The beating pulse of a new generation: the centrepiece of Mercedes-Benz's appearance at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012) will be the world premiere of the new A-Class, the sporty Mercedes in the compact segment. Also totally new is the SL 63 AMG, offering high performance par excellence. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment – will be on show for the first time in Europe, as will the lightweight, athletic and luxurious SL-Class and the ML 63 AMG. The SLK 55 AMG will be appearing for the first time in Switzerland. The C-Class Sport offers a new dimension in sportiness, while the C 180 and E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition are shining beacons of efficiency. The CL "Grand Edition" stands for the ultimate in elegant luxury.
With the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in the compact segment: emphatically emotional in design, dynamic, with engines rated from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), highly efficient with emission values as low as 99 g CO2/km. The A-Class is a clear statement on the dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand. At the same time, it also highlights the fact that safety is not a matter of price at Mercedes-Benz – with standard-fit features including the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST radar-based assistance system. The new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/1433 millimetres) will be making its way to European dealers in September 2012.
"A stands for 'attack': the A-Class is a clear statement on the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand," says Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is new down to the last detail. Such an opportunity to begin with a blank sheet is rare in the field of car development. Our engineers and designers have seized this opportunity in convincing style."
The design of the A-Class: emotional with a very sporty character
The design credentials and dynamism of the new A-Class are immediately apparent at first glance as it crouches up to 18 centimetres lower on the road than its predecessor. The design idiom presented with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been adopted wholeheartedly in the series production vehicle: with a new interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have created an emotional exterior with a very sporty character. " Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed"," relates Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "The sculptural aspect of the A-Class design is typically Mercedes. The feature lines on the sides in particular lend the A-Class structure and a welcome edginess."
The aim in designing the interior was to complement the exterior's sporty appearance. The interior additionally derives a quality feel which is unique in the compact segment from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials. And as with the Concept A-CLASS, a smartphone can be fully integrated into the control and display system. A dedicated app allows full use of the functions offered by the iPhone®, with other smartphones to follow in the future.
All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver shadow", giving them a genuine metallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "The motto we used when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness, newly interpreted'."
Sporty exclusivity: the Sport edition redefines dynamic performance
The performance specialists from AMG were involved for the first time at an early stage of the development process for the compact car. This involvement has spawned the model line's most dynamic version – the A-Class Sport Edition engineered by AMG, whose looks reveal a particularly close affinity to the Concept A-CLASS – by virtue of the new diamond grille, for example.
The drive: new engines for petrol and diesel fuel
A broad range of petrol and diesel engines covers all power requirements while defining a new benchmark in efficiency: for the first time ever, a Mercedes-Benz will emit only 99 g of CO2 per kilometre.
The new generation of petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres covers an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Features common to all these engines are the combination of direct injection with exhaust-gas turbocharging, an enhanced combustion process and extended stratification ranges for lean-burn operation by means of fast-acting injectors for multiple fuel injections and multiple ignition according to the prevailing requirements. The 1.6-litre engine features the world premiere of the innovative CAMTRONIC system. As a result of adjustment of the valve lift at the intake end the quantity of fresh gas is limited in the partial load range, reducing fuel consumption.
The diesel engines also boast extreme efficiency and environmental friendliness, thanks to state-of-the-art injection technology and turbocharging. The A 180 CDI kicks off at 80 kW (109 hp) and offers maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while in the A 200 CDI the maximum power output stands at 100 kW (136 hp), accompanied by maximum torque of 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and generates 125 kW (170 hp) of power and 350 Nm of torque, enabling outstanding performance in the A-Class.
All engines of the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.
Other highlights: chassis and suspension, aerodynamics, safety
The chassis realises the dynamism which is promised by the design and the drive technology. The substantially lowered centre of gravity and the new four-link rear axe provide the basis for the effective transmission of power to the road and for the potential deployment of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The customer has a choice of various chassis and suspension set-ups, including the optional sports suspension with Direct-Steer system. The electromechanical steering of the A-Class has been redesigned. The electric motor of the servo assistance system is now located in space-saving configuration directly on the steering gear as a high-precision dual pinion EPS system.
The perfect aerodynamics of the A-Class grant it a Cd value of 0.26 – a new benchmark in its class. The standard-fit roof spoiler concealing all the aerials on board the A-Class is also a contributory factor here.
