German Car Zone

Mercedes-Benz at the New York International Auto Show 2009
Mercedes-Benz takes the Big Apple by storm

Stuttgart / New York - Mercedes-Benz will be presenting an entire range of contemporary motor vehicles at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) - bringing together fascination and responsibility. The line-up includes the new E-Class Saloon and the E-Class Coupé along with the US version of the recently updated GL-Class. Compelling performance coupled with superlative efficiency are the hallmarks of the ML 450 HYBRID designed specifically for the US market with its innovative two-mode hybrid system. The E 250 BlueTEC combines the qualities of the new ultra-efficient four-cylinder CDI engine with the benefits of SCR emissions-control technology. Show visitors looking for the ultimate in performance will find the perfect answer in the guise of the E 63 AMG.

The ML 450 HYBRID comes with state-of-the-art hybrid technology with its impressively low fuel consumption figures. Its innovative two-mode technology boasts superb efficiency both in inner-city stop-and-go traffic as well as on fast motorway journeys involving increasing engine loads and speeds. The management system on the hybrid vehicle automatically selects the optimum drive configuration. Depending on the situation, the ML 450 HYBRID can be driven under electric power alone or solely using the combustion engine, or any combination of the two drive modes.

Its performance figures are on a par with a conventional eight-cylinder SUV with permanent all-wheel drive while fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced by up to 60%. The ML 450 HYBRID designed specifically for the US market delivers 'city' fuel consumption of 21 mpg (miles per gallon) and 'highway' consumption of 24 mpg, making it the most efficient vehicle in its segment. With its SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) classification, the SUV meets the most stringent emissions standard currently applicable in the US.

At the same time, the ML 450 HYBRID with a system output of 250 kW (340 hp) and a combined torque of 517 newton metres guarantees a superlative driving experience combined with an enhanced level of ride comfort. The driver can concentrate fully on the traffic and enjoy the driving experience without having to select additional functions as the drive management system is fully automatic.

The ML 450 HYBRID retains all the typical benefits of the M-Class such as economy of space, high active and passive safety, optimum ride comfort or the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system. The hybrid technology has been integrated perfectly, without taking up any additional installation space which would compromise comfort or practicality. The space in the passenger compartment and the boot capacity are as generous as ever. The only external clues on the ML 450 HYBRID are the redesigned bonnet and the HYBRID lettering on the rear.

E 250 BlueTEC - unique study combines highly efficient four-cylinder CDI engine and SCR emissions technology

The E 250 BlueTEC puts into clear focus the opportunities presented by the innovative BlueTEC concept and adds emphasis to the leading position held by Mercedes-Benz in the development of fuel-efficient, low-emissions diesel models. Thanks to the highly effective exhaust gas treatment system introduced by Mercedes-Benz, BlueTEC vehicles fulfil the strictest global emissions standards to make them the cleanest diesels in the world. With the E 250 BlueTEC, Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating how BlueTEC technology in the E-Class can be combined with a four-cylinder engine with optimised fuel consumption. When fitted to the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the E 250 BlueTEC boasts fuel economy of 28 mpg U.S. in city traffic and 39 mpg U.S. on the motorway (U.S. FE standards).

Top-class performance: the new GL-Class

New appointments, fresh body sections and an enhanced interior - the Mercedes-Benz GL is even more desirable. The first-class model among the luxury off-roaders boasts up to 5 percent lower fuel consumption figures and further enhanced environmental compatibility in the new model year: the entire model family now meets the EU5 emissions standard.

Updated bumpers, a redesigned chrome underguard at the front and rear, revised chrome tailpipes and the new radiator grille plus the fog lamps/daytime driving lights linked with chrome inserts make the expressive appearance of the GL-Class even more compelling. The 18 to 21-inch light-alloy wheels are also new.

The interior of the GL-Class will accommodate up to seven passengers with more than ample space and comes with leather/ARTICO man-made leather seats with contrasting stitching as part of the new model year. The standard specification of the flagship GL 500 includes nappa leather appointments. All the models feature new instrumentation, a multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather and crash-responsive NECK-PRO luxury head restraints for the driver and front passenger. An additional touch of style can be added to the interior courtesy of the optional two-tone leather appointments and indirect ambient lighting. Standard equipment on the premium off-roader also includes the innovative PRE-SAFE® safety concept. State-of-the-art assistance systems such as the Intelligent Light System (ILS) are also available as an option.

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG: the high-performance version of the E-Class

Shortly after the launch of the new E-Class, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is set to unveil the new E 63 AMG. The dynamic sports saloon that is practicable for everyday use boasts outstanding performance, scintillating driving dynamics and technology transfer from the high-performance Roadster, the SL 63 AMG. The new E 63 AMG distinguishes itself from the regular Mercedes-Benz E-Class models with an all-new AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping and a new front axle, and with its autonomous exterior and interior design. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG has achieved a reduction in fuel consumption by almost twelve percent for the new E 63 AMG, thanks to the concerted use of fuel efficiency measures. With its unique combination of pioneering driver assistance systems, the E 63 AMG further consolidates the brand's leading position in the field of automotive safety.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the new E 63 AMG develops an output of 386 kW/525 hp and a torque of 630 newton metres, matching the outstanding figures for the SL 63 AMG. The high-performance Roadster has also donated its AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission to the new model. This transmission dispenses with a conventional torque converter and uses a compact, wet start-up clutch. In conjunction with the four individual driving modes, the double-declutching and RACE START functions, the resulting, direct connection to the powertrain allows an extremely emotional and highly dynamic driving experience.

The drive unit is unique in this segment, and ensures decidedly sporty performance figures: the E 63 AMG accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 6208 cc impresses with its agile responsiveness, muscular power delivery and great flexibility.

