Original accessories for the new Mercedes-Benz SL: Stylish accessories for an iconic sports car

Thanks to an extensive range of accessories, it is now possible to enhance the individual flair of the new Mercedes-Benz SL that little bit further. All products are manufactured to Mercedes-Benz's usual high quality standards.

From all-weather mats to ten-spoke alloy wheels, the Mercedes-Benz original accessories for the new SL offer a multitude of ways for owners to tailor the roadster even more closely to their own needs. The stars of the extensive initial range are eleven stylish alloy wheels – perfect for giving the SL that additional individual touch – and a total of 16 charging cradles and docks for various smartphones. Other upgrade options include the COMAND Online multimedia system, boasting a DVD changer, and the media interface, which can be integrated via cable with a host of mobile end devices.

The high quality is also apparent in the elegant door sill made from brushed stainless steel and featuring illuminated lettering, or the key ring, a replica of the SL symbol on the boot lid.

The SL can be made to look even more sporty thanks to genuine accessories from AMG. One option is the AMG bodystyling package, comprising front and rear aprons and side skirts, and a choice of three 19" five-spoke wheels.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz to revise naming structure of future cars

We have once reported on a fake return of Mercedes-Benz to the old, pre-1993 entitling for its models, which has not and won't come true any time soon. That's because the Stuttgart-based carmaker will move on with the current nomenclature, set to be enriched with new class designations in the next 2-3 years.

While the standard A-, B-, C-, E-, G-, M-, and S- single letters will still form the basic vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio, the niche variants will get new names. The future coupe (2-dr or 4-dr) and cabriolet Mercs will receive the "CL" preffix followed by the letter of the class they belong to. For example, the next generation of the E-Class Coupe will be entitled CLE. On the same rule, we shall also get the CLA compact 4-door coupe and the CLC for the forthcoming C-Class Coupe/Cabriolet. Only the CLS won't follow the basic principles and will stay as it is. For the future S-Class Coupe, we feel Mercedes-Benz will stick to the existing CL nameplate.

The upcoming sports vehicles under the Star brand will display the "SL" particle and a different letter depending on the size of the model. The traditional SL-Class is here to stay, as is the SLS AMG or the SLK. Starting 2014, a new supercar below the modern Gullwing will be revealed under the SLC badge, which was wrongly associated with the next generation of the luxury flagship 2-door model.

The new crossovers and SUVs from Mercedes-Benz will also receive new names: the compact class GLA and the GLC replacing the current GLK, both of which evolve from the GL root. At the moment, two aspects remain blurry: will the German constructor preserve the R-Class and will the new M-Class SUV Coupe be called MLC or CLM? We shall get answers to these inquiries from 2015 onwards.

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

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

High tech for the AMG off-road classic: the new G 63 AMG impresses with state-of-the-art drive technology, expressive design and increased fuel economy. All this is largely attributable to the AMG 5.5‑litre V8 biturbo engine delivering 400 kW (544 hp) and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system. Even more exclusive is the new G 65 AMG: its AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine delivers 450 kW (612 hp) and reaches a maximum torque of 1000 newton metres – a record in the off-road segment.

Every new AMG high-performance vehicle offers an outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel” – and the G 63 AMG is no exception. The “strong man” in the AMG model range has been further enhanced with the state-of-the-art powertrain of the new ML 63 AMG. The design has been comprehensively reworked, so that, for the first time in the 33-year history of the G-Class, AMG customers can enjoy a raft of future-oriented systems: spray-controlled petrol direct injection, the ECO start/stop function and generator management. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 newton metres. This enables the new G 63 AMG to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, with a new top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

The new G 63 AMG outperforms the G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR by 27 kW (37 hp) and 60 newton metres. Its direct predecessor was a clear favourite for G-Class purchasers, with a sales ratio of over 40 percent.

