The new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series: The most powerful C-Class of all time

Spectacular design, technology transfer from the world of motorsport and driving dynamics at the highest level. The new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series embodies the AMG brand claim of "Driving Performance" like no other AMG model. With a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a maximum torque of 620 Newton metres, the new high-performance vehicle is the most powerful C-Class of all time. Hefty torque, tremendous pulling power and an agile response are guaranteed thanks to the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which accelerates the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series to a speed of 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, and takes it on to a top speed of 300 km/h (electronically limited).

Read further facts on the new C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series >> HERE

See more images after the jump!






















* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG: Top marks in all disciplines

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum toque of 540 Newton metres, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than those of its predecessor. High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Read further facts on the new SLK 55 AMG >> HERE

See more images after the jump!





















* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

TÜV Süd confirms high level of environmental compatibility: Environmental Certificate for the M-Class

To coincide perfectly with its market launch on 19 November 2011, the new M-Class has received a very special award: the premium SUV has become the first vehicle in its class to obtain the much sought-after environmental certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062. With this approval, the independent examiners of the German TÜV Süd are honouring the commitment which the corporation is making to comprehensive environmental protection, an aspect which is firmly embedded in the operating guidelines for the entire Daimler Group. As part of these processes, the automotive manufacturer takes into account the effect which a vehicle has on the environment throughout its entire life cycle – from development via the production process and operation right through to disposal. The environmental certificate is therefore based on an exhaustive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for the M-Class.


Based on the ISO standard TR 14062, the certificate is valid for all models of the
M-Class. Using the Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC by way of example, factors such as energy requirements and emissions over a distance of 250,000 kilometres were calculated. As a result of this, the SUV took the leading position in its market segment as a champion of efficiency: it consumes only 6.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (158 g CO2/km) and, thanks to innovative SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) exhaust gas technology with AdBlue injection, already undercuts the EU6 guidelines planned to be introduced in 2014.

Compared with the previous model, the ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC from 2011, over its entire life cycle the new M-Class achieves 25 percent (18 tons) less CO2 emissions, 38 percent less nitrogen oxide emissions and, thanks to the lower fuel consumption and the use of SCR technology, primary energy savings of 24 percent. Compared with the previous model at the time of market launch in 2005, namely the ML 280 CDI 4MATIC, the savings are even greater: in this case it has been possible to reduce CO2 emissions by 32 percent (25 tons), nitrogen oxide emissions by 62 percent, and primary energy by 31 percent. The primary energy savings of 31 percent equate to the energy content of around 9800 litres of diesel fuel.

In addition to the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, impressively high efficiency results were also achieved by the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, as well as the petrol model, the ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: compared with the previous models, the entire model range consumes an average of 25 percent less fuel.

The outstanding fuel economy figures achieved by the efficiency champion come courtesy of new development tools, including the "energy-transparent vehicle", for example. Developed by Daimler and used exclusively in the automotive industry, this process enables development engineers to examine the entire flow of energy throughout the vehicle (tank to wheel). The knowledge gained in this way can be used to optimise every single assembly that has an impact on fuel consumption, right down to individual components, such as wheel bearings.

Stable loop: recycling and natural materials in the M-Class

No less than 37 high-quality recyclate components have been approved for use in the M-Class. These include wheel arch linings, cable ducts, and under body panels. Wherever possible, recyclate materials are derived from vehicle-related waste streams. The aforementioned front wheel arches are made from recovered vehicle components, for example starter battery casing, bumper covers or process waste from cockpit production. Overall, the weight of these recycling parts has increased by 29 percent compared with the predecessor. This concept also contributes to the M-Class already being able to comply with the recycling rate of 95 percent which is due to be introduced throughout Europe from 2015.Renewable materials are used in 15 components in the M-Class. The total weight of components manufactured using renewable materials is 13.1 kilograms, a figure which has increased by 153 percent compared with the previous model. Renewable materials are mainly used in the interior of the M-Class, but there are also some technical applications: olive coke is used for the activated charcoal filter, which adsorbs hydrocarbon emissions from the tank and is constantly regenerated during driving operation.