The A-Class is the only car in its segment to feature a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist as standard, which lowers the risk of rear-end collisions. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise possible braking response. This is initiated as soon as the driver emphatically operates the brake pedal.
The PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system is available for the first time in the A-Class. This marks the debut in the compact class of this innovation which was premiered in the S-Class back in 2002.
E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: the world's most fuel-efficient luxury-class model
The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is all set for its market launch with record efficiency values of 4.2 l diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with lithium‑ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, recuperation, boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.
Mercedes-Benz is setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as a saloon and an estate, boasts truly impressive performance. Its 4-cylinder diesel engine generates 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 500 Nm of torque. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm to produce a harmonious overall concept.
"The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID represents the continuation of our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology paves the way for us to quickly introduce hybrid models to complement other model series," explains Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "By clearly focussing on the different requirements of the global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models that our customers want."
The new SL-Class: light, athletic, luxurious
The all-new SL sees Mercedes-Benz continuing a tradition that began 60 years ago, since when "SL" has always stood for a symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort – and for trailblazing innovations. The SL consists almost entirely of aluminium for the first time and weighs in at up to 140 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The highly rigid all-aluminium body-in-white provides the basis for emphatically sportier, agile handling accompanied by exemplary ride and driving comfort.
New BlueDIRECT engines provide for enhanced driving dynamics; they are more powerful and at the same time up to 29 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of engines. Totally new features are the Frontbass system, a world-first that transforms the luxury sports car into a concert hall irrespective of whether the top is up or down, and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive wiper/washer system, which applies water to the windscreen from the wiper blade in the required quantities and according to the wiping direction.
SL 63 AMG: high-performance roadster
The latest version of the Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, increased output and enhanced driving dynamics, all combined with a 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar, the vehicle has shed 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model boasts the perfect ingredients for unparalleled dynamism and a sublime driving experience that is truly unique.
A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: a further improved AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control, new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high level of safety.
Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the low fuel consumption figures. The SL 63 AMG is built around a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar. Compared to the outgoing model, this design not only delivers a weight reduction of around 110 kilograms, it also greatly enhances rigidity, safety and comfort. The boot lid helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a volume-produced model, the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite. The extremely rigid carbon-fibre component is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms compared to a conventional boot lid.
SLK 55 AMG: top figures in all disciplines
The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed naturally aspirated AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with minimised fuel consumption. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and peak torque of 540 Newton metres, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than the figures for its predecessor.
ML 63 AMG: efficiency and superlative performance
The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG stands for efficiency and performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience. Burning 11.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, 276 g CO2/km), the high-performance SUV undercuts its predecessor by 28 percent. The basis for the low fuel consumption and top-class performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine. The eight-cylinder unit extracts a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Newton metres of torque from its displacement of 5461 cc. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures rise to 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 Newton metres. Both variants of the ML 63 AMG deliver sports car-like performance: the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds respectively, while top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).
C-Class Sport: the C-Class has never been sportier
Mercedes-Benz is sharpening the profile of the C-Class: with the new "Sport" Coupé models developed with AMG and the new "AMG Plus Sports package", there has never been a wider choice of sporty versions. The new models are available from June 2012. The AMG Plus Sports package can be combined with all body and engine variants.
The name says it all – the new coupé models C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport are decidedly dynamic, as the performance specialists at AMG were heavily involved in their development. In addition to the visually enhanced AMG Plus Sports package, both models have technical features which further increase driving enjoyment. Cornering and handling characteristics are more dynamic thanks to an AMG sports suspension, more direct speed-sensitive sports steering, a sports exhaust system and a more sporty transmission configuration in S and M mode. The matt paint finish "designo magno platinum" is exclusively available for the Sport models.
C 180, E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition: shining beacons of efficiency
Presenting the most economical E-Class diesel and C-Class petrol models to date: with fuel consumption of 4.5 litres/100 km and emissions of 119 g CO2/km for the
E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition and 5.8 litres/100 km and 136 g CO2/km for the new C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, Mercedes-Benz is giving an impressive demonstration of just how much potential is still left in the internal-combustion engine. Take the
C-Class, for instance: since its predecessor was launched in 2000, the output of the
C 180 has increased by 21 percent, whilst consumption has been reduced by 37 percent. The present version of the C-Class is nearly twice as efficient as its predecessor.
