Top Stories of 2012

A compilation of some of the most interesting stories we brought you in 2012

Welcome to 2013!  We’ve swapped out our 2012 calendars for our 2013 ones and we are ready to move forward and start a new year.  But, before we do that, we wanted to take one last look at what 2012 had to offer.  We’ve compiled a list of some of the top stories of the year and posted them below with links to the complete articles and photo galleries for your enjoyment.

Happy New Year!

2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake Official Release: With the new CLS Shooting Brake, Mercedes-Benz is once again setting an example when it comes to creativity of design, and as such highlighting its leading role in this area: in terms of its proportions, the new CLS is quite clearly a coupé, but with five doors and a roof which continues through to the rear, it promises some remarkable new possibilities. The idea of the four-door coupé – successfully introduced in 2004 with the first CLS and long imitated in the meantime – has now been taken to new heights and to innovative effect. The result is automotive independence at its most beautiful. Click Here.

Vorsteiner Mercedes CLS63 AMG Photos Revealed: Vorsteiner’s Mercedes CLS63 AMG will feature an all-new lightweight pre-preg carbon fiber aero package coupled with forged wheels and a cat back exhaust system. In the photos you can see the new front apron, redesigned side skirts, modified rear diffuser and the boot lid spoiler. All these parts feature all-new lightweight pre-preg carbon fiber. Click Here.

FAB Design Mercedes SLS Gullstream: Quite possibly the most radically built Mercedes SLS  to date, FAB Design’s widebody SLS tuning program, dubbed the Gullstream, remains at the top of our list. Originally revealed more than a year ago, I recently saw one of these beauties while on a family vacation at our hotel and had to give you a second look. Even better looking in person, the FAB Design SLS Gullstream is a widebody kit that features an all new front bumper, fenders, side skirts, rear quarter panels, rear bumper and rear diffuser. A lip spoiler made of carbon fiber is probably the most subtle of all the upgrades while the roof receives a non-functional air scoop. Click Here.

Helly Hansen Flow Down Parka: At the heart of the Flow Down Parka is… you guessed it… down.  Down, as you probably already know, is easily one of warmest, most insulating materials on the face of the earth.  But the problem with most down outerwear is that it’s overly bulky.  Down is stitched inside baffles, and the result is an overly puffy coat that makes you look the Marshmallow Man from Ghostbusters – not exactly an endearing style trait.  Click Here.

Mercedes-Benz S600 Becomes a Luxurious Guardian by Topcar: Whether you’re a Russian businessmen or an unloved policy-maker, chances are you are not cruising the streets in a standard S-Class.  Instead you’re likely opting for something with a little, no a lot, more protection that still offers all the luxuries you’re used to.  According to Topcar, secrecy is one of the relevant aspects of security, which is why, externally armored vehicles look like everyone else’s run-of-the-mill luxury car. Click Here.

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen iTempter by Dartz

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Gets the Gold Treatment from Dartz iTempter: We were first introduced to the Latvian car manufacturer when they unveiled their Prombron, one of the most unique armored cars in the world.  For those of you unfamiliar with Dartz, they are a Latvian-based corporation, that designs, manufactures, and sells high performance armored vehicles. Today, they have unveiled their iTempter, based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.  The Dartz iTempter G-Class comes complete with upgraded wood and leather, iPads and gold accents.  A lot of gold accents. Click Here.

Brabus Unveils Their Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake: The new Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake has arrived, and like the first CLS that created a market for four-door coupes, the new five-door model redefines the sporty-elegant wagon. Taking the Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake to the next level is a sophisticated refinement program is now available from BRABUS. The extensive product lineup starts with sporty-elegant aerodynamic-enhancement components for all Shooting Brake models with or without AMG sport package, and features custom-tailored BRABUS wheels with diameters of up to 20 inches. Also part of the BRABUS portfolio are exclusive interior options and engine tuning that delivers up to 455 kW / 619 hp (610 bhp) of power, 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque and a top speed of 320 km/h (200 mph). Click Here.

Mercedes-Benz CLS Utility Coupe Rendered: What if there was a luxury ute segment. Imagine for a minute what looks like an El Camino but with shiny new paint, aluminum loading rails with a wooden load compartment floor all while being surrounded by alcantara leather and wood trim. Well, here’s what that would look like if the Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe became a ute! Click Here.

