Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “Our entire SUV family is extremely popular among our customers, particularly in the USA and in its second-largest market China. With the launch of our first sports utility vehicle – the G‑Class – more than 30 years ago, we entered a segment in which we are now very successful with a total of five models. The SUVs today are an important pillar of Mercedes-Benz’s growth and have achieved a new sales record in every month since July 2010. The new Mercedes-Benz M-Class, which has enjoyed fantastic customer response to date, will give sales a further boost.”

In November 2011, Mercedes-Benz SUVs achieved another monthly sales record with deliveries of 25,552 models (+23.4%). From January through November, a total of 221,518 sports utility vehicles have been delivered worldwide (+24.3%), more than ever before in this period. The successful run-out of the M-Class was particularly noteworthy, as was the excellent start of its new models in the U.S. A new peak was set by the GLK, whose deliveries are at a record high since the beginning of the year (+25.6%). To meet the strong demand on the Chinese market, the small SUV is being produced locally in China since early December. The other model series have also developed positively in the year to date with significant increases in sales. R-Class sales jumped by 50.3 per cent, the G-Class recorded growth of 30.9 per cent, GL sales climbed by 28.9 per cent, and deliveries of the M-Class were up 15.8% despite the model change. In the coming year, the new GL and the new generations of the GLK and the G-Class will generate additional demand in the SUV segment.

The SUV models account for around one-fifth of global Mercedes-Benz sales. By far the largest market for the SUV family as well as the M-, GLK-, and GL-Class are the United States. The second largest market for the SUVs is China, followed by Germany. The classic sports utility vehicle, the G-Class, is most popular in its domestic market Germany, while the R-Class is most in demand in China.

The latest star of the Mercedes-Benz SUV family is the third generation of the M-Class, which was launched last November. One of its strongest features is its outstanding energy efficiency. As the most fuel-efficient SUV in its segment, the M-Class became the first vehicle in its class to receive the prestigious TÜV (Technical Control Board) environmental certificate – just in time for its launch. The strengths of the permanent 4-wheel-drive premium SUV also include excellent safety features and well-balanced driving comfort with strong driving dynamics both on- and off-road. Thanks to its outstanding safety systems, the M-Class was recognized as the best vehicle in its segment and awarded the top five star rating under the European NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) for excellent occupant protection.

The new M-Class is the top model in its segment when it comes to value retention. Just recently it was recognized by “Focus Online” and “Bähr & Fess Forecast” as one of the best performers in terms of residual values in 2015. The ML 250 BlueTEC can still yield 55 per cent of its new value as a four-year-old used car.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was also awarded the “Golden Steering Wheel 2011” by readers of German “Bild am Sonntag” and “Auto Bild”. The other SUV models are also extremely popular among customers. This year, the longest-standing Mercedes-Benz model series, the G-Class, was crowned “SUV of the Year” for the eighth time. This major award is voted by the readers of the German “Off Road” magazine. Meanwhile, the readers of “AutoBild Allrad” gave the G-Class the victory in the “Off-road vehicles and SUVs over €60,000” category, followed by the GL-Class.

Source: Daimler AG

This distinctive, new special edition of the off-roader comes as standard with a level of spaciousness and comfort that is on a par with a luxury saloon. Features reserved exclusively for the “Grand Edition” designation include special light-alloy wheels with 275/50 R 20 tyres, high‑quality, two-tone leather seats in a new design, and wood trim in black ash. The special Grand Edition model also offers an array of high-quality additional equipment and is available with all the engines in the
GL-Class line-up.

The exclusive front end of the “Grand Edition” is unmistakeable: dark-tinted headlamps, a radiator grille with black, high-gloss louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps define the special model. Light-alloy wheels in himalayas grey metallic – with a high-sheen finish also available as an option – add further exclusivity. There are other visual highlights too, such as metallic paint finishes, heat-insulating and infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round, aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs, and separated exhaust tailpipe trim.

The interior of the GL-Class accommodates up to seven occupants in comfort with an exceptional level of spaciousness, creating the luxurious atmosphere you would expect from Mercedes-Benz – in this case comparable to the S-Class. For the “Grand Edition”, Mercedes-Benz has refined the interior further, especially through the use of stylish materials. Exclusive appointments include two-tone seats (black/porcelain or black/maroon) in leather (or in nappa leather as an option) with a special piping design and contrasting stitching.

Likewise only available on the “Grand Edition” are door centre panels, armrests and dashboard instrument panel with double-lapped felling, as well as trim and a wood/leather steering wheel in black ash.

