2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS Gullwing

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles with its unparalleled technology package which includes: an aluminum space frame body with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-liter, front-mid V-8 engine with a top power of 571 hp, 479 lb-ft of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch in a transaxle configuration; a sports chassis with aluminum double-wishbone suspension; and a curb weight of 3,571 pounds. It's a combination that guarantees supreme handling dynamics. The car's ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47 to 53 percent respectively) and its low center of gravity emphasize the concept's pronounced sports car nature. The gullwing accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 197 mph (electronically limited). The distinctive design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dazzles with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking design of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, one of the most recognized design icons of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The nearly 6.5 foot bonnet, the low, far back positioned cabin, and the short rear with the extendable rear spoiler symbolize dynamism, as do the long wheelbase, the wide track, and the large wheels. Drivers who raise the gullwing doors of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and sit down in the sports seats will experience a very special interior. In its conception, the Mercedes-Benz designers took their cue from aircraft construction to create an ambience that immediately evokes associations with plane cockpits. The defining stylistic element is the dashboard, whose powerfully extended wing-like profile creates the impression of great width. The main feature between the dashboard's two center air vents is the COMAND multi-media system with its 7-inch screen. The backrests of the sports seats are made of magnesium, a high-tech material that is strong as well as light. The three-spoke performance leather steering wheel with a 14-inch rim, gearshift paddles and a metal detailing emphasize the vehicle's authentic hand-crafted character and provide the best possible assistance in maintaining control of the car. The SLS is also taking a new approach in its body concept. For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting an automobile, where both chassis and body are made of aluminum. This leads to significant weight savings compared to the traditional steel construction. The heart of the new SLS is a high-powered eight-cylinder engine manufactured by Mercedes-AMG. The advanced 6.3-liter V-8 engine, which has an output of 571 hp at 6,800 rpm, makes the gullwing vehicle one of the most powerful sports cars in its segment. The AMG 6.3-litre V-8 engine transmits its tremendous power to the rear axle via an especially lightweight drive shaft made of carbon. The new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission is responsible for the power transmission. This dual-clutch transmission is characterized by quick shifting without any interruption of traction - minimum speeds of 100 milliseconds are possible. The reinterpretation of the legendary gullwing will celebrate its market launch in the UK in early Summer 2010. UK specification and pricing will be confirmed early in 2010. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz S65

NEWS & REVIEWS The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, the powerful top-of-the-line S-Class models, are now even more appealing: thanks to a series of subtle yet extremely effective fine-tuning measures, the two performance saloons are even more striking and priceless than ever before. The updated technology is aimed at ensuring a more dynamic driving experience as well as optimum active and passive safety. Exclusivity and dynamism combined with effortless superiority and state-of-the-art technology – both of the top S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG embody all of these characteristics and more: the S 63 AMG, with its 525 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 465 lbs.-ft. of torque, is capable of accelerating to a speed of 62 mph in 4.6 seconds. The S 65 AMG, meanwhile, demonstrates even greater superiority: its AMG 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine delivers maximum power of 612 hp and maximum torque of 738 lbs.-ft., accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Both saloons are electronically limited to 155 mph. Despite no changes having been made to the engine data and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3 percent. Contributing to the even more exceptional status of the models is the new, more pronounced arrow-shaped radiator grille, featuring twin chrome-plated louvers in the case of the S 65 AMG. The new front apron incorporates striking, AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights and two transverse air outlets on each side. Further striking features include the "6.3 AMG" or "V12 Biturbo" lettering on the front wings and redesigned exterior mirrors. A distinctive element of both models comes in the guise of the sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes, featuring a V12 design in the case of the S 65 AMG. Visual aspects which distinguish the V8 from the V12 model also include the attractive AMG light alloy wheels: the S 63 AMG has 19-inch multi-spoke wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and fitted with 255/40 and 275/40 tires. The S 65 AMG, on the other hand, comes with 20-inch forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a mirror finish and fitted with 255/35 and 275/35 tires. The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) provides crosswind stabilization as standard equipment for the first time: thanks to this function, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or – in the case of strong gusts – reduced to a minimum. The interior appointments are every bit as exclusive as the high-tech package: as soon as its door is opened, the S 65 AMG welcomes the driver with large, animated "AMGV12 BITURBO" lettering in the instrument cluster's central display. The main menu provides the driver with information about engine oil temperature, current gear range, battery voltage, and the RACETIMER, which displays lap times when on the race track. In the case of the S 63 AMG, the extensive range of standard equipment includes not only PASSION leather appointments, with natural leather in the seat side bolsters, but also front sports seats with climate control, massage, multi-contour and driving dynamics control functions. The Exclusive PASSION leather upholstery in the S 65 AMG, meanwhile, with its AMG V12 diamond pattern design, exudes an air of even greater refinement. Ample use of burr walnut trim elements and the AMG-specific analogue clock, featuring an IWC design, are a given in both models. Both the SPEEDSHIFT 7G TRONIC of the S 63 AMG, as well as the five-speed automatic SPEEDSHIFT transmission of the S 65 AMG, are fitted with DIRECT SELECT gearshift. Gear changes are carried out by means of aluminum shift paddles on the new AMG sports steering wheel. While the S 63 AMG is available in short or long-wheelbase versions, the S 65 AMG is only available as a long-wheelbase version. Both top-of-the-line AMG models will have their market launches from June 2009. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz S63

NEWS & REVIEWS The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, the powerful top-of-the-line S-Class models, are now even more appealing: thanks to a series of subtle yet extremely effective fine-tuning measures, the two performance saloons are even more striking and priceless than ever before. The updated technology is aimed at ensuring a more dynamic driving experience as well as optimum active and passive safety. Exclusivity and dynamism combined with effortless superiority and state-of-the-art technology – both of the top S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG embody all of these characteristics and more: the S 63 AMG, with its 525 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 465 lbs.-ft. of torque, is capable of accelerating to a speed of 62 mph in 4.6 seconds. The S 65 AMG, meanwhile, demonstrates even greater superiority: its AMG 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine delivers maximum power of 612 hp and maximum torque of 738 lbs.-ft., accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Both saloons are electronically limited to 155 mph. Despite no changes having been made to the engine data and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3 percent. Contributing to the even more exceptional status of the models is the new, more pronounced arrow-shaped radiator grille, featuring twin chrome-plated louvers in the case of the S 65 AMG. The new front apron incorporates striking, AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights and two transverse air outlets on each side. Further striking features include the "6.3 AMG" or "V12 Biturbo" lettering on the front wings and redesigned exterior mirrors. A distinctive element of both models comes in the guise of the sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes, featuring a V12 design in the case of the S 65 AMG. Visual aspects which distinguish the V8 from the V12 model also include the attractive AMG light alloy wheels: the S 63 AMG has 19-inch multi-spoke wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and fitted with 255/40 and 275/40 tires. The S 65 AMG, on the other hand, comes with 20-inch forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a mirror finish and fitted with 255/35 and 275/35 tires. The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) provides crosswind stabilization as standard equipment for the first time: thanks to this function, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or – in the case of strong gusts – reduced to a minimum. The interior appointments are every bit as exclusive as the high-tech package: as soon as its door is opened, the S 65 AMG welcomes the driver with large, animated "AMGV12 BITURBO" lettering in the instrument cluster's central display. The main menu provides the driver with information about engine oil temperature, current gear range, battery voltage, and the RACETIMER, which displays lap times when on the race track. In the case of the S 63 AMG, the extensive range of standard equipment includes not only PASSION leather appointments, with natural leather in the seat side bolsters, but also front sports seats with climate control, massage, multi-contour and driving dynamics control functions. The Exclusive PASSION leather upholstery in the S 65 AMG, meanwhile, with its AMG V12 diamond pattern design, exudes an air of even greater refinement. Ample use of burr walnut trim elements and the AMG-specific analogue clock, featuring an IWC design, are a given in both models. Both the SPEEDSHIFT 7G TRONIC of the S 63 AMG, as well as the five-speed automatic SPEEDSHIFT transmission of the S 65 AMG, are fitted with DIRECT SELECT gearshift. Gear changes are carried out by means of aluminum shift paddles on the new AMG sports steering wheel. While the S 63 AMG is available in short or long-wheelbase versions, the S 65 AMG is only available as a long-wheelbase version. Both top-of-the-line AMG models will have their market launches from June 2009. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz S600 Brabus SV12 R

