First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

If the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan’s styling isn’t controversial enough for you, meet the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe. While the new coupe, like the CLK it replaces is based on the C-Class, its sheetmetal and engine choices tie it to the all-new E-Class sedan. The E-Class Coupe is more relaxed and less sporty compared with the 2009 CLK, and along the way it drops out as a competitor for BMW’s unbeatable 3 Series coupe.

In the same fashion as the E-Class sedan’s rear fender treatment is designed to recall the “Ponton” Mercedes of the early 1950s, the E-Coupe’s rear fender flares pay homage to the Ponton coupe, a rather obscure car in North America. Less obscure, the new coupe’s look evokes stolid two-door Benzes like the ‘68 C114 and the later C124.

2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift Official Details Released

LED daytime driving lights, indicators and marker lights for the S 400 HYBRID and S 600 (They are part of a package on the other S-Class models). Out back the changes are less noticeable as the only modifications are the addition of new LED taillights and a revised exhaust system that is integrated into the rear bumper.

Despite the minor makeover, the big news is the launch of the S 400 HYBRID which boasts a fuel economy rating of 7.9L/100km and emits just 186 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Set to become the world’s first production vehicle to combine a hybrid powertrain with a lithium-ion battery, the S 400 HYBRID uses a 3.5-liter petrol engine that produces 205 kW (279 hp) and an electric motor that cranks out 15 kW (20 hp).

Customer Testimonial - CLK350 Coupe

This is the second Mercedes I've purchased from Jesse in the past 3 years and I'm looking forward to making my next car purchase the third Mercedes I get from her. In addition, over the past 18 years I've purchased 9 cars and Jesse is to only person I've purchased more than one car from.
The reason I have and will continue to come back to Jesse to purchase new Mercedes Benzs is because of the outstanding customer service she provides. I had a very difficult schedule when making this recent purchase, my lease was about due, I was traveling Monday - Friday to the west coast, and often working through the weekend. Because Jesse took time to know me as a person, my preferences in cars, what I would want to have in my next Mercedes, and what my schedule was and then made the time to accommodate that schedule, I was able to get the exact car I wanted in under a few hours - including signing all of the paper work! And I love my new Mercedes.
I've also come to appreciate the customer service Jesse provides in the years between my purchases such as the reminders of important dates in my and my car's 'life', such as my drivers license renewal date (one I would probably have otherwise forgotten). Jesse has made me feel important and a part of the Atlanta Classic Cars and Mercedes Benz families.
Again, I look forward to purchasing my next car from Jesse and will encourage those I know to do the same.

Mercedes-Benz Stars of Service Champions - Four Winners at Atlanta Classic Cars!

Joe Carpenter, Al Macaulay, Troy Metts and Bob Padovano of the Atlanta Classic Cars service department were named as round one winners in the competition to find the Best of the Best in Mercedes-Benz Service.
The first round of the U.S. competition was completed in March 2009. This round of the competition consisted of a very intense and comprehensive online test, and the 632 dealership employees who emerged with the highest scores were determined as round one winners! These winners represent the top 10% of technicians and service advisors.
Atlanta Classic Cars is very proud to offer our clients the best possible service from the time of the sale through the whole ownership experience. If you haven't serviced with us before, it is worth the trip

Spy shots: V8-powered McLaren P11 supercar with gullwing doors

When the McLaren F1 first hit the streets it almost immediately catapulted to the top of the performance car scene, taking home the title of world’s fastest production car in 1998 and holding it up until 2005. Building a car better than the original F1 was always going to be a difficult challenge, and perhaps that is why for its successor McLaren isn’t setting its sights too high. While the original F1 competed with the best supercars of its time - cars like the Ferrari F40, Jaguar XK220, and Porsche 959 - its successor will be competing with more ‘entry-level’ models.

Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss (2009)

With the SLR Stirling Moss Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h - no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory during the 1950s.

The exclusive Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.
Three letters are all it takes to make car fans' hearts beat faster: SLR. In the 1950s the Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 celebrated victory after victory. It won the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manual Fangio and Karl Kling - and, first and foremost, by the British racing driver Stirling Moss. At ten hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds he still holds the Mille Miglia record.
This is why the modern-day version of the legendary SLR carries the additional words "Stirling Moss" in its name. As the new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss unites the character of the current SLR models with the fascination of the SLR of 1955. The core values of both the historical and the present-day SLR models include an exciting new design, innovative technology, high-class materials displaying perfect craftsmanship, and, above all: a unique driving experience for all the senses.

