SPY: The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL facelift (R 231) and SLC (R 172) models get uncovered of secrets

For the 2016 model year, Mercedes-Benz will revamp both its roadster lineups. Along with the facelift, the current model generation SLK will receive a new title, according to the new nomenclature for Mercedes-Benz vehicles - SLC, which shows that the R 172 generation is derived from the C-Class. The SL moniker stays and will stay the same onwards, as it is an iconic name that has been around for more than 60 years.

The refreshment process for the new SLC will ensure the roadster receives a dramatically revised front fascia, which will be aligned with the Sensual Purity design language seen on most of the latest Mercedes-Benz models. The headlight shape will softened and thus will get rounder and more elegant than what is to be seen today on the SLK. The inner graphics will be instantly recognizable thanks to the upper LED lid, which is a design characteristic reminiscent of the C-Class and GLC-Class.

The radiator grille will sport a single-louvre appearance, but it will also premiere the sensational Diamond pattern, which is to be found today on the A-Class facelift and CLA-Class. The rear end will be just slightly revamped, with the tail lights receiving new LED graphics, similar to those found on the E-Class facelift (BR212) and the GLE-Class (W 166).

In what the new SL is concerned, designers have focused on rejuvenating the car's frontal appearance. The roughly-cut headlights will be replaced by rounded lamps with distinctive LED inner graphics, similar to those found on the upcoming SLC. Notably, the biggest change will be the addition of the inverted grille with the Mercedes-Benz star placed in the middle. This new type of grille is similar to the Panamericana grille found on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 and it will also be gradually installed on several other models in the future. All these revisions will give the new SL facelift a radical appearance and will mean a radical departure from the current model generation.

The rear end will not be affected too much by the facelift, but the tail lights are bound to receive new LED graphics to match the current design philosophy of the brand. Both the new SL and the new SLC will feature newly-shaped front and rear bumpers and will also get new exhaust pipes with chrome finish. Inside, the once dashboard-integrated display for the COMAND Online infotainment system will be a thing of the past, as it will be replaced by a larger, dashboard-mounted display, like in the C-Class. Moreover, the fresh screens will be installed right in the centre of the dashboard, with the new air vents placed correctly in order to amend the current position imperfection.

Important changes are also programmed for the engine lineups as well. The new SL facelift will feature an upgraded powerplant for the SL 500 which delivers 455 hp, like in the S 500 model. The SL 600 V12 version will also get the engine from the S 600, rated at 530 hp. An SL 450 AMG 4MATIC with 367 hp is also possible, alongside the current SL 400 with 333 hp which will be kept in the offer as well. The new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and SL 65 will offer the same output as for the current generation: 585 hp and, respectively, 630 hp.

It is possible, yet rather unlikely knowing the brand's strategy, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 gets the new AMG V8 BITURBO with 4.0 litres, but then the output would have to be pushed beyond the current 585 hp to around 600 hp. Which means going from the 510 hp found in the M178 unit of the Mercedes-AMG GT (C 190) - not an impossible task, given that the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG GT X is said to deliver around 550 hp and the future Mercedes-AMG E 63 S (BR213) coming towards the end of 2016 is also announced to push the peak output over 600 hp using a modified version of the M178 unit.

For the SLC, Mercedes-Benz will likely add new engines in the upper range of versions. The current SLK 350 will be replaced by an all new SLC 400 model powered by a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine producing 333 hp. Moreso, the AMG SPORT lineup will expand thanks to the addition of the new SLC 450 AMG 4MATIC model with 367 hp. This new version will also become the first model of the SLK (former)/SLC (new) range to be equipped with a 4x4 platform in three generations (R 170, R 171 and today's R 172). Plans are the AMG model is ditched in favour of the above-mentioned SLC 450 AMG 4MATIC. However, the current Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG boasts a maximum output of 422 hp which is a long way from SLC 450 AMG 4MATIC's 367 hp. This leaves us to believe that the replacement model premiering with the arrival of facelift generation, which could be badged as Mercedes-AMG SLC 55 or even Mercedes-AMG SLC 63, should come equipped with the lower specification M178 unit found on the Mercedes-AMG GT and delivering 462 hp, 14 hp less than the M177 unit found on the Mercedes-AMG C 63.

