Two Mercedes-Benz world premieres at Auto China 2012: the Concept Style Coupé and the new-generation G-Class

With two extraordinary world premieres, Mercedes-Benz cast a broad arc in Beijing from the brand’s unique tradition to its dynamic future. The new‑generation G-Class made its debut here today under the motto “Forever young”. With even more comfort and safety and modern engines, the off-road icon reaffirms its premier position among off-road vehicles that has brought it global success for the past 33 years. This is underscored by the new G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and standard ECO start/stop function. The highlight of this year’s Mercedes appearance in the Chinese capital is the Concept Style Coupé. The close-to-production study offers an insight into the next member of the new Mercedes-Benz compact car family. The Concept Style Coupé is a clear statement of avant-garde design in the form of a sporty coupe for the mid-size segment. The series-production version is scheduled for market launch next year under the model name CLA.

The four-door Concept Style Coupé is a style rebel – non-conformist, provocative, masculine. “The design is expressive and powerful,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “It makes a very clear statement. This is the car against which sporty mid-size vehicles will be measured in future.” In keeping with its dynamic look, the Coupé study offers a host of technical highlights, including the new four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 155 kW (211 hp), 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Inside the Concept Style Coupé, a new quality benchmark is set by fine materials together with outstanding craftsmanship. The dashboard upholstered in white nubuck leather offers a rich contrast to the anthracite Alcantara® on the upper surface of the dashboard. On the sports steering wheel, suede delivers exceptional grip, while all chrome trim pieces and controls have been anodised in black for the first time. The surfaces around the HMI operating unit shimmer in gleaming black anodized aluminium. The four integral seats with integrated head restraints come from the sport version of the new A-Class.

Sporty, fascinating and “always on”

While travelling, passengers can be “always on”. This is made possible by COMAND Online together with Mercedes-Benz apps developed especially for use and operation while driving. Internet surfing is also freely available when the vehicle is at a standstill.

Dieter Zetsche: “It is our stated objective to attract new Mercedes fans in new markets and market segments. That can be achieved only with fascinating products like the Concept Style Coupé that we are launching next year under the name CLA. And the promise that we kept with the new A-Class also applies to the Coupé – the forthcoming CLA will transfer the fascination of the study into series production.”

Targeted expansion of the Mercedes-Benz product line-up

Mercedes-Benz is conducting a targeted expansion of its product line-up with new models like the CLA. “That”, says Dr. Zetsche, “Is the key to the success of our ‘Mercedes-Benz 2020’ strategy, with which we want to be number one in all relevant categories of the premium segment by the end of this decade – and that includes sales volumes.” That the brand is on the right course is evident in the current results – in 2011, Mercedes-Benz returned the best sales figures in its corporate history, followed in 2012 by further sales records set in all three months of the first quarter.

In China, Mercedes-Benz will continue to strengthen its role as an active and successful player in the economy. Dr. Zetsche: “We will further expand our local production capacity and thus sustainably increase our market presence in China. By 2015, we want to have doubled our current local production capacity to more than 200,000 vehicles per year. Together with our partners, we will invest around three billion Euros in China over the next few years, thus creating the foundation for sustainable growth on the world’s largest car market.”

Forever young – the new-generation G-Class

As well as the avant-garde newcomer, Beijing also marked the debut of the latest edition of an equally unique Mercedes automobile. Under the motto “Forever young”, Mercedes-Benz presents the new generation of the G-Class, which has been in production now for 33 years.

“The G-Class embodies many significant Mercedes-Benz brand values. Tradition is one of them, as is quality, durability and state-of-the-art technology,” says Prof. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. The G-Class has been a success ever since it was launched in 1979 – unmistakable, authentic and solid as the proverbial rock. Its outstanding qualities have been recognized by countless awards, including “Off-Roader of the Year” more than twenty times – an honour it received once again in 2012.

G-Class 2011 – best sales figures in seven years

Thanks to its loyal and enthusiastic fan base, the “G” is also a success on the market. With vehicle sales of around 6,600, 2011 saw the forefather of the modern Mercedes off-road family achieve its best sales figures in seven years. The secret of its success lies in the combination of cult status and superior technical characteristics.