NEWS & REVIEWS With the SV12 R, Brabus presents the world’s fastest and most powerful luxury sedan. The high-performance automobile is based on the latest Mercedes S600 facelift model and is powered by a Brabus SV12 R Bi-turbo 750 twelve-cylinder engine. The SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine is a prime example for the old adage that nothing can replace displacement. A special crankshaft with longer stroke, forged pistons with a larger diameter, and an increased cylinder bore result in a displacement increase from standard 5.5 to now 6.3 liters. The Brabus engine specialists further equip the engine with larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooling system, and a stainless steel high-performance exhaust system. The rated power output of 750 hp at 5,500 rpm produced by theBrabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine is as superlative as the peak torque of 995 lb-ft at 2,100 rpm. In the car peak torque is electronically limited to 811 lb-ft. This extraordinary performance makes theBrabus SV12 R not just the most powerful but also the fastest luxury sedan in the world: 0–62 mph in 4.0 seconds, 124 mph after just 11.9 seconds, and an electronically-limited top speed of 211 mph. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a modified five-speed automatic transmission. An optionalBrabus locking differential optimizes traction. This enormous performance potential of theBrabus SV12 R places the highest demands on the car’s aerodynamic properties. TheBrabus designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a striking front apron whose sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. The large centrally located air duct optimizes the cooling of engine and front brakes. TheBrabus aerodynamic-enhancement concept is rounded out by theBrabus rear spoiler lip. Monoblock forged wheels with cross-spoke design are fitted with tires in size 265/30ZR-21 in front and in size 295/30ZR-21 on the rear axle. BRABUS has developed a business concept for the Mercedes S-Class. At the heart of the system is an ultra-slim 3-GHz notebook computer housed safely in a docking station inside an electrically deployed drawer in the trunk. The tablet PC notebook can be easily removed for use outside the vehicle. The entireBrabus business concept equipment is operated via a second COMAND controller conveniently placed in a special console integrated into the rear compartment. This ensures that the user of the PC system has no problems operating the system if and when he or she moves from the driver’s seat to the power rear seats or vice versa. The console in the rear also houses a color printer. A 15.2-inch 16:9 TFT screen serves as computer monitor. It is integrated into the supple leather of the headliner and deploys and retracts at the push of a button. The printer is housed in a custom-developed console located between the rear seats. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz S600

NEWS & REVIEWS The S 500 and S 500 4MATIC (388 hp; displacement 5.5 liters) carry on. The flagship model is still the S 600 with the 517-hp twelve-cylinder bi-turbo unit (displacement 5.5 liters), which accelerates the luxury saloon to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The Mercedes-AMG high-performance contributions to the range are the S 63 AMG with its 525-hp V8 engine (displacement 6.2 liters) and the S 65 AMG with a 612-hp twelve-cylinder engine (displacement 6.0 liters). A world-first combination of state-of-the-art assistance and protection systems is available for the 2009 S-Class. Mercedes-Benz deploys cameras which scan the road far ahead of the vehicle, monitor the surrounding area and interpret typical critical situations. Such cameras are employed in the optionally available Adaptive Highbeam Assist system, for example. This system detects vehicles with their lights on which are travelling towards or ahead of the car in which the system is fitted and controls the headlamps such as to ensure the largest possible range without dazzling other drivers. The engineers have also enhanced Night View Assist, which is now equipped with a special pedestrian detection function: as soon as the system detects pedestrians ahead of the car, they are highlighted on the display to make them more readily noticeable. Lane Keeping Assist is another system that is able to recognize lane markings by evaluating the contrasting images of the road surface and the markings. If the vehicle leaves the lane identified by the Assist function unintentionally, the driver is warned by short vibrations of the steering wheel. Unlike conventional systems of this kind, the Mercedes system is able to evaluate the driver's activities as well, and can reliably ascertain whether the car is leaving its lane intentionally or not. With the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the 2009 S-Class has a very sensitive feel for the attention level of its driver, and warns him in good time when he becomes drowsy. This innovative technology continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters. Mercedes-Benz has also increased the range of rear-seat entertainment functions in the 2009 S-Class. Passengers in the rear now have a remote control unit which enables all the audio and telematics functions of COMAND to be operated, plus access to external devices via the Media Interface. Mercedes-Benz also offers a rear-seat entertainment package with two eight-inch displays on the rear surfaces of the front seat head restraints, two wireless headphones and a separate CD/DVD player with connections for external audio and video devices. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be in the showrooms of the premium manufacturer's own sales outlets and authorized dealers from June 2009, and can be ordered now. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The S-Class once again represents the cutting edge of automotive development. Mercedes-Benz's technology leadership is demonstrated by the new S 400 HYBRID, which is the first production vehicle in the world to feature a hybrid drive with a lithium-ion battery. "The S 400 HYBRID is an important milestone on the way to emission-free mobility," notes Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "Our first series production hybrid car exemplifies Mercedes-Benz's long-standing development strategy geared towards sustainability, with its clearly defined aim of producing economical and environment-friendly premium cars without compromising on safety, comfort and superior performance." The first hybrid drive in a series production car from Mercedes-Benz makes this S-Class model the most economical petrol-engined luxury saloon. The fuel consumption of 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres corresponds to carbon dioxide emissions of just 186 grams per kilometre. This is the lowest level worldwide in this vehicle segment, confirming the new S 400 HYBRID as the "CO2 champion of the luxury class". The new S 400 HYBRID is the first car to be designed on the basis of the highly intelligent modular concept developed by Mercedes-Benz to give its customers the best hybrid solution for their requirements. The S 400 HYBRID, which assumes the role of technological trendsetter within this concept, offers all the essential features from the word go. The compact hybrid module combines the hybrid functions of an automatic start-stop system and energy recuperation. In all, this means that the S 400 HYBRID sets a new standard in its class, making it the world's most economical luxury saloon with a petrol engine. The excellent fuel consumption and the low CO2 emissions of the S 400 HYBRID are accompanied by truly superior performance potential: the modified 3.5 litre petrol engine generates 279 hp, while the electric motor produces 20 hp. The Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID is based on the S 350, and features an extensively modified drive train. This encompasses a further development of the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, an additional magneto-electric motor, the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission specially configured for the hybrid module, the necessary power and control electronics, the voltage converter and the high-voltage lithium-ion battery. During braking the electric motor acts as a generator, and is able to recover kinetic energy by a process known as recuperation. During this process the electric motor works together sensitively with the engine brake of the internal combustion engine and the conventional wheel brakes. The recuperated energy is stored by a compact but efficient lithium-ion battery in the engine compartment, and retrieved when required. Major advantages over conventional nickel/metal hydride batteries include a higher energy density and greater electrical efficiency combined with more compact dimensions and a low-battery weight. Thanks to space-saving installation in the engine compartment, the boot capacity and generous interior dimensions remain unchanged. The hybrid module also has a convenient start-stop function. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

FEATURED ARTICLE - 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS On November 16, 2009, Mercedes-Benz will launch the innovative ML450 HYBRID, the first European full-hybrid vehicle to be offered in the U.S. Featuring V8-like power with four-cylinder fuel economy, the ML450 HYBRID features two electric motors and a 275-hp V6 gasoline engine that work together to provide impressive hybrid power, fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon around town and 24 mpg on the highway. The ML450 HYBRID joins the S400 HYBRID and its BlueTEC diesel models in our portfolio of fuel-efficient and environmentally compatible vehicles and will be offered as part of a special lease only option for a monthly lease price of $659 per month for 36 months and $549 per month for 60 months. The ML450 HYBRID fulfills the same crash test requirements and offers outstanding active safety with stability control systems such as ESP, ABS and BAS, as well as 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The integration of the hybrid technology has been engineered to require no additional packaging space that would compromise comfort or functionality. The space available in the passenger cabin is as generous as before and the trunk capacity remains fully intact. From the outside, the ML450 HYBRID is recognizable by its modified hood, the BlueEFFICIENCY logo on the fender and by the HYBRID badge on its tailgate. The new Mercedes-Benz ML450 HYBRID uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, optimized via the Atkinson cycle, two magneto-electric motors and sophisticated hybrid electronics to produce 46 percent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model. Integrated within the modified automatic transmission, each electric motor serves a specific purpose. Dedicated to pulling away under electric power, the motor on the transmission output shaft generates 80 hp and 192 lb.-ft of torque. Located closer to the gasoline engine, the second electric motor is set up specifically for acceleration and is rated at 83 hp and 173 lb.-ft of torque. Working with both electric motors when full power is needed, the ML450 HYBRID has a total system performance of 335 hp and 381 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motors are powered by a liquid-cooled, 288-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery that’s enclosed under the rear cargo floor. A powerful computer controls the hybrid system, recalculating the best operating mode 160 times a second. Capable of up to 50 million calculations per second, the system works to maintain an ideal balance between fuel economy and performance. During parking and low-speed operation, the ML450 HYBRID runs on the electric drive only. The ML450 HYBRID can drive solely on electric power up to a maximum speed of 34 mph. On hard acceleration, the gasoline engine is started automatically, and it works seamlessly with the two electric motors for excellent performance. The hybrid system includes a convenient start-stop function that turns off the gasoline engine – for example, when coasting up to a red light – and re-starts it during acceleration. During braking and coasting, the electric motor acts as a generator, slowing the SUV and recovering kinetic energy. Under heavy braking, the vehicle’s conventional brakes also come into play. Recovered energy is stored in the battery and re-used whenever the SUV runs only on the electric motors. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Brabus