The entry-level SLC will be the SLC 200 version boasting 184 hp, followed by the SLC 250 d with 204 hp and the SLC 250 model, whose output will rise from 211 hp to 218 hp. Technically speaking, both the SL facelift and SLC will be equipped with the latest safety and dynamic assistance systems that debuted on the S-Class and C-Class. The most recent generation of the COMAND Online infotainment system will be optionally available with Touchpad and Head Up Display (HUD). The Intelligent Drive safety package will also be offered as standard equipment, as well as the DIRECT SELECT suspension system and the AIRCAP and AIRSCARF aerodynamics and comfort features, borrowed from the E-Class Cabriolet (A 207).

Except the new SLC (R 172) and the new SL facelift (R 231) to be officially unveiled next year, either at the NAIAS Detroit in January or at Geneva Motor Show in March, following their official online presentation in December 2015 for the SLC and February 2016 for the SL facelift. Pricing is still unknown at this phase, but it should be kept the same for both models, given the fact we are talking about a mid-life cycle refreshment for the Mercedes-Benz roasters.

Source: Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog / Walko-Art

Copyright � 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2016 C-Class Coup� (C 205) is on its way to the official reveal

One year and a half after it introduced to the new 205 model series of the C-Class, Mercedes-Benz is expanding its offering with the arrival of the all new C-Class Coup� (C 205) or, shortly, C-Coup�. The second iteration of the two-door model will be a radical departure from today's C 204 generation. First official photos will hit the internet by 20th August, according to latest indications. Public unveiling will take place in September, at the IAA Frankfurt 2015.

Right from the beginning, the engineers and designers behind the C 205 project had a key objective in their minds: refined sportiness. Compared to the outgoing C 204, the new C-Coup� is riding on a lower ground clearance. Moreover, the body is somehow wider to improve lateral stability, but inside, the rear space and boot capacity have been sacrificed in favour of driving dynamics.

The DYNAMIC SELECT chassis comes as standard on the higher specification models, so expect a good dose of agility. Efficiency will be ensured via the precise and intelligent 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox, which will be offered as standard on the all diesel models and on a few, specific high-end variants. The exterior design is a continuation of the "Sensual Purity" dictone that was so lavishly demonstrated on the new S-Class Coup� (C 217). Gorden Wagener is confident enough to entitle the new C-Class Coup� as even more beautiful than its S-Class sibling.

The engine range will be borrowed from the limousine and estate variants. The entry-level model should not go below the current C 200 d Coup� with 136 hp. It will be then followed by the C 220 d Coup� with 177 hp, the C 200 Coup� with 184 hp, the C 250 d Coup� with 204 hp and the C 250 Coup� with 218 hp. The range-topping versions will be the C 400 Coup� with V6 power and 333 hp and the special C 450 AMG 4MATIC Coup� with 367 hp. We also expect to see the 4MATIC powertrain on several other versions, such as the C 220 d, the C 250 d, the C 250 and the C 400.

Mercedes-AMG will a dose of steroids to the new C-Class Coup�. At the start of sales, programmed for the end of 2015, the Affalterbach-based sports division will align at the starting grid two variants for the C 205: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coup� model powered by the AMG M177 powerplant developing 476 hp and the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coup� with an output-upgraded version of the same engine producing no less than 510 hp and making use of several tweaks for the chassis, suspension and brakes in order to deliver a radical sporty sensation.

To celebrate the online reveal of the new car, Mercedes-AMG have created a webspecial which previews the C-Class Coup� through a set a of exciting teaser videos. The webspecial is available at the next address: http://www.mercedes-amg.com/webspecial/ccoupe/index.php?lang=eng#home .

Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright � 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: First scoops of the future 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Limousine (W 213)

A while ago, spy photographers have spotted shots of a modified C-Class vehicle which appeared to be an early test mule for the forthcoming W 213 series E-Class. Recently, the very first finished body test prototypes of the business class limousine have rolled out on the streets of Germany.

The first impression while examining the photos is that the next generation E-Class will further evolve the design philosophy launched on the new C-Class. The anti-wedge profile is demonstrated by the long bonnet and shorter rear volume. The prototype is heavily cladded with camouflage, so it is hard to draw any further conclusions. What is for sure is that, like the C-Class, the E-Class is also set to become even more elegant with the advent of the new generation, towards the end of 2016.