State-of-the-art technology and a still unmistakable character

Prof. Weber: “That is why we consciously made very careful updates to the outer appearance of the G-Class, with new LED daytime running lights and exterior mirrors. The inner values of the new generation, however, are enormously compelling – fine materials and perfect ergonomics dominate the interior. The dashboard and centre console have been completely redesigned. Standard features include the modern COMAND Online infotainment system with navigation and internet access.”

The palette of safety features can be augmented by the optional Blind Spot Assist, the PARKTRONIC parking assistant and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control.

Three powerful, efficient and refined engines

In China, the new generation of the G-Class comes to market as the G 500, powered by a refined V8 petrol engine with 285 kW (388 hp) and 530 Nm of torque. In Europe, Mercedes-Benz also offers the G 350 BlueTEC (155 kW/ 211 hp, 540 Nm) with state-of-the-art, clean diesel technology. New in the line-up is the G 63 AMG with eight-cylinder biturbo engine and standard ECO start/stop function, which also makes its debut in Beijing. 

“With 544 hp and 760 Nm of torque, the 5.5-litre V8 has the power of a dragon,” says Prof. Weber, referring to the Chinese Year of the Dragon. “The new engine delivers almost ten percent more torque than its predecessor, yet consumes 13 percent less fuel.” The engine line-up is being expanded by the G 65 AMG with a V12 biturbo engine (450 kW/612 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque), which was also presented at Auto China and makes it the world’s most powerful series-production off-road vehicle.

You might also like to read more detailed topics on the Mercedes-Benz premieres at Auto China 2012:


1. Official world premiere at Auto China in Beijing: Mercedes Concept Style Coupé - the style rebel

2. The new generation G-Class: Forever young

3. The All New Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG: G-Class Summit

4. Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond: The luxury van as a chauffeured vehicle

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new generation Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Forever young

Mercedes-Benz has once again significantly upgraded the G‑Class, so reemphasising its position as the leader among off-road vehicles. The interior is characterised by high-quality appointments finished with exquisite materials. The instrument cluster and centre console have been completely redesigned. The driver's field of vision now encompasses a colour screen, between two new round dials. The car features as standard the sophisticated COMAND Online infotainment system, including a navigation system and internet access. New LED daytime driving lamps and new exterior mirrors bring a few discreet changes to the exterior appearance of the luxury off-roader. The range of safety features can be optionally enhanced with the addition of Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS. New to the range are the G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and the ECO start/stop system as standard, and the G 65 AMG with twelve-cylinder biturbo engine.

Since it was originally conceived in 1979, as a vehicle to be used primarily in tough off-road terrain, the G-Class has undergone an astounding process of evolution. Over the course of 33 years Mercedes-Benz has refined what was initially a very practically-oriented off-road specialist by giving it a high-class interior and road-going qualities on a par with those of the premium saloons emanating from Stuttgart. The G-Class today is considered the top model among luxury-class cross-country vehicles, and has provided the gene pool for the other very successful SUVs built under the Mercedes-Benz brand. The G-Class has been voted off-roader of the year countless times over the past years – as also once again this year.

A comprehensive range of measures ensures that this classic cross-country vehicle remains in a class of its own in the off-road sector.

These measures include new engines, a significantly extended range of appointments, a new, even more luxurious interior and a few discreet external modifications that nevertheless manage to preserve the timeless, classic design – virtually unchanged since 1979 - that has made the G-Class a true automotive style icon.

Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 33 years. In its latest evolutionary stage, it offers state-of-the-art, powerful engines, a further improved range of luxurious appointments and the very latest safety features, as well, of course, as its now legendary off-road capabilities. At the same time the design remains true to its down-to-earth, unmistakable style."

Discreet exterior modifications, a complete new look inside

The external modifications include LED daytime running lamps and new exterior mirrors for all engine variants. The AMG versions also feature a new, characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvres, plus distinctive new bumpers with large air intakes. Red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels, available here for the first time, complement the emotive appeal of its exterior.

The instrument panel and centre console have been completely redesigned to include new controls and generously proportioned, exclusively designed trim elements. These give the interior of the car a fresh and classy look. Drivers will now find a TFT colour display in the instrument cluster between the two round dials. A further large colour screen, conveniently positioned in the centre, is part of the COMAND Online system and incorporates a DVD changer and the COMAND Controller, which are standard on all G-Class models. This new infotainment generation offers, amongst other features, a navigation system with special additional off-road functions, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. In order to ensure that the G-Class nevertheless does not lose any of its character, certain specific design elements in the interior have been preserved. The G-Class thus retains the grab handle on the front-passenger side, the switches for the three differential locks – clearly aligned within the driver's field of vision and highlighted in silver-coloured trim – and the redesigned shift lever in the lower section of the centre console.