Brooklyn Decker in GQ and Sports Illustrated: Brooklyn Decker was born April 12, 1987.  She’s a model, part-time actress, and an avid Tar Heels fan.  She’s worked for Victoria’s Secret, she’s been featured numerous years in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue (including gracing the cover in 2010), and she’s made appearances on several television shows (such as NBC’s Chuck and USA Network’s Royal Pains).  And she’s married to Andy Roddick, who we hear plays tennis or something. Click Here.

GAD Tuned CLS63 AMG: The Mercedes CLS63 AMG is one of the most popular cars for tuners – the main reason its 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 engine that can be tuned to output massive power as well as its exterior beauty.  In the recent past, we’ve seen CLS63 AMG by KichererVorsteiner,  SR Auto GroupVittMansory and Waldto name a few. The latest tuner to jump on the CLS63 AMG bandwagon is GAD with their 803hp monster. Click Here.

Official 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class World Premiere: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been officially unveiled and we have nearly 70 photos covering all angles of the interior and exterior of both the E-Class Sedan and Wagon along with engine and technical information.  If you can barely contain your excitement, skip straight to the photo gallery below or head directly to the quick reference guide by CLICKING HERE.  Otherwise, continue on for an in-depth look at the all new 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Click Here.

Pope Benedict XVI Takes Delivery of New Popemobile: Daimler announced today that it has delivered Pope Benedict XVI his new popemobile.  The Pope’s new custom ride is a one-of-a-kind Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV with quite a few special security features.  Daimler said the new car was delivered Friday to the Vatican and people should be able to see the pope riding in it Saturday in Rome during a celebration at the Spanish Steps Click Here.

Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series by TIKT: TIKT, a German tuner and performance-parts specialist, has reworked the already exceptionally powerful Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series Coupe, transforming it into the Black Barron for the 2012 Essen Motor Show. Over the years the company has made a name for itself as a top tuner with its spectacular and technically expert individual conversions based solely on the top range Corvette (including diverse lap records with the TIKT Corvette ZR 1 Triple X). Click Here.

Helly Hansen H2 Flow Jacket

Helly Hansen H2 Flow Jacket: In everyone’s life, there’s a moment when you try something and you think to yourself, “This is brilliant… why didn’t I think of it?”  In the world of outerwear, Helly Hansen has just launched a product that falls precisely into the aforementioned category , solving the dilemma of how to precisely blend optimal amounts of heating and cooling. Click Here.

Mercedes C63 AMG

Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Photo Gallery: The last time we took a look at the Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe, it was drifting the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca. Today, we have photos of the AMG Coupe touring the streets of Germany from Germany’s finest photogs at Wötzel Photography.  Head to the gallery and click through to enlarge the photos to view the Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe in all its glory. Click Here.

Mercedes-Benz Super Bowl Ad: The total cost to debut the new models:  roughly $6 million, thanks to the Super Bowl’s impressive ad rate of $3 million per 30 seconds.  And while we could wait two days and simply watch to see the models make their $6 million Super Bowl debut, the truth is, I hate waiting, so I’ll do you one better.  I’ll give you a sneak peak of the models making their debut, not Sunday, but right now Click Here.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible Facelift Renderings

Renderings of what the new Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet may look like with a facelift

What seems like forever ago, in 2009, Mercedes introduced the W212 sedan, as the ninth generation of the E-Class. It was soon followed by the C207, the coupe version of the Mercedes E-Class which then replaced the CLK-Class coupe.

The model internally known as the A207 is the latest to join the family. The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet was unveiled a mere two years ago in January 2010 and went on sale in the US as the E350 V6 and E550 V8 versions.

Mercedes has just given the E-Class a radical makeover, with completely new headlights, bumpers, grille and hood. But they only revealed the four-door sedan and the wagon versions. We know the C207 and A207 will both receive a new look, but until it becomes official, here are two renderings of what the new E-Class Cabriolet may look like with a facelift.

Renderings by Theophilus Chin via Autoevolution

2014 Mercedes E63 AMG First Drive Video

The face-lifted E-class arrives with the 2014 model year and the E63 is not far behind

Competition continues to heat up in the battle of sport sedans, and while the BMW M5 has reigned for years, the Audi S6 was titled champ in one test. And now, to increase its standings, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is doing what was once thought unthinkable. It will feature an all-wheel drive setup for the 2014 model year. Though rear-wheel drive was thought as the optimal way that power should be delivered in a sports car, that dynamic has been changed upside down in recent years. With torque vectoring and other high-tech systems, it’s pretty clear that to remain competitive at the highest level, AWD will be the next step for manufacturers. So, while details about the AWD AMG have remained tucked away, now we’re hearing some of the NEW details for the FIRST time.