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition that is available from March 2012 is simply one of the most economical cars in its segment. Thanks to a bundle of efficiency-boosting measures, including an Aerodynamics package, electric power steering (EPS), a longer final-drive ratio and size 205/55 R 16 tyres with low rolling resistance, the model emits just 119 g CO2/km – ten grams or nearly eight percent less than before and equates to 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition has an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only.
The turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol unit is the brand new entry-level engine for the C-Class. With fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km and a CO2 figure of 136 g/km, the improvement compared to the previous C 180 when similarly equipped is as much as 21 g/km, or just under 1 l/100 km. This makes the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY one of the very first petrol models to be ranked in energy efficiency class B. The 115 kW (156 hp) engine is very light when compared to its competitors and delivers impressive agility from standstill – peak torque of 250 Nm is on tap from just 1250 rpm all the way up to 4000 rpm.
CL "Grand Edition": exclusive luxury
The exclusive "Grand Edition" of the CL from Mercedes-Benz features attractive exterior paint finishes and more exclusive interior appointments. The range of paint finishes offers a choice between designo platinum black metallic, designo magno cashmere white and designo mocha black. The exclusive appearance is rounded off by 20-inch light-alloy wheels. Inside, the "Grand Edition" offers single-tone aniline leather in porcelain, armagnac or deep black. The "Grand Edition" is available as a CL 500, CL 500 4MATIC and CL 600.
Viano PEARL Limited Edition: exclusive touring van
The vision presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show has now become reality in the form of the Viano PEARL touring van, which indulges its occupants with the finest materials. The front seats and the four individual seats in the rear are upholstered in finest two-tone nappa leather, for example, and the rear boasts a real walnut floor. The electrochromatic glass of the rear side windows can be darkened at the touch of a button. A "BeoSound Viano" sound system from Bang & Olufsen, produced and tuned specifically for the Viano PEARL Limited Edition, provides for superior on-board audio quality. There is a choice of two powerful V6 engines – a diesel rated at 165 kW (224 hp) and a petrol version rated at 190 kW (258 hp).
Vito E-CELL crewbus: first seven-seater with electric drive
The Vito E-CELL crewbus is the first seven-seater vehicle worldwide to offer local emission-free mobility ex-factory as standard. With its range of around 130 km it is ideal for use in environmentally sensitive areas, such as pedestrian zones, city centres or health resorts. The electric motor (60 kW, 280 Nm), power electronics, transformer and AC/DC charger are accommodated under the bonnet. The generated power is transmitted to the front wheels. The powerful and robust lithium-ion batteries are accommodated under the passenger compartment floor.
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
Mercedes-Benz is sharpening the profile of the C-Class: with the new coupé models "Sport", developed together with AMG, and the new "AMG Plus Sports package", there has never been a wider choice of sporty versions. These models are available from June 2012. The "AMG Plus Sports package" can be combined with all body and engine variants.
"Refined sportiness is a brand value we hold dear, and with the new Sport models we are shifting the emphasis of the C-Class a little more towards sportiness," says Dr. Joachim Schmidt,Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. "This means that in the C-Class, alongside the top-of-the-range C 63 AMG, we have the widest ever line-up of sporty models." In the future there will also be technically and visually upgraded Sport models in other model series, for example the new A-Class.
The name says it all – the new Coupé models C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport are decidedly dynamic, as the performance specialists at AMG were heavily involved in their development. In addition to the visually enhanced AMG Plus Sports package, both models have technical features which further increase driving enjoyment. Cornering and handling characteristics are more dynamic thanks to an AMG sports suspension, more direct speed-sensitive sports steering, a sports exhaust system and a more sporty transmission configuration in S and M mode. The matt paint finish "designo magno platinum" is exclusively available for the Sport models.
The AMG Plus Sports package lends an even more sporty aura to the Coupé, Saloon and Estate. As additions to the AMG Sports package it includes AMG 7-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, an AMG spoiler lip and sports seats in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA. Red seat belts and red contrasting topstitching on the steering wheel, seats, door centre panels, door armrests, centre console and shift lever gaiter add further sporty touches.