New optional extras include safety features such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC with reversing camera. The ESP®system has been completely revised and now includes Trailer Stability Assist and a HOLD function.

Further individualisation options from the exclusive designo range are available as enhancements to what is already a very high-quality interior package.

Sophisticated engines with high power reserves

The range of engines in the G-Class includes the G 350 BlueTEC and the G 500, both as a long-wheelbase station wagon, plus the G 500 as a short-wheelbase Cabriolet model.The basic version of the long-wheelbase station wagon model is the G 350 BlueTEC with V6 diesel engine and a displacement of 2987 cc. The four-valve engine has an output of 155 kW (211 hp) at 3400 rpm and has available torque of 540 Newton metres across an engine speed range of 1600 to 2400 rpm. The BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz minimises its emissions, in particular of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The G 350 BlueTEC works to even better effect with the addition of AdBlue®, an aqueous urea solution that is injected into the flow of exhaust gases. Refilling with AdBlue®is conveniently done from the outside of the vehicle.

One alternative to the diesel engine is the G 500, with its powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine. This has an output of 285 kW (388 hp) and offers excellent torque of 530 Newton metres. The same engine also ensures that the G 500 Cabriolet has generous reserves of power to deal with any situation.

Both the G 350 and the G 500 feature the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard. This sixth generation of the stepped automatic transmission that has been developed and produced by Mercedes-Benz since 1960 has once again been thoroughly revised, and optimised with regard to both consumption and comfort.

New to the range is the G 63 AMG with V8 biturbo engine (400 kW/544 hp and 760 Nm of torque), which features the ECO start/stop system as standard. The engine range has been extended by the addition of the G 65 AMG with V12 biturbo engine (450 kW/612 hp and 1000 Nm of torque), making this the most powerful series-produced cross-country vehicle in the world.

The G-Class engines at a glance

Superior off-roader

The technical qualities of the G-Class continue to be highly prized. The tremendous torque of its engines makes the luxury off-roader an excellent vehicle for towing, while its three electrically controlled 100-percent differential locks, ladder frame and rigid axle characteristics make it an unrivalled proposition in rough, off-road terrain.

The new G-Class is available from June 2012.

Prices in Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

- G 350 BlueTEC 85,311.10 euros
- G 500 99,948.10 euros
- G 500 Cabriolet 100,900.10 euros
- G 63 AMG 137,504.50 euros
- G 65 AMG 264,180.00 euros






















Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: Another look at the new G-Class coming next week at Beijing

Following the first sneak preview of the Gelandewagen in March, Mercedes-Benz decided to let us see more of its new-generation G-Class and posted an official picture on the Facebook page specially created for fans of the 30-year old all-terrain vehicle.

The faithful 4x4 comes fitted with brand new drive, safety and telematics technology and boasts subtle, yet elegant visual revamps, such as the addition of LED daytime running lights for the front fascia, new rear-view mirrors optimized for an efficient flow of air, a rejuvenated dashboard and an extended choice of alloy wheels with a new design. Together with the standard models running on diesel and gas such as the G 350 BlueTEC or the G 500, Mercedes-Benz is also set to launch two hardcore AMG versions: the G 63 AMG with 544 hp replacing the outgoing G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR and the special series G 65 AMG powered by the 6.0-litre V12 unit capable of 630 hp peak output and 1000 Nm maximum torque. More details will be available when the press release from Daimler is issued the following days.

With this extensive package of upgrades, the G-Class showcases a confident and powerful aura for 2012 and thus beautifully completes the new lineup of Mercedes-Benz SUVs together with the M-Class, GLK-Class, GL-Class and R-Class.

Read more about the new G-Class:

- PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz shows us a glimpse of the G-Class 2012 at new GLK launch

- PREVIEW: New details on the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2012

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz shows us a glimpse of the G-Class 2012 at new GLK launch

In the official photo set of the new GLK-Class 2012 (X 204), Mercedes-Benz have inserted an image that contains not only the compact SUV, but also the vehicle which can be considered its grandparent: the G-Class 2012 generation. This is not the first occasion when the German carmaker intentionately "leaks" a photo of a forthcoming car using the launch moment of another model from the lineup: in 2008, a few days ahead the official reveal, they previewed the A-Class Coupe facelift in a picture emphasizing the Active Parking Assist of the new B-Class facelift that had just been released by mid-March that year (see the respective photo HERE). Sticking to the Gelandewagen, the photographed example is a G 350 BLUETEC, equipped with a 3.0-litre diesel V6 unit rated at 211 hp. The visual tweaks are minor, but enhance the historical refinement of the G-Class - new alloy wheels, new exterior mirrors and a strip LED daytime running lamps under each of the traditional circular headlights. The interior, the safety and assistance technologies, the telematics as well as the powertrain are the key parts that underwent major upgrades to ensure the 30-year old 4x4 stay fully up-to-date. With the unveiling of the new G-Class 2012 set for Beijing Motor Show in April, there's not much time left till we get the first official details - it's a matter of weeks.


Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Fourfold success for Mercedes-Benz in the “Motor Klassik Awards 2012”

Readers of the German classic car magazine “Motor Klassik” have voted Mercedes-Benz vehicles the winners in a grand total of four categories in the “Motor Klassik Awards 2012” competition. The SLS AMG and the G‑Class, as well as two classic SL model series, each took the majority of votes in their respective categories. In issue 1/2012, “Motor Klassik” invited readers to cast their votes for the “Classic of the year” in 16 different categories. Awards were made in six chronologically arranged categories across the full spectrum of classic (“oldtimer”) and modern classic (“youngtimer”) vehicles, with a further prize for racing cars. On top of the classic car poll as such, awards were made to current vehicle models with the major potential to become classics of the future, as well as for outstanding personalities, events and auctions.


Among all the vehicles in the current Mercedes-Benz portfolio, the readers of “Motor Klassik” selected two models that, while generally already deemed to be classics, still have a long future ahead of them. The winner in the category “Off-road vehicle of 2012” was the G-Class, which has been part of the Mercedes-Benz model range since 1979 and is still considered the ultimate cross-country vehicle. Its exceptional status as an off-road icon can be attributed to a constant and systematic process of further development over more than three decades. The latest generation of the G-Class thus offers an impressive package of state-of-the-art powertrain engineering and high-quality interior appointments. At the same time it has managed to maintain those highly prized virtues that have marked this model out from the very beginning, such as its extreme robustness and excellent off-road capability.

Another vehicle that, in the opinion of readers, already has the qualities and fascination to make it a classic model is the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG super sports car, honoured in the category “Sports car of 2012”. With its exciting design and gullwing doors, it is evocative of the legendary 300 SL sports car of the 1950s. On top of which it features a stunning array of superb technology. Highlights include its aluminium spaceframe body, a 6.3-litre AMG V8 front mid-engine with 420 kW/571 hp, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration and an aluminium double-wishbone sports suspension. It is a high-tech combination that ensures driving dynamics of the very finest.

Appropriately enough, as we mark the 60th birthday of the SL, readers also voted two of the sports cars from this exceptional Mercedes-Benz model family among their favourite classic cars: in the category “Classic of 1947-1961”, the winner was the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the famous Gullwing Coupé of the W 198 model series. The production-model sports car was derived from the then W 194 racing sports car with which Mercedes-Benz re-entered international motor racing after the end of the Second World War and which was to prove so successful in international motorsport. This was the vehicle responsible for creating the aura of legend around the SL that still exists today. The series-production Gullwing model, built from 1954 to 1957, was a dream car in its own lifetime – and has remained so ever since. A total of 1,400 units were built. The closed sports car was then succeeded by the 300 SL Roadster (W 198 II).

The Mercedes-Benz 500 SL from the R 107 model series came out tops in the category “Classic of 1980-1991” in the “Motor Klassik Awards” competition. This lovely Roadster, with its powerful V8 engine (177 kW/240 hp), celebrated its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1980. Compared with the 450 SL, the model that it replaced, the new top-of-the-range model had a light-alloy V8 engine. This was complemented by interior appointments that were on a par with those of the then just recently introduced S-Class. From its launch until 1989, a total of 11,812 units of the 500 SL were built. The model series R 107 was altogether extremely successful and went on to be built for 18 years from 1971 until 1989 – quite possibly a record. Over this period, a total of 237,287 units of this open sports car model were produced.