Check out the clip below to hear all about Mercedes’ upcoming 2014 E63 AMG.

From Car and Driver

In late November, barely 12 months after the introduction of the most recent Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, we were offered the opportunity to ride along with AMG’s top managers during a sign-off drive of the upcoming 2014 E63. What’s more, this will mark the third major revision of the E63 since the current-generation E-class, the W212, was introduced to the press in the summer of 2009 as a 2010 model. Among the luxury-car competition, Mercedes seems to put a higher priority on the prompt introduction of its high-performance variants than do the others.

The motivation for this latest change is the midcycle enhancement to the E-class line as a whole. Most of the German carmakers operate on a six-year interval between major redesigns, with a face lift halfway through the cycle. The face-lifted E-class arrives with the 2014 model year and the E63 is not far behind.

U.S. cars go AWD

Of course, we wouldn’t bother with a new E63 if it received nothing more than differently creased sheetmetal. But this 2014 model will come with something that we’ve never before experienced on an AMG passenger car—all-wheel drive. Not only will the E63 have the Mercedes 4MATIC system, but that’s the only way it will come to America, although the rest of the world will still be able to order a rear-drive version.

While we usually regard the move from front-wheel drive to AWD as a performance enhancement, the benefits of adding powered front wheels to a rear-drive car are less obvious. In fact, our first suspicious thought was that rather than improve performance, AWD was being added to broaden the appeal of AMG cars in northern climates, where most Mercedes are sold with 4MATIC. Since many AMG buyers—unlike BMW M buyers—seem to regard the AMG models as the top-of-the line rather than as pure performance versions, this would broaden the market for the AMG cars.

Torque-split personality

Ola Källenius, AMG’s CEO, explains that its products should have a split personality: “AMG cars are all designed so that that they can be driven everyday. But they are also expected to perform well at the track. We think 4MATIC will enhance this dual capability.”

Källenius goes on to explain: “It has taken us about two and a half years of engineering to take the basics of the 4MATIC and redevelop it for AMG purposes. For AMG, the 4MATIC torque split is revised, biased 67 percent to the rear axle, 33 percent to the front, and it is actually quicker on the track than our previous rear-drive configuration.”

The additional 4MATIC hardware adds weight—about 130 pounds. Based on the last E63 we tested, which weighed 4233 pounds, the additional weight moves the E63 from among the lightest to the heaviest cars in the segment, although by only about 100 pounds.

More power, Scotty

Making up for the additional weight is an uprated engine. It’s still a twin-turbocharged 5461-cc V-8, but a judicious increase in boost increases power from 518 to 550 hp, while peak torque rises from 516 to 531 lb-ft. Coupled with the improved traction, expect a 0-to-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time in the high 11s at no less than 125 mph.

The usual Performance package with even more power and torque will be announced later, but expect to see at least an additional 26 ponies and another 26 lb-ft of torque, along with a relaxed governor that allows top speed to rise from 155 to 186 mph. There was a hint that this package might include other upgrades as well, along with some clear visual identification.

Video: 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Video Debut

Efficient, intelligent, emotional: the new Mercedes E-Class sports a completely new front design with new proportions

Efficient, intelligent, emotional: the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class sports a completely new front design combined with new proportions. Eleven new or optimized assistance systems supplement its dynamic presence as do a broad range of powerful and efficient gasoline and diesel engines.  The video below shows the Estate, Luxury Sedan and Sport Sedan out on the road.

Click here to view the full press release and 70 photos or here to view a quick reference guide (engines, assistance programs, etc.)

2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Quick Reference Guide

The 2014 Mercedes E-Class will be available in spring 2013, with new, efficient engines, new assistance systems & a new design style

The heavily redesign 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be available in spring 2013, complete with new, efficient engines, new assistance systems and a new design style.

For those of you without much time on your hands, we’ve put together a quick reference guide and a photo gallery with only 20 photos.  If you would like to see the complete coverage, full press release and 70 photos, of the 2014 E-Class Estate and Sedan, CLICK HERE.

