REPORT: Mercedes-Benz supposedly readying two very different compact SUVs - the GLA and the GLG

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This news is taken out from the speculations' bin and was released on the market by the German automotive magazine Autobild, that allegedly has information Mercedes-Benz will offer two compact SUVs developed on the MFA platform. The first to come out is the GLA-Class, arriving in 2014, and the latter one is the GLG, which looks to be a tribute to the G-Class in terms of styling.

Mercedes-Benz will enter the segment of premium compact SUVs/crossovers when it launches the eagerly anticipated GLA-Class model. A logical addition to the ever expanding A-Class/B-Class portfolio, this vehicle will target BMW X1 and Audi Q3 and be offered in either front-drive or 4x4 configuration. The GLA will sport company's frugal 4-cylinder engines already in use the MPV and hatchback cars the Germans have already released. If we are to believe rumors, chances are a hardcore GLA 45 AMG rolls off the Affalterbach labs. With almost 350 hp, it would certainly be an unbeatable and one-of-a-kind proposition in the SUV market.

What we find rather intriguing is the rumor we mentioned above. The GLG derives from the GLA and is a very interesting, retro-styled niche vehicle that aims to capture the minds of enthusiast with the help of a fashionable, rough, boxy exterior that, in every sense, harks back to the rich heritage the iconic G-Class created at Mercedes-Benz. To put it straight, this is a baby G that should also have some off-road abilities. While we find this daring, it is still hard to believe the German carmaker will ever build such a variant of the GLA, even though it could turn out to be a hit among buyers. If the GLG sees the light of day eventually, it won't do it before 2016.

If the plans Mercedes-Benz has to construct a consistent fleet of niche vehicles are greenlighted in their actual form, it means the Stuttgart-based constructor will then have the largest offering of crossovers and SUVs in the premium segment. Imagine: G, GL, GLK, M, E-Class Van to replace the R-Class, GLA, GLG, GLC, MLC and C-Class Van. Quite a lot of letters, a bit of an overcrowded list, but rather individualized and self-assured vehicles to suit all tastes. Until we know anything for sure, we invite you to take a look through the next CGIs of the announced, future GLA we found across the internet. Enjoy!

Image Credits: Autobild / Autozeitung

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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PREVIEW: Future Mercedes-Benz GLK to be more dynamic and fun to drive

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The present generation of the GLK-Class was specifically penned in a rugged, boxy shape in order to remember the public about its strong link to the classic G-Class. This approach, otherwise successful and unprecedented in the automotive industry, is about to change beginning with 2015, when a new of the GLK is slated to come into force. Early test mules have already been spotted doing some winter testing in Scandinavia at the start of this year.

The new styling language will be far more progressive and youthful, with the car gaining more presence and dynamism thanks to the sportier silhouette. Hardly any edge, but lots of curves and intricate pieces of modern design will compose the looks of the new GLK, which is also expected to grow in size, at least by 5-10 cm in length (to make room for the future GLA compact crossover), and thus be more spacious inside. However, the new X 205 will not be taller compared to the current X 204 series; in fact, it could well be smaller than it is today because of the general shape of the body, which is rumored to be pretty similar to that of a coupe model.

The new GLK will sit on Merc's brand new rear-wheel-driven technical platform entitled MRA, which will be officially premiered on the forthcoming S-Class and then spreaded across the entire lineup and shall also be used by the upcoming C-Class models (W/S/C 205). However, the SUV will get the modified, 4x4 version of this chassis, with the basic model being the only GLK to feature RWD as standard equipment. The latest generation of the mult-awarded 4MATIC traction system will be available for the X 205, benefiting from the 4ETS electronic AWD management system and further technologies that aim to improve the on-road behaviour, the overall dynamical capabilities and deliver sensational performances in off-road conditions.

Most of the powerplants the new GLK will feature are updated variants of the existing engines. Each and every unit in the range will be fitted with BlueEFFICIENCY technology in order to achieve competitive values for fuel economy and CO2 emission levels. Most probably, there will be more diesel choices, but certainly more than one petrol variants as well. BlueTEC is also a possibility and rumors state a hybrid version could also be considered and destined to appear towards 2016 or 2017. The high-end model, the GLK 350, will boast around 350 hp produced by the 3.5-litre BlueDIRECT V6 engine. No plans for an AMG variant of the mid-sized SUV have been divulged so far, but there's a slight chance we see a top performance GLK with near 400 hp through 2017.

Illustration: Autobild

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REPORT: Mercedes-Benz hands the V12 business over to Mercedes-AMG GmbH

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In a world dominated by an on-going, ever-present economical crisis that began at the end of 2008, the plans of automotive companies are continuously changing. Mercedes-Benz makes no exception, as in the last 3-4 years, there have been enough rumors stating that the German carmaker took the difficult decision of axing any future V12 model from the lineup, with the remaining ones being kept until their lifecycle would run over.

The prospect was visibly cloudy before Mercedes-Benz came up with the brand new S 65 AMG in 2009 and the CL 65 AMG a year later, and now in 2012 with the all new generation of the SL 65 AMG and the unexpected G 65 AMG. Out of the blue, the situation changed radically in favour of retaining the V12 choices in the model portfolio. Moreso, since this year began, there have appeared several, scattered reports on future 12-cylinder engine powered cars that would carry the Star logo. The rumors quickly shaped up nicely into definite possibilities after it was found out Mercedes-Benz would replace the Maybach brand with several upscale variants of the forthcoming S-Class (W 222), including the S 600 Pullman extended wheelbase premium limousine.

Days ago, it was found out that Mercedes-AMG will take over the V12 job from Mercedes-Benz. This is a strategic and fruitful decision, as the Affalterbach company has the necessary expertise in this field and a long experience in casting out one of the most refined 12-cylinder petrol powerplants in the automotive industry, like the current 6.0 litre version in its two basic form: the M275 with 612 hp and the upgraded M279 with revised engine technology and 630 hp.

For the future models displaying "600" badge, AMG will develop a brand new unit, with a smaller output than the M279, but most certainly high-end performance and efficiency superior to the current 5.5-litre V12 with 517 hp. For its own branded "65" variants, the firm will probably use a massively tweaked and thoroughly updated M279 engine, which should enable them to reach a top value of 650 hp and more than 1,000 Nm of maximum torque. The new Mercedes-Benz models equipped with V12 power from Mercedes-AMG will be officially released starting with 2014. A long waiting, we'd be tempted to say, but it will certainly be for good. Stay tuned to Mercedes-Benz-Blog to find out the latest on this issue!

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG (W 222) strengthens its giant muscles

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The new S-Class has been undergoing numerous rigorous tests since 2010, when the development programme kicked off. While the standard version is nearing the completion of this phase, the forthcoming S 63 AMG performance limousine has just began the first outdoor raids under heavy black cladding. We have previously showed you a test prototype which we presumed it is the an early mule for the future S 63 AMG in fact and so it was (read more HERE). Now, there are enough, clear clues to know what car are we talking about: see the larger, more pronounced front and rear aprons, the twin-spoke AMG design sports wheels and the quad exhausts at the back of the model. This sporty variant of the W 222 S-Class will become reality beginning with summer 2013 and will be equipped with an upgraded version of the current 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO powerplant, which should be capable of delivering around 560 hp of peak output and 800 Nm maximum torque. We invite to take a look through the newest scoops with the 2013 S 63 AMG! Enjoy!

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG (C 117) performance 4-door coupe goes out to play

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These are the very first spy shots featuring the CLA 45 AMG, expected to debut next year during spring. The so-called executive coupe range under the CLA-Class title, in fact a compact four-door coupe paying much tribute to the popular CLS, could not do well without a proper AMG variant. Specifically for the new wave of compact Mercedes-Benz vehicles, Mercedes-AMG have put their best experts in engineering at hard work and created some magnificent technologies to put the future sports versions into motion.

First of all, a brand new petrol engine will celebrate its premiere soon. We are talking about the two-litre, supercharged powerplant which is rumored to deliver a massive 350 hp. The new unit features several state-of-the-art solutions that improve the dynamism and ferociousness of the cars it will equip. Secondly, to transfer all that huge amount of power and torque to the street without killing the integrity of the tyres means 4x4 traction is the best alternative. And this is exactly what AMG has done: a new, performance all-wheel-drive platform that is perfectly mated to the new engine.

As you happen to already know, the first compact rocket to be revealed is the new A 45 AMG celebrating the world premiere next month at Paris (read more about this new model HERE). The new CLA 45 AMG will follow in 2013 and will add a little more passion to the business. The sexy coupe will too sport the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder powerplant with 350 hp and the AWD system. Moreso, a set of dedicated ride assistance systems from AMG, like the 3-stage ESP and the adaptive suspension programme (AMG RIDE CONTROL), will also make their way onto the new Affalterbach star.

When it comes to design, the CLA 45 AMG has the tough argument of being fairly similar to the Concept Style Coupe showcar that caused a global stir. Sheer beauty and a powerful style are the perfect attributes to describe the looks of the sports 4-door coupe. The impressive front end will receive a new front apron with larger air inlets and a traditional one-slat grille. New, striking, AMG design alloy wheels and double exhausts at the rear complete the exterior package. Inside the new CLA 45 AMG, you get leather upholstery in various tones, carbon fiber, aluminium or wood trims depending on your choice and multiple appointments that tell you this car carries the unmistakable AMG signature.

If the new CLA-Class in its standard form will probably cost around 30,000 euros or under (starting price), the upcoming CLA 45 AMG should be quite expensive. We feel you could pay at least 50,000 euros without any optional extras to have one.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

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SPY: The future generation C-Class (W 205) gets tried and tested on the Nurburgring track

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We are long way from the decisive moment when the next generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the W 205 series, gets officially unveiled in spring 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show. Development for the new mid-sized model under the Star brand began during winter 2011/2012 and the latest scoops were captured by photographers at the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife track, the Holy Grail for automotive testing and tweaking. This is the place where we'll actually see the new C-Class do multiple laps for it to be perfectly suitable for on-road activities and deliver the desired comfort and dynamics level. We invite you to take a look through the latest shots and also consult our rich archive for news and articles about the novelties the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz C-Class will bring in the industry. Enjoy!

1. SPY: 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) - more shots + new insight

2. SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) scooped while at work

3. SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) and 2015 C 63 AMG spotted in Germany

4. SPY: The dashboard of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) exposed for the first time

5. SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) snagged in Germany

6. Illustration: Autobild's Larson digitally imagines the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205)

Image Credits: Motor Authority / WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: The essentials

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The second generation of the new GL-Class SUV from Mercedes-Benz is a complete departure from the previous model and a strong technologycal revolution. Now more than ever in the past, the executive class 4x4 vehicle tamed in Stuttgart and assembled at Tuscaloosa, USA, is more refined, more dynamic, more powerful, more self-confident and more elegant. The rock-solid stance, expressed by the solid shoulders of the body, the impressive front fascia and the classy tail area, is correspondent to the lengthy array of latest technical upgrades and assistance systems. The Mercedes-Benz engineers have prepared three brand new versions for the GL-Class: the diesel-powered GL 350 BlueTEC, the GL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY with 435 hp and the range-topping GL 63 AMG V8 BITURBO performance SUV cranking out 557 hp. Furthermore, a comprehensive dynamics and safety equipment takes care this large-sized model offers a fully secure, top quality ride both on-roads and off-road.
Learn more specific details about the new generation GL-Class by surfing through the following links and enjoy the exclusive gallery comprising exquisite images that highlight the eminence of the X 166. Enjoy!

1. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: First Class in every situation

2. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Body design and interior - Dynamic appearance, striking interior

3. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Quality of ride and vehicle dynamics - Superior performance on and off-road

4. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Visibility and safety - Complete awareness

5. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Drive and efficiency - More driving pleasure, lower consumption

6. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Development and production - Digital worlds in real vehicles

7. The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Model programme and equipment* - Premium features

Image Credits: Daimler AG

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