Is This What the 2014 C-Class Will Look Like

Based on past spy photos, SRK has created an amazing rendering of what the 2014 Mercedes C-Class could look like

The next generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class is scheduled for its world premier sometime next year but that hasn’t stopped spy photographers form doing everything they can to catch a glimpse of the next-gen model ahead of that reveal. We’ve been bringing you spy photos for months, and now, based on those photos, SRK from Indian Autos Blog has translated those photos into an amazing rendering.

We’ve included the new rendering as well as past spy photos in the gallery below.

New C-Class engines and specs

From the new C-Class lineup, we can expect to see a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines, a four-cylinder engine developed and built by Nissan and the first engine built in the U.S. to be used in a mainstream Mercedes as well as a  plug-in hybrid model in order for Mercedes to take on the Lexus IS 300h.

Watch for big updates to the safety tech on-board, borrowing systems from the current E-Class,  including cameras that can detect traffic and quite possibly the ability to steer itself in traffic jams.

One of the most important changes to the new C-Class would be the new Mercedes Rear Wheel drive Architecture (MRA) platform underpinning it. The new C-Class is expected to drive and handle better than the outgoing model thanks to the improvements in weight and performance.

New C-Class Cabriolet

There have also been spy photos that show Mercedes is working on a C-Class Cabriolet, a replacement for the CLK. The C-Class convertible isn’t expected to go on sale until 2015, a year after the four-door saloon arrives.

According to sources, the A-Class cabriolet that was originally on the docket  is no longer part of Mercedes’ new product plan.  This means the C-Class Convertible, although a bit larger, will rival the Audi A3 Cabriolet and the new BMW 2 Series Convertible – both of which will be on the market 2014.

Mercedes C63 AMG

It’s still unclear if the new C63 AMG will feature a 5.5-liter mill or a new 4.0-liter unit from AMG.  We do know however that no matter which engine Mercedes goes with, there will be vicious competition between the AMG, the new BMW M3 that is due out in 2014.

2015 Mercedes S-Class Coupe Preparing to Replace the CL

Spied testing once again this week was the Mercedes CL replacement, the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe prototype

Spied testing out in the open once again this week was the Mercedes CL replacement, the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe prototype.

The 2015 S-Class Coupe will receive a significantly lower roofline, squared-off front-end, door-mounted mirrors and enhanced front and rear fenders.

The S-Class Coupe will be one of the five versions offered in the new S-Class lineup, three different wheelbase lengths, the coupe seen here and as a convertible.  The S-Class has been confirmed for launch in Hamburg on May 15, stay tuned. Photos Via: Gmotors.co.uk

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – Leaked Photo Update

See the next generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class interior and exterior completely undisguised

Hot on the heels of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class being spied completely uncovered, a leaked photo emerged today highlighting the first promotional photo of the 2014 S-Class. And while we are all waiting for its May 15th debut, it’s already clear from the photos what we can expect.  A far smoother design than the outgoing S-Class model, Mercedes-Benz’s flagship vehicle will feature an ample front grille and LED headlights and a sleeker back end also fitted with LED lights.

UPDATE: CHECK OUT THE LATEST 2014 S-CLASS NEWS HERE.

More changes to the 2014 S-Class include more sculpted doors with two strong character lines, a very large glass roof, slim chromed exhaust pipes with cross-drilled brake rotors, and more subtle fender flares. The 2014 S-Class will be offered in eleven exterior colors, including three new ones: Anthracite Blue, Ruby Black and Diamond Silver.