Performance:

  • E250 BlueTEC: 2.1-liter 4-cylinder turbodiesel: 190 hp, 369 lb.-ft
  • E350 Sedan: direct-injection 3.5-liter V6: 302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.
  • E350 4MATIC Wagon: direct-injection 3.5-liter V6: 302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.
  • E400 HYBRID Sedan: electric motor and direct-injection 3.5-liter V6: 27 hp + 302 hp, 184 lb-ft + 273 lb-ft
  • E550 4MATIC Sport Sedan: turbocharged direct-injection 5.5-liter V8: 402 hp, 443 lb.-ft.

New Standard Feature Highlights:

  • Collision Prevention Assist
  • ATTENTION ASSIST (new generation)
  • ECO Start/Stop
  • Sport models feature integrated star in grille
  • Dashboard design

New Optional Feature Highlights:

  • 4-cylinder diesel powertrain
  • 4MATIC all-wheel drive on BlueTEC
  • Full-LED lighting
  • Surround View Camera
  • Parking Assist Package
  • New generation Driver Assistance Package, featuring:
    • DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist
    • Optimized Active Lane Keeping Assist
    • BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist
    • PRE-SAFE PLUS® for rear-end collision
    • Autonomous emergency braking (PRE-SAFE® Brake) on pedestrians

Official 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class World Premiere

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been officially unveiled and we have nearly 70 photos of the sedan and estate

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been officially unveiled and we have nearly 70 photos covering all angles of the interior and exterior of both the E-Class Sedan and Wagon along with engine and technical information.  If you can barely contain your excitement, skip straight to the photo gallery below or head directly to the quick reference guide by CLICKING HERE.  Otherwise, continue on for an in-depth look at the all new 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Both cars featuring highly efficient engines, an array of new driver assistance systems and even more refined styling. No less than eleven new or optimized assistance systems from the future S-Class celebrate their world premiere in both the sedan and wagon models. They combine a host of comfort and safety features, referred to by Mercedes- Benz as “intelligent drive.” These groundbreaking systems include technologies that can help prevent accidents with pedestrians or vehicles crossing in front, Active Lane Keeping Assist for avoiding collisions with oncoming traffic and anti-glare continuous high-beam headlamps. All this and more ensures that Mercedes-Benz maintains its pioneering role in vehicle safety. The new E-Class also takes a major step forward in terms of efficiency, thanks to the new four-cylinder diesel engine. An extensive package of design updates round-off the new and compelling features of the MY14 E-Class, delivering an accomplished combination of efficiency, intelligence and style. The 2014 E-Class Sedan and Wagon will be in U.S. showrooms this Spring.

By conducting such a comprehensive redevelopment of the E-Class range, Mercedes- Benz is ensuring that its customers benefit from the very latest technical advances as soon as possible. The new E-Class also comes with distinctive updates in its styling for an elegant and sporty look, as well as significantly enhanced comfort features and upscale equipment, rounded-off by an exceptional level of efficiency and everyday driving pleasure. All of this comes together to ensure that the E-Class continues to consolidate its leading position in the luxury segment.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes- Benz Cars: “We are setting clear trends in terms of safety, design and efficiency with the new E-Class. It puts many technical innovations on the road and undoubtedly is the best E-Class ever. This also finds expression in its design and its carefully revised interior, which bring a breath of fresh air to the luxury class. The ‘E’ thus continues to hold its place at the very top of this demanding segment.”

Design – a choice of two new front-end styles

Numerous intelligent modifications have given the E-Class a new front-end design and revised proportions. Designers applied the new Mercedes-Benz design language to reinterpret the brand’s classic design values on the existing basis. The outcome is an elegant, refined and yet sporty look.

The front end has been completely revised with new headlamps that incorporate all light functions within a single lens, while flowing light elements within the headlamps help to retain the “four-eyed” appearance that is such a distinctive E-Class signature. When it comes to light and sight, the E-Class sets the benchmark – low beam and daytime running lights both come with partial LED as standard, while full-LED headlamps are available as an option for the first time in this class.

In another first, the MY14 E-Class is available with two different front-end designs. The Luxury version comes with the classic sedan grille with 3-louver look and star on the hood. The Sport version, on the other hand, features the sports grille with integrated star, forming a visual link to the brand’s highperformance sports car models.

The hood and front bumper have also been completely redesigned. With its flowing lines, the hood offers a smooth, sleek expression of the new design language. The bumper has new, contemporary styling with an aerofoil shape along its lower edge for an even more distinctively sporting character. Sport models receive an even more confident front design, using the AMG styling package that features larger air intakes and a distinct aluminum trim line along the entire lower rim of the front bumper.