Details are scarce at the moment, but what we know certainly is the W 213 will be introduced as technological masterpiece. The future E-Class will introduce an all new, gesture-based interior architecture, along with a highly enhanced COMAND Online infotainment system, similar to the Human Machine Interface that was previewed back in 2007 on the F 700 Research Vehicle.

Several new assistance and safety technologies will also make their way onto the new E-Class. For the first time since the 90s, Mercedes-Benz will return to straight-six petrol and diesel engine. The new modular units will be offered in several output stages, covering the 200-400 hp range. They will use spray-guided direct injection, two-stage turbocharging, ECO start/stop technology and several systems to further reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright � 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML Coup� a.k.a. MLC (C 292) spotted in the U.S.

In January 2015, Mercedes-Benz will launch its first Sports Utility Coup� (SUC). The new ML Coup�, which was previously known as the MLC, will showcase on the stage of the NAIAS Detroit. The radical design is inspired by the Concept Coup� SUV, which Mercedes-Benz highlighted in April at Auto China 2014 in Beijing.

Although this fact is yet to be confirmed, Mercedes-Benz has decided to drop the proposal for the �MLC� name and will eventually go instead for the title �ML Coup� which is intended to better link the car to the popular M-Class in addition to highlighting the special coup� quality it has through the homonymous particle. This naming strategy obeys the latest rules of the brand, which is the same for the C-, E- and S-Class two-door models.

The future C 292 series is described by the characteristical roofline, which drops towards the rear end in an even manner, just like on a standard Mercedes-Benz two-door or four-door coupe. The stylish architecture is doubled by the impressive dimensions the ML Coup� has. The muscular wheel arches, the high ground clearance, the massive tail area with its gate-integrated spoiler and the aggressive fascia make up the ID card of this fashionable new Mercedes-Benz family member.

The front end is particularly interesting, as it heralds the introduction of a new design identity strictly reserved for the SUV the Stuttgart-based constructor builds. The radiator grille with its large Mercedes-Benz star located in the centre displays a grey-fence pattern, while the single louvre fuses to the three-pointed symbol and embraces it in a circular way. This styling motif will also be introduced on the upcoming M-Class and GL-Class facelift models.

The new ML Coup� will boast the new MULTIBEAM LED intelligent light system which was premiered on the new Mercedes-Benz CLS Facelift lineup. Apart from that, the SUC will also benefit from the addition of the INTELLIGENT DRIVE technologies, as well as of the new generation COMAND Online with Touchpad and Head Up Display. The ACTIVE CURVE system from the GL and the Active Tilting function that debuted on the all new S-Class Coup� are also possible equipments.

Mercedes-Benz will position its ML Coup� as a high-end, niche model, placed between the M-Class and the GL-Class. Thus it will mate the new vehicle with range-topping powering units. All the engines will come fitted with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard. The entry-level variant will be the ML 400 Coup� with 333 hp, followed up closely by the ML 450 Coup� with 367 hp. The ML 500 Coup� could feature the peak-output version of the 4.7-litre V8 BITURBO which delivers 455 hp. Mercedes-AMG will also stick its hands onto the new C 292 generation. Following the introduction of the standard ML Coup� in January 2015, during summer of next year the Affalterbach labs will release two mindblowing creations. The first is the ML 63 AMG Coup� powered by the 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO producing 557 hp and 585 hp as an S-Model. The latter, which is the icing on the cake, is the rumored ML 65 AMG Coup� which will the M279 12-cylinder biturbocharged unit with 630 hp.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright � 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: First scoops of the new 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Facelift (X 166)

The current generation of the GL-Class launched during summer 2012 and the large-sized SUV is already prone to receive a makeover to refresh the model at the middle of its lifecycle. According to rumors, the facelift of the X 166 will be revealed next year as a 2016 model.

This decision to renew the GL-Class at quite the same with the reveal of the future MLC and the M-Class Facelift is rather surprising and it looks Mercedes-Benz plans to reduce the initial lifespan of its large-sized SUV in order to make the transition towards the forthcoming X 167 series, which will be developed under an all new 4x4 platform: the MHA or Modular High Architecture, designed to underpinned company's next generation of SUVs and crossovers.