The environmental certificate and a detailed description of what it entails have been made available to the general public in the form of the "Life Cycle" documentation series, which can be found online at www.daimler.com and www.mercedes-benz.com .

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Market launch of new model generations: New B- and M-Class now at dealers

The first vehicles from the new B-Class and new M-Class ranges will be going out to customers from 19 November. It has been possible to order these models since July and September respectively. Even prior to the dealer launch, the customer response has been outstanding. "The introduction of the new B-Class and the new M-Class brings two important models to the market, each of which raises the bar in its segment that little bit further. We have every confidence that they will continue to build on the success of their predecessors and help generate further momentum in terms of sales", emphasised Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars.


The new B-Class: premium is not a matter of size

Since 2005 more than 700,000 customers have taken delivery of a B-Class. With about a third of worldwide sales since the beginning of the year having been made in Germany, this represents its biggest market, followed by China, where the B-Class was introduced with great success in 2009.

The new M-Class: improved efficiency and an exceptional level of safety

With altogether more than 1.2 million units sold, the M-Class is the most successful SUV in its segment. Since its market launch in 2005, more than half a million customers have opted for the most recent model generation and, in spite of a model change being imminent, sales in October increased by 22.2% percent, making the M-Class leader in its market segment. The biggest sales market is the US, with a share of approx. 40 percent since the start of 2011, followed by China and Germany.

One of the most impressive features of this third generation of the Mercedes-Benz
M-Class is its outstanding energy efficiency. The fuel consumption of the new models lies, on average, 25 percent below that of their predecessors. The fuel-efficiency champion is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, which gets by with an NEDC consumption of just 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km).

Further strengths of the premium SUV with permanent all-wheel drive include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent driving dynamics both on and off the road. What is more, the ML features an array of new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG: Efficiency and superlative performance

The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG stands for efficiency and performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience. Running on 11.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, 276 g CO2/km), the high-performance SUV undercuts its predecessor by 4.7 litres, or 28 percent. The basis for low fuel consumption and top-class performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and maximum torque of 700 Newton metres, representing an increase of 11 kW (15 hp) and 70 Newton metres. The optionally available AMG Performance package boosts the V8 engine's power output to 410 kW (557 hp) and its maximum torque to 760 Newton metres. The newly developed ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation, the AMG-specific design and the broad scope of standard equipment and appointments provide for a highly attractive overall package.


Olla Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, notes: "Like its predecessors, the new ML 63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG. As the inventor of the high-performance SUV, we remain true to the philosophy which we introduced in 1999 with the ML 55 AMG and continued in 2005 with the ML 63 AMG."

The new ML 63 AMG comes with a fascinating technology package: the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, ECO start/stop system, an all-aluminium crankcase, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling and generator management, for example. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine generates a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Newton metres of torque. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package these values rise to 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 Newton metres. This difference in power and torque results from an increase in the maximum charge pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. Both variants of the ML 63 AMG enable sports-car performance: acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds respectively, while the top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited). With or without AMG Performance package, the NEDC fuel consumption level of 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres (276 g CO2/km) remains the same. The AMG Performance package further includes an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.

The key data at a glance:

Efficient and variable: AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC

Power transmission to all four permanently driven wheels is performed by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system. Featuring three driving programmes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting, this seven-speed automatic transmission offers a fascinatingly broad scope of variability. In "Controlled Efficiency" mode (C) the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. "C" also stands for a gentle accelerator and transmission characteristic with comfortable and early gear changes; start-up generally takes place in second gear here. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster indicates to the driver that the ECO start/stop function is active.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) driving programmes the ECO start/stop function is inactive and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility. A brief and exactly defined retardation of ignition and injection during upshifting at full load additionally provides for shorter shift times here.

Enhanced efficiency and driving dynamics

As efficiency-enhancing measures, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission incorporates a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, bearings designed for reduced friction loss and a transmission-oil thermal management system. Friction loss-minimised axle gears, electronic steering, an optimised belt drive, demand-responsive control of all ancillary units and pumps and an intelligent lightweight design all help to further reduce fuel consumption. The new ML 63 AMG is 40 kilograms lighter than its predecessor – despite the increase in power and the more comprehensive range of standard equipment.

As on the previous model, Mercedes-AMG deploys a specially designed transfer case for the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive which distributes the engine power at a ratio of 40 : 60 to the front and rear axle in the interests of high driving dynamics. Furthermore, the AMG sports suspension with AIRMATIC package, air suspension, independent damper struts, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System (ADS) features for the first time in combination with the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation. This system, which comes as standard, employs active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles to compensate the body's roll angles during cornering. In addition to enhanced agility and driving enjoyment, the system also improves driving stability for added safety at higher speeds in particular.

Roll stabilisation, damping and suspension adapt instantaneously to the prevailing driving situation, offering both optimum ride comfort and maximum stability. The driver is able to choose at the push of a button between the three driving modes "Comfort", "Sport" and "Manual". The fully load-bearing air suspension system is speed-sensitive, lowering the body when higher speeds apply in order to minimise drag while increasing driving stability.

The AMG-specific elastokinematics at the front axle and the more robustly designed rear axle stabiliser bar are responsible for improved steering precision. The enhanced drive train stands for optimum power transmission and hallmark Mercedes reliability. The 4ETS electronic traction control system which features as standard provides for optimised grip when low friction coefficients apply.

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance braking system

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering features vehicle speed-dependent power assistance and helps to save fuel, as the steering assist function only requires energy when the driver actually moves the steering wheel. The ML 63 AMG comes as standard with 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in format 9 x 20, painted titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 265/45 R 20. Tyres in size 295/35 R 21 on AMG light-alloy wheels in size 10 x 21 are optionally available. The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 (front) and 345 x 26 millimetres (rear).

Specific AMG styling with trim in matt silver chrome

The design of the new MG 63 AMG exudes self-confidence, athleticism and power. The AMG styling dominates the front view: under the radiator grille with louvres in high-gloss paint finish and the large Mercedes star is a large cooling air intake on which the number plate is positioned. Together with the two outer air intakes, the central radiator grille provides for an effective flow of air to the water, engine oil, charge air and transmission oil coolers. Fitted at the bottom of the AMG front apron is a trim strip in matt silver chrome, which lends the front a wider appearance while harmonising with the surrounds of the daytime driving lights in the side cooling air intakes. The headlamps cut a particularly high-quality and exclusive figure in combination with the optional Intelligent Light System (ILS). The AMG front apron is integrated with the distinctive front fenders, which are 10 millimetres wider on either side in order to accommodate the large AMG light-alloy wheels in elegant fashion. "V8 BITURBO" logos identify the vehicle as the top AMG model in the M-Class. Dynamically profiled AMG side sill panels establish a visual link between the front and rear of the vehicle.

Another eye-catching feature is the AMG rear apron highlighting the black air outlet openings. The outlet openings emphasise the vehicle's width similarly to the trim strip in matt silver chrome, which cites the design of the front apron and frames the AMG sports exhaust system. In contrast to the other M-Class variants, the ML 63 AMG features two sets of chrome twin tailpipes. Typical of an AMG is the distinctive full eight-cylinder sound.

High-quality, sporty interior

A sporty character and premium quality define the interior of the high-performance SUV from AMG. This is embodied in the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats offering pronounced lateral support as well as the four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel, which ensures optimum control of the vehicle with perforated leather in the grip area, aluminium shift paddles and a flattened bottom rim. Aluminium trim elements and the piano-lacquer retractable cover in the centre console highlight the interior's special dynamic and exclusive flair. The standard leather upholstery includes contrasting double topstitching and AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats. Dashboard, armrests and door panelling in AMG-specific design are finished in ARTICO man-made leather with double topstitching.