The decisions made by readers of “Motor Klassik” represent at the same time a clear signal from lovers of classic cars: Mercedes-Benz vehicles of years gone by are among the key icons of automotive history. And every current model already has the genuine potential to become a classic of the future.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: New details on the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2012

After 30 years of service, the mighty G-Class will be refreshed once more in order to keep pace with technological developments in the segment. The 2012 model, which is bound to last on the market till the end of 2015, comes packed with a completely revised interior, an impressive safety package, brand new assistance and communication devices and new engines. The entire updated range will celebrate the world premiere at Beijing Auto Show next month.


The new G 500 receives the new twin-turbo V8 powerplant with 435 hp; the 211 hp G 350 BlueTEC is here to stay, whereas a possible G 350 CDI version developing 265 hp might also be in cards.

The most eagerly awaited models are the AMG variants. The G 63 AMG replaces the outgoing G 55 AMG and is powered by the 5.5-litre 544 hp V8 engine. The new addition to the range, the G 65 AMG, uses an optimized V12 powerplant producing a total of 612 hp. Both AMG SUVs feature firm's 7-speed sports gearbox to transfer the huge amount of power to all four wheels. Market launch is scheduled for June 2012; sources indicate a purchase price for the G 63 AMG of around 115,000 euros, while for the high-end G 65 AMG one could spend 220,000 euros.

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

REPORT: New G-Class 2012 and GLK facelift models arrive this April

Everyone was expecting Mercedes-Benz to launch the new GLK facelift at next month's Geneva Motor Show, but it was lately discovered that the German constructor opted for the New York Auto Salon (NYIAS) instead, probably for the public attention to focus solely on the new A-Class. And even though the restyled G-Class 2012, which you can partially see in the (leaked) detail shot on the left, was also on the verge of the official premiere, the moment is postponed till April for the Beijing Motor Show. We do not know anything certain regarding the reveal of the new generation GL-Class, but New York was intensively rumored lately. So, there are busy SUV times coming at Mercedes-Benz, which is highly pleasant news for us.

Image Credits: Spyspots


Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: A pair of updated 2012 G-Class test prototyes snagged in Northern Scandinavia

If the G-Class will eventually exit the automotive stage, Mercedes-Benz thinks it needs to do in great style, so the Germans are already prepping an important update for the popular 4x4 vehicle. In order to keep the car contemporary up to 2015 when a phase-out is possible, the Gelandewagen is currently undergoing a styling and technical revamp treatment.


While changes on the design department are subtle and include minor visual tweaks to headlights, tail lamps, exterior mirrors, radiator grille and front end/rear end bumpers, the upgrades to the powertrain and equipment are set to maintain the G-Class as a powerful offroader on the market.

It goes without saying all G-Class models come with 4MATIC traction as standard device. New and efficient engines are expected to power the car: the G 350 BlueTEC is here to stay, but we guess that along the G 300 CDI with 184 hp, Mercedes-Benz could also offer a G 350 CDI version rated at 265 hp. Moreover, a G 350 BlueEFFICIENCY equipped with the 3.5-litre direct-injection V6 capable of 306 hp is also possible. The range-topping G 500 variant will receive company's 4.7-litre biturbo V8 unit reaching 435 hp of peak output and 700 Nm of maximum torque.

Moving on to the AMG models, the G 55 AMG (or G 63 AMG ??) will shift into a new generation with the addition of the new 5.5-litre twinturbocharged V8 that produces 544 hp - yet, rumors claim the 6.3-litre aspirated V8 engine with over 500 hp is also likely to power the monster. If this was not enough, then prepare yourselves for the introduction of the limited edition G 65 AMG boasting no less than 630 hp out of the furious 6.0-litre V12 unit.

The interior of the new G-Class is bound to get an improved look with new, more premium appointments. The restyled dashboard includes a new instrument cluster, a CLS-esque steering wheel, a revised center console and up-to-date climate control and COMAND infotainment system, probably available with internet capability as well. The entire lineup of security and assistance gimmicks Mercedes-Benz have premiered recently will also find their way onto the new G-Class. Looking at the latest spy shots, we think the Gelandewagen is ready for a Geneva debut, even though New York or Beijing motor shows sound more reasonable.








Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.