Other high-quality appointments: comfort headrests for the driver and front passenger, ambient lighting, roof liner in black designo fabric, velour floor mats with contrasting stitching and “Grand Edition” lettering, “Grand Edition” badge on the centre console, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and door sill panels in stainless steel.

Powerful and economical engines
The “Grand Edition” models are equipped with PARKTRONIC and any one of the available engines. The V6 diesel engine in the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC utilises highly efficient SCR exhaust gas technology, outputs 155 kW (211 hp) and delivers its maximum torque of 540 Newton metres at 1600 rpm. On average this engine consumes 9.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. In the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, the V6 engine outputs 195 kW (265 hp) and generates torque of 620 Newton metres. It consumes 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres.

Superior power delivery and maximum smoothness are the particular benefits of the two petrol V8 models. These models also comply with the EU5 emissions standard. The 5.5-litre V8 engine in the GL 500 outputs 285 kW (388 hp) and delivers 530 Newton metres of torque. At 6.5 seconds, its acceleration time from a standstill to 100 km/h is almost worthy of a sports car. On the GL 450, the V8 petrol engine has a displacement of 4.6 litres, outputs 250 kW (340 hp) and generates maximum torque of 460 Newton metres. It takes 7.2 seconds to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

Agile and safe both on-road and off-road
With innovative 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension as standard, the accurate Direct-Steer system and the Adaptive Damping System ADS, which also comes as standard, the commanding GL-Class offers impressive handling, guaranteeing excellent ride comfort coupled with outstanding active safety. While the GL cuts an imposing figure on the asphalt, it also has genuine off-road credentials. The modified AIRMATIC air suspension enables ground clearance of up to 307 millimetres. Thanks to its low-range ratio and limited-slip rear-axle and centre differentials, the standard Off-Road Pro technical package opens up considerably more possibilities on challenging terrain. Other electronic dynamic handling control systems such as Off-Road ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and Hill-Start Assist also make life easier for the GL-Class driver.

Prices of “Grand Edition” special models incl. 19% VAT:
GL 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY 80,206 euros,
GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 81,396 euros,
GL 450 4MATIC 91,868 euros,
GL 500 4MATIC 99,127 euros

Source: Daimler AG

With the InCar Hotspot data signals are received via the vehicle’s aerial. The InCar Hotspot is a WLAN router, specially designed for in-car use. In conjunction with a data-enabled SIM card, it establishes a wireless internet connection even when the vehicle is in motion. Up to four WLAN end devices (for example laptop, smartphone, iPod touch) can be connected to the internet at the same time. The Mercedes-Benz InCar Hotspot supports the high-speed transmission standard HSDPA, plus UMTS and GSM/EDGE. The InCar Hotspot is installed in the load compartment an only available in conjunction with Convenience Telephony and/or Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS. The part number for the InCar Hotspot-Kit is B6 7824 099 / price 929,- €.

Source: Daimler AG

This basic design enables high levels of traction, firstly because the dynamic shift in axle load toward the rear axle that occurs during acceleration is harnessed to deliver more drive torque to the rear wheels. Secondly, the multi-disc differential lock is also able to shift the drive torque between the front and rear axles, varying the split as the road conditions dictate. Consequently, intervention by the ESP, 4ETS or ASR electronic control systems can be delayed for as long as possible and the bulk of the drive torque converted into tractive power, even on slippery roads. All control system interventions go virtually unnoticed, yet drivers still know straight away if they are driving on the limit, as a yellow warning symbol will flash in the instrument cluster. This serves as a prompt to adapt the driving style to the road conditions.

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The drive mechanism’s permanently engaged design offers key advantages over other systems that first need to diagnose a lack of grip before activating the all-wheel drive. The 4MATIC will have already made use of this valuable time to start transmitting drive torque via the wheels to the road.

All-wheel drive is not a substitute for winter tyres
Like any other all-wheel drive system, the 4MATIC has to abide by the laws of driving physics. The fundamental rule is that a tyre is only able to transfer a certain level of overall force to the road surface. If a particularly high degree of longitudinal force is required during acceleration or braking, for example, the available lateral force is reduced. When cornering, the reverse applies: now a large amount of lateral force is required to keep the vehicle on course, while the longitudinal force potential is restricted. The engineers’ skill in designing the drive mechanism and fine-tuning the control systems lies in their ability to exploit these correlations in such a way as to ensure the best possible handling characteristics under all conditions. The frictional coefficient µ describes the physical grip between the tyres and the ground. This figure is high on a dry road (µ = 0.9) and low on a snow-covered road (µ = 0.3).

Despite all the engineers’ efforts, it is ultimately the drivers themselves who determine how safe they are out on the road. They should always adapt their driving style in accordance with the wintry conditions and ensure that their vehicle is suitably equipped; winter tyres are absolutely essential here.