Key figures for the G 63 AMG at a glance:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC and ECO start/stop function

The vehicle’s driving performance features are matched by its impressive advances in the area of fuel economy. The fuel consumption of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) is a reduction of 2.1 litres on the predecessor model, representing fuel savings of 13 percent. This reduction can be attributed to the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function. The seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting, creating an incredible range of variability. In “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. “C” mode is also characterised by smooth accelerator and transmission characteristics and early gear changes; the vehicle is usually started in second gear in this mode. The AMG instrument cluster includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility. Short, precisely defined ignition and injection retardations mean shorter shift times when changing up at full load. The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is further enhanced with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

The fascination of the characteristic sound of a V8 AMG

A glance at the AMG sports exhaust system will reassure any doubters that all these efficiency advances have not been at the expense of emotional appeal. The twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear put out the hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound that means so much to the vehicle’s many admirers. The latest catalytic converter technology is used to ensure that the G 63 AMG meets both the EU 5 exhaust emissions standard and the requirements for the US market (LEV-II standard, on-board diagnosis II and lambda probe diagnosis).

New chassis settings, optimised acoustic comfort

The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been adjusted for the more dynamic handling characteristics of the new model. To reduce vibration and noise impacts, the design engineers at Mercedes-AMG have also implemented a wide range of NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) measures. Optimised bearings for the automatic gearbox, transfer case and engine cut vibration and noise levels. All this ensures a more comfortable ride and helps to keep the driver fit and alert, particularly over long distances.

The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The G 63 AMG runs on new AMG 5x2 spoke light alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with 275/50 R 20 tyres. As an exclusive special equipment option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges. The new AMG high-performance brakes deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance. All-round ventilated, perforated brake discs with dimensions of 375 x 36 millimetres at the front and 330 x 20 millimetres at the rear provide optimum thermal capability and outstanding deceleration values. The front axle is fitted with a six-piston fixed-calliper brake system taken from the ML 63 AMG, with a single-piston floating-calliper system on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted red around the entire circumference, and are also available in silver.

Fully readjusted ESP® for with more comfort functions

The new generation of the G-Class also offers a range of exemplary safety features. For example, the luxury off-roader has a completely readjusted ESP®, with automatic control systems including the start-up assist and a HOLD function, both for easier hill starts. And in an emergency braking situation, when the driver suddenly releases the accelerator and hits the brake pedal, the brake system increases the pressure in the brake lines and applies the brake linings to the discs. This ensures maximum effect as soon as the brake is applied. This “pre-filling” function supports the brake assist fitted as standard.

For customers ordering the optional trailer coupling, the ESP® trailer stabilisation feature provides increased safety when the vehicle is pulling a trailer. This additional ESP® function detects the trailer as soon as the electric connector plug is inserted in the socket on the towing vehicle. The ESP® trailer stabilisation system uses the sensors of the ESP®, counteracting any fishtailing of the trailer at speeds higher than 65 km/h by alternating brake application to the left and right front wheels. This is generally sufficient to eliminate the problem and prevent any further risk. In very severe fishtailing situations, the engine torque is also reduced and the towing vehicle is braked on all four wheels, to get the vehicle back to within a safe speed range as quickly as possible.

Characteristic AMG styling with the new face of the brand

The appearance of the eight-cylinder top-of-the-range model is also definitely up with the times. Following the example of the SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG, the G 63 AMG has also taken on the new face of the AMG brand. The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator grille with four chrome inserts makes the new G-Class model instantly recognisable as an AMG. The grille design is consistent with the car’s classic contours, with an off-road look perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s overall appearance.

Another completely new feature is the AMG bumper, with three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. Vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts create a distinctively masculine look for the G 63 AMG. New LED daytime running lamps are fitted below the bi-xenon headlamps. As before, only the AMG model has the characteristic wheel-arch flares, stainless-steel running boards and side protective strips with stainless-steel inserts. Other distinctive features include the “V8 BITURBO” logo on the front mudguard and G 63 AMG type plate on the rear door.