When it comes to technology, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is loaded.  It will have active seat belts (which are power-deployable), a system that works together with the PRE-SAFE system for automatic tension before an imminent collision. Another incredible addition is what’s being called Magic Body Control – a cutting edge Active Body Control suspension that detects road imperfections using a camera. When trouble is spotted, the Magic Body Control will automatically configure the suspension to compensate for the imperfection and offer the smoothest ride possible.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Interior Details:

With its clear-cut architecture, the interior design of the new S-Class is the embodiment of a classic and serene, yet ultra-modern saloon car. The interior space derives its expressiveness from a distinctively flowing, sensual and elegant style. Horizontal features and lines create an ambiance characterised by visual breadth and calm solidity. High quality and elegance go hand in hand with clarity and functionality. The interior concept of the S-Class combines driving, spatial and operating comfort at the highest level.

The radically redesigned display extends behind the two-spoke steering wheel – reminiscent of the S-Class heritage – as a major part of the horizontal alignment. It replaces the traditional instrument cluster and combines numerous other functions in a visually and ergonomically highly sophisticated manner (see section “New display concept”). The entire display unit appears to be free-floating, an impression reinforced by ambience backlighting.

The high-quality unit formed by the center air vents and the analogue clock is precisely set into three-dimensional wood trim. For the first time this classic wood trim feature is positioned very low. This creates a second level of decorative trim whose luxurious stitched leather lies in the primary field of vision. Both levels extend elegantly across the entire width of the dashboard and doors. With this layout the designers have created an association with the wingbeat of a bird. The result is an extraordinary impression of width combined with a pleasant, calm ambience.

The visually prominent dashboard is characterised by the striking double-S curve. This already made the preceding model unmistakable, and imparts a feeling of spaciousness, safety and security.

The perfectly coordinated use of materials and colours produces an elegant interior seemingly cast from a single mould. There is generous use of wood trim, especially in the dashboard and centre console. Metallised switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three colour shades to suit the interior colour particularly highlight the outstanding quality.

Innovative lighting systems in the form of a continuous light band under the wood trim strips and the central display – a completely new dimension in ambience lighting – and elegant lighting units with stylish details in the headlining enhance the comfortable atmosphere.The number and size of the stowage facilities in the interior have been greatly increased compared to the preceding model.

Passengers in the rear are also seated in first-class – the design and exclusivity of the seats, door panels and all controls are to the same, high standard as the front. If a luxury or reclining seat (Executive seat) is specified for the rear, the backrest inclines backwards into the parcel shelf, which means that legroom is not restricted even in the resting position. As an additional individualisation feature, the “First Class Rear” incorporates a Business centre console combining personal comfort with practical convenience (integration of a telephone handset, additional stowage compartments, folding table, etc.). The side finishers of the front seats are formally integrated and feature useful stowage compartments (for details see section “Seats”).

In combination with the first-class quality of materials and outstandingly high perceived value, the decidedly varied range of available appointments emphatically confirms the premium positioning of Mercedes-Benz. The innovative architecture of the interior design, which is based on both additive and integrating features, allows a choice of different and very individual styling in terms of colours and materials.

Special thanks to our good friend Andrus for the tip via GMotors

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Spy Photos and Rumors

The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is dominated by a wide grille with exceptionally large Mercedes star

The future Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been spied once again, this time undergoing winter testing in the Arctic Circle. Taking several styling cues from the soon to be unveiled S-Class and A-Class, the all-new C-Class is dominated by a wide grille with exceptionally large Mercedes star. On each side of the Mercedes emblem are oversized headlights with LED technology that gives the new C-Class a far more aggressive look.

The rear of the new C-Class has received a more sculpted look with C-pillars that are thicker while the twin exhausts are slender and more neatly integrated into the rear bumper.

The all-new C-Class will be unveiled early next year ahead of its likely release date in summer 2014.

Continue on to see what information Auto Express was able to find out about the new C-Class or skip straight to the photo gallery to see a compilation of C-Class spy photos.

New C-Class engines and specs

Expect a range of ultra-efficient petrol and diesel engines including a four-cylinder engine developed and built by Nissan – the first engine built in the U.S. to be used in a mainstream Mercedes – while a plug-in hybrid model is also planned to help take on the new Lexus IS 300h.

Mercedes will build the car on a new modular architecture called MRA, that will allow the firm to offer its 4MATIC four-wheel drive system on right-hand drive cars for the first time, to compete with Quattro-equipped Audis and xDrive BMWs.

Expect to see big updates to the amount of safety tech onboard, too, with the new C-Class borrowing systems from the current E-Class. This includes cameras that can detect traffic at junctions, and the ability to steer itself in traffic jams.

New C-Class Cabriolet

The spy shots also prove Mercedes is working on a C-Class Cabriolet. Effectively a replacement for the CLK, the C-Class convertible is expected to go on sale in 2015 – a year after the new saloon is scheduled to arrive in UK showrooms.

Despite heavy camouflage, the cabriolet’s sleek profile can clearly be seen, although it’s impossible to tell at this stage whether Mercedes is planning to use a fabric roof, or a folding hardtop. Judging by the compact rear end, though, a fabric roof – that’s both lighter and cheaper to produce than a metal one – seems most likely.

According to inside sources, an A-Class cabriolet is no longer part of Mercedes’ product plan, so this car, although slightly larger, will rival the Audi A3 Cabriolet (which is based on the A3 Saloon) and the new BMW 2 Series Convertible – both due in 2014. It’s also likely to start from under £30,000, making it the most affordable convertible in the Mercedes range.

A C-Class Coupe is also expected in 2015.

Mercedes C63 AMG

Photographers have also spotted the new C63 AMG testing ahead of its 2014 release date. The images in our gallery show it sporting bigger, chunkier bumpers, large alloy wheels and twin exhaust housings at the rear.

Unlike the present car, with its 6.3-litre V8, the new C63 will be powered by a more efficient 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8. It is expected to have the same 518bhp output as the E63 and CLS 63, which also use the newer turbocharged engine. That’s a jump of 67bhp.

It will also have the same AMG-tuned seven-speed MCT automatic transmission, which along with retuned adaptive suspension, stronger brakes and less weight should help it improve on the current C63 AMG’s 4.5-second 0-62mph time, while using less fuel.

Meanwhile, a four-wheel drive C63 AMG is considered. AMG’s senior powertrain engineering manager, Dr Jorg Gindele said: “Yes, a C63 is possible. There is one car already [a prototype at AMG’s headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany]. I know this because it’s my car!”

A new six-cylinder BMW M3 will make its debut in 2014, and the competition between the two is expected to be fierce. The C63 AMG will cost £56,000 when it arrives in showrooms.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Long-Wheelbase Spy Photos

Spy photos of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Long-Wheelbase showing the interior for the first time.

Scheduled for its official world premier one month from now, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one of the most highly anticipated redesigns of the year. A few weeks ago we brought you the very first photos of the Mercedes S-Class undisguised and now, thanks to our good friends at MBPassion, we have the latest photos showing the long version of the 2014 S-Class .

Nearly ten months ago, we reported that the new Mercedes S-Class was going to be offered in a few different variants with multiple wheelbases and engine options. This is to be Mercedes way of filling the gap following Maybach’s closure. The Mercedes S-Class we see here is likely the long-wheelbase version (codenamed V222, 207.87 inches long, 7.08 longer than the standard-wheelbase car). Looking for something even longer, their is a rumored extra-long wheelbase version, which will measure in 13.78 inches longer than the standard car (codenamed X222 and 214.57 inches in length). And if this car still isn’t long enough for you, don’t despair as Mercedes-Benz is also working on a Pullmann with six doors with a total body length of 226.38 inches.

Stay tuned as we will continue to bring you the latest news on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with full coverage on May 15.

Mercedes GLA45 AMG Spied Testing

The Mercedes GLA45 AMG will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show with a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine

The Mercedes GLA 45 AMG is expected to make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September and will likely be powered by the A45 AMG Engine.  In the mean time, we have the latest spy photos of the GLA 45 AMG testing near the Nürburgring this week.

If powered by the Mercedes A45 AMG’s engine, it will be a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 360 HP (265 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. An AMG SPEED SHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission with race start and double declutching functions, as well as three driving programs will send power to the 4MATIC system.

Additional upgrades of the standard GLA model will include a lowered suspension, more aggressive body kit and the standard AMG interior upgrades.

The standard GLA version will go on sale by the end of the year, while the AMG model will arrive early on in 2014.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class First Photos Undisguised

A completely undisguised Mercedes-Benz S-Class shed all of it's camouflage for an advertising shoot in Germany

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is scheduled to be unveiled to the world on May 15 in Hamburg- But, thanks to an exceptionally resourceful photog, the highly anticipated S-Class is no longer under wraps.  A completely undisguised S-Class stripped all of it’s camouflage for an advertising shoot in Germany. We’re not sure why they didn’t choose a more remote location, it’s like Aaron Rodgers grocery shopping in Green Bay and thinking no one will notice.

You can see from the photos that the bulging fender flares of the current W221 S-Class are gone, replaced by a cleaner, sleeker design, with some CLS inspirations. The updated S-Class front and rear-end seem to also confirm that the new Mercedes E-Class has been influenced by the new S-Class styling as well.

Also make sure to check out the first rendering of the S-Class Guard Pullman from X-Tomi Design based on these photos.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard Pullman

Mercedes S-Class Coupe Clearly Spied Testing in Arctic Cirlce

Check out the most recent and clearest Mercedes S-Class Coupe spy photos to date

Our good friends over at GMotors have captured the clearest spy photos to date of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe.  The photogs captured the CL-Class replacement doing a bit of winter testing near the Arctic Circle in Sweden.  The spy photos clearly reveal a lower roofline, door mounted mirrors, narrower rear lights and a more squared-off front.

Compared to the Mercedes CL-Class, the new S-Class Coupe is far sportier giving the coupe a younger livelier feel. The new S-Class is set to be launched on May 15 in Hamburg with the Coupe expected to follow in 2014.

Enjoy the spy photos and a big thanks to Andrus and GMotors.

2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Caught on Camera

Latest spy photos of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class show an evolutionary design that perfectly blends in new features

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, due our toward the end of the year possibly at the Frankfurt motor show in September, was spied once again.

While the next-generation C-Class, W205, will maintain its overall shape carried over from the W204, it will likely feature a new set of wider wrap-around headlights and taillights that take design cues from the CLA. The front grille appears to be more oval shaped, while the overall look of the car will be sportier than current C-Class, W204.

The upcoming C-Class will ride on the MRA platform and will weigh in around 3,042 lbs curb weight.  Even with its minor weight loss, the 2014 Mercedes C-Class will likely measure about 100mm longer, with 80mm of the added length for the wheelbase.

We also expect major updates to the safety technology on board the C-Class, taking cues from the current E-Class and adding additional cameras and self steering to its safety mix.

The 4-cylinder and V6 engines will offer up outputs that vary between 184 hp (137 kW) to 330 hp (246 kW). A 2014 C-Class gasoline-electric hybrid model with a 27 hp (20 kW) electric motor is also in the works with a launch date that could be as early as 2015.  Not to be left out is the range-topping AMG variant that will receive a V8 4.0 or 5.5-liter engine.

Via: WCF

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spied and Documents Leaked Ahead of Reveal

Leaked documents reveal the 2014 Mercedes S-Class will go into production in August and launch in September

The debut of the redesigned S-Class is only a couple of months away, so it is not a surpise that we have been seeing more spy photos and leaked info as of late.  See here are the latest batch of spy photos showing the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class near the MB R&D Center in Germany.

In one of the photos you can easily see both the S-Class short and long-wheelbase posing next to one another. The rear door of the long-wheelbase car is noticeably longer.  In addition, these photos also give us a much clearer view of the LED Daytime Running Lights along with the larger styled grille.

As we’ve reported earlier, the engine line-up is still expected to mirror the current S-Class range with an added plug-in hybrid option in the future.

According to leaked documents obtained by WCF, it’s been suggested that the S-Class will be revealed in May at an invitation only event and go into production in August to be launched in September. An S550 4MATIC and the S63 AMG 4MATIC will follow shortly after in October or November.

The new S-Class, as we’ve been able to see in the spy photos, has an evolutionary design and features a several aluminum components including the roof and front end. The 2014 S-Class  will be offered in eleven different exterior colors including three new options: Diamond Silver, Ruby Black and Anthracite Blue.

The cabin of the S-Class has only been spied a few times, but according to the documents will come equipped with a wood/leather steering wheel, LED ambient lighting and a Burmester audio system. If past S-Class interior carries over, we can also expect to see a panoramic sun roof, illuminated door sill plates and soft-close doors.A “dramatic reduction” in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) has also been noted in the leaked papers.

Next Generation S-Class purchasers will select between four different wood trims: Burl Walnut, Myrtle Sunburst, Black Popular and “Metalized Ash.” The AMG variant will offer Piano Black and Carbon Fiber trim. Additional choices include a choice between leather, Nappa leather and designo leather seats available in up to six different colors.

Additional options include heated and ventilated seats, a surround view camera and a rear entertainment system.  Not to be left out is the reported “Air Balance Package” that filters and ionizes the air and can dispense perfume. Photos Via: GMotors

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe First Spy Photos

The next-gen S-Class will come in 3 wheelbase variations: standard, long and a pullman as well as a coupe and convertible

For the first time, spy photos of the next generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe have made their way onto the web.  Replacing the previous large luxury coupe model, the CL-Class, the S-Class Coupe will have sportier styling than the sedan with a squared off front, lowered roofline, more noticeable front and rear fenders and door mounted mirrors.

It’s already been confirmed that the next generation S-Class will be launched in mid-2013 with three wheelbase options – standard, long and a pullman variant to replace the Maybach 57.  We’ll also see the coupe and a convertible down the road.

Photos via: WCF

2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Spied Testing with Minimal Camo

The C-Class prototype was spied wearing minimal camouflage and appearing to be heavily influenced by the upcoming S-Class

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been spied once again, this time on the roads of South Germany. The C-Class prototype was wearing less camouflage then ever making it appear heavily influenced by the upcoming S-Class, specifically in the rear.  If you look closely at the front, you can see what looks to be CLS inspired headlights, but along with the grille look like they’ve been lowered compared to the current C-Class model.

The C-Class Engine line-up will include a wide range of petrol and diesel units, as well as a new hybrid and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Expect to see the C-Class make its debut in late 2013 as a saloon first, followed by an estate, coupe and a convertible.

Thanks to Andrus for the tip via GMotors.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spied With Minimal Camouflage

Thanks to the latest spy photos, we are able to more clearly see the design lines and the overall design can be seen

For months, we’ve seen photos and video of the future S-Class interior and exterior and today, the latest spy photos showing the 2014 Mercedes S-Class cold weather testing have hit the web.  But, this time the S-Class can be seen with far less camouflage then ever before.  Thanks to the latest spy photos, we are able to more clearly see the design lines and the overall design can be seen.

The engine on the new S-Class will receive modified versions of the current engine lineup: a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V-8 engine producing 429 horsepower, a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-12 offering up 510 horsepower, and an AMG twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 with around 550 horsepower.

We expect the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class to be unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: GCF

Next Generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class Interior Spied

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class interior has been spied almost entirely uncovered

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class interior has been spied almost entirely uncovered. From the interior photos, we can see a new instrument panel with two large LCD screens, one of the screens replaces the regular analog instruments while the other one is a touchscreen display for controlling entertainment, navigation, climate and communication.

And so, we want to know, did Mercedes get it right? Check out the photo gallery below and visit us on Facebook or take to Twitter to let us know what you think.