C-Class Coupé Sport – engineered by AMG: technically and visually more dynamic
The two four-cylinder models, both with an output of 150 kW (204 hp), are available as "Sport" models from June 2012. In addition to the new AMG Plus Sports package and black exterior mirrors, they have the following technical features for even more driving enjoyment:
- AMG sports suspension with spring and damper setup for optimised lateral dynamics plus modified camber and bearings
- Sports braking system with larger brake discs
- Speed-sensitive sports steering with more direct ratio
- Sports exhaust system, with sound generator in the rear silencer in the case of the C 250 CDI Sport
- Engine management with more responsive accelerator mapping
- More sporty transmission configuration in S and M mode, with shorter shift times, double-declutch function and active downshift when braking
AMG Plus Sports package: more sporty look for all model variants
The AMG Plus Sports package can be combined with all body and engine variants. Key features at a glance:
- AMG 7-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with high-sheen finish, tyre size 225/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear)
- AMG bodystyling with front apron, side sill panels and rear apron
- AMG spoiler lip
- Sports seats in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA with red contrasting topstitching
- Door centre panels in black DINAMICA
- 3-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened lower section and red contrasting topstitching
- designo seat belts in red (deselectable option)
- Sports pedal cluster in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
- Red contrasting topstitching on selector lever, centre console armrest and door panels
- AMG floor mats with red edging band
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
B as in BRABUS: Right on time for the market launch of the new Mercedes B-Class BRABUS offers an exclusive tuning program covered by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles. The program includes sporty-elegant exterior design, alloy wheels with diameters of 17, 18 and 19 inches, a sporty yet comfortable ride-height lowering, and exclusive accessories for the interior. BRABUS engine tuning for the various gasoline and diesel models of the W 246 series is in preparation.
The BRABUS exterior program for the new Mercedes B-Class is characterized by sporty elegance that sets not only visual highlights, but also further optimizes aerodynamics. All components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.
The BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the lower part of the production bumper and thanks to its sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. In order to provide the perfect backdrop for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system, the BRABUS designers have developed an insert for the rear fascia that features two custom-tailored cutouts.
BRABUS alloy wheels specially developed for the new B-Class make a significant contribution to the exclusive BRABUS look and to further optimized driving dynamics. Five different designs are available: In the largest version with a diameter of 19 inches the Monoblock E, F, Q and S wheels have been homologated in size 8.5Jx19. In the attached photos the new compact Mercedes is pictured on one side with BRABUS Monoblock F cross-spoke wheels with 'Liquid Titanium' finish and on the other side with Monoblock Q wheels featuring five double spokes, whose sophisticated shapes form five ventilation openings. The optimal tires for these wheels in size 225/35 R 19 in front and 255/30 R 19 on the rear axle are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.
For a ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters BRABUS offers sport springs that were calibrated specifically for use with the production dampers.
While the fully stainless-steel BRABUS sport rear muffler with four chrome-plated tailpipes is available already for all engine variants of the new B-Class, the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra performance kits for the direct-injection gasoline and diesel engines are in the final stages of development.
In the automotive world BRABUS is considered synonymous with individual exclusivity. Naturally the BRABUS interior designers also thought about how to refine the interior of the Mercedes B-Class. What they came up with is as sophisticated as it is fascinating: Driver and passengers are welcomed by bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with BRABUS logo. Aluminum door lock pins and pedal pads add sporty highlights.
BRABUS gladly fulfills even more extravagant wishes in the company upholstery shop. Whether it is the completion of the leather equipment available ex-factory or the creation of an exclusive ambiance in any imaginable color: The BRABUS specialists transform the interior of the Mercedes B-Class into an exclusive lounge on wheels – by request also with multimedia equipment including an iPad.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
Style & Performance: that’s the guiding principle for BRABUS to refine the new Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster now as well. The exclusive program comprises an aerodynamic-enhancement kit made from clear-coated carbon fiber, extremely lightweight BRABUS forged wheels with a comfortable sport suspension, engine tuning that produces a maximum power output of 611 hp (600 bhp) / 448 kW, a titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronic sound management, and a fully customiz interior tailored to the owner’s individual preferences in every last detail.
The BRABUS designers have adapted the aerodynamic-enhancement program originally developed for the coupe version of the SLS to the new roadster. Just like in top-flight motorsports the various components are manufactured from extremely lightweight carbon fiber. Customers can choose between aerodynamic-enhancement components with a high-gloss finish or with a matte finish for undiluted racing looks. Upon request the components can also be painted in body or contrasting color.
The BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the underside of the production bumper. It lends the two-seat car a more striking front end and reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. The two BRABUS carbon-fiber covers for the upper air ducts in the front fascia add further thrilling highlights.
On the sides the BRABUS side skirts create an optimal aerodynamic transition between the front and rear wheel wells. But that’s not all: together with the air vents in the front fenders that were newly designed by BRABUS they lend the sports car an even more dynamic profile. A special feature of these components stands out particularly in the dark: pushing the unlock button on the keyless remote or pulling on a door handle activates the blue-backlit BRABUS lettering in the new air vents and the LED entrance lights, which facilitate safe entering and exiting the vehicle in low-light conditions.
The rear end of the SLS Roadster adds even more sporty character as well: the modifications include the understated BRABUS rear spoiler, the side air vents for the rear fascia and the BRABUS diffuser with custom-tailored cutouts for the four distinctive tailpipes of the BRABUS quad sport exhaust.
The more exclusive appearance is to no small extent also the merit of the BRABUS forged wheels, which were custom-developed for the SLS. To add even more emphasis to the wedge shape of the car the wheels are mounted in a staggered combination with diameters of 21 inches on the front axle and 22 inches in the rear. The BRABUS Monoblock F "Platinum Edition" cross-spoke wheels are manufactured using a high-tech forging process, making them more than just stunning eye-catchers. Their low weight also contributes to even sportier handling. Compared to the production SLS wheels they represent weight savings of up to 12 percent. The wheels in size 9.5Jx20 in front and in size 11Jx21 on the rear axle are available either with a high-gloss, ceramic polished or with a brushed finish. The suitable high-performance tires in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21 are supplied by technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.
Also contributing to even more agile handling is the BRABUS Ride Control smooth-ride suspension that was developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN. It can lower the ride height by up to 40 millimeters (1.6 inches). At the push of a button on the center console the driver can choose between damper settings that offer a more comfortable or sportier ride than the production car.
The sport suspension and the production suspension can be upgraded with the BRABUS Front Lift System for added convenience. At the push of a button, a hydraulics system raises the front end of the roadster by 50 millimeters (2.0 inches) in just a couple of seconds. This makes it possible to safely navigate past speed bumps or parking garage ramps without any unwanted contact of the front end with the obstacle. The suspension reverts to its original position at a second push of the button or automatically upon reaching a speed of 30 km/h (19 mph).
The sportier handling offers the perfect basis for more power. The BRABUS engine specialists have developed the BRABUS B63 S tuning kit for the 6.3-liter fast-revving V8 engine. The performance kit consists of newly calibrated engine electronics with special BRABUS mapping for ignition and injection, and the BRABUS high-performance exhaust system. This exhaust system, which can also be combined with the non-tuned production engine, features four tailpipes with a diameter of 84 millimeters (3.3 inches) and enhances power output. But that’s not all: the sport exhaust is manufactured from titanium, making it 12 kilograms (26.5 lbs.) or 40 percent lighter than the production exhaust. In addition, an integrated butterfly valve provides a sound management option controlled by the driver from the cockpit: apart from the 'Sport' setting, which lends the eight-cylinder an even more thrilling exhaust note, there is also a discreet, deliberately soft 'Coming Home' mode. BRABUS B63 S tuning bumps maximum power output from standard 571 hp (563 bhp) / 420 kW to 611 hp (600 bhp) / 448 kW, making the SLS even more dynamic.
The BRABUS interior design studio gives the SLS cockpit an equally sporty and exclusive ambiance. Among the upgrades are striking accessories such as a speedometer with 400-km/h (250-mph) dial, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, stainless-steel scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and matte-anodized pedals.
The BRABUS upholstery shop can fulfill requests for custom interiors in any color and design. The artisans meticulously transform leather and Alcantara by hand into interior appointments custom-tailored to the customer’s individual preferences. Carbon-fiber and exotic-wood trim sets in any desired color and with every type of surface finish are yet another particular BRABUS specialty.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
Exclusive, individual and ecofriendly strong in compliance with EURO VI emission standards: these three attributes best describe the latest BRABUS tuning program for the new Mercedes W 166-series M-Class. From a visual standpoint the SUV receives an upgrade with a sporty yet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program and custom-tailored BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters of up to 22 inches. The program also includes engine tuning for the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC that is as powerful as it is ecofriendly. Further on offer are stainless-steel sport exhaust systems for all models and striking interior designs including an all-leather interior in any desired color. BRABUS backs all components with the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles.
