SPY: Early 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS SB Facelift (X 218) prototype spotted

Mercedes-Benz will refresh the entire CLS lineup (Coupe and Shooting Brake) in spring 2014. As indicated by the test prototype recently caught on tape in Stuttgart, this will be a moderate facelift of an already elegant and beautiful car. The front fascia will hold the most important update.

The new 2015 model year CLS-Class will highlight a major breakthrough in lighting technology: the introduction of world's first Active Multi Beam LED system (read more HERE). As suggested by the spy shots, the new headlights, which appear to have multiple light emitting, movable components, hidden under the black tape resemble the ones you see in the next photo:

Furthermore, it seems the AMG Sport version of the new CLS Facelift will boast the A-Class inspired diamond grille. If you look to the details in the first scoop, you can depict this design. The front bumper will also be restyled and will receive new air intakes. At the moment, the rear end of the Shooting Brake test vehicle does not suggest important changes, but we think the facelift will bring a new bumper, new oval exhausts and new LED graphics for the tail lamps.

The 2015 CLS-Class will be enhanced with the latest tech stuff from the new S-Class, E-Class Facelift and the forthcoming C-Class. The 9G-TRONIC will come as a standard feature on the high-end models. The C/X 218 will actually be the first Mercedes-Benz model to bring the new 9-speed automatic gearbox on the North American as well. The engines, equipped with ECO start/stop function, will be borrowed from the current model generation, but they will most likely be enhanced for more efficiency and lower fuel consumption values.

We will further report on the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS Facelift when new, more detailed spy pics arrive.

Image Credits: GermanCarForum

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

REPORT: Future E-Class Coupe and Cabrio to receive the AMG treatment

Mercedes-Benz officials have recently admitted not offering an AMG variant for the E-Class Coupe and Cabrio was a major management mistake that shall not be repeated in the future.

The main reason for not building such models was the existence of the CLS 63 AMG, which can hardly be called a coupe even though the roofline might tell a different story. Latest market studies have shown to executives the real desire of the market, which is looking to buy a proper high-performance coupe in the business class.

Already late to correct this unfateful happening, Mercedes-Benz reassures now that the next generation of the E-Class Coupe & Cabrio (C 213/A 213), which is to be developed on a 100% 213 series E-Class technical platform, will be available as AMG models. From 2016 onwards, the moment we expect them to launch, the new E 63 AMG (or E 55 AMG) models will be powered by the new 4.0-litre V8 BITURBO tweaked to deliver over 550 hp. Depending on sales of the current generation, the Performance AMG 4MATIC and the subsequent S-Model shall also be retained in the lineup for all the body variants.

Above, you can see a digitally generated image by artist Khalil Bouguerra showing how the E 63 AMG Coupe could have looked if ever produced on the current model generation.

Image Credits: Virtuel-Car

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

Coupe impression: Artist gets imaginative with the new CLA 45 AMG

The CLA-Class is the coupe of the new Mercedes-Benz compact range. The fact it is still not a proper 2-door model, but only a four-door wannabe, fueled the imagination of an online artist. He came up with a computer rendering of the CLA 45 AMG transformed into a true coupe model.

The profile loses the extra door, the dropping lines becomes more evident and the lower window line meets the upper one in a kink, just like in the case of the C-Class Coupe. If the Germans do not come up with a 3-door A-Class in the end, then at least they should consider building a two-door version on the MFA platform. It could be a hit.

Image Credits: XTOMI

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

Early Reveal: The new S 500 Plug-In Hybrid previewed in leaked patent sketches

It became a custom to reveal a car through leaked patent filings, as every respectful carmaker must legally protect a new model it releases long time before the car makes it into production. This is how we saw the SLS AMG Roadster and the A-Class earlier than planned by Mercedes-Benz. Now, the S 500 Plug-In Hybrid gets previewed after some drawings from the European Patents' Bureau have reached the media.

This variant of the new S-Class is distinguished through the modified radiator grille with revised horizontal bars, the half-splitted exhaust pipes and the charging port located inside the rear bumper under the right tail light.

Reports indicate the definitive name of the eco-friendly S-Class will be S 500 Hybrid Plus. The luxury limousine uses a 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine with direct injection and biturbocharging rated at 306 hp and an electric powerplant capable of releasing 109 hp (80 kW), thus the combined output reaching 415 hp.

The S 500 Hybrid Plus can also be run all-electric mode and, when needed, charged from a dock station. The constructor is said to be announcing a top consumption level of just 3 litres per 100 km, which really sounds like science fiction.

The official reveal will take place in September, at the IAA Frankfurt. Available as V 222 (long wheelbase) and W 222 (short wheelbase) models, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid Plus should display an entry purchase price below 100,000 euros.

Image Credits: Worldcarfans

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

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz mulling a future GL-Class Coupe

Never has an automotive segment been so alert and ever-changing than that of SUVs. Once seen as pure fads, the city 4x4 began to quickly win masses of clients over the years. A development of the traditional SUV is the Sports Utility Coupe, in fact the same 5-door configuration with a rakish roofline which makes it more dynamic. Mercedes-Benz will its first vehicle of this kind, the MLC, in 2015. And this will not be the first on the list.

The Germans intend to build a similar version for the future GLK as well and now we have heard the GL-Class might also receive a coupe brother in the following years. It is said Mercedes-Benz wants to compete with the anticipated 4x4 luxury coupes from BMW and Audi, namely the X7 and the Q8. Of course, the Tuscaloosa facility from Alabama, USA will be the assembly location for the new model.

The GL-Class Coupe (C 166??) is scheduled to arrive sometime in 2016 and it will display a sporty attitude and a more dramatic styling than the normal X 166 model. We think this model will be intended as an S-Class SUV, so expect a luxury atmosphere inside, garnished with tones of technology, refined trimming materials and state-of-the-art equipments to ensure the maximum level of comfort.

Some journalists suggest the title of the GL-Class Coupe will be GLC, but remember - that has already been booked by the GLK Coupe. So, the GLS badge (rumored a couple of years ago) seems the most appropriate in this case. However, it would be wiser to wait for an official confirmation of the GL-Class Coupe from Mercedes-Benz before dreaming about any scenario.

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

SPY: First sighting of the future 2016 Mercedes-Benz GT/SLC AMG (C 190)

Mercedes-AMG has just recently begun testing its brand new sports weapon in the mid-class segment: the new GT supercar, which could also be badged SLC AMG, is destined to arrive in the second part of 2015, with the world premiere probably planned for IAA Frankfurt the same year.

In numerous occassions we have debated on the issue of the future AMG supercar. At one moment, there would have been hardly any chance of the car making it onto streets as a prototype. Now, out of the blue, the first development vehicles have rolled off on the tarmac of Germany.

The engineers have been caught while they were taking the promenade at the wheel of a pre-series GT/SLC AMG vehicle near firm's headquarters in Affalterbach and inside the town. If you make a comparison with the renditions we have showcased in a previous article (see HERE), you will see the digital artist who came up with those CGIs were pretty accurate.

The philosophy based on the progressive approach of forms will ensure the design of the new AMG supercar ends up being even more thrilling and youthful when compared to the SLS AMG. At the same time, details such as the exterior lights, the front wings and apron and the rear diffuser will be added with a dose of sharpness which is set a load of sensation when seen. The single-louvre grille will further increase the heartbeat through the visual connection with the successful Mercedes-Benz performance cars from the past.

The GT/SLC AMG will be smaller in length to the SLS AMG, but the general proportions will be the same: a long engine bonnet with the cabin moved towards the rear extremity. Given the heavy cladding near the door, we can speculate this supercar could be 4-seater, although a 2-seat architecture is more likely given the dwarfed space behind the front seats.