Stylish new-look interior with increased comfort

The interior features even more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. Along with the facelift changes provided as standard, including the new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems, the G 63 AMG has an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors. The classy E-SELECT shift lever with the distinctive AMG medallion is a familiar feature from other models such as the SLS AMG. An exclusive on-board environment is created by the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. Options available for an even more stylish interior comprise the AMG carbon trim and the designo Exclusive package.

Exclusive twelve-cylinder performance: the new G 65 AMG

Even more exclusive, and also the world’s most powerful production off-road vehicle, is the new G 65 AMG. With maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 newton metres, the top-of-the-range V12 model delights the connoisseur with its incomparably dynamic handling characteristics. The G 65 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h (electronically limited). This is the first G-Class vehicle to be equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, which features new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit. The result is enhanced combustion, leading to smoother running and power delivery. The high-quality carbon and aluminium engine cover adds a final visual touch to this extensive package of new features. As in the G 63 AMG, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G‑TRONIC automatic transmissionsystem is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.

The key data for the new G 65 AMG at a glance:

In terms of appearance, the G 65 AMG is differentiated from its V8 sister model by the high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards. Interior features include the welcome display with exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation, the designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. A unique special touch is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This distinctive upholstery feature is repeated on the door central panels. A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo foot mats with a V12 badge. An exclusive special option from the AMG Performance Studio is AMG light alloy wheels, painted matt black with high-sheen rim flanges.
Prices in Germany at a glance (including 19% VAT):

- G 63 AMG: 137,504.50 euros
- G 65 AMG: 264,180 euros

Both AMG models are available only in the station-wagon long version. Market launch is as from June 2012.

The AMG G-Class: unmistakeable by tradition

The G 55 AMG KOMPPRESSOR has been a favourite since 2004, as a strong character, immune to passing fashions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 supercharged engine initially developed 350 kW (476 hp), increasing to 368 kW (500 hp) in 2006 and 373 kW (507 hp) in 2009. The maximum torque of 700 newton metres remained unchanged, along with the vehicle’s supremely dynamic performance values. The G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR accelerated from zero to 100/km in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

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

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

New light-alloy wheels from Mercedes-Benz Accessories: Into the spring on new wheels

High-sheen bichromatic wheels and large wheels up to size 53.34 cm (21-inch) continue to enjoy great popularity. Accordingly, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH is expanding its range of these light-alloy wheels. Just in time for the changeover from winter to summer tyres, the new models are available for numerous model series. In all, the diverse product range from Mercedes-Benz Accessories currently comprises around 170 different wheel designs, including two models for the new Mercedes-Benz SL, that is available at Mercedes-Benz dealerships as of 31 March.

High-sheen bichromatic light-alloy wheels derive their additional appeal from the interesting contrast between the apparently bare metal surface and the painted areas. They lend the vehicle a yet more exclusive appearance and are considered by the designers at Mercedes-Benz to be more than just a passing fad. Accordingly, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH is now extending its range of bichromatic wheels. The popular wheels in single-tone painted finish also remain available.

The trend towards larger wheels fitted flush with the outer body contours is also continuing in all categories of vehicle. This design style signals power, dynamism and driving stability. Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH also has new products to offer in this area – such as the 5-twin-spoke wheel in bichromatic design in size 53.34 cm (21-inch) for the M-Class.

For spring 2012, Mercedes-Benz Accessories is offering new light-alloy wheels for numerous vehicles including the following model series (situation as per March 2012):

SL-Class
incenio 5-spoke wheel, 45.7 cm (18-inch)
Surface finish: matt satin silver / high-sheen
Wheel size: 8.5J x 18 ET 35.5 (A231 401 2902 7x34)
Wheel size: 9.5J x 18 ET 47.5 (A231 401 3002 7x34)
incenio multi-spoke wheel, 48.3 cm (19-inch)
Surface finish: palladium silver / high-sheen
Wheel size: 8.5J x 19 ET 35.5 (A231 401 2702 7x19)
Wheel size: 9.5J x 19 ET 47.5 (A231 401 2802 7x19)