NEWS & REVIEWS More power and, more importantly, more torque for more driving fun and better fuel economy: BRABUS also offers engine tuning for the GLK-Class, backed by the exemplary BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers or 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006). For the top-of-the-line turbo diesel model GLK 320 CDI 4MATIC BRABUS offers its ECO PowerXtra D6 (III) tuning that delivers an additional 48 hp (47 bhp) / 35.3 kW and a peak torque of 590 Nm (435 lb-ft). It turns the SUV into one of the sportiest diesel models in its class. The sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 6.9 seconds, top speed is 228 km/h (142 mph). Naturally BRABUS power tuning meets the same stringent EURO IV emission limits as the production engine. The gasoline-powered V6 model GLK 350 4MATIC equipped with BRABUS B7 power kit gains 15 hp (DIN and bhp) / 11 kW for a new rated power output of 287 hp (283 bhp) / 211.2 kW. For even more power BRABUS has developed its BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine, also available for the GLK 280 4MATIC. 332 hp (327 bhp) / 244 kW and a peak torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) at 4,200 rpm provide plenty of added driving fun and excellent performance: A sprint time of just 6.1 seconds for 0-100 km/h (62 mph) and a new top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) speak volumes. All BRABUS engines are lubricated exclusively with ARAL high-performance motor oil. The fully stainless-steel BRABUS quad sport-exhaust systems lend all GLK models a powerful exhaust note. The face of the SUV receives a dynamic upgrade with the BRABUS front apron. This aerodynamic-enhancement component was developed in the wind tunnel, and features daytime running lights as well as optional auxiliary high beams and fog lamps. The innovative two-piece BRABUS roof attachment with integrated LED position lights further upgrades the front of the GLK. The BRABUS rear apron with centrally located reflector and cutouts left and right for the stock exhaust or the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system upgrades the SUV's rear. The new BRABUS tailpipe styling is key to the striking rear appearance of the customized SUV. The BRABUS roof spoiler with its red LED position lights left and right is attached to the lift gate. BRABUS offers its customers a multitude of possible tire/wheel combinations for the Mercedes GLK-Class. The list ranges from Monoblock A wheels in size 8.5Jx17 with general operating certificate to 21-inch high-end versions mounted with matching high-performance tires from BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA. The largest combination features wheels in size 9Jx21, available in various versions, from the sporty Monoblock S light-alloy wheels with five double spokes to the Monoblock E version with nine spokes and polished outer flange, to especially exclusive fully polished forged multi-piece wheels in the classic BRABUS Monoblock VI design. The largest approved tires for front and rear axle measure 255/35 R 21 in size. For even more agile handling and a ride height lowered by some 35 millimeters (1.4 inches) BRABUS offers either sport springs or a complete suspension that offers a somewhat firmer ride than the production one. Exclusive interior design has always been a special strength of BRABUS. The extensive program also offers owners of a Mercedes GLK countless individual options. The company-own BRABUS upholstery shop fulfills customers' customization requests in any desired color and with a wide variety of exquisite materials and numerous upholstery designs. With meticulous precision the specialists create superb interiors custom-tailored to the individual customers' preferences. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Boulevard Customs Urban Whip

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS When the word went out that Mercedes was running a tuner competition centered on the new GLK luxury SUV, Boulevard identified immediately with the brief for the Urban Whip and lost no time in getting to work. “I’ve been a Mercedes fan since childhood,” says Boulevard President Chris Bradley, “and when I reviewed the design brief for the Urban Whip I said to myself, ‘we can do this better than anyone’”. While it may be one of the smaller competitors in the field, Boulevard is big on ideas. Taking its inspiration from a number of Mercedes models, the company set about creating a visual interpretation of the GLK that would put it at the very top of the food chain in the urban jungle. The most striking feature of the Urban Whip is what is doesn’t have -a roof. Although the original brief required the design to retain the structural integrity of the GLK, the aggressive look of the custom-made wide-body kit - which was developed in cooperation with RoBrady Design - made the roadster temptation difficult to resist. Boulevard submitted renderings of its roadster ideas to Mercedes-BenzUSAand approval was received in double quick time. Working with NBS Performance, Boulevard removed the roof, shorted the windshield and added the necessary structural bracing to create a roadster with cosmetic modifications to the door tops and pillars. “It was the finishing touch to