The distinctively designed instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG.

Other standard equipment includes:

• AMG door sills in stainless steel
• AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
• Audio 20 CD radio with Bluetooth and USB interface
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Electric sliding glass roof
• Heated seats for driver and front passenger

Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG Performance Studio:

• AMG floor mats
• AMG light-alloy wheels (10 x 21) in 5-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 295/35 R 21
• AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA
• AMG Performance package with increase in power of 32 hp and 60 Newton metres more torque, AMG engine cover in high-quality real carbon, AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA, callipers in red painted finish

Tailor-made individuality with designo

The designo range enables ML 63 AMG customers to realise their very own personal style. The designo Exclusive package includes nappa leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats featuring an unusual diamond pattern. The leather upholstery is available in designo marron, designo porcelain and designo black. The scope of features also includes AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats as well as velour floor mats with designo metal badges and black designo leather edging. A designo roof lining in DINAMICA black rounds off the designo Exclusive package.

Further optional items include designo trims in black piano lacquer and the designo wood/leather steering wheel in black piano lacquer.

Additional optional items:

• Trailer coupling with electric unlocking
• Becker® MAP PILOT
• Electrically operated EASY PACK tailgate
• Rear Seat Entertainment System
• harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system
• Wood/leather steering wheel in nappa leather
• THERMOTRONIC luxury automatic climate control
• Light package including Intelligent Light System
• Media interface
• Memory package
• COMAND Online multimedia system
• Electrical panoramic sliding glass sunroof
• Aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs
• TV tuner
• Wood trims

Safety of the very highest calibre

In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the new ML 63 AMG represents the embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz holistic safety concept of Real Life Safety, which is derived primarily from what happens in a real accident situation. The extremely robust occupant compartment, together with the front and rear deformation zones, forms an effective basis for the occupant protection system. Up to nine airbags, activated on demand in accordance with the accident type and accident severity, can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants. In addition to active safety systems such as the standard-fit Brake Assist (BAS) or the optional BAS PLUS, which can help to prevent an accident or reduce the severity of an accident, the new M-Class features further enhanced passive-safety measures to help protect pedestrians.

Both active safety and driver-fitness safety are improved by assistance systems that will already be familiar, primarily from the S- and E-Class. The standard equipment package includes the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE-SAFE® and a tyre pressure loss warning system, as well as adaptive brake lights and the ESP® electronic stability programme. Active assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist are available as additional equipment options.

Visionary: AMG as the inventor of the high-performance SUV

The new ML 63 AMG from Mercedes-AMG represents the third generation of the high-performance sport utility vehicle. The company from Affalterbach was the first to identify the potential of powerful and exclusive off-road vehicles and is recognised as the founder of the high-performance SUV segment. It all began in 1999 with the ML 55 AMG: with a power output of 255 kW (347 hp), the top-of-the-range M-Class model powered by an AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine achieved a level of performance previously undreamt-of in this class, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 235 km/h. The unusual combination of high-calibre drive, excellent off-road capabilities, outstanding ride comfort, unparalleled safety and a spacious interior delighted AMG customers throughout the world. Over 11,000 ML 55 AMGs were sold between 1999 and 2003.

The follow-up ML 63 AMG which was presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September 2005 continued the success story that had begun with the ML 55 AMG. With its AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine generating an output of 375 kW (510 PS) and 630 Newton metres of torque, it again set the benchmark in its segment. The performance of the ML 63 AMG was in the sports-car league: the top-of-the-range AMG model accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and had a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Over 13,000 were sold in total between 2006 and 2011.

In all, AMG's sales figures for its high-performance SUVs total over 24,000 to date.
The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will be launched in April 2012.

Overview of prices (incl. 19% VAT):
- ML 63 AMG: € 108,885
- AMG Performance package: € 7021





















* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.