The changes on the design of the GL-Class will be rather minimal and will include a new grille and headlights with more attractive inner LED graphics. The rear lamps will not be very different from the current ones, but expect them to receive a dark tint, just like the new CLS Facelift. Inside, the once dashboard-integrated display for the infotainment system will now be attached to the upper central section, similar to the latest Mercedes-Benz interiors. At the same time, the GL Facelift will also be equipped with the most recent COMAND Online generation, which also features a touchpad controller.

Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright � 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Facelift (W 166) shows new details

The revamped generation of the M-Class is set to be officially unveiled towards the end of the year. The SUV will showcase a more dramatic styling, which meets the cues of the new design philosophy from Stuttgart.

The front fascia will be subject to the most important important visual upgrade. New headlights with LED technology as standard and, possibly, MULTIBEAM LED as an option will create a more striking impact on lookers. Another part that criticized on the "phase 1" model was the radiator grille with perforated design. For the facelift, Mercedes-Benz will prepare not one, but two different appointments on the grille depending on the model.

There will basically be three versions: the basic trim, the intermediate luxury version recognizable through the 2-slat design of the grille and a high-end, sporty variant which is to feature a single, thin-louvre grille. Moreso, the AMG Sport package will also be offered and it will likely resemble the style seen on similar models such as the new C-Class and the new CLS-Class Facelift.

Apart from the grille and its distinctive design, the facelift of the W 166 will also add a new front air intakes and further tweaks seen on the latest Mercedes-Benz models. The rear end is also bound to receive a few updates, including the slightly revised tail lamps, the oval exhausts and the new rear diffuser discretely integrated in the bumper.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz will fit its new-generation M-Class with the latest version of COMAND Online, which also features a touchpad and an improved rotary controller, with the new Head Up Display also being a possible equipment. The engine range will receive an efficiency enhancement, while the units will likely stay the same. The ML 250 BlueTEC with 204 hp will form the entry-level model, with the ML 350 BlueTEC following it with 258 hp. The ML 350 will be replaced by the new ML 400 powered by the new 3.0-litre V6 BITURBO engine producing 333 hp. An all-new addition to the lineup will be the ML 450 model with 367 hp, followed by the ML 500 that is likely to receive a power boost from 408 hp to 435 hp.

On the AMG side, the surprise will come with a new engine in two power stages. The standard ML 63 AMG will boast 557 hp, whereas the S-Model (or the Performance Package model) will be capable of achieving no less than 585 hp. There is no information on a possible hybrid model and we feel for now Mercedes-Benz is not interested in offering such a version, given the lack of sales of the discounted ML 450 HYBRID under the W 164 model series.

Look for the new ML Facelift to debut around November, most likely at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2014.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright � 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

UNCOVERED: The new C-Class (W 205) gets snagged totally uncamouflaged !!!

After the first leak which emphasized a set of images taken from an internal brochure, this morning brought us fresh and proper pics with the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class totally exposed, with no camouflage whatsoever.

This strategy seems to be more of a controlled leak from Mercedes-Benz rather than a true leak, as it is fairly similar to what happened at the end of March, when an uncamouflaged, production-ready prototype of the W 222 S-Class generation was photographed in the same conditions in the United States, while taking part in a photo shootout (see HERE).

From the first view, you get to see the new C-Class was dramatically influenced by the new S-Class. Even though its proportions are far more compact, the W 205 generation showcases an exhilarating design philosophy which made sensation on the W 222 model series as well. The evolution in terms of styling is quite radical and the general appearance is now fresh and youthful - gone is the old school Mercedes-Benz design for "above 45" clients.

The new C-Class proposes two different fascias depending on the equipment line. The AVANTGARDE and the AMG Sport models get the Star grille, while the basic and ELEGANCE models receive the classic lamella grille with chrome accents. Even though the car has grown in length up to 4.7 meters, it still manages to look very dynamic and well packed. The rear end screams "S-Class", although there are some differences that set the two apart.

The new C-Class is headed for the world premiere at NAIAS Detroit 2014. First official pictures from Mercedes-Benz might come in mid-December, while the market launch is programmed for spring next year.

Find out more details about the new C-Class in the following articles:

--> BREAKING NEWS: The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) exposed for first time!

--> Mercedes-Benz TecDay � The new C-Class: Upgrade inside � More Class

Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright � 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.