Dynamic, elegant proportions

A new feature line and a repositioned three-dimensional trim line bring new proportions to both the sedan and wagon. The feature line runs below the structure line from the rear door to the tail light, giving the car greater visual length. This is reinforced by the side trim, which is now much lower. The over-all effect is to make the MY14 E-Class look longer and more elegant, and at the same time both dynamic and composed.

Broad, distinctive rear end

The rear end of the MY14 E-Class features modifications to the lights and the bumper. The new LED tail lamps have a horizontal design that emphasizes the width of the vehicle, while the two-tone look comes with a distinctive nighttime signature. Sport models feature exposed dual exhaust pipes.

Premium interior

The generously proportioned interior of the E-Class has been subtly revised and harmonized with the expressive exterior. Premium materials, precise lines and clearly defined surfaces combine to create a sophisticated overall look-andfeel.

A new feature is the two-part trim extending across the entire soft-touch dashboard, which is available in two wood finishes – burl walnut or black ash. Also new are the 3-tube instrument cluster, the trapezoidal head-unit display, the air vent design and the analogue clock between the two central vents.

“Intelligent drive” with new assistance systems

What started with PRE-SAFE® and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS® has emerged as a new dimension of driving at Mercedes-Benz, where comfort and safety merge into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this “intelligent drive.” A whole host of new or optimized systems from the future S-Class celebrate their world premiere in the E-Class, delivering increased comfort and safety, such as the all-new DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist.

The basis for all this is new state-of-the-art sensors and their associated algorithms. Mercedes-Benz has taken a major step forward with the introduction of the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera. Just like the previous Mono Multi-Purpose Camera, it is located on the windshield near the rearview mirror. However, this camera features two “eyes,” set at an angle of 45 degrees to produce a threedimensional view of the area up to 55 yards in front of the vehicle and with an overall range of up to 550 yards. The stereo camera gathers data for processing by various systems using intelligent algorithms. The systems can detect vehicles driving in front, oncoming or crossing and evaluate this three-dimensional visual information to determine their speed and position. They can also identify pedestrians within a large field of vision.

Along with the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera, Mercedes-Benz is also introducing enhanced versions of the Multi-Mode Radar sensor system. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with Adaptive Brake Assist is standard equipment on both the sedan and wagon. It helps to reduce significantly the risk of a rear-end collision. Also part of standard equipment is ATTENTION ASSIST®, which now warns of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider range, and provides visual information on attention level and time driven since the last break. The sensitivity of the newgeneration ATTENTION ASSIST® can be adjusted by the driver.

Also available are a number of assistance systems that are either new or now feature significantly enhanced functionality. In overview:

  • DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist can help the driver keep the vehicle centered in its lane and can semi-autonomously follow in-line traffic.
  • For the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS® with Cross- Traffic Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians, and boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly
  • The PRE-SAFE® Brake can now detect pedestrians as well and initiate autonomous braking.
  • PRE-SAFE® PLUS can identify an imminent rear-end collision and then prompt the PRE-SAFE® system to trigger occupant protection measures that reduce the forces exerted on passengers. If the vehicle is stationary, it can also prevent secondary accidents in the event of a rear-end collision by applying the brakes
  • Active Lane Keeping Assist can now detect when the adjacent lane is not clear, including the presence of oncoming traffic, overtaking vehicles, crash barriers etc. Under threat of a collision, even if the lane marking is not a solid line, the system can prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side. This system pairs perfectly with Active Blind Spot Assist.
  • Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS allows high beam to remain permanently switched on without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams’ cone of light.
  • Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and perpendicular spaces
  • The Surround View Camera will cover all four sides of the vehicle and enable a 360-degree view including virtual bird’s-eye perspective – a top view of the vehicle and its immediate surroundings. Dynamic guide lines help during parking and maneuvering.

Excellent performance with high gas mileage

Both the E-Class sedan and wagon boast a range of powerful and efficient gasoline and diesel engines. All come with the ECO start/stop system as standard equipment and are highly efficient. Mercedes-Benz offers the broadest range of ECO start/stop systems in the United States, as well as the most seamless, smooth, and unobtrusive algorithms.