M-Class
incenio 5-twin-spoke wheel, 53.34 cm (21-inch)
Surface finish: Himalayas grey / high-sheen
Wheel size: 9J x 21 ET 53 (A166 401 2707 7x21)

GLK-Class
incenio 5-spoke wheel, 48.3 cm (19-inch)
Surface finish: tremolite metallic
Wheel size: 7.5J x 19 ET 47 (A204 401 8902 7x28)
Wheel size: 8.5J x 19 ET 52 (A204 401 9302 7x28)

C-Class
incenio 5-twin-spoke wheel, 45.7 cm (18-inch)
Surface finish: Himalayas grey
Wheel size: 7.5 J x 18 ET 47 (A204 401 9102 7756)
Wheel size: 8.5 J x 18 ET 54 (A204 4019 202 7756)

E-Class (Saloon and Estate)
incenio 5-twin-spoke wheel, 48.3 cm (19-inch)
Surface finish: Himalayas grey / high-sheen
Wheel size: 8.5J x 19 ET 48 (A212 401 4802 7x21)
Wheel size: 9.5J x 19 ET 48 (A212 401 4902 7x21)

E-Class (Coupé and Cabrio)
incenio 5-twin-spoke wheel, 48.3 cm (19-inch)
Surface finish: Himalayas grey / high-sheen
Wheel size: 8J x 19 8 ET 44 (A207 401 1902 7x21)
Wheel size: 8.5J x 19 ET 48 (A212 401 4802 7x21)

Highest quality standards

The same high safety standards apply to all the light-alloy wheels on offer – there are no differences in quality between the models belonging to the standard and optional equipment and the versions available from Mercedes-Benz Accessories. All wheels are required to meet the same high standards. Neither certification nor registration with the TÜV technical inspection authority are required when fitting the light-alloy wheels from Mercedes-Benz Accessories, as they all form part of the vehicle homologation. The customer always receives a product which is tailored perfectly to Mercedes-Benz vehicles: it supports their exemplary ride comfort and high driving dynamics and fulfils the high requirements of the design idiom, additionally combining high performance with an outstanding service life.

These merits result on the one hand from close collaboration between the vehicle development staff and the wheel development specialists. In order to win their Mercedes stars, wheels additionally have to pass a comprehensive test programme which goes well beyond the statutory licensing requirements for use in road traffic. This includes effective testing procedures geared towards the toughest service conditions encountered in real driving conditions, even extending to tests in cutting-edge x-ray systems and computer tomographs.

Care and handling tips

Even the best development programme, the most innovative production technology and a perfectly coordinated test programme are unable to influence how customers treat their vehicles, including the valuable light-alloy wheels. The manner in which wheels are handled continues to have a major influence on their value retention and the safety of the vehicle. Useful tips:

- Clean the winter/summer wheels thoroughly after changing in the spring/autumn, regardless of whether steel or light-alloy wheels are fitted

- Do not use aggressive cleaners. Products recommended by Mercedes-Benz are gentle agents which will clean the wheels effectively

- Do not clean with sharp or rough sponges

- Observe the specified wheel tightening torques. Wheel bolts which are too tight or too loose will damage the wheel in the long term

- Do not oil or grease wheel bolts, as at the specified tightening torque this will result in excessive pre-stressing, which may cause damage to both wheels and bolts

- Use only genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts

- Check the wheels after they have taken heavy knocks, e.g. when driving through deep potholes. If deformation is visible, be sure to have the damage checked at a dealership

- Fit only the size of tyre approved for the wheel

- When carrying high payloads and/or towing a trailer, adjust the tyre pressure accordingly and be sure to observe the permissible wheel loads

Information on changing wheels or tyres as well as storing wheels is available at every Mercedes-Benz partner.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Growth in the vans sector: New Mercedes-Benz Citan celebrates its world premiere

In the run-up to the RAI commercial vehicles show in Amsterdam, Mercedes-Benz is celebrating the world premiere of its new Citan delivery van. Following the Sprinter and the Vito, the Citan is now the latest addition to the brand’s van family and also the first vehicle to be created as a result of the strategic partnership between Daimler and Renault-Nissan. The Mercedes-Benz Citan will celebrate its public debut at the IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hanover in September. The market launch is scheduled to take place this fall.