Intensively speculated as an opponent to the Porsche 911, the C 190 will also target Nissan GT-R - no wonder they are testing it alongside this model as visible from some spy shots. Both sports cars are tough contenders, nonetheless, but the GT/SLC AMG will clearly set apart from its competitors.

Among its strong points: the ultra-lightweight architecture based on alloys, aluminium, composite materials and CFRP and the impressive engine list, combining both 6-cylinder and 8-cylinder units with outputs ranging from 333 hp up to 550 hp. The dedicated AMG management programes and systems, as well as the specially designed components (wheels, brakes, suspension etc.) will further increase the pleasure of driving a true supercar.

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk / Motor Authority

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

Cheap, Easy Ways to Keep Your Interior Looking New

Guest Article by Don Elfrink *

When most people think about cleaning and maintaining their automobile, they think of washing and waxing the exterior. That�s certainly important � a lack of maintenance can lead to paint oxidation and other problems that detract from the beauty and the value of your ride. However, maintaining the interior is just as important. If you�re struggling in this area, here are some cheap, easy ways to keep your interior looking brand new for as long as you own your vehicle.

Vacuuming Is Essential

It might seem like a no-brainer, but one of the most important and effective ways to maintain the interior of your car is to vacuum it regularly. Dirt and debris can quickly build up in your floorboards, turning your car�s carpet into a disaster. Consider investing in a portable vacuum for quick cleanups, and make sure to vacuum your car thoroughly every time it�s washed. Most car washes have commercial strength vacuums that perform quite well.

Replace Your Floor Mats

Most cars come with floor mats from the manufacturer. These mats serve many roles, including minimizing wear and tear to the carpet under them. However, over time, your floor mats are going to wear out. Most OEM mats aren�t particularly durable, and it�s a very good idea to consider investing in an upgraded set. You�ll find several options out there, including carpeted mats and thick rubber or plastic ones that offer much longer lifespans. Make sure that you get a set that�s designed to fit your vehicle.

Sunshades Help

Sunshades help keep the interior of your car cool. However, they also serve another important function. They prevent the damaging rays of the sun from scorching and ruining your dashboard. Over time, the UV rays from the sun will dry out the material of your dash, leading to cracking and discoloration. Use sunshades any time your car will be exposed to direct sunlight, and you can make sure that your dash lasts much longer.

Dust Regularly

Dust gathers quickly in most automobiles. Over time, dust will settle into every tiny crack and crevice, turning your pristine interior into an eyesore. Regular dusting will help to minimize this, and keep your car�s interior looking great for years to come. While there are specialized products on the market for this, you can do a lot with just some auto cleaner and a few Q-Tips. Make sure that the cleaner you choose is actually manufactured for automotive interiors (don�t use Pledge, for instance), and dust on a regular basis.

Don�t Eat or Drink in the Car

This is both one of the simplest, yet most difficult things to do. Sometimes, eating and drinking in the car is unavoidable, but make sure you limit this as much as possible. Food and drink can lead to foul odors, stains and sticky messes, and it can be almost impossible to prevent those problems from happening. This is particularly true with children, but even the most astute daily driver knows firsthand how easy it can be for mustard, ketchup, soda and other elements to make their way onto the interior.

If possible, don�t eat or drink in the car at all. If you find that it�s unavoidable, keep it to a minimum. Clean up any spills as soon as possible, and make sure you do a thorough job. In the case of things like mustard that stain fabric, keep a can of upholstery cleaner handy for spot cleaning.

These simple tips will help ensure that you keep the interior of your car clean to avoid problems that might cost you an arm and a leg.

* About the author: Don Elfrink is the owner and operator of AutoMatStore.com, that sells auto mats throughout the nation. Before AutoMatStore, Elfrink was the operator of an automotive production site. AutoMatStore focuses on logo, carpeted, molded and all weather floor mats. He has previously contributed to our website with some valuable guest article which you can find by using the search tag 'don elfrink'.

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