garages.

The AMG One is hand-assembled in Coventry, UK, using a hybrid powertrain produced by the Mercedes‑AMG High Performance Powertrains division in Brixworth. This car, with its combined output of 1,049 horsepower, can reach 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds and has a top speed of 219 mph.

Motorsport

Mercedes-AMG G63 Grand Edition Limited To 1,000 Units, Gets Gold Accents

Mercedes has released a new version of the AMG G63 called the Grand Edition. The company will only produce 1,000 units of this high-performance SUV, which features various visual enhancements both inside and out, with gold accents adding a touch of luxury.

The special Grand Edition of the AMG G63 stands out with its unique Manufaktur night black mango paint, which contrasts beautifully with the gold elements. The front and rear bumper inlays, front underbody protection plate, spare wheel ring, and spare wheel star emblem are all adorned with gold accents.


News

Autocar magazine 21 June: on sale now

This week in Autocar, we have some exciting coverage for you. We take a look at Mercedes’ newest hypercar, the Vision One-Eleven, which pays tribute to the iconic C111. Only 16 of these will be produced.

In other news, Toyota Gazoo Racing has started testing its first battery-powered prototype, with chairman Akio Toyoda personally involved in the development. We have exclusive information on this.

Renault has launched its flagship coupé-SUV, the Rafale, promising an exhilarating driving experience. Volkswagen’s upcoming SUV, the Tayron, will be the successor to the seven-seat Tiguan Allspace and is set to be available in the UK in 2025.

Reviews

This week, we review the Honda ZR-V, a hybrid-powered family crossover designed to compete in a tough market. We also have an exclusive drive in a prototype of the new Volkswagen Tiguan, set to be released in June 2024. Our reviewer, Felix Page, reveals that there is more to this crossover than meets the eye. Additionally, we put the Ford Ranger, DS7, and facelifted Mazda 2 to the test.

Features

Bentley has launched the Batur, a £2 million hypercar and a swansong to its iconic W12 engine. Our reviewer, Matt Prior, believes it deserves a full five-star rating. We also take a trip to Skoda’s museum to explore their collection of classic cars. Additionally, we cover the 100th anniversary of the Le Mans 24 Hours race, discussing the special significance of this event.

Opinion

In this section, Matt Prior speculates on what Bentley might do next after the Batur, suggesting the possibility of a Mulliner-edition Bentayga or Flying Spur. On the other hand, Steve Cropley shares his experience of returning to Le Mans after a six-year hiatus, including witnessing parades, the unveiling of Alpine’s new A424 Beta racer, and an encounter with an incredibly bad driver.

Used

In the used car section, Oliver Young examines the second-generation Honda Integra Type R and provides insights on why it’s a great choice if you’re considering buying one.

News

New Mercedes E-Class Estate offers more space and digital apps

Mercedes is set to release the new E-Class Estate this autumn, featuring increased rear passenger space, enhanced technology, and a range of third-party apps. The new model will be sold alongside the Mercedes E-Class Saloon, which was unveiled earlier this year. Compared to its predecessor, the E-Class Estate is 28mm wider and has a 22mm longer wheelbase of 2961mm.

One of the standout features of the E-Class Estate is its spaciousness. With 615 litres of cargo space, it falls just short of the Volvo V90’s 650 litres and surpasses the Audi A6 Avant’s 586 litres. Folding down the seats allows for a maximum storage capacity of 1830 litres. The plug-in hybrid models offer 460 litres of boot space, which expands to 1675 litres when the seats are folded due to the battery placement.

In terms of design, the E-Class Estate has received a refresh, featuring gloss black elements inspired by the all-electric EQS model range. The new model also boasts a sleeker roofline and a black panel that stretches from the radiator to the headlights.

Continuing the technology-focused approach, Mercedes has equipped the E-Class Estate with the latest generation of its MBUX infotainment system. This system includes features such as augmented reality, voice assistant, and online music streaming. In addition, a suite of digital apps like TikTok, Angry Birds, and Zoom is available. An AI system is present as well, learning the driver’s habits and suggesting relevant functions.

As for autonomous capabilities, the E-Class Estate offers level-four driverless tech with an optional driverless valet parking function, previously exclusive to the S-Class. This feature will be available in markets like Germany, where it is permitted by law.

The new E-Class Estate will initially offer a range of longitudinally mounted four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, all with 48V mild-hybrid electrification. The power outputs range from 194bhp to 375bhp, and all engines come with a nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Furthermore, a plug-in hybrid variant will be available, featuring a 24.1kWh battery that offers up to 62 miles of electric-only range.

For improved ride comfort, the estate comes with single-chamber air suspension at the rear as standard, with the option to upgrade to the Airmatic system with adjustable damping. The E-Class Estate has a towing capacity of up to 2.1 tonnes.

Motorsport

Brabus Mercedes-AMG C63 With 600 HP Roars on the Autobahn

Brabus, a renowned tuner of Mercedes vehicles, has showcased its expertise in a new Autobahn video. The spotlight is on the 2015 AMG C63 with Brabus upgrades, which comes incredibly close to reaching its top speed.

The stock version of the 2015 AMG C63 S is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque. Although this is plenty of power for most drivers, Brabus takes it up a notch with an upgrade that pumps out 600 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, transmitted to the rear wheels.

In the video, the C63 attempts to hit its top speed of 184 mph, but traffic conditions hamper its efforts. Nevertheless, the C63 manages an impressive speed of around 177 mph (285 kph), a testament to its performance capabilities.

Brabus offers a range of additional upgrades to complement its tunes. These include options to swap out the exhaust, install new wheels, add adjustable springs, and enhance the exterior with carbon-fiber accents. The tuner caters to various models and customer preferences, allowing for customization of horsepower levels.

In addition to its Mercedes upgrades, Brabus has diversified its offerings with a unique bundle, priced at $1.51 million. This bundle includes a Brabus 800-tuned G63 with 789 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, a boat with 900 hp, and a matching watch. The Brabus Shadow 900 Stealth Green Signature Edition sports boat is equipped with two 4.6-liter V8 Mercury Marine 450R engines, enabling it to reach speeds of over 69 mph (60 knots).

Another recent introduction from Brabus is the AMG GT63 S E Performance upgrade, which brings an extraordinary level of power. This plug-in hybrid boasts a combined output of 930 hp and 1,143 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to achieve a blistering acceleration of 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Although the 2015 AMG C63 is slightly slower, requiring 3.8 seconds to reach 60 mph, it still delivers impressive performance.

Motorsport

Aston Martin Needs Mercedes Engine Deal to Stay Afloat

Aston Martin Lagonda’s success has relied heavily on its collaboration with Mercedes. In addition to being a key technical partner, Mercedes also holds a significant share in the company and has expressed interest in increasing its stake to 20% by 2023. According to Roberto Fedeli, the Chief Technical Officer at Gaydon, Aston Martin would be in trouble without Mercedes’ support, particularly when it comes to complying with the stringent Euro 7 emissions regulations.

But working with Mercedes goes beyond just providing engines for Aston Martin. The collaboration also includes using Mercedes’ electrical architecture as the base for integration of new components, such as in the upcoming DB12 model.