Mercedes-Benz is already the market leader for large and mid-sized vans. In Western Europe the brand increased its market share to 18 percent in 2011. Market share rose in the U.S. from 4.9 to 7.2 percent and currently amounts to six percent in China. According to Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, 2011 was the most successful year in the division’s history. “We sold over 264,000 vehicles last year, or 18 percent more than in 2010. We even boosted profits by 85 percent, achieving a new record of €835 million,” he says. Mornhinweg adds that the return on sales also reached an all-time high: “It amounted to 9.1 percent in 2011, enabling us to not only reach our target for 2013 but to exceed it”

The Citan has significant growth potential in established markets

Mercedes-Benz Vans is introducing the Citan this year in order to expand its vehicle lineup into the small vans segment, whose market volume has grown exponentially in Europe in recent years to 700,000 units. Mornhinweg is convinced that the Citan will capture a market share of 4 to 5 percent. In addition to penetrating new fast-growing markets, Mercedes-Benz Vans is also pursuing another strategic goal: the exploitation of growth potential in traditional markets. “We aim to sell more than 400.000 units worldwide by 2015,” says Mornhinweg.

Mercedes-Benz’ new Citan has been rigorously developed to meet the needs of commercial customers in the small vans segment, and it has all the attributes that have traditionally been the strengths of the brand with the star. According to Mornhinweg, these attributes include top product quality. “Like the Sprinter and the Vito, the Citan had to demonstrate its worth in ice and snow as well as dust and heat while completing many thousands of kilometers of tests. But our high quality standards do not end with the conclusion of the vehicle’s development. We’ve done all we can to ensure that the Citan embodies the kind of quality that will impress customers who use the van on a daily basis.”

Citan is launched with a comprehensive model range for ensuring safe and comfortable road performance

The developers of the Mercedes-Benz Citan made very sure that the vehicle delivers the brand’s hallmark road performance in the areas of handling, agility, and ride comfort. The direct-response steering system is very precise and sensitive, resulting in a safe, precise, and comfortable road performance. It is also equipped with the Electronic Stability Program ADAPTIVE ESP® as standard equipment.

The Mercedes-Benz Citan’s broad model range has been customized to meet the requirements of a city delivery vehicle. The basic version is the panel van, which is available in three lengths: 3.94 meters, 4.32 meters, and 4.71 meters. Another model is the versatile Citan Mixto with five seats, which is based on the extra-long version (4.71 m) and has a foldable rear bench seat and two sliding doors. The third basic model is the Citan crewbus, which is mounted on the long wheelbase (4.32 m) and can also be delivered as a five-seater with a foldable rear bench seat and sliding door (optionally available with sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle). Depending on the model in question, the vehicle is available in three weight variants with a GVW up to 2,200 kilograms.

The Citan also features a wide selection of fuel-efficient engine variants. Customer requirements are fully covered by three high-torque turbo-diesel direct injection engines, ranging from 55 kW (75 hp) to 81 kW (110 hp), as well as a lively supercharged gasoline engine with 84 kW (114 hp). All of the diesel engines offered for this van are equipped with a particulate filter as standard equipment. Power is transmitted to the front wheels by five- and six-speed transmissions with an easily reachable joystick selection lever in the center console.

A BlueEFFICIENCY package is available as standard equipment for the gasoline-powered Citan and as optional equipment for the diesel variants. This package includes the ECO start/stop function, a battery and generator management system, and variant-dependent low rolling-resistance tires, which help to reduce fuel consumption even further.

The Citan boasts a striking appearance - inside and out

The new Mercedes-Benz Citan has an unmistakable, brand-specific look. The basic features of the van’s characteristic appearance are the chromed star in the prominent and rugged-looking radiator grille with its three sporty perforated slats. Just as remarkable are the Citan’s striking headlights and the wedge-shaped hood with its clearly defined edges.