the whole design,” comments Bradley. “The Urban Whip has that extra wow factor to make it a true head-turner.” With the focus on city life, the design of the wide-body kit is sleek and futuristic. Boulevard worked with Superior Auto Body on integrating bumpers, side skirts and fender flares to create a factory finish, while the factory grille was opened up wide and finished off with chrome mesh and accents hand-crafted by the artisans at STRUT. The front headlamps retain their factory look, with the standard bulbs replaced by custom LED units for added performance, while smoked treatment brings distinctive style to the rear light cluster. The overall ride height has been lowered by 64mm using a one-off set of custom lowering springs. And, when it comes to wheels and tyres, Boulevard is in no doubt that, for urban cruising, there is no substitute for chrome - and that size matters. The Urban Whip is fixed firmly to the asphalt with colossal 26” Asanti AF 150 chrome wheels with custom black accents and wrapped in 295/25 ZR26 Pirelli Scorpion rubber for a perfect ride. The stopping power is provided courtesy of a massive front and rear Brembo performance brake kit, featuring 381mm 2 piece floating rotors and 8-pot callipers on the front and 344mm 2-piece floating rotors with 4-piston callipers on the rear. With flagship Mercedes performance models providing the inspiration for the interior, Boulevard worked alongside Mark Kraus and John Lancaster to create a look that is highly individual, yet still distinctly Mercedes. Using a striking black and white colour theme, the design integrates both diamond-stitched and perforated leathers for a distinctive, upscale look and feel. Piano black wood grain trim works together with a custom steering wheel and shift knob to create a cockpit that is as stylish as it is outspoken, while rear passengers are cosseted in twin hand-crafted bucket seats. No seriously urban cruiser can be complete without a seriously urban stereo. And the absence of a roof will help the GLK Urban Whip share its sound with the rest of the world. Beneath the speedster cover lurks a mighty piece of kit from JL Audio. The custom stereo system pumps out over 5,700 Watts of ear-popping power in a visually stunning installation. Eight HD amps power the ZR component speakers and subwoofers, including six new JL Audio 13TW5 flat subwoofers, two of which are displayed in the rear of the Urban Whip in a custom-made clear acrylic tube that adds emphasis to their compact dimensions and slim profile. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Mercedes-Benz E63

NEWS & REVIEWS AMG is kicking off the new 2009 motoring season with a new dynamism: shortly after the launch of the new E-Class, the high-performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is presenting the new E 63 AMG. The new E 63 AMG distinguishes itself from the regular Mercedes-Benz E-Class models with a completely newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping and a new front axle. The AMG 6.3-litre V8-engine in the new E 63 AMG develops an output of 525 hp and 465 lbs.-ft. of torque, matching the outstanding figures for the SL 63 AMG. The high-performance Roadster has also donated its AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission to the new model. This transmission dispenses with a conventional torque converter and uses a compact, wet start-up clutch. In conjunction with the four individual driving modes, the throttle-blipping and RACESTART functions, the resulting, direct connection to the powertrain allows an extremely emotional and highly dynamic driving experience. The drive unit is unique in this segment, and ensures decidedly sporty performance figures: the E 63 AMG accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 6208 cc impresses with its agile responsiveness, muscular power delivery and great flexibility. The newly composed AMGV8 sound is a thrilling accompaniment for mile after mile, while the smooth-running engine guarantees typical Mercedes long-distance comfort. Despite 11 hp of additional output versus the preceding model, the fuel consumption of the new E 63 AMG has been significantly reduced: the E 63 AMG is almost twelve percent lower than before, and leads the field among sports sedans developing more than 500 hp. The AMGSPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also makes a decisive contribution to fuel economy. The transmission is equipped with four driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), which can be selected using a rotary electronic switch in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In M mode the AMGSPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission allows gearshifts to be performed in 100 milliseconds. Sporty or more comfort-oriented? The driver of the new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG is not obliged to accept any compromises in this respect. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension copes equally well with the agile maneuvers of the racetrack and more comfortable, sedate driving. High performance and typical Mercedes long-distance comfort go together as an extraordinary synthesis in the E 63 AMG. This is made possible by the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. While new steel spring struts are used on the front axle, the rear suspension features AMG-specific air springs. A new, electronically controlled damping system automatically varies the damping characteristics according to the driving situation, reducing the roll angle of the body. The result is instant adjustment to provide the best possible ride comfort together with the greatest possible agility. In addition the driver is able to choose between the three suspension modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport plus at the touch of a button. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge