Mercedes-Benz Introduces The New SLK 250 CDI Roadster

For the first time, Mercedes-Benz is offering the sporty SLK Roadster with a diesel engine. The 150 kW (204 hp) four-cylinder power unit puts the two-seater at the top of its class in numerous respects. With a fuel consumption of 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres, it is the most economical roadster in its segment.

Thanks to its enormous torque of 500 newton metres it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, and delivers a top figure for acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h.

The result is superior driving enjoyment both on winding country roads and on long motorway stretches. Like the other models in the latest SLK family, which was presented in January this year, it combines lively sportiness with high-quality appointments and excellent comfort.

Diesel drive and roadster excitement do not go together – or so a common misconception would have it. Mercedes-Benz impressively demonstrates the contrary with the new SLK 250 CDI. Its four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 2143 cc generates an output of 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 newton metres of torque – as much as a petrol engine with twice the displacement would normally generate.

This makes the new SLK 250 CDI the most powerful diesel model in its class, and gives the roadster the potential for extremely sporty performance.

Equipped with the standard 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (a six-speed manual transmission will follow in the second quarter of next year), the diesel SLK sprints from zero to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds and achieves a top speed of 243 km/h.

Moreover, the flexibility of the SLK 250 CDI is nothing short of phenomenal. Thanks to its enormous diesel torque it accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 4.3 seconds – Easily the best figure in this class, making for safe and effortless overtaking.

Apart from this, the SLK 250 CDI is the most economical and therefore environmentally compatible roadster in its segment. It is happy with 4.9 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 128 g/km.

In other words, the diesel SLK combines thoroughbred sports car performance with the fuel economy of a sub-compact. This guarantees great driving pleasure with great fuel efficiency.

The diesel engine achieves its exemplary output, torque, fuel consumption and emissions figures, as well as its highly impressive smoothness for a diesel unit, thanks to an extensive package of innovative technologies. These include fourth-generation common-rail injection with a rail pressure of 2000 bar and precise injection timing, as well as two-stage Turbo charging.

Like all SLK models, the SLK 250 CDI also features a start/stop system as standard.

The frugal fuel consumption makes the SLK 250 CDI a car with superior long-distance qualities. Using the European motorways, it is. quite possible to drive from the North Sea to a beach on the Mediterranean non-stop. Very comfortable sports seats, a comfortable suspension setup and the largest luggage capacity in this segment also do their bit to create the right conditions.

As it shares the same genes with the other members of the successful SLK family, the SLK 250 CDI combines light footed sportiness with stylish comfort, a striking sports car design and absolute day-to-day suitability, while delivering top performance with exemplary ecology. This means that the diesel version too provides open-top driving enjoyment at an extraordinarily high level.

The SLK 250 CDI is likewise available with a choice of three versions of the famous vario-roof – one of them the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof can be changed from dark to transparent at the touch of a button. There are also three suspension versions available: a conventional steel suspension, a sports suspension with a stiffer spring and damper setup or a suspension with an electronically controlled, fully automatic damping system. The latter is part of the Dynamic Handling package, which also includes the Direct-Steer system and the Torque Vectoring Brake developed by Mercedes-Benz for particularly agile and predictable handling characteristics.

Externally the new SLK 250 CDI is no different in appearance from the petrol models. It even retains the twin exhaust system, and therefore has the same exciting look for which all the SLK models are known.

The new SLK 250 CDI can be ordered from mid – September 2011.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Piecha Design Gives the new 2012 Mercedes SLK its First Tune

Not surprisingly, it didn’t take long for aftermarket specialists to get their hands on the new Mercedes-Benz SLK. Piecha Design is if not the first, one of the first tuners to release a package for the compact German roadster. Named “Accurian RS”, the kit focuses on exterior enhancements.

A redesigned bumper fitted with a spoiler lip, new vents and LED daytime running lights dominates the front end of the car. Piecha Design's aerodynamic package also includes side skirts with LEDs that light the asphalt under the car.

At the rear end, Piecha designers fitted the SLK with a new diffuser, available in two sizes, small or large. In addition to its functional role, the diffuser also acts as a frame for the quad tailpipes. Finally, a rear spoiler lip on the boot lid completes the aero package.

Piecha also offers 19-inch monoblock rims with a turbine-inspired design. The wheels are available in combination with 25 mm lowering springs.

PHOTO GALLERY

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Review

South Africa might seem a strange place to launch a 200-mph exotic sports-GT car that will find owners mainly in the U.S. and western Europe. More so when you consider that the most significant achievement by an SLR model was in Italy, at the Mille Miglia event of 1955. But Mercedes-Benz
has conducted operations in South Africa for more than 45 years, including complete vehicle assembly. More important, the weather in mid-November is fabulous.

Piloting these left-drive-only coupes in a right-hand-drive market took only a short adjustment, leaving us free to enjoy the SLR’s addictive power against the spectacularly scenic backdrop of the Cape mountains. The audio soundtrack wasn’t bad, either, with a muted but shrill scream of a twin-screw Lysholm blower accompanying a distinctly staccato roar from the 617-hp V-8’s side pipes every time the driver stabbed the pedal.

Each of the engine’s cylinder banks enjoys a stream of condensed intake air from separate intercoolers, together producing a torque curve quite similar to the profile of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. There is already 440 pound-feet of torque by 1500 rpm, and well over 500 pound-feet between 3000 and 5000 rpm. This lends mind-boggling elasticity to the SLR, with passing performance that has to be felt to be appreciated.

We’ve become fairly accustomed to huge output from AMG-built engines, but most of those are housed in conventional steel models weighing quite a bit more than the 3800-pound, carbon-fiber-bodied SLR. This isn’t exactly svelte when one considers that carbon fiber weighs half as much as steel. Mercedes claims 3.8 seconds for the 0-to-60-mph scramble, and we think that might be a conservative estimate.

The carbon-fiber structure, produced in an all-new facility in Woking, England, is the real story of the SLR, and it celebrates the relationship between Mercedes-Benz
and McLaren in the Formula 1 circus. Under McLaren’s management, this new plant conducts the high-tech assembly procedures that will give birth to 3500 examples of the SLR over the next seven years.

This carbon-fiber road car exploits that material’s amazing strength and feathery weight for high performance and safety. The entire body is a composite molding, with beautiful front and rear aluminum subframes bolted and bonded to the tub to mount the engine and undercarriage. Below the tub is a completely flat underbody.

When you flip open the long clamshell hood, it’s a surprise to see how little of the exposed interior is filled by the engine. For optimal weight distribution (the percentage, front to rear, is 51/49), the engine protrudes only two or so feet forward of the base of the windshield. Ahead of that is a monstrous snorkel reaching for cool air rushing in around the three-pointed star.

Other neat features visible under the hood are the forged-aluminum double control arms, along with an anti-roll bar mounted above the suspension and torqued by a Formula 1–style rocker assembly.

At each end of the car are conical crash members made of 25,000 carbon-fiber filaments wound from 48 reels using techniques developed by the textile industry. As exhibits from crash tests proved, these crash members provide remarkable absorption and resistance to impact damage.

The composite body is palpably stiff to the car’s occupants, never emitting a squeak or groan on the worst surfaces, despite a suspension on the firm side. Those A-pillar-mounted gullwing doors—opening to 107 degrees and attracting hordes of onlookers—would undoubtedly betray deficiencies in the structure if there were any.

The inside of the SLR is as exotic as the Batmobile exterior, with carbon-fiber seat shells covered in fine leather and a cockpit built of contrasting colors and textures. To start the SLR, you turn the stubby key, flip a cover at the top of the gear selector, and thumb the button that hides there to bring the 5.4-liter V-8 rumbling to life.

Mercedes’ strongest five-speed automatic (with manual override) still required internal reinforcements to handle the enormous horsepower of the SLR. It offers three levels of transmission performance—comfort, sport, and manual. In manual mode, the box shifts only in response to the wheel-mounted buttons or a side swipe at the selector, and it has an additional three levels of response and shift speeds set by yet another rotary knob.

We like that this manumatic can be made fully responsive to the driver, turning the automatic box into something very like the paddle-shift system in Ferraris and allowing you to hold gears for corner entries and such. We like the electronic braking system less. There’s an initial dead zone in the pedal travel, and one instinctively feels for the usual hydraulic takeup point, whereupon the giant eight-piston front calipers take a firmer bite on the 14.6-inch ceramic discs than you’d planned.


Other than that, the SLR is largely devoid of the syrupy control feel that coats most Mercedes cars. Its steering is deliberate and linear, the power delivery smooth but somehow raw, the ride firm and immediate. There’s quite a bit of grip from the made-to-order Michelin Pilot Sport tires, abetted by a McLaren-tuned chassis and Mercedes-Benz’s electronic stability program, which—for once—has a pretty high threshold. A pity it still steps in so intrusively, but with so much potential and so much value in the car, maybe that’s a good thing.

There were mixed reactions to the SLR’s styling at its first appearance, but the positive response by potential buyers now suggests that every example will find a home.

Mercedes SLK

The Mercedes SLK roadster of the class have long been the heart of the sports car friends conquered. With about 650 newly developed components present the 2008 Mercedes SLK models more dynamic and offer more emotional driving experience.

Among the most important changes include optical redesigned front and rear lots, and a carefully modified interior combined with a new instrument and three-spoke sports steering wheel. The distinct character of the dynamic two-bring in Mercedes SLK 350 sports a V6 engine with high-speed concept and 224 kW / 305 hp and a desire to available direct steering particularly good effect.

Furthermore, despite all motors to some significantly higher performance with the economical fuel, and therefore go again with reduced CO2 emissions. The Mercedes SLK models of the new generation are available from April 2008.

The compact Mercedes SLK roadster since her first appearance of 1996, a symbol of the dynamic brand image of Mercedes-Benz. Today, the second generation of two-on our roads, which from 2008, with comprehensive measures to the full. From the first generation of the roadster model between 1996 and 2004 approximately 310,000 copies sold.

The second generation took place since their introduction in March 2004 until the end of 2007, approximately 185,000 already lovers. Overall, roughly half a million Mercedes SLK roadster sold. The new generation of the new Mercedes SLK is sporty highlights and makes a successful two-seater with the Vario roof, made him within a few seconds, in a weatherproof roadster coupe transforms even more attractive.

The visual appearance of the cult, the two-sport designer further sharpened. A striking point of view of the redesigned front bumper with a revised allocation of cooling air openings and a stronger expression of the angle. The area around the star was modeled concise. Also, the redesigned rear end designer.

The diffuser-look at the bottom of the roadster can also have powerful from behind. Trapezoidal exhaust shields and AMG model darkened tail lights underline this impression effective. The exterior mirrors have been associated with LED indicators in technology in striking arrow shape, and now offer more mirror surface. Almost completely new is the range of light alloy wheels.

Also, the interior has been redesigned many details, and through the careful selection of materials upgraded. Particular attention has been paid to the interior so that it more clearly driver. Are central to a new three-spoke sport steering wheel with multi-function buttons and a new instrument combined with instrument rings in a fascinating look.

For the first time sets in the Mercedes SLK the new audio and telematics generation NTG 2.5. They convinced by improved usability and more useful functions. Serially in each radio are integrated with a hands free Bluetooth technology and a new media interface in the glove compartment of the mobile audio devices like the iPod fully integrated and thus on the layout of the audio system can be operated. With the new-generation telematics offers Mercedes-Benz for the first time in the Mercedes SLK-Class wish the optimized serving language system LINGUATRONIC.

A powerful contribution to the sporting appearance of the 2008 Mercedes SLK generation afford three advanced engines, which is characterized by lower consumption, and hence reduced CO2 pollution emissions. The four-cylinder in the Mercedes SLK 200 Compressor and the six-cylinder engine in the sport Mercedes SLK 350 have significantly more power and torque increased. Only in the Mercedes SLK 55 AMG works unchanged already known eight-cylinder engine, which none of its fascination recession and the segment of the Mercedes SLK still a unique feature.

Particular attention, the engineers at the Mercedes-Benz sports V6 engine with high-speed dedicated approach, the first in the new generation Mercedes SLK built. By far-reaching interventions in the mechanics, they have the character of the six-cylinder significantly revitalized. From 3498 cubic centimeters displacement unchanged, he now draws 224 kW / 305 hp at 6500/min, which is 24 kW (33 hp) more than the previous engine.

The torque has increased (up 10 Nm), and now amounts to 360 Newton metres at 4900 revolutions per minute. This result was achieved by increasing the speed limits at 7200/min. Furthermore, a higher compression, a new intake manifold and extensive modifications to the valve train.

Despite higher performance and top-notch driving performance is the consumption of the Mercedes SLK 350 significantly decreased. With six-speed manual gearbox combination he consumes only 9.5 litres per 100 km, and thus achieved a remarkable reduction in consumption of 1.1 litres per 100 km, with the 7G-TRONIC automatic gearbox is merely the sports engine combined even with only 9.2 liters per 100 km, which is 0.9 litres less than the previous model. Due to the reduced consumption also falls in CO2 emissions by 23 g / km to 219 g / km for the automatic version (gearbox 227 g / km, which corresponds to minus 28 g / km).

For the engine range of the second generation of the Mercedes SLK-Class will also include three other variants:

- The four-cylinder engine compressor has 15 kW / 21 hp more power (135 kW / 184 hp) and 240 to 250 Newton metres. Its fuel consumption decreases by 1.0 litres to 7.7 litres per 100 km combined. In parallel, reducing CO2 emissions by 27 g / km to 182 g / km.

- The Mercedes SLK 280 was regarding consumption, and hence CO2 emissions further improved. His consumption falling by 0.4 litres to 9.3 litres (automatic transmission minus 0.2 l to 9.1 l), the CO2 emissions by 11 g to 220 g / km (automatic by 6 g to 216 g / km) .

- The Mercedes SLK 55 AMG is the familiar 5.5-liter V8 engine with 265 kW / 360 hp and a torque of 510 Newton metres.

The three new Mercedes SLK models are equipped with precise six-speed manual. The Mercedes SLK 55 AMG reserves as before the passage seven automatic 7G-TRONIC sport. Optional are the Mercedes SLK 200 for a five-gear automatic, and for the six-cylinder models Mercedes SLK 280 and Mercedes SLK 350 sports engine as seven-speed automatic gearbox 7G-TRONIC or alternatively the 7G-TRONIC Sport.

The qualities of the sport brings a chassis available upon request, newly developed direct steering with variable power steering support still more of (the Mercedes SLK 55 AMG series). It combines agility and handling on winding country roads with driving comfort when parking and safe driving behavior at high speeds.

The direct steering builds on the previous parameter steering and works on a purely mechanical. So she alternates units without costly and complicated sensors from the direct power flow between the wheel and hand and the steering precision disruptive influence. Core is a new rack with a sophisticated gear. It ensures that the translation of the steering mechanism according to the steering angle changes.

Around the resources situation is stable for the steering straight, and thus a high level of security at high speeds indirectly translated. As early as 5 degrees steering movement is growing very fast translation and the steering felt the direct impact. This reduces the new direct steering wheel, the number of revolutions of attack to attack by about 25 percent.

The Mercedes SLK 55 AMG is technically extended almost unchanged and only a few optical retouching. A new front apron with tie and black lacquered side air discharge openings darkened front headlamps and shape the face of the future
AMG model.

The Mercedes SLK roadster of the class has as a trend-setter and technology leader long ago the image of a modern cult cars gained. Even after the comprehensive revision of the familiar remained outstanding qualities. In addition, the roadster at the request unique AIRSCARF head space heating, even in the cold season open driving pleasure and thus the convertible season extended significantly.

Mercedes S 65 AMG

Exclusivity and dynamism in a new dimension: This is the new Mercedes S 65 AMG. The amazing top model of the new S-Class is 450 kW / 612 hp and reaches a maximum torque of 1000 Newton metres.

The technological leadership of the powerful AMG sedan also illustrates the use of new, innovative AMG high-performance composite brake system with a double fist on the front seat. New Mercedes S 65 AMG offers a new standard AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control, the striking AMG styling, multi-AMG 19 - inch alloy wheels.

The new Mercedes S 65 AMG celebrates on 8 January 2006 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit its world premiere. Its 6.0-liter V12-turbo engine makes driving performance, of which some sports car pilot can only dream: the acceleration from zero to 100 km / h takes 4.4 seconds, speed is 200 after 13.3 seconds (provisional figures). The maximum speed is 250 km / h (electronically limited).

Third, this exclusive driving dynamics of the Mercedes-AMG-developed V12 engine with 5980 cm3 displacement, the extraordinary details of which are: The maximum power of 450 kW / 612 hp is steadily between 4750 and 5100 revolutions are available, while the maximum torque of 1000 Nm 4000/min between 2000 to be retrieved. Already at 1000 revolutions provides the AMG V12-turbo engine torque of 570 Newton metres to the crankshaft, at 1500/min are 750 Newton metres. In the design and construction of the V12 engine, the AMG engineers on the extensive know-how of its longtime motor sports tradition back.

For the characteristic AMG typical twelve-cylinder sound in the new Mercedes S 65 AMG, the AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome Doppelendrohren in the new V12 design. The new tri-metallic coating of the catalyst allows for a faster response to the cold start, improved efficiency of exhaust after-treatment, and a greater long-term stability. Of course meets the Mercedes S 65 AMG all current emission limits, such as EU4.

The exceptional position of the AMG V12-engine was at the "International Engine of the Year Awards 2004" rewards: In the category of "Best Performance Engine" the jury chose the 612 hp AMG engine before 70 competitors from Europe, USA and Japan to the winner. In the AMG engine factory each engine is traditionally under the philosophy "One man, one engine" by hand. This means that each technician a complete AMG V12 engine mounted - documented by his signature on the AMG engine plate.

New standards regarding delay, modulation and stability, the newly developed AMG high-performance braking system based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system. On the front axle comes as a typical AMG innovation is a new double fist to the saddle. This new, unique technology combines the advantages of a disk brake gear with a floating buckle - lower heat transfer to the brake fluid and clear comfort advantages by the leadership of the brake pads - with the performance of a lush dimensioned brake hard saddle. In composite brake discs construction at the front and rear axle with 390 and 365 millimetres in diameter ensure shortest braking, high stability and perfect modulation.

The dual-circuit hydraulic braking system is electronically controlled, allowing many assistance functions that improve safety and comfort. The contact with the road, multi-AMG 19-inch light alloy wheels with mixed tyres. On the front axle, to 8.5 inch wide rim tire size 255/40 ZR 19 mounted rear is the dimension 275/40 ZR 19 on 9.5 inch wide rims.

A perfect complement to elaborate drive technology offers the AMG sports suspension with Active Body Control system. The active suspension reduces the build movements at the start, turning and the braking almost complete.

Mercedes-typical elegance combined with distinctive sports - that signaled the new Mercedes S 65 AMG already at first glance. AMG styling, the new style skillfully combines with the widely exhibited ensures high sovereignty in appearance. Front row, the redesigned AMG front apron with enlarged air intakes an athletic touch. The two asked slanted struts and integrated round fog lamps with chrome rings does the S-Class optically even broader and deeper.

The multi-AMG 19-inch light alloy wheels in a new five-spoke design with a titanium-painted rims Stern blend harmoniously into the overall lines and represent additional highlights. For a fitting conclusion, the powerfully drawn to the rear apron AMG styling with the two double tubes summarized in the new V12 design of the AMG sports exhaust system.

Suitable for dynamic exterior convinced the exclusive interior: Immediately after the opening of the door to receive the Mercedes S 65 AMG the driver with a large AMG logo in the central display of the combi-AMG instrument.

The RACETIMER stores the time of the fastest-driven round, the average and maximum speeds and the lap length, and all information can be easily using the buttons on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel retrieve. The AMG instrument is combined with its 360 km / h scale, a subtle reference to the performance of the Mercedes S 65 AMG.

Special flair also distribute the rich walnut root-Trim, the leather upholstery "Passion exclusive" and the driving AMG sport seats with seat own graphics.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Cars Show 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Cars Shows 2010 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the first diesel hybrid from its E class model, Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. Introduced with a refined performance with simultaneously low consumption, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is another demonstration of Mercedes-Benz ability to build efficient vehicles.

With a combined output of 165 kW (224 hp), the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID consumes 4.1 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km (of 0.48 grams per hp). Its 15 kW electric motor facilitates electric-only driving and supports the 150 kW (204 hp) four-cylinder diesel engine under acceleration (boost effect). The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has already successfully entered everyday testing and is scheduled for market launch next year.

Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is claimed to have enabled the company to fulfill the high expectations of customers, to bring out an exceptional environmentally sustainable vehicle without sacrificing safety, comfort and dynamics.

Cars Shows 2010 PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate

The PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate comes with a new aerodynamics package that includes a headlight mask set made of PU-RIM. The front spoiler lip, which in addition is easily mounted on the AMG styling front spoiler. Custom-fit daytime running light elements which are delivered ready to install and can be very easily exchanged for the original grille including fog lamps have been integrated into the AMG styling front apron. For all 6-cylinder models Piecha also offers the possibility to make a conversion to the original C63 AMG exhaust system.

In order to lend the grandiose 4-pipe look the necessary kick, Piecha has now also developed and installed a power converter for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class T-Model. Exclusive Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels with a press-fitted stainless steel rim well polished to high gloss turn in the wheel housings. The Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon wheel/tyre combination not only provides perfect grip conditions, but also an enhanced sporty look in the format 8.5 x 19 ET38 with 225/35 ZR19 in the front and 9.5 x 19 ET45 with 255/30 ZR19 Dunlop Sport Maxx in the rear. The lower suspension setting of the chassis is taken over by custom-built sports performance springs which are optionally available with a 20mm or 35mm lower suspension setting.