The interior is similarly unmistakable, featuring many high-quality appointments. The driver and front passenger sit on firm yet comfortably upholstered seats. The curve-hugging shape of the backrest in particular provides good side support, thus enhancing comfort and safety. The ergonomic, driver-focused instrument panel with its leather-like grained surface has a look and feel that are immediately familiar and reflect the high quality of the vehicle’s interior.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

The new Citan from Mercedes-Benz: a truly professional urban delivery van

Powerful yet with compact dimensions making it especially suitable for city use – for the first time, the Mercedes-Benz portfolio of vans features a dedicated delivery vehicle for the urban environment. With its impressive quality and driving dynamics, exemplary safety and economy, and high level of versatility and robustness, the new Mercedes-Benz Citan is a truly professional urban delivery van.

The Mercedes-Benz Citan will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover in September.

Choice of three lengths and three model variants

Due to its versatility and adaptability, the new Mercedes-Benz Citan fulfils a broad range of commercial applications. Based on a panel van, this urban delivery van is available in three different lengths: 3.94 m, 4.32 m and 4.71 m.

There will also be a variable, five-seater Citan Mixto vehicle with folding rear seat bench, wire mesh partition separating the load compartment, and two sliding doors. This mixed-use vehicle is based on the extra-long variant. The third basic design is the Citan crewbus, which is also a five-seater vehicle with folding rear seat bench and optional sliding doors on each side, but this time with a long wheelbase. Depending on the model, there are also three different weights ranging up to a maximum permissible gross vehicle weight of 2200 kilograms.

As an alternative to the standard rear-end doors, Mercedes-Benz will be supplying the Citan with a wide-opening tailgate. Optional roof rails boost flexibility as does the optional ladder hatch for the panel van to facilitate the transportation of extra-long items.

Comprehensive safety equipment

As is the case with every Mercedes-Benz vehicle, safety plays a big role in the new Citan. The urban delivery van comes with the Electronic Stability Program ADAPTIVE ESP® as standard, which takes the vehicle load into consideration. This innovative dynamic handling control system in the new Citan combines the functions of the anti-locking braking system ABS®, VDC® (Vehicle Dynamic Control) which counters over- and understeer, and TCS® (Traction Control System). It also includes ASR® (acceleration skid control) and drive and braking torque control.

Up to six airbags onboard as standard

Start-off Assist, daytime running lamps, height-adjustable seat belts, belt tensioners and belt force limiters for the driver and front passenger, a seat belt reminder and driver airbag all come as standard. Amongst other standard features, the Citan crewbus (with M1 homologation) additionally has a front passenger airbag, thorax sidebags and windowbags for the driver and front passenger.
In the panel van, a full partition wall protects the driver and front passenger from loads sliding or tipping over. There are rings in the rear for securing the load. A plastic floor covering and partial trim prevent items with sharp edges from damaging the body in the load compartment.

Characteristic brand look with prominent radiator grille

The Mercedes-Benz Citan is instantly recognisable as a Mercedes-Benz thanks to the vehicle’s characteristic brand look. Providing the brand signature, the chromed star is self-assuredly set against the prominent, robust radiator grille with three sporty perforated louvres. The Mercedes-Benz Citan’s bold headlamps and the pronounced V-shape to the bonnet with its clearly defined edges are equally striking.

The trapezoidal shape of the air intake in the bumper emphasises width and the powerful impression made by the Citan. Again, this feature is one of the brand’s typical style elements at the present time, from the latest Mercedes-Benz cars in the compact class through to the new Actros.

A distinctive tail end styled in detail

Also emphasising width, the angular lower edge of the rear window mirrors the line of the vertically mounted tail lights, the detail of the new Citan reflecting the expert hand of Mercedes-Benz designers. On variants with rear-end doors, the numberplate is affixed on the wider, left-hand side of the asymmetric doors. When buyers order their Mercedes-Benz Citan with a tailgate, the numberplate is positioned centrally.