Pulling away with ease on ice and snow
When starting off in wintry conditions, certain road surface conditions are automatically detected and the interventions of the 4ETS electronic traction control system adjusted so as to achieve the greatest possible acceleration while minimising wheel slip, ensuring optimum directional stability in the process. This strategy also allows the vehicle to pull away under the most adverse conditions, such as when one side of the vehicle is on an icy slope (µ-split) or both wheels on either the front or rear axle have limited grip (µ-jump).

When starting off on µ-split, one side of the vehicle is on snow or ice and the other on asphalt. This means there are major differences in the coefficient of friction between the left and right-hand side of the vehicle. On all vehicles with open axle differentials, the wheel with the smallest friction coefficient limits the maximum transferable drive power. If the drive power exceeds the maximum transferable power, the wheels on snow or ice will start to spin and the vehicle would be unable to start off.

4ETS instantly detects this situation and prevents the wheels from spinning by building up exactly the right amount of pressure in the wheel brakes. As the wheel with the higher friction coefficient is now braced by the brake force at the wheel with the smaller friction coefficient, the 4MATIC model starts to move. After pulling away, the wheel characteristics are closely observed and the brake pressure regulated in such a way that, as far as possible, there is no difference in speed between the individual wheels. The braking force applied by 4ETS effectively simulates a higher coefficient of friction on the side of the road covered with ice or snow; ideally, this will match the coefficient of friction on the asphalt side. This produces an optimal inter-wheel locking effect at the axle differentials, resulting in the maximum possible acceleration on µ-split surfaces.

Starting off on “µ-jump” surfaces – where one of the vehicle’s axles is entirely on ice or snow and the other on asphalt – is hampered by the large differences in friction coefficient between the front and rear wheels. On vehicles with an open inter-axle differential, the axle with the lower coefficient of friction determines the transferable drive power. Whilst the multi-disc differential lock with its basic locking torque of 50 Newton metres does have a balancing effect, it is unable to compensate for these extreme differences in friction coefficient. Here again, both wheels on the axle with the lower coefficient of friction start to spin if the drive power exceeds the maximum transferable drive power at this friction coefficient. The 4ETS resolves this problem by instantly detecting spinning wheels and braking them. In this way, the braked axle with the smaller friction coefficient braces the axle with the higher friction coefficient – and the 4MATIC model starts to move.

Assured handling on wintry roads
On twisting roads covered with snow and ice, vehicle stability is primarily controlled by the 4ETS system’s acceleration skid control function regulating engine torque. The 4ETS control thresholds are adjusted according to the driving situation based on the vehicle’s longitudinal and lateral dynamic readings as continuously measured by the ESP® sensor system. To prevent the vehicle from tail-skidding, the longitudinal force when cornering must be controlled by means of engine torque regulation in such a way that there are sufficient reserves of lateral force at all times. In order to comply with this physical correlation, when cornering on road surfaces with a low friction coefficient vehicle stability is mainly controlled by the ESP and ASR acceleration skid control systems intervening to ensure that there is always sufficient lateral force in reserve.

Initially, only enough engine torque to allow the tyres to develop sufficient lateral force is transmitted to the wheels on the outside of the bend. If the ASR control function cannot restore directional stability, the ESP system will intervene by applying the brakes to stabilise the vehicle.

In contrast to the control mechanisms triggered when cornering, considerably more longitudinal force can be provided when accelerating in a straight line, as the tyres hardly have to transfer any lateral force. What is important here is that the tyres can work in the optimum µ-slip curve range. In order to achieve this, the control thresholds for engine torque regulation are raised in this driving situation. When driving on snow-covered or icy roads with low friction coefficients, the multi-disc differential lock in the transfer case takes effect, producing an inter-axle locking torque of 50 Newton metres in the powertrain. This locking effect boosts traction considerably without having any negative impact on the control systems. When the final-drive ratios are factored in, this allows 150 Newton metres to be delivered to the wheels.

In certain wintry conditions it may become necessary to deactivate the control systems using the “ESP OFF” switch. This is the case where high slip values are required at the wheels – when powering out of deep snow, for instance, either with or without snow chains. Even in “ESP OFF” mode, drivers can still count on the full support of the control systems when braking. Once back on a road surface with a normal covering of snow, the control systems should be reactivated again.

Source: Daimler AG

On this club tour through the capital presenter Patrice Bouédibéla is acccompanied by the charming Mercedes-Benz Mixed tape artist Nuwella Appear. What they both experience in the night with the Mercedes-benz GL at the different party locations – watch now!

Source: Mercedes-Benz.tv

The front-runners in this trend are the new BlueTEC models in the Mercedes-Benz R, E, ML and GL-Class ranges – the first diesel vehicles to meet the rigorous US exhaust emission standards in all 50 states. Golden Globe and Emmy winner Felicity Huffman (“Desperate Housewives”) has a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC vehicle in her garage. “Sex and the City” star Sarah Jessica Parker and Gilles Marini as well as actresses Liv Tyler (“The Lord of the Rings”), Rosario Dawson (“A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”), Christina Applegate (“Married with Children”) and Molly Sims (“Yes Man”) and singer Nicole Scherzinger have also switched to the world’s cleanest and most advanced diesel vehicles.

These vehicles combine exceptional performance and a long range with low fuel consumption which reduces their environmental impact. BlueTEC technology is an innovative emission control system which reduces exhaust emissions effectively and makes diesel vehicles so clean that they already fulfil the EU 6 regulations valid from 2014. At the same time, fuel consumption is up to 30 percent lower than that of comparable petrol engines.

Along with the BlueTEC models, the new S 400 HYBRID is also becoming a popular choice among movie and music stars. With this model, which was launched last year, Mercedes-Benz became the world’s first manufacturer to market a hybrid vehicle with a lithium-ion high-voltage battery. Thanks to its innovative technology, this model is the most economical luxury saloon with a petrol engine. Together, the two drive technologies allow it to attain a combined fuel consumption figure of just 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. Well-known drivers of the S 400 HYBRID include “Sherlock Holmes” star Robert Downey Jr. and Gerald Butler.

Source: Daimler AG

Source: Daimler AG

January
Mercedes-Benz presented at the Detroit International MotorShow, the new E-Class, the pacemaker when it comes to safety, comfort and environmental compatibility in this market segment. With more than 20 new or further technical developments, this saloon further consolidates the leading position of Mercedes-Benz in the luxury class. Examples include the standard Attention Assist, Adaptive Main Beam Assist and automatic emergency braking, which is activated when there is acute danger of a collision.

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February
It is now 30 years since production of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class began. The Stuttgart-based car maker first unveiled this robust off-roader to the public in 1979, since when it has delivered a total of some 200,000 units of the G-Class to customers around the world. Its still striking appearance, which has remained substantially unchanged throughout its 30-year career, plus outstanding engineering, has secured this Mercedes-Benz off-roader cult status in the automotive world, and made it one of the most coveted vehicles of its type on the market. With a production life of 30 years, the “G” is easily the longest-serving passenger car series in the more than 120-year history of Mercedes-Benz.

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March
At the Geneva Motor Show you could see the comeback of an intriguing product idea when Mercedes-Benz presents the Coupé range in the new E Class. Short time after the presentation of the Saloon, the brand is therefore launching a new highlight in the new model series while continuing a tradition that has repeatedly met with great enthusiasm throughout the history of the E-Class.

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April
Four years after the market launch of the W 221 model series, presented Mercedes-Benz the 2009 S-Class. Trailblazing innovations in the areas of comfort and drive engineering combined with state-of-the-art technology for enhanced safety consolidate the Mercedes-Benz flagship’s position as the brand’s innovation driver and underscore its pioneering role in the automotive industry as a whole. The technology highlights include the world’s first standard production hybrid drive with a lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID, which makes the top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz model the most economical petrol-engine luxury saloon.

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May
An American dream has come true. The BlueTEC models of Mercedes-Benz have achieved what no-one ever thought possible: American car drivers find diesel-powered passenger car models attractive. With this success under its belt, Mercedes-Benz is now bringing its BlueTEC SUVs to the European market. The new BlueTEC models, which available since autumn, are the world’s cleanest premium SUVs.

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June
2009 is a year in which Mercedes-Benz celebrates several anniversaries in the safety field: in August 1939 the safety pioneer Béla Barényi started his work in Sindelfingen. He invented for example the principle of the crumple zone, a trailblazing innovation which entered series production at Mercedes-Benz . Now it is time for a look behind the scenes, and in this anniversary year, Mercedes-Benz is using the ESF 2009 research vehicle to reveal what its safety specialists are currently working on – with a time horizon that often extends well into the future. The ESF 2009 is the first Experimental Safety Vehicle to be built by Mercedes-Benz since 1974.

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July
AMG, the high-performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars, is presenting the new E 63 AMG. This dynamic sports saloon with day-to-day suitability is the top-of-the-line E-Class model, offering an impressive combination of outstanding performance, exhilarating driving dynamics and a technology transfer from the SL 63 AMG high-performance Roadster. The new E 63 AMG distinguishes itself from the regular E-Class models with the powerful AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, the completely newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping and a new front axle, and with its autonomous exterior and interior design.

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August
Mercedes-Benz launched the Estate version as another highly distinctive member of the E-Class family. Like the Saloon and Coupé, the Estate, combines unique design with leadership in safety, comfort, quality and practicality. The E-Class Estate is seen as the progenitor of the premium lifestyle estate segment more than 30 years ago. Since the launch of the first Estate in 1977, more than one million customers have discovered their enthusiasm for this most practical way of driving a Mercedes luxury car. This success story is set to be continued by the fifth generation of the E-Class Estate.

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September
The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which celebrates the world premiere on 15 September 2009 at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main, embodies a blend of consummate automotive fascination and high tech. The super sports car delivers a compelling mix of purist styling, consistent lightweight design and superior driving dynamics. At the same time, the SLS fully lives up to all the expectations of hallmark Mercedes everyday practicality and optimum safety. In essence, the new ‘Gullwing’ offers the ideal synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG. The distinctive styling of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG enthrals with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking lines of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL – one of the outstanding design icons of the Mercedes-Benz brand.

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October
The new E 63 AMG Estate delivers a compelling proposition with its two fundamentally opposed traits: it offers the sedate driving experience of an executive estate suitable for long journeys just as consummately as it delivers outstandingly dynamic performance on the racetrack. Largest luggage compartment and lowest fuel consumption – the E 63 AMGEstate sets new standards. With a luggage compartment capacity of 695 to 1950 litres and fuel consumption of 12.8 litres of Super Plus per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the new high-performance estate from AMGoccupies pole position. None of its rivals can match this extraordinary combination of per-formance, utility value and efficiency.

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November
Mercedes-Benz will enter the Formula 1 World Championship with its own “Mercedes Grand Prix” team, beginning with the 2010 season.

December
The highly appealing and emotionally charged Cabriolet is the latest addition to the successful Mercedes-Benz E-Class line-up. The open-top two-door model, which goes on sale ion 11 January 2010, features a classic fabric soft top, making for a stylistically pure cabriolet feeling. Viewed from the side, the new model is an intriguing proposition – with its clear proportions and a flawless cabriolet silhouette. Less turbulence, easier to use: AIRCAP® is a world-first. The AIRCAP® automatic draught-stop, which can be activated at the push of a button, greatly reduces turbulence in the interior of the new Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet. It is also much easier to implement and use than conventional draught-stops: there is no tricky installation, the two individual rear seats remain free and the Cabriolet’s flowing side lines remain uninterrupted.

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Source: Daimler AG

The BRABUS WIDESTAR wide version, manufactured in OEM quality from Pur-R-Rim plastics, lends all GL-Class models an even more stunning appearance. The elegantly curved fender flares add five centimeters (two inches) to the width of the SUV.

The BRABUS WIDESTAR front apron and its large air dams give the 4×4 an even more striking face, and reduce aerodynamic lift on the front axle at high speed. Integrated LED daytime running lights and auxiliary high beams and fog lamps improve active safety further.

The BRABUS rocker panels don’t just look great, they also make entering and exiting the vehicle in the dark safer thanks to their integrated entrance lights.

The rear view of the wide version is dominated by the roof spoiler and the new rear apron custom-tailored to the wider fenders. The new bumper features an integrated diffuser, courtesy lights that illuminate the ground behind the vehicle and cutouts for the tailpipes of the BRABUS stainless-steel quad sport exhaust system.

The BRABUS WIDESTAR version also creates room for three-piece BRABUS Monoblock E PLATINUM EDITION wheels in size 11Jx23. These nine-spoke wheels have a forged high-gloss-polished drop center and can be fitted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance street tires up to size 305/30 R 23.

The BRABUS WIDESTAR can also be equipped with 21-inch Monoblock VI or F wheels or with 22-inch wheels from the Monoblock VI, E, G, Q and S design families.

BRABUS offers powerful tuning for all GL engines, all backed by the incomparable BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006) that sets the standard for the entire tuning industry. All BRABUS engines are lubricated exclusively with ARAL high-performance motor oil.

For the gasoline-powered V8 engines of the GL 450 and GL 500 models the top-of-the-line option is the BRABUS 6.1 displacement engine with a rated power output of 462 hp (456 bhp) / 340 kW and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft). Equipped with this engine the 4×4 accelerates from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 255 km/h (158 mph).

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra tuning kits were developed for the especially popular common-rail turbodiesel engines. The BRABUS D6 (III) module bumps rated power output of the GL 350 CDI to 272 hp (268 bhp) / 200 kW and peak torque to 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) at just 1,600 rpm.

Rated power output of the GL 450 CDI with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D8 (III) tuning jumps from standard 306 hp (302 bhp) / 225 kW to 350 hp (344 bhp) / 257 kW at just 3,800 rpm. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 700 Nm to 800 Nm (516 to 590 lb-ft). Performance is on an accordingly high level: The tuned GL 450 CDI accelerates from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.1 seconds, half a second faster than the production car. Top speed increases from 230 to 240 km/h (144 to 150 mph).

The sporty performance of the tuned SUV’s is ideally combined with professional BRABUS suspension tuning. A special module for the AIRMATIC air suspension of the GL-Class lowers the ride height by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches). This measure not only benefits the looks of the GL. The lowered center of gravity also results in even sportier and safer on-road handling.

To further optimize active safety BRABUS also offers various high-performance brake systems for the Mercedes SUV. The largest version for the GL features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeter (15.0 x 1.4 inches) discs on the front axle. The rear axle stops on 355 x 28 mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) brake discs and six-piston fixed calipers.

Individual interior exclusivity is also a BRABUS top priority for the five-door SUV. The company upholstery shop transforms customer requests into masterfully crafted fully leather interiors made from especially soft and breathable Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The BRABUS program also includes numerous striking interior accessories. The list of available options ranges from scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo to sporty aluminum components such as pedals and door-lock pins, to an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel. Especially sporty highlights are added with carbon-fiber elements in ‘checkered-flag’ design. Also available are precious-wood inlays in any desired color and with various surface finishes.

Multimedia is another BRABUS domain. Special consoles for the back of the GL-Class front seats each house a seven-inch LCD screen and a DVD player. These consoles are optionally available with an electrically deployed table.

The multimedia equipment can be expanded further. The expansion options include larger screens deployed from the headliner, an on-board PC system with ultra-fast Internet connection and an MP3 player that can hold more than 5,000 songs.

Source: Mercedes-Benz.tv

Source: Daimler AG

With this success under its belt, Mercedes-Benz is now bringing its BlueTEC SUVs to the European market. This is a guaranteed home win. The three BlueTEC SUVs can be ordered immediately; deliveries will begin in September 2009. Celebrities are not the only ones to have their hearts captured by the low emission and economical yet powerful diesel models but also regular demanding customers. The turn in American tax policy has contributed to this. With the purchase of a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC owners get the same tax benefits as for a hybrid car. For example, the GL equipped with BlueTEC technology can bring a savings of 1,370 euros. Mercedes-Benz will be offering the full range of BlueTEC models in Europe from fall 2009. In addition to the E 350 BlueTEC sedan, the range also includes three SUV vehicles – the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC. BlueTEC will additionally bolster the appeal of this vehicle category in Europe.

BlueTEC is a technology developed by Mercedes-Benz for effective reduction of diesel vehicle emissions, especially nitrogen oxides. This is the only exhaust gas constituent which has inherently higher levels in diesel engines than in gasoline engines. AdBlue®, a harmless, water-based urea solution, is injected into the exhaust flow, reducing up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR catalytic converter. Moreover, the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC already meet the exhaust limits of the EU-6 Standard, which will become effective from 2014.

The powerful V6 diesel engine of the new BlueTEC SUV models shows that large SUVs are also capable of fuel economy and extremely low emissions. It delivers 155 kW/211 hp with a torque of 540 Newton meters, thus guaranteeing low consumption values as well as outstanding performance.

Stars and BlueTEC Vehicles
In addition to the successful actress Naomi Watts and her partner Liev Schreiber (known from “X-Men” and “The Manchurian Candidate”), BlueTEC drivers from the film and television industry also include William Baldwin, “Desperate Housewives” star Kyle MacLachlan, “Sex and the City” actress Kim Cattrall, Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Gary Oldman and “Phantom of the Opera” singer Emmy Rossum. “My ML 320 BlueTEC has all the power and luxury you’d expect of a Mercedes-Benz, plus the efficiency and low environmental impact of an economy or even hybrid vehicle”, says Emmy Rossum. “BlueTEC is really the best of both worlds.” World-famous singer, musician and environmental activist Sheryl Crow enjoys the advantages of the R-Class BlueTEC and echoes this view: “The newest clean diesel vehicles are eco-friendly and deserve as much attention as other gas alternatives like hybrids!”

In the world of music, pop star Gwen Stefani and her husband, musician Gavin Rossdale, also drive a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC, as does singer Josh Kelley who is married to “Grey’s Anatomy” star Katherine Heigl. Other owners of a
Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC vehicle include Nicole Richie and Joel Madden, singer of the US band “Good Charlotte”. Seven-time Grammy award winner Alanis Morissette chose a fuel-efficient and low emission Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC to feature in her video for “Underneath”.

BlueTEC Models: Selling Prices in Europe
The ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC models can be ordered immediately, with delivery starting in September 2009.

Here are the prices at a glance (excluding VAT):
ML 350 BlueTEC: 48.400 Euro
GL 350 BlueTEC: 60.850 Euro
R 350 BlueTEC: 50.100 Euro

Source: Daimler AG

In its new model year, the world’s top-class luxury SUV will consume up to 8 percent less fuel (preliminary value) and be even more environmentally compatible.

Other outstanding features of the GL-Class will include excellent handling both on road and off road, exceptional roominess and the comfort of a luxury saloon. Beginning in autumn 2009, Mercedes-Benz will also offer the world’s most extensive range of SUV models equipped with especially efficient SCR exhaust gas treatment technology. Besides the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, customers will also have the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC models to choose from. The fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly trio of models already created a stir during their first sales year in the USA and they are sure to also boost the appeal of this vehicle class in Europe.

The GL-Class is becoming even more appealing
The GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz continues to hold the top position in the market segment of luxurious sports utility vehicles, but that’s not all: the latest model updates have made the premium off-roader even more attractive. In addition to introducing various technical modifications and innovations that particularly boost the fuel efficiency and environmental compatibility of the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC featuring the BlueEFFICIENCY technology, the designers have made the vehicle’s striking body even more appealing.

The GL-Class’ expressive presence is further accentuated by modernised bumpers, redesigned chrome underbody protection at the front and the rear, a new radiator grille and fog lights/daytime driving lamps connected by a chrome bar. Other new features include light-alloy wheels measuring between 18 and 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes. The range of colours is supplemented by two new metallic paintjobs: “Tenorite Grey” and “Palladium Silver”. The tow bar is now hidden behind the rear apron and is swung out when needed.

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The premium off-roader also offers the very best in safety. The safety features encompass a variety of assistance systems, including the innovative safety concept PRE-SAFE®, which automatically prepares the vehicle and its occupants for an impending collision by optimally activating the protective functions. The SUV’s Intelligent Light System (ILS) optimally distributes the light across the road in line with the respective driving situation and weather conditions. Standard features also include LED daytime driving lamps and taillights.

Luxurious interior with outstanding feel-good factor
The up to seven occupants of the GL-Class will enjoy an incredibly spacious interior that provides passengers with the pleasant ambience that is typical of Mercedes-Benz and comparable to that of the S-Class. The redesigned leather/ARTICO seats with contrasting trimming will be a real eye-catcher in the new model year, while the top-of-the-line GL 500 model will be available with exclusive nappa leather appointments. All vehicles will have a new range of instruments, a multifunction nappa leather steering wheel and crash-responsive NECK PRO comfort headrests for the driver and the front-seat passenger. The interior’s attractiveness is further enhanced by optional equipment such as two-tone leather appointments in black/cashmere beige or black/alpaca grey and the indirect ambient lighting employed in the S-Class. The range of interior trim options is augmented by the variant “anthracite-coloured poplar”.

GL 350 CDI 4MATIC with BlueEFFICIENCY technology provides lots of driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption
In addition to the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC featuring SCR technology, the GL‑Class is now available with BlueEFFICIENCY technology in the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC. This model consumes around 5 per cent less fuel than its predecessor without any change in performance. The vehicle’s V6 engine continues to generate 165 kW/224 hp and already provides its maximum torque of 510 Nm at 1,600 rpm. On average, the diesel engine consumes only 9.3 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

Like all other BlueEFFICIENCY models from Mercedes-Benz, the GL also features an extensive package of measures that help reduce fuel consumption. Besides the direct-injection diesel engine, these include the efficient 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission that switches to neutral when the vehicle is waiting at a traffic light or in a traffic jam in order to reduce engine load and fuel consumption. Fuel consumption is further reduced through the use of lower rolling resistance tyres. Aerodynamics have been improved by redesigning the radiator grille and adding more spoilers to the areas surrounding the front wheels. The GL’s fuel consumption is further reduced by the energy-saving electro-hydraulic power steering system. And thanks to a fuel consumption computer and a display showing current fuel consumption, GL drivers can always regulate their fuel consumption and, if necessary, adjust their driving behaviour.