Whilst the 300 SLR earned its spurs on racing circuits the world over, the new member of the SLR family is not designed for the racetrack. Although it sets new standards in terms of technology, performance and excitement - just like its forebears - it is aimed at individuals who have exquisite requirements and nurture very special dreams.
Highly puristic concept without a roof or a windscreen
Remaining totally true to the specifications of the 300 SLR, the new Silver Arrow's equipment is extremely sophisticated and yet at the same time decidedly spartan, doing without both a roof and side windows. There are just two wind deflectors a couple of centimetres in height to protect the driver and passenger from the airflow. Two air scoops integrated into the bodywork serve as roll-over bars. With this extreme concept the new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss is visually very different from all the other vehicles which belong to the elite sports car class.
Just like the legendary racing vehicles of yesteryear, the SLR Stirling Moss dazzles with its superlative performance. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 350 km/h this puristic high-performance sports car denotes completely new dimensions in open-top driving. And not just because of the impressive performance figures; every time drivers take to the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss their senses are addressed with a previously unheard of intensity, conveying a driving experience in its purest and most sensual form. This automotive thoroughbred thus facilitates the kind of open-air feeling that is utterly unique for a road-going vehicle.

Exciting design reminiscent of the SLR racing cars
The Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of fine lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLR Stirling Moss, they were fully aware every single moment that they were creating a vehicle with a top speed of 350 km/h. At the same time this supreme athlete is highly reminiscent of the SLR racing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day.
The Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss sports an exciting, pronounced arrow-shaped form and is characterised by an elongated bonnet and a compact, muscular rear. As there is no windscreen, the exterior and interior flow smoothly into one. The bonnet also stretches from its striking tip right down into the interior, giving the vehicle body a distinctly sleek air. Even when standing still, the sports car radiates such dynamism that the observer immediately falls under its spell.
Further eye-catching features include two air scoops behind the driver and passenger. They carry additional roll-over bars, also uniting the traditional and the modern. The wings are powerfully contoured. Black-painted ventilation "gills" sitting facet-like on the sides and on the bonnet also cite the legend. A thrilling interplay of light and shadow ensues through the expressive lines, underlining the dynamic overall impression.
Exactly as they were on the shining historical example, the side skirts on the new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss are also very high. This prompted the designers' decision in favour of folding swing-wing doors which open forwards.
The vehicle can be closed by two tonneau covers which are carried in the boot. When both tonneau covers and the doors are closed the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss resembles a sculpture.
In keeping with the puristic exterior of the vehicle, the interior is also reduced to the bare essentials. Surfaces penetrating each other in the instrument panel and doors make for an exciting atmosphere and resonate perfectionism. A mixture of high-class authentic materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and fine-quality leather sets the style here. An aluminium plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss and covers the area around the shift lever.
Innovative technology and polished aerodynamic concept
Developers working on the Stirling Moss were able to fall back on a wealth of experience gathered when producing the SLR Coupé and Roadster, in particular where the technical base was concerned, with its extravagant carbon-fibre design, high-performance suspension and throaty V8 engine. The common denominator uniting the Stirling Moss with the other members of the SLR family is the aerodynamic concept with a closed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper for maximum possible downforce at the rear axle - with one difference: the diffuser here is considerably larger than that on the coupé and roadster.
Thanks to the high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel, the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss always generates sufficient downforce for extremely safe handling. But the driver can also manually operate the AirBrake in order to increase the contact pressure further, during particularly sporty driving, for example. The AirBrake is also raised during powerful braking at speeds above 120 km/h, so as to stabilise the vehicle even more in such situations, thus facilitating maximum possible deceleration.

Limited to 75 units - the SLR models' crowning glory
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the sporting gentry and enthusiasts alike. At the same time it is a collector's item which marks the pinnacle of an era and, for the foreseeable future, at least, the final curtain for the SLR. In May 2009 production of the SLR models will cease; only a total of 75 units of the Stirling Moss will be manufactured between June and December 2009, bearing chassis numbers from 1 to 75. Not only does this exclusive vehicle represent the conclusion of the current SLR family; it also serves as a very special thank you to the most loyal of SLR customers, for they are the only ones able to acquire a Stirling Moss.

Mercedes-Benz Loyalty Accelerator for May 2009

Mercedes-Benz has continued the Loyalty Accelerator program through June 1st!
If you have a current Lease or Balloon Contract with Mercedes-Benz Financial that matures through calendar year 2010 you can take advantage of this program. Mercedes-Benz will make up to 3 of your remaining payments when go into a lease or finance on any new 2008, 2009 or 2010 Mercedes model through June 1st. There are two slightly different programs this month.
3 Payment Loyalty Accelerator Program
If you have a C, E, ML, R, SLK or CLK Mercedes will make up to 3 payments when you lease or finance any new Mercedes-Benz!
3 Payment Premium Loyalty Accelerator Program
If you have a CLS, CL, S, SL, G or GL Mercedes will make up to 3 payments - if you lease or finance another CLS, CL, S, SL, G or GL.

The Loyalty Accelerator, or pull-forward as we often call it, is a great way to end your current contract early so that you can have your new car sooner. If you are over miles in your current lease this is a good way to save some money too.

2010 E350 and E550 Sedan and Coupe MSRP Pricing Announced!

Mercedes-Benz has just released the base prices for the 2010 E-Classes!
2010 E350 Sedan $48,600 - $4600 less than the 2009 E350
2010 E350 Coupe $48,050 - $50 less than the 2009 CLK350
2010 E550 Sedan $56,300 - $5400 less than the 2009 E550
2010 E550 Coupe $54,650 - $2150 less than the 2009 CLK550
These prices reflect a desire to stay competitive within the current marketplace. Additionally, the residual value for all four vehicles is up substantially. Option pricing has not yet been released. Expected retail release date for the 2010 E-Classes is now "towards the end of June."

Mercedes-Benz Lease and Finance Specials for May 2009

Finance Specials on New 2009 & 2010 Models*
Wow! 1.9% Financing for up to 66 Months is continued!
All C-Classes (excluding C63)
All E-Classes (excluding E550 4matic)
All CLS-Classes
All CLK-Classes
All SLK-Classes
All ML-Classes
All R-Classes
All GL-Classes
All GLK-Classes
All S-Classes
All CL-Classes
All SL-Classes (excluding the 65 Black)
Lease Specials on New 2009 & 2010 Models*
The following models have special lease rates available through Mercedes-Benz Financial. You can visit http://www.mbusa.com/ for all of the fine print.
C300, C300 4Matic
E350, E350 4Matic
ML350
R350
GL450
CLK350 Coupe, CLK350 Cabriolet
CLS550
SLK300, SLK350
GLK350
ML320 Bluetec
R320 Bluetec
GL320 Bluetec
Finance Specials on Certified Pre-Owned Cars*
The Certified Pre-Owned Sales Event ontinues in May. You'll see a lot of advertising for these vehicles and we have a great selection.
2006-2007 C-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
2006-2007 E-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
2006-2007 R-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
2006-2007 SL-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
2006-2007 CLK-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
2006-2007 S-Class: 5.99% for up to 66 months
(Only off-lease SL and S-Classes will qualify for the special rates)
*for qualified buyers
These lease and finance deals can be used in conjunction with Loyalty Programs and the new Payment Credit Program.

Mercedes-Benz At The New York International Auto Show: The Mercedes ML450 HYBRID

In the search for the optimum hybrid system for the premium motor car, the engineers were already sure of one thing right from the concept phase: a Mercedes-Benz SUV with a hybrid drive would have to share the same typical brand attributes as any other Mercedes vehicle. Essential elements such as the greatest possible active and passive safety, optimum ride comfort and ease of operation, uncompromising reliability over a long period and high-quality workmanship with select materials would have to be on a par with a comparable, conventionally powered standard-production vehicle. And all combined with the greatest possible efficiency. At the same time, the drive system should be testimony to the company's innovative strength and cutting-edge technology. These objectives demanded a complete development cycle – the kind of process any new model family developed from scratch would undergo. Until the Mercedes-Benz ML 450 HYBRID reached series-production maturity, the engineers and technicians clocked up a total of four million kilometres, taking in some of the world's most extreme climatic conditions to prove the system's reliability, be it in the sub-zero Arctic circle, the searing heat of arid desert regions or in the sweltering, humid temperatures of the tropics. The work was supplemented by an extensive test-rig programme and detailed simulations as part of the "Digital Prototype". An important aim during development was to optimally match the various subsystems within the powertrain. System matching enables the various drive modes to be easily used while the customer is driving.

Mercedes-Benz At The New York International Auto Show: The Mercedes E250 BlueTEC

BlueTEC is the keyword for the future of diesel engine technology. Thanks to the highly effective exhaust treatment system developed 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 concept, which was created specifically for the North American market, Mercedes-Benz is now 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). The E 250 BlueTEC concept fulfils the strictest emissions standards, including Bin 5 in the U.S., and would even meet the considerably toughened limits laid down in EU6 legislation not due for implementation until 1 September 2014.

Mercedes-Benz At The New York International Auto Show: The Mercedes E63 AMG

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 RACESTART 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. 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.

Mercedes-Benz USA's Sales Drop 25 Percent In March 2009

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) has reported March sales of 15,602 vehicles, a decline of 25 percent. The volume leaders for the month were the C, E, and GLK-Class with sales of 5,008, 1,978, and 2,598 units, respectively. On a year-to-date basis, the company has sold 40,234 new vehicles, a decrease of 30.2 percent over the comparable period last year. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 6,614 vehicles in March; a 29.4 percent increase compared to March 2008 sales of 5,110 vehicles. Year-to-date sales for the MBCPO program are 19,162, a 44.6 percent increase over 2008 year-to-date sales (13,252 vehicles) during the same timeframe. As for how Mercedes-Benz USA's competitors fared for the month, here's a quick rundown:

Mercedes-Benz Cars Worldwide Sales Decline 16 Percent In March 2009

In March, Mercedes-Benz Cars delivered 110,400 (March 2008: 131,500) Mercedes-Benz, AMG, smart, and Maybach brand vehicles to customers worldwide (minus 16 percent). Mercedes-Benz sold 98,500 (March 2008: 119,400) passenger cars in March (minus 18 percent). Despite the continuing difficult situation on the automotive markets, and the E-Class model changeover, sales of Mercedes-Benz Cars in March were up from the previous month’s total. The division also posted an increase in incoming orders compared to the numbers for January and February of this year. Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “Orders for the E-class sedan in Germany in the first quarter of this year were more than double the number posted in the same period in 2008. We had already received about 50,000 orders for the new E-Class sedan by its market launch at the end of March.”

Mercedes S63 AMG And S65 AMG Make Their Debut On Mercedes-Benz Germany Website

After the official debut of the non-AMG variants of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class took place last week, it was only a matter of time before the high performance Affalterbach-tuned models were unveiled as well. It turns out, the wait was shorter than longer, as both the Mercedes S63 AMG and S65 AMG have been added to Mercedes-Benz Germany's "Konfigurator" feature. As expected, styling features of the pair include a revised vented front apron, side skirts and quad exhaust pipes in the rear, while power remains consistent with that of the current models: 518 hp / 465 lb-ft torque in the 6.2-Liter V8-powered S63 AMG, and 604 hp / 738 lb-ft torque in the S65 AMG. In Europe, pricing for the S63 AMG starts at EUR 144,823, while pricing for the S65 AMG starts at EUR 221,221.

Mercedes AMG Sports Package Debuts For The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class And CL-Class

If you're considering the purchase of either the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class or CL-Class, the list of options from which you must select just got a little longer. Mercedes today has announced the availability of an AMG Sports Package for both models – an option that boasts an array sporty cosmetic enhancements. Highlights include new AMG body styling which includes a new front and rear apron, side sill panels and stainless steel rectangular tailpipe trim; 19-inch AMG light alloy wheels; and perforated brake discs up front with silver-painted brake calipers. Inside, wood trim and the wood/leather steering wheel are fitted in black ash, while AMG-inscribed velour mats and stainless steel sport pedals complete the package.

Official Debut Of The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And S65 AMG Models

The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, the powerful top-of-the-line S-Class models, are now even more appealing: thanks to a series of subtle yet extremely effective fine-tuning measures, the two performance saloons are even more striking and priceless than ever before. The updated technology is aimed at ensuring a more dynamic driving experience as well as optimum active and passive safety. Exclusivity and dynamism combined with effortless superiority and state-of-the-art technology – both of the top S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG embody all of these characteristics and more: the S 63 AMG, with its 386 kW/525 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 630 Newton metres of torque, is capable of accelerating to a speed of 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The S 65 AMG, meanwhile, demonstrates even greater superiority: its AMG6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine delivers maximum power of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton metres, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. Both saloons are electronically limited to 250 km/h. Despite no changes having been made to the engine data and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3 percent.

Debut Of The Mercedes-Benz CL 500 Trademark Centenary Anniversary Edition

This year Mercedes is celebrating the one hundredth birthday of the three-pointed star and the Benz emblem, and what better way to celebrate than by offering yet another special edition of the CL 500 coupe. Titled the CL 500 "Trademark Centenary," the anniversary edition features an AMG Sports Package, a unique exterior paint finish from the designo collection, a hand-stitched designo aniline leather interior and black piano lacquer trim. Of course, no anniversary edition would be complete without a little custom badging, so inserted into the CL Trademark Centenary's center console are the two aforementioned star and Benz emblems, crafted from gilded plate brass.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Interior Details And Design Sketches Revealed

In a brilliant marketing move – one that surely only the geniuses at their marketing department could have surmised – Mercedes today has granted a bit of backstage access into the inner workings of their design department, revealing interior photos and design sketches of their forthcoming SLS AMG Gullwing model. According to the company, "aviation engineering" was the inspiration for the SLS interior, as evidenced by "the centre console in the style of a jet's operating console and the four striking air vents reminiscent of aircraft engines."

MEC Design Unveils New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Tuning Package

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Kicking things off this morning comes a new Mercedes S-Class tuning package, courtesy of the Mercedes tuning firm MEC Design. As is the case with any self-respecting tuning package, highlights include a new front and rear apron, side skirts and a rear spoiler, along with various lighting configurations based on your individual preferences. Complimenting the aforementioned body styling, a new stainless steel exhaust system is present, as are your choice of 20-inch forged alloy wheels.

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster Retraces The Path Of Bertha Benz

As you may remember, about a month ago we brought you the details of a special concept vehicle known simply as the F-Cell Roadster. Inspired by the legendary Benz patent motor car and featuring design traits of modern F1 race cars, the F-Cell's 1.2 kW hybrid drive allows the model to reach a top speed of 15 mph and achieve an operating range of 217 miles. Over the weekend, the F-Cell Roadster took to the road, completing a portion of the historic route once traveled by Bertha Benz – a journey that has since been recognized as the first long distance journey in an automobile. Specifically, the F-Cell Roadster started in Manheim, where it was then driven via Ladenburg and Heidelberg before passing its symbolic finish line at the chemist's shop in Wiesloch – the location where Bertha Benz stopped to refuel in 1888.

Mercedes AMG Launches New Mercedes E63 AMG Web Special

If you're in the market for the recently introduced Mercedes E63 AMG, the company has just alerted us they've launched a new web special dedicated to the model. Borrowing from the success noted by a number of adult websites, the E63 AMG webspecial centers around a university theme (in this case, the E63 AMG University), with visitors having the option to view galleries, technical information and yes, take a test about the model. Unfortunately, one feature typically found on university websites that isn't available in E63 U is a 24-hour all-access spy-cam into the dorms, but then again, watching two E63's shower together isn't really that exciting anyway.

BRABUS Introduces Monoblock F, G And Q Wheels For Mercedes-Benz And Maybach Models

BRABUS is launching a new lineup of Monoblock light-alloy wheels for Mercedes-Benz and Maybach and Maybach models, and what better way to usher in the new rims than by posting a corresponding press release and photo gallery highlighting each of them? We couldn't agree more, so that's exactly what we have for you this April morning. In total, there's three new wheel families: the BRABUS Monoblock F, the BRABUS Monoblock G and the BRABUS Monoblock Q. On the Monoblock F wheels, highlights include a 21-inch diameter size along with a cross-spoke design, making them ideal for Mercedes CL-, GL-, GLK-, M-, R- and S-Class models.

Mercedes-Benz USA Notes 28.1 Percent Sales Decrease In April 2009

In April 2009, sales at Mercedes-Benz USA mimicked those noted by the majority of other automakers, with MBUSA noting yet another double digit decline of 28.1 percent. In total, April sales amounted to 14,565 new units, compared to 20,271 new units in April of 2008. As a result of the figures, year-to-date sales at Mercedes-Benz USA now amount to 54,799 new units (compared to 77,918 new units in April 2008), or in percentages, a 29.7 drop compared to the prior year.

World Premier Of The Updated Mercedes-Benz GL-Class And New BlueTEC SUV Models

Mercedes-Benz today has unveiled an updated version of the largest member of its SUV family – the GL-Class – while at the same time introducing a range of new BlueTEC SUV models. On the new GL, key exterior changes include modernized 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, new light-alloy wheels measuring between 18 - 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes. Also available are two exterior paint colors: "Tenorite Gray" and "Palladium Silver."

Cobra Technology and Lifestyle Upgrades Mercedes-Benz M-Class With CITYGUARD And New Wheels

For those of you looking to add a bit of customization to your new Mercedes M-Class, Cobra Technology & Lifestyle has unveiled a few new products that may be of interest to you. First and foremost, there's a product they're calling the CITYGUARD. Constructed out of stainless steel, the CITYGUARD attaches to the underside of the front bumper making installation straightforward, and in addition to providing added protection in the event of a minor collision, it also features dual LED daytime running lights, thus improving active safety.

Mercedes-Benz Cars Worldwide Sales Drop 23.6 Percent In April 2009

Daimler AG is reporting today that in April, sales of the Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart brands totaled 90,900 new units (compared to 119,000 new units in April 2008), a decrease of 23.6 percent. As a result, year-to-date sales at Mercedes-Benz Cars now total 335,800 new units, down 23.3 percent when compared to 2008's four month ytd total. Individually, sales at Mercedes-Benz dropped 23.4 percent for the month, down to 80,700 new units. To date, the luxury division has sold 296,700 new units, down 24.9 percent when compared to the prior year.

Special Edition Mercedes A Class: Limited to 5,500 Units

Since Mercedes has nothing truly new to offer on its A-Class subcompact hatch, the German automaker decided to make a special edition version that comes equipped with an array of -yep, you guessed it- special features and extra equipment. On the outside, the A-Class "Special Edition 2009" is characterized by the black radiator louvres, 16-inch titanium silver light-alloy wheels in a new 9-spoke design shod in tires 195/55 R16 and a "Special Edition" badge on the mirror triangle.
Inside, passengers will be greeted by a two-tone color scheme in black and grey, velour floor mats with grey edging and an embroidered Edition label, leather covered multifunction steering wheel, shift/selector lever and parking brake handle and an upgraded audio system with CD player and Bluetooth hands-free.

The special edition version also comes equipped with a Light and Sight package that includes rain sensor, automatically dimming rear-view mirror, an illuminated vanity mirror in the sun visor, separately adjustable reading lights in the rear, a reading light for the driver and illuminated front footwells.
Production of the new A-Class Special Edition 2009 will be limited to 5,500 units.

AVUS PERFORMANCE Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG – A wolf in sheep’s clothing

After the latest two publications from AVUS PERFORMANCE they are now showing that they are modifying not only cars from Ingolstadt. Their latest project car is a complete conversion based on the current Mercedes C63 AMG.

2009 Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230

To realize our clients' dream of an absolute luxury performance car we have spent a lot of time, effort and charges to build a new kit called "Warrior."
The body kit consisting of front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, front fenders, hood and grill will be produced and sent in absolute high quality and fitment. Further, we haven't lost the focus regarding functionality of factory or optional equipment.
The front bumper is available for all models with or without xenon headlights. Fog lights and the attached active curve lights can be mounted as well. Also, factory protection stripes with or without original park distance control can be installed. For more conservative clients, it is also a possibility to fit the kit without hood and grille.
To offer a complete kit consisting aerodynamics and performance we decided to develop a new ECU software which results in a 20 - 70 hp boost, depending on motorization. Acceleration and driving quality has noticeably improved.

* from Prior-Design press release

Mercedes-Benz SLA Concept

Mercedes-Benz may be revisiting the 2000 Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA Concept, a 7 year old concept that portrayed a small, compact and fun two-seater roadster.
Apparently, words are being exchanged within the industry regarding the SLA Roadsters to be built on the next generation platforms from the A-Class and B-Class. Mercedes-Benz were unable to use the platforms from the current generation A-Class and B-Class models as both are not ideal enough to support an SLA Roadster.