The new Citan is a compelling urban delivery van with a unique appearance and fits seamlessly into the portfolio alongside the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Vito vans.

Equipped to a high standard for ergonomic and comfortable working

Just as distinctive, the interior of the new Mercedes-Benz Citan is equipped to a high standard. Both the driver and front passenger benefit from equally firm, comfortably padded seats. The form-fitting shape of the backrests in particular provides lateral support, thereby ensuring comfort and safety. Drawing on the brand’s typical design idiom, the fabric cover on the seats is skin-friendly and breathable, as well as easy to care for and durable.

As powerful and striking as the exterior of the new Citan, the instrument panel is designed around the driver. The surface has a leather-like grain for an attractive look and feel.

Drivers of any other Mercedes-Benz will immediately feel at home in the cockpit of the new Citan and not just due to the familiar star on the steering wheel: the combination switches, gearknob, light switches and keys on the instrument panel all meet Mercedes-Benz’s usual standards for the driver’s area in terms of layout, look and function. Trim over the glove compartment enhances the interior further.

Focus on functionality

The Citan is all about meeting the challenges faced in day-to-day operations. Functional features include a large glove compartment, a stowage compartment between the front seats and a useful overhead stowage compartment across the entire width of the windscreen to accommodate all those items that drivers keep on hand on a daily basis. The practical, standard equipment for the new Citan includes a height-adjustable steering wheel, central locking with remote control and exterior mirrors which can be adjusted from inside.

Engines covering all requirements

The choice of engines is broad. Three high-torque, turbodiesel direct-injection engines with outputs from 55 kW (75 hp) to 81 kW (110 hp) and a nippy, supercharged petrol engine generating 84 kW (114 PS) cover all standard requirements. All the diesel engines have a particulate filter as standard. Five and six-speed transmissions with a joystick gearshift positioned within easy reach on the centre console transmit power to the front wheels.

Handling as expected of the brand: safe and smooth

The developers of the Mercedes-Benz Citan have paid particular attention to ensuring that the handling is as expected of the brand, delivering a combination of driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. The Direct-Steer system is accurate and sensitive, while the suspension, damping and stabiliser bars have been carefully attuned to each other.

Whether empty or loaded, the new Citan is a bona fide Mercedes-Benz, offering precision, driving safety and the smooth handling that drivers are accustomed to from the Sprinter and Vito.

Economical thanks to low fuel consumption

Outstanding economy is another trademark of the new Citan. In addition to long service intervals of up to 40,000 km or two years, this extends to fuel consumption. Factors here are the economical drive system together with the standard electrohydraulic steering.

A gearshift indicator as standard helps drivers of the new Citan to adopt an economical driving style. Fleet operators are able to increase the efficiency of the new Citan still further by way of speed limitation set ex factory.

BlueEFFICIENCY package reduces consumption further

The petrol-engined Citan comes with a BlueEFFICIENCY package as standard, which is optional for the diesel versions. Amongst other features this includes the ECO start/stop function, battery and generator management, plus optimised low rolling resistance tyres depending on the variant which again reduce fuel consumption.

Options allow the Citan to be adapted fully to customer requirements

Thanks to a range of individualisation options, the new Mercedes-Benz Citan can be tailored with ease to a customer-specific deployment scenario. In addition to safety and comfort options, there are also numerous functional extras to choose from.

Different partition systems, a folding front passenger seat to enlarge the load compartment, various door and window configurations and load compartment trim options are just a selection from the extensive range. Accessories that can be supplied ex factory include roof racks, carrier systems and load-compartment tubs. As an alternative to individual options, Citan buyers have access to various specially created packages.

The new Mercedes-Benz Citan is turning out to be a true transport professional in every detail. Special superstructures made by bodybuilders can be adapted to the vehicle technology with the help of a special interface and a parameterisable special module.

Tailor-made service portfolio

Attractive, tailor-made financing and service offerings are being prepared for the new Mercedes-Benz Citan. These aspects are very important to customers so the new Citan scores highly thanks to the integrated expertise of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Credits: Daimler AG

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