Superlative drive comfort: GL 450 4MATIC, GL 500 4MATIC and GL 450 CDI 4MATIC equipped with V8 engines
Superlative power delivery and maximum drive comfort are among the special attributes of the two V8 petrol models, which also fulfil the EU5 standard. The GL 500’s 5.5-litre V8 engine delivers 285 kW/388 hp and a torque of 530 Nm. Within 6.5 seconds the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h almost as quickly as a sports car, and the top speed of 240 km/h is also comparable. In the GL 450, the V8 petrol engine has a displacement of 4.6 litres, an output of 250 kW/340 hp and a maximum torque of 460 Nm. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 235 km/h. The V8 diesel engine in the GL 450 CDI 4MATIC delivers 225 kW/306 hp, and its 700 Nm of torque create ideal conditions for achieving superior drive comfort.

Safe and agile both on and off the road
Besides featuring the innovative 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, the standard-fitted AIRMATIC air suspension, the high-precision direct steering system and the standard-fitted Adaptive Damping System (ADS), the imposing GL surprises customers with its impressive handling properties and ensures outstanding drive comfort and active safety. As a fully fledged off-roader, the GL performs well not only on the road but also when driving cross-country. The modified AIRMATIC system allows the vehicle to achieve a ground clearance of up to 307 millimetres. The Offroad-Pro technology package that is available as standard greatly improves manoeuvring in difficult terrain, thanks to the use of gear ratio reduction and multiple disc locks at the rear axle and the centre differential. The driver’s task is further simplified by additional electronic handling systems, such as Offroad ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and anti-stall assist.

BlueTEC campaign: R, ML and GL-Class now available in Europe with the world’s cleanest diesel technology
The GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC boast impressive performance, high torque, great fuel efficiency and low emissions, which make them some of the world’s cleanest premium SUVs. The latter two models can now also be ordered in Europe, where they will become available this autumn. The vehicles’ environmental friendliness was confirmed by the readers of Bild am Sonntag and a panel of experts who together awarded BlueTEC the “Green Steering Wheel”. The commission already certified last year that this technology has the greatest ecological potential of all of the currently available environmentally friendly automotive innovations.

BlueTEC — the synonym for environmentally friendly vehicles in the USA and now also in Europe
The history of BlueTEC in Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle models began in the USAin October 2006, when Mercedes-Benz launched a BlueTEC version of the E-Class saloon on the market to coincide with the introduction of low-sulphur diesel fuel. The vehicle immediately received great praise from customers and trade journalists alike and was voted the 2007 World Green Car. In the autumn of 2008, Mercedes-Benz added three new models to its range of BlueTEC vehicles: the R, ML and GL BlueTEC 4MATIC. These were the first diesel SUVs to meet the stringent emissions standards of all 50 US states. Besides the low emissions of the BlueTEC technology, US customers were impressed by the vehicles’ high fuel efficiency. The GL 320 BlueTEC 4MATIC, for example, consumes about 20 to 40 per cent less fuel than comparable petrol models, making it by far the most economical full-size luxury SUV in the USA.

Mercedes-Benz developed BlueTEC in order to effectively reduce the emissions
of diesel vehicles. The technology focuses particularly on nitrogen oxides, as they are the only emission constituent in diesels that inherently exceeds the equivalent figure for a petrol engine. It involves injecting a non-toxic aqueous carbamide solution known as AdBlueÓ into the exhaust gas flow. This releases ammonia. In the downstream SCRcatalyst system the ammonia then converts up to 80 per cent of the nitrogen oxides into the harmless products nitrogen and water. In addition, the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC already fulfil the emissions limits of the EU 6 standard, which won’t go into effect until 2014.

The powerful V6 diesel engine of the new BlueTEC SUVs demonstrates that full-size SUVs can also achieve high fuel efficiency along with low emissions. This engine delivers 155 kW/211 hp and provides a torque of 540 Nm. As a result, it not only guarantees low emissions and high fuel efficiency but also superlative driving performance.

Exclusive and extravagant: the R-Class “Grand Edition”
All engine and wheelbase versions of the R-Class (including the BlueTEC version) are also available in the especially extravagant “Grand Edition” equipment variant. This model, which also will become available in autumn 2009, will feature, among other things, exclusive 20-inch AMG bicolour light-alloy wheels as well as thermally insulated blue windows all-round. The vehicle’s special outfit is supplemented by bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic active light and cornering light functions, chrome-framed LED daytime driving lamps integrated into the front bumper and taillights in a dark sporty design. The interior features decorative wood trim made of anthracite-coloured poplar with chrome applications as well as the “Grand Edition” nameplate, the AMG ergonomic steering wheel with gearshift paddles, and sports pedals made of brushed stainless steel with rubber nobs. This equipment package can be ordered immediately for €3,300 plus VAT.

Source: Daimler AG