Despite 8 kW/11 hp of additional output versus the preceding model, the fuel consumption of the new E 63 AMG has been significantly reduced: at 12.6 litres of super-premium grade petrol per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption, provisional figure), the fuel consumption of the E 63 AMG is almost twelve percent lower than before, and leads the field among sports saloons developing more than 377 kW/500 hp.

The newly composed AMG V8 sound is a thrilling accompaniment for mile after mile, while the smooth-running engine guarantees typical Mercedes long-distance comfort. A newly designed water cooling system ensures maximum endurance even under the enormous dynamic stresses of the racetrack.

All-round safety, outstanding comfort, trailblazing assistance systems:
The E-Class from Mercedes Benz

The E-Class from Mercedes-Benz represents the pacemaker when it comes to safety, comfort and environmental compatibility in this market segment. With its unique combination of driver assistance systems, the Saloon consolidates the leading position of Mercedes-Benz in the luxury class. Its features include a drowsiness detection system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and the proximity control system which is capable of performing automatic emergency braking when there is acute danger of a collision.

Mercedes-Benz has improved the already exemplary long-distance comfort of the E-Class even further in the new saloon, principally through the use of intelligent bodyshell technology with up to 30 percent greater rigidity, further improved seats and a newly developed suspension whose shock absorbers automatically adjust to the current driving situation. The optional air suspension now works in combination with a continuously adjustable electronic damping system.

The outstanding safety and comfort of the E-Class are matched by its environmental compatibility and economy: the four and six-cylinder engines are direct-injection units, and consume up to 23 percent less fuel than before.

The combined NEDC consumption of the new four-cylinder CDI engines is just 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres, which corresponds to 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre. All the engines for the new E-Class meet the EU5 emissions standard, while the emissions from the E 350 BlueTEC are already below the EU6 limits planned for 2014.

E-Class Coupé: excitement can be this efficient

An exciting product concept will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show NYIAS: Mercedes-Benz will be unveiling the E-Class Coupé in the USA. The brand is therefore launching a new highlight in the model series while continuing a tradition that has repeatedly met with great enthusiasm throughout the history of the E-Class.

The new E-Class Coupé offers a very special combination of emotion and efficiency. With its classic coupé side profile - no B-pillars and fully retractable side windows - the new two-door model is a particularly sporty interpretation of the new E-Class's dynamic design. At the same time, the most aerodynamic variant of the Coupé achieves a new world best in terms of drag coefficient: with a Cd figure of just 0.24, this model is the world's most aerodynamically efficient series-production car.

The model programme includes two new 4-cylinder engines, which consume up to 17 percent less fuel whilst offering a significant increase in performance and torque. The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. It combines driving enjoyment and excellent handling with maximum comfort.

The new Coupé offers a multitude of technical innovations that one might expect to find in a sports-oriented luxury coupé. These include selective damper control, drowsiness detection, anticipatory occupant protection and the Active Bonnet. As a feature specific to the Coupé, the Dynamic Handling package allows different suspension setups at the touch of a button. Adaptive Highbeam Assist, road sign recognition and an automatic emergency braking system are other features with which the new model series sets standards in this vehicle category.

[Source: MB via WCF]

E250 Bluetec? A subtle acceptance test for the U.S. market? That engine in the C-Class and GLK would create a line at MB dealers IMO. Not sure about a 4-cylinder in an E-Class yet.

M

Yeah I think you are right... they are testing the waters for it.

The C should most definitely have that engine soon!

In my opinion the market for a 4-cylinder E-Class in the USA is better than ever. Luxury buyers are smart enough to know that times are changing and that there is a different definition of luxury out there. A luxury that can be enjoyed but isn't excessive. A 4-cylinder E-Class is the perfect car for these people.

There are probably many E-Class buyers in North America that simply want the car and features but don't care too much about what's under the hood. These are realistic people for whom an E350 is probably already overpowered. Besides, if they don't need the performance then why are they getting an E350 in the first place? Because it's the only low-end alternative under the E550 and E63 AMG in the US. A 4-cylinder E-Class will cover this market without problems.

I don't think status will be affected at all. A Mercedes is a Mercedes in the US, regardless of what's under the hood. How many Americans travel to Europe and see the E-Class used as a taxi or the lower end models sold here and still want to own one when they arrive back home?


I'd like to think of Mercedes as always having been a pioneer in such moves that was soon swiftly copied by its competitors. If a 4-cylinder E-Class can sell well in the US, then rest assured Lexus will offer a GS with a Corolla engine.

An interesting notion regarding the E 250 Bluetec is that the official specs state that it has the 7G-Tronic unlike the other 4-cylinder W212s.

M

I have seen little old ladies who never drive more the 60mph drive SL600s.

That is very true, i noticed that too.
Add to that the fact that MB is currently extending the production capacity of the 7G-Tronic, and do the maths: I think (only a thought) that we could very well see the 7G fitted on 4-cylinders E-Classes in a very short term.

Which is my point.

There is more to a car than how fast it is or how impressive its horsepower output is. And there are definitely people out there in the luxury market that know this and want more alternatives.

Remember when the E320 CDI was launched in America? Mercedes couldn't keep up with the demand. The E320 CDI first and foremost fuel efficient but it wasn't "very fast" compared to other luxury cars and it was also a "diesel". If these two things worked against it, then why did it sell so well? We know that Mercedes has a good reputation when it comes to diesel technology and engines and that may have helped.

I am looking at the 4-cylinder E-Class concept in the same way. It might not be as fast or "impressive on paper", but it gives a number of buyers(in the US) what they want.

Yes I agree that if MB brought over the E250 CDI they could not keep them on the lots. Just think what would happen if they put it in the C and bring that over.
Bring over C250, E250, GLK250 increase sales by thousands.