As previously reported, engine options will include a wide range of diesel and petrol units. A plug-in hybrid with a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and a 60bhp electric motor is also rumoured.

Radar based Distronic PLUS with Steering Assist, which helps the driver to maintain the desired distance in stop and go traffic, steering Wizard, which uses cameras to detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and makes the car drive at slower speeds are a few of the technical features on the new S-Class. There is also Brake Assist PLUS with crossover wizard, which uses camera and radar sensors, helping to prevent rear-end collisions, new Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS, Traffic sign assistant, Night View Assist PLUS and new Parking Assistant will park your car automatically, taking over even the brakes.

Photos Via: AutoSpies

Mercedes-Benz GLA Spied Cold Weather Testing

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is an entry-level has been spied cold weather testing in Sweden near the Artctic Circle recently

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is an entry-level has been spied cold weather testing in Sweden near the Artctic Circle recently.

The all-new GLA will be based on the Mercedes’ modular MFA platform that is also found under the new A-Class and the more recently unveiled CLA-Class.  The compact GLA will be offered in both front- and all-wheel drive configurations with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions.

The engine lineup will more than likely be very similar to both the A- and B-Class and will be topped by an AMG version with a four-cylinder, 2.0-literturbocharged engine delivering approximately 335 HP (246 kW), though unconfirmed.

Thanks to the GLA’s sporty appearance that is heavily influenced by the A-Class, the new GLA will go head to head with the BMW X1. Based on the photos we’ve seen, we expect to see sweptback headlights, roof rails, tailgate-mounted spoiler, a prominent front grille and an higher ride height.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is scheduled to come out next year in Europe, followed by a 2014 launch in the U.S.

. Via: GMotors

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spied Testing – Video Update

This is the first time we've gotten to see the 2013 S-Class up close, enabling us to catch a glimpse of the updated interior

After several rounds of S-Class Spy photos, this is the first time we’ve gotten to see the 2013 S-Class up close, enabling us to catch a glimpse of the updated interior.  The new flagship model in the Mercedes’ range will adopt the Aesthetic S design.  We can expect to see a sculpted hood, LED-infused headlights, bigger grille, CL-inspired taillights and a dual exhaust setup.

The interior of the new S-Class will boast two large LCDs, one for replacing the analog instruments and the other will be a multifunction touchscreen display to control climate, satellite navigation, communication and entertainment systems.

As for what’s under the hood, the S-Class will receive the company’s new “MoVe” modular V6 and V8 engines, as well as a hybrid version expected to return 71.2 mpg (85.6 mpg UK or 3.3 liters / 100 km) and complete the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in less than six seconds. The S63 AMG will probably use a twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine with more than 550 hp (410 kW) and 590 lb-ft (799 Nm) of torque

The new S-Class is scheduled to be unveiled later this year.

UPDATE: View the video below for another look at the S-Class while parked on a street in Stuttgart.

Via: WCF

Spy Photos: Mercedes-Benz MLC Chassis Testing Mule

Still in the early stages of development, we will likely not see full body prototypes of the MLC for some time

First confirmed in October of 2011, the first spy photos of a Mercedes-Benz MLC chassis testing mule have made their way onto the web, and our good friends at GMotors have them.  The MLC Chassis mule was spied testing in Europe against a BMW X6.

The MLC will use a modified ML platform, and if you look a bit closer you can see that the rear axle of the ML mules has been broadened, and that the rear wheel cases have been modified as well.

Still in the early stages of development, we will likely not see full body prototypes of the MLC for some time.

In order for Mercedes to keep up with the competition from the BMW X6, the Infinity FX and Audi’s reported SUV Coupe dubbed the Q6, the MLC will be a redesigned ML with a coupe styled roofline.

When it goes to market, engine options are expected to be very similar to the ML-Class, including the top of the range AMG model, which will use a 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 with up to 550bhp.  The MLC is expected to arrive sometimes in 2014 and will be produced in Mercedes’ Tuscaloosa plant.

Video: 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA Spied Testing on Video

The new Mercedes GLA will go head to head with the BMW X1, thanks to its sporty appearance, influenced by the A-Class

The exceptionally stealthy spies over at WCF have managed to capture the Mercedes-Benz GLA prototype on video while undergoing some testing.

It will be an entry-level crossover from Mercedes, that will be based on the MLA platform that also underpins the Mercedes A-Class and B-Class models. The engine lineup will more than likely be very similar to both the A- and B-Class and will be topped by an AMG version with a four-cylinder, 2.0-literturbocharged engine delivering approximately 335 HP (246 kW), though unconfirmed.

The new GLA will go head to head with the BMW X1, thanks to the GLA’s sporty appearance that is heavily influenced by the A-Class. Based on the photos we’ve seen, we’re going to see sweptback headlights, roof rails, tailgate-mounted spoiler, a prominent front grille and an higher ride height.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is scheduled to come out next year in Europe, followed by a 2014 launch in the U.S.

Source: WCF

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Interior and Exterior Spied

The 2013 Mercedes S-Class was spied testing in Spain over the weekend with less camouflage, revealing new details

Our good friends over at GMotors caught the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class testing in Spain. The latest spy photos reveal new details and overall shape thanks to the minimal camouflage.  Also appearing on the test vehicle is a new line starting from the headlights, going back to the rear door.

From the interior photos, we can see a new instrument panel with two large LCD screens, one of the screens replaces the regular analog instruments while the other one is a touchscreen display for controlling entertainment, navigation, climate and communication.

As previously reported, engine options will include a wide range of diesel and petrol units. A plug-in hybrid with a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and a 60bhp electric motor is also rumoured.

Radar based Distronic PLUS with Steering Assist, which helps the driver to maintain the desired distance in stop and go traffic, steering Wizard, which uses cameras to detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and makes the car drive at slower speeds are a few of the technical features on the new S-Class. There is also Brake Assist PLUS with crossover wizard, which uses camera and radar sensors, helping to prevent rear-end collisions, new Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS, Traffic sign assistant, Night View Assist PLUS and new Parking Assistant will park your car automatically, taking over even the brakes.

Our thanks to Andrus and GMotors for the photos.

Close Up Spy Photos of the Mercedes-Benz CLA

Mercedes-Benz plans to premiere the new CLA model to the world during the Super Bowl XLVII

The latest Mercedes-Benz CLA prototype spy photos are from a parking lot in Budapest, Hungary.

Based on the MFA platform, the CLA will take its engine lineup from the A- and B-Class models and will offer a variety of gasoline and diesels engines with outputs ranging from 108 hp (80 kW) to 208 hp (155 kW) for the regular versions.

The flagship AMG version will feature a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 349 hp (260 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. Power will be sent to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system through a 7G-DCT transmission.

As for when we will start seeing ads for the new model – it seems as though Mercedes plans to premiere the car to the world during the Super Bowl XLVII next year, taking advantage of more than 100 million viewers. Last year, Mercedes-Benz aired their new lineup during the big game and next year.

“We have something big to say and we think this is a great vehicle to reach out to that mass affluent audience,” he said. “We hope to use the Super Bowl to kind of open up the Mercedes-Benz brand to a wider audience. There are a lot of people out there who just automatically put Mercedes-Benz in an out-of-reach category.

Apparently, supermodel Kate Upton will be a part of the campaign.

“This is a great opportunity to use this new product coming to market in 2013 as that ‘Wow, I didn’t realize that about Mercedes-Benz.’ That’s the kind of wake-up call opportunity — with a mass audience — that we’re going, we hope, to use the Super Bowl to communicate.”

In case you forgot last year’s Super Bowl Ad, here it is again.

Mercedes said that it is targeting consumers in their 30’s and 40’s for the new car . The new Mercedes-Benz CLA will debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show next month.

Photos via: WCF