To give the new M-Class a more customized and exclusive look BRABUS offers an innovative and striking appearance package. The front bumper of the sport version can receive some added profile with the BRABUS ‘On Road’ front spoiler and attachments for the air inlets in the front fascia.
To give the new 4x4 seemingly a longer, sleeker stance the BRABUS designers have developed new sill skirts. They combine elegant design with a safety feature: entrance lights integrated into the underside are activated by pulling on a door handle or by pushing the unlock button on the keyless remote. This also activates the BRABUS logo optionally integrated into the sill skirts and the BRABUS lettering in the fender attachments that are a new development as well.
The rear end of the M-Class is upgraded with the BRABUS ‘On Road’ rear fascia that is available in two versions. Depending on the type of engine the rear fascia comes with a cutout on the left or with a cutout on either side to provide the perfect backdrop for the BRABUS dual or quad sport exhaust system. A BRABUS rear spoiler that attaches to the liftgate will be available in the near future. The entire appearance package is manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.
The exclusive looks are also characterized by the custom-tailored BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters ranging from 18 to 22 inches. The largest version BRABUS offers for the new M-Class features king-size 10Jx22 wheels. The cast wheels are available in three different designs as Monoblock VI, E and Q wheels. As an alternative BRABUS offers the Monoblock G "Platinum Edition" forged wheels in the same size. State-of-the-art forging technology makes these wheels with five double spokes the perfect symbiosis of low weight and maximum strength. BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA supply suitable high-performance tires up to size 295/30 ZR 22 front and back for all BRABUS wheels.
The BRABUS suspension components, developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN, are specifically calibrated to this tire/wheel combination. For vehicles with conventional steel suspension BRABUS offers a choice of sport springs for a ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) or a sporty yet comfortable sport suspension. For M-Class vehicles with AIRMATIC air suspension the BRABUS suspension engineers have developed a custom control module that lowers the ride height of the SUV by some 30 – 40 millimeters (1.2 – 1.6 inches).
For further optimizing the off roader’s already impressive active safety BRABUS offers a high-performance brake system. The front axle combines six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and cross-drilled discs measuring 405 x 34 millimeters (16 x 1.3 inches). Together with four-piston fixed aluminum calipers and brake discs measuring 380 x 28 mm (15 x 1.1 inches) on the rear axle the brake system provides stopping power normally reserved for purebred sports cars. The BRABUS system also delivers maximum fade-free endurance.
BRABUS offers the world’s most extensive program of engine tuning for Mercedes-Benz automobiles and so it is no wonder that the program was also adapted to the new M-Class. For the V6 common-rail turbodiesel engine of the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC the BRABUS engine specialists have developed the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit that falls into the same EURO VI emissions class as the production car.
The engineers developed the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S module for the direct-injection engine in the BRABUS engine development department using state-of-the-art test bench technology and a cutting-edge emissions lab. The plug-and-play auxiliary control unit is integrated into the CAN bus of the SUV. The BRABUS mapping was calibrated specifically to the ecofriendly BlueTEC concept that uses AdBlue® reactant to purify exhaust gases.
The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit bumps peak torque from standard 620 Nm to 690 Nm (457 to 509 lb-ft), available on a plateau between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. At the same time maximum power output jumps from 258 hp (254 bhp) / 190 kW to 306 hp (301 bhp) / 225 kW at just 3,600 rpm.
Performance with BRABUS D6S tuning improves enormously: with a sprint time of just 6.0 seconds the SUV takes exactly 1.4 seconds less for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) than the production car. Top speed increases to 229 km/h (142 mph).
Further BRABUS engine tuning versions for the other engines of the M-Class are in the final stages of development. All BRABUS engines are lubricated exclusively with ARAL high-performance motor oil. Custom-calibrated stainless-steel sport exhaust systems with two or four distinctive BRABUS tailpipes are available for all M-Class engines.
Yet another particular BRABUS specialty are exclusive interior options for the new M-Class: bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo as well as matte-anodized aluminum pedals, door-lock pins and foot rest are part of the refinement repertoire as are exclusive BRABUS interiors masterfully crafted from a combination of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara. In addition, there are exotic-wood and carbon-fiber trim sets in any desired color and with a variety of surfaces from open-pored and matte to high-gloss finishes.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *
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