The gasoline engines offered in the MY14 E-Class are the highly successful V6 and V8 units in the E350 and E550, which will go on sale in Spring 2013. They combine excellent response characteristics and outstanding power delivery with exceptional efficiency.

Powerful diesel engine and hybrid drive for outstanding efficiency

New in the MY14 E-Class sedan is the incredibly efficient four-cylinder diesel engine powering the E250 BlueTEC with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, available Fall 2013. Compliant with emissions legislations in all fifty states, the latest diesel model from Mercedes-Benz shows that premium elegance and outstanding economy are not mutually exclusive. The E250 BlueTEC generates 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, replacing the V6-powered E350 BlueTEC engine that only was available with rear-wheel drive.

A further feature of the MY14 E-Class range is the highly economical E400 HYBRID. Supplemented by an electric motor (27hp, 184 lb-ft), the E400 HYBRID offers the powerful and refined performance of the Mercedes-Benz 3.5- liter V6 (302hp, 273 lb-ft) paired with an outstanding gas mileage of 24/30 mpg (est. city/highway)

New-generation transmission for dynamic and economical driving

The engines in the MY14 E-Class are mated to the seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT SELECT shift paddles. This latest evolution of the seven-speed transmission offers significant benefits in terms of efficiency and ease of maintenance.

A new feature is the short-term M mode. If the driver shifts up or down manually, the transmission independently switches back to the fuel-efficient automatic shift mode after a pre-determined period of time elapses.

Traction and stability can also be enhanced across the MY14 E-Class lineup with the 4MATIC® permanent all-wheel-drive system – particularly effective in challenging surface conditions.

The E63 AMG sedan and wagon, launching in Fall 2013, comes with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT seven-speed MCT and 4MATIC in the United States, delivering incredible performance. More technical details will follow in January 2013 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Refined suspension for excellent handling

Mercedes-Benz offers three suspension configurations for the MY14 E-Class:

  • Configured for comfort, the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with strokedependent damping system is the standard suspension setup for the Luxury model
  • In the Sport model, the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with strokedependent damping system is 15 mm lower and has a more sporty setup
  • The E63 AMG comes with the AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension.

All suspension variants feature outstanding sensitivity and ride characteristics and help to ensure an excellent level of road holding.

All models in the MY14 E-Class lineup are fitted with an electromechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. This combines speed-sensitive power steering with a variable ratio across the steering angle range. The rack-and-pinion steering gear is controlled on-demand and therefore contributes towards efficiency.

Advantages of the electromechanical Direct-Steer system include:

  • improved agility thanks to more direct steering response
  • comfortable handling and smooth steering characteristics at all speeds
  • improved efficiency, as energy is consumed only while steering
  • enables innovative assistance systems, e.g. Active Parking Assist

Premium equipment

The MY14 E-Class already comes with a comprehensive range of premium equipment as standard. Optional packages include the Premium 1 package with Rearview camera, COMAND navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, Harman/ kardon® Logic 7® surround sound, power rear window sunshade, heated front seats (standard with E550), active ventilated front seats and garage-door opener. Further packages available at launch are the Lighting package, Parking Assist package, Lane Tracking package, Wood Trim package and Wheel package. The Driver Assistance package and KEYLESS-GO package will be available shortly after launch.

The KEYLESS-GO package will feature electronic trunk closer and HANDSFREE ACCESS, which enables opening and closing of the trunk lid without physical contact by simply holding your foot beneath the bumper. This extremely convenient feature is particularly useful when loading and unloading the vehicle.

When it comes to infotainment, Mercedes-Benz delivers the MY14 E-Class sedan and wagon with the COMAND® system featuring AM/FM/WB radio, indash DVD/CD player, in-dash memory card slot, and Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling. Standard equipment also includes a central controller with a 7-inch, high-resolution display and a color display in the instrument cluster.

    Engine Lineup for the 2014 E-Class Facelift Revealed

    The standard E-Class range will be offered with just one petrol engine in two states of tune - turbocharged E200 and the E250

    Mercedes-Benz has revealed its significantly updated E-Class.  The mid-life makeover includes revised styling, updated engines, a higher level of standard equipment, new safety features and high-tech options.  The changes are described as the most comprehensive in Mercedes’ history and happen in the face of executive opposition that is stiffer than ever.

    The heavily revised E-Class is set to get its first public outing at the Detroit Motor Show in January.  Pricing has yet to be announced but Mercedes suggest that they won’t change much.

    The major thrust of Mercedes’ efforts to lift the appeal of the E-Class centers around its styling, which has been altered more significantly than is usual for a mid-life facelift, most notably at the front.  The quad headlamp treatment which had been a key design feature for the E-Class since 1995, is gone, to be replaced by a more conventional appearance with more prominent single-assembly headlights that feature LED daytime running lights as standard.

    Further changes have been made to the grille, where there are now two options, one sporty and the other more traditional.  The front bumper bonnet are also revised.

    The heavily structured rear wheel-arches have been smoothed to give the car a more cohesive appearance.  A new crease line runs from the rear door through to the tail lights, which retain the same shape but receive new LED-imbued graphics, whose horizontal emphasis is meant to widen the car visually.  There is also a re-profiled rear bumper.

    The standard E-Class range will be offered with just one petrol engine in two states of tune.  The turbocharged 2.0 litre unit is available with 181bhp in the E200 and 208bhp in the E250.  A third petrol option will be offered in the yet to be revealed E63 AMG, which is tipped to offer an incremental increase over the 518bhp of the current twin-turbo 5.5 litre V8.

    Two carried over diesels are planned: a 2.1 litre four-cylinder with 134bhp in the E200 CDI, 168bhp in the E220 CDI and 201bhp in the E250 CDI, and a 3.0 litre V6 with 248bhp in the E350.

    Autocar via German Car Forums

    2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Official Photos Leak Onto the Web

    See the first official photos of the 2014 Mercedes E-Class Sedan and E-Class Estate

    The first official photos of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have leaked onto the web and we have them for you.

    UPDATE: Click here to view the world premiere of the 2014 E-Class.  (70 photos and complete details)

    For those of you that have not been following the spy photos, the 2014 E-Class is sporting far more than just a simple facelift.  On the contrary, there have been several design changes. The hood, front and lower grilles have a completely new style and the previously teased one-piece headlight has replaced the current quad configuration of the outgoing model. The taillights and bumper received a new look in the back.

    We’ve yet to receive the official technical details, but you can get a great idea of what you’re getting thanks to the interior and exterior photos of the sedan and the estate E-Class.

    The engine lineup will likely include the usual units, a V6 3.5-liter with 333 hp (248 kW), a turbocharged V8 4.6-liter with 435 hp (324 kW) and a V8 5.5-liter twin-turbo generating 537 hp (400 kW). Mercedes-Benz could also launch a new entry-level model with a Renault-sourced 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter engine producing 156 hp (116 kW).

    We will keep you posted as additional details come in.  Stay tuned.

    Via: German Car Forums

    2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Latest Spy Photos

    The facelifted E-Class will receive new one-piece headlights, restyled front bumper and grille

    The very stealthy spy photographers over at WCF have once again caught the sedan version of facelifted 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class prototype while testing.

    New one-piece headlights, restyled front bumper and grille are likely to be seen on the facelifted E-Class, along with a few minor revisions to the taillights and rear bumper.

    The engine lineup for the 2014 E-Class will more than likely receive an increase in horsepower. The high-performance E63 AMG variant has been reported to generate 543 hp (405 kW) without the optional Performance Package. Mercedes-Benz might also be planning a new entry-level variant with a 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter Renault-sourced engine producing 156 hp (116 kW).

    The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will debut at NAIAS in Detroit next month.

    Source: WCF

    Video Update – 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Facelift First Official Photos

    The first images of the new E-Class facelift have been released focussed specifically on the lighting design

    The first images of the new E-Class facelift have been released focussed specifically on the lighting design of the new E-Class.

    The headlights of the new E-Class are all-LED lights. We expect to see the first full body images of the new E-Class in the coming weeks- the premiere likely to be at the NAIAS 2013 in Detroit this January.

    Check out the photos in the gallery below, courtesy of our good friend Markus Jordan.

    2014 Mercedes E-Class Facelift – First Photo of AMG Variant

    The 2014 E-Class will receive extensive updates, one-piece headlights with LEDs & bi-xenon, revised front grille & new hood

    The first photo of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class without any camouflage has made its way to the web. The E-Class spied is likely the E63 AMG version based on the large alloy wheels, large air vents on the front bumper and the tell-tale red brake calipers. It has also been reported that the photographer, Víctor Gutiérrez Poza, also mentioned that he noticed a “V8 biturbo” logo on the front fender.

    Based on what we have seen in previous spy photos and the latest photo, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has received more than just a normal facelift.  Instead it will receive extensive updates, including one-piece headlights with LEDs and bi-xenon, revised front grille and a new hood.

    Also hinted at in the past few weeks is that the E63 AMG will be offered as standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and will produce 543 hp (405 kW) without an optional Performance Package. It will be capable of reaching 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.4 seconds.

    Photos Via MBPassion

    2013 Mercedes E63 AMG First Spy Photos

    Testing near the Nürburgring, the Mercedes E63 AMG has a single design headlamp units with LED running light at the top

    Over the past couple of months, we’ve brought you spy photos of the future E-Class Saloon, Coupe, Estate, and even renderings.  Today however, is the first time we have photos of the AMG model, the E63 AMG.

    Testing near the Nürburgring, the Mercedes E63 AMG has a well disguised front bumper, but we are able to see single headlamp units with LED running light at the top.

    We expect the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 to carry over from the current model with 517bhp in standard and 549bhp with the Performance Package.

    Source: GMotors

    2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Rendered

    Mercedes-Benz won't limit changes to headlights, grille, and bumpers; the sheetmetal will also be significantly altered as well

    Renderings of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class mid-cycle face lift have made their way to the web and we love what we see. Mercedes-Benz won’t limit changes to just the headlights, the grille, and the bumpers; the sheetmetal will also be significantly altered as well. The pronounced sculpted rear fenders we’re now used to will be scrapped on the sedan and the station wagon. The coupe and convertible may retain their current side panels, setting them somewhat apart from the four- and five-door models. This distinction would be highly appropriate, as the two sets of body styles don’t share a platform; the E-class coupe and convertible use a combination of C- and E-class underpinnings.

    The headlight quartet, which was a key visual element that chief designer Gorden Wagener said he wouldn’t “want to do without” when the E-class was launched, will be scrapped, just like the hook-shaped daytime running lamps. Mercedes will also alter the angular and stylistically designed dashboard and interior that we were introduced to in 2009. In addition, the cabin will get a softer look that is more in line with the traditional perception of the brand.

    The Mercedes-Benz E-class is the brand’s key model, with competition coming from the Audi A6, BMW 5-series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M, Jaguar XF, Lexus GS. Its previous busy styling was not welcomed by Mercedes-Benz purists, so this redesign is Mercedes-Benz chance to prove they can still build a traditional car while adding updated styling to attract new buyers.

    As for the E-class platform, models will remain on their current pair of platforms. while Mercedes may take the opportunity to tinker with suspension tuning or add new chassis tech.

    The U.S. market will keep the E350’s 3.0-liter V-6, the E550’s turbocharged 4.7-liter V-8 and paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive in the sedan. The E350 BlueTec’s 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel, note this is only available as a four-door. The E63 AMG’s 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-8, available currenlty only in sedan and wagon forms, but an E63 AMG coupe likely is on the horizon. The new-for-2013 E400 hybrid—featuring a 3.0-liter V-6 and a 27-hp, 207-lb-ft electric motor—will continue to be available as well. No diesel hybrid will be offered in the U.S., nor will any of Benz’s efficient four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines.

    A seven-speed automatic is the only transmission on all models in the U.S. The jigsaw puzzle that is all-wheel-drive availability and restriction within the E-class lineup will remain as tedious as ever but likely won’t change much from today’s matrix.

    The face-lifted E-class will likely be unveiled at the Detroit auto show in January 2013 and go on sale in the summer of next year as a 2014 model. When the new model arrives, we expect it to carry stickers similar to the current models’; prices will begin at just over $50,000, with a hefty premium for the wagon and the convertible. Source: Car and Driver

    2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Facelift Spy Photos

    Updates to the body will focus on the front end, with a redesigned grille that will be flanked by single unit headlights

    Little by little Mercedes is peeling back the camouflage and giving us a glimpse at what we can expect from the much anticipated 2014 E-Class.  Updates to the body of the new E-Class will focus on the front end, there is a redesigned grille that will be flanked by single unit headlights, abandoning the old design from the 90’s.

    Styling changes are less visible in the rear with slightly redesigned taillights. We cannot yet see the bumper clear enough to be certain, but more than likely, the lines will be softer and smoother than the current design.

    Media launch will be this fall with a market launch at the beginning of 2013.
    Photos via AutoEvolution and WorldCarFans