SPY: The future Mercedes-Benz C-Class family (205 series) goes testing in sunny Spain

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Around spring 2014, Mercedes-Benz will release the first model under its new C-Class 205 series - the limousine. Street development began approximately one year ago, with various prototypes being spotted in Europe, near the Arctic Circle and in the United States. So far, we have dealt only with test vehicles for the sedan variant (W 205), but we feel the wagon (T-Modell) S 205 and the coupe C 205 will also be released in the wild in the next period. If rumors are true, then we should also see a camouflaged cabriolet prototype under the A 205 designation on the roads starting mid-2013.

The future C-Class portfolio will herald a revolutionary styling philosophy for the Stuttgart-based constructor, which will combine the traditional, classic inspirational lines of the proud Mercedes-Benz ancestors with a dynamic, progressive approach to create a mindblowing visual effect. Appearantly, test vehicles have lost some of the outer cladding and now some details can be clearly seen. All in all, when the body is looked at from the side, the reverse-wedge shape comes to light.

The front end is situated at a lower level than the trunk area, which adds up to elegant sportiness of the car. Moreover, the headlights, which might bare some inspiration to the F 800 Style, the longer grille and the new shape of the front air intakes are sure to deliver a powerful stance.

The shuttle will boast outstanding construction quality and new, softer materials that are also very attractive visually speaking. Foamy plastics, fine essence wood trims, metal and leather upholstery for multiple tastes make up the elements that will garnish the cabin of the new C-Class. The general architecture of the dashboard will use the A-Class as inspiration, but expect more exclusiveness and less passion as the W 205 is addressed to a different target group of clients.

The next generation C-Class will be a safe place to spend time in while travelling between A and B. Most of the breakthroughs the new S-Class (W 222) will premiere next year will be, in one way or another, transferred to the premium mid-class model. Car-2-X integrated communication system could be offered, as well as the revolutionary Collision Prevention Assist, the improved PRE-SAFE and the complete array of airbags for the best level of passive protection. The all new @yourCOMAND infotainment system will also be included in the equipment of the new C-Class.

A green revolution will happen beneath the engine hood. The 2014 C-Class will feature a consistent range of petrol and diesel powerplants, from 1.6 litres up to 5.5 litres in displacement. Hybrid variants are also from 2015 onwards. The new range-topping versions will be the C 400 BlueEFFICIENCY with 340 hp and the C 63 AMG (or C 55 AMG ??) with over 470 hp. It is rumored that AMG is currently developinga new V8, bi-turbocharged unit with a total displacement of 4.0 litres, but that is yet to be officially confirmed. Until everything gets clear, the future C-Class AMG model, scheduled for late 2014, could use the current 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO engine.

Image Credits: Autoevolution / WorldCarFans / Autowereld / Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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PREVIEW: New insight into AMG's future rocket models - SLS AMG Black Series & Co.

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The Mercedes-AMG GmbH division is in charge of turning Mercedes-Benz standard vehicles into fully equipped athletes. The extension of the current portfolio with new additions is one of the main parts of the AMG Performance 2015 growth strategy that was implemented back in 2010. We hear the German firm headquartered in Affalterbach has some pretty hot stuff hidden in the pipeline and ready to bow in the near future. Find out more in the next paragraphs.

The first of the series is the new SLS AMG Black Series, the sixth of its kind since the limited edition series was launched in 2005. The car comes packed with the naturally aspirated V8 with 6,208 cubic centimeters, which now pumps out no less than 630 hp, according to latest information. In fact, the new SLS AMG Black Series is a street-legal replica of the SLS AMG GT3 racing model which will be assembled in more than 100 units compared to the recently launched "45th ANNIVERSARY" collectors' model, available in just 5 units. Expect a widebody kit, numerous aerodynamic profiles and air intakes for effective cooling of the braking system and engine, as well as a minimal package of comfort equipments. Substantial use of aluminium, carbon fibre, magnesium and other light-mass compounds, in addition to stripping off any unnecessary gadgets, will definitely improve the kerb weight and the dynamic performance of the beast. Look for the new SLS AMG Black Series to make its first public appearance next month, at the Los Angeles Motor Show 2012 (30th November to 9th December).

Next on the list is the new A 45 AMG compact sports hatch. Specially for this model, engineers have developed a dynamic 4x4 platform based on the 4MATIC traction system. The new underpinnings are required to enhance ride, stability, handling and safety. New is the 4-cylinder engine under the bonnet as well: no less than 350 hp and over 400 Nm are the anticipated values for the 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant. The impressive output will be transferred to the four wheels through a double-clutch 7-speed sequential gearbox in a variable front-to-rear ratio depending on the tractive circumstance. The new A 45 AMG will also be fitted with the latest technology that has already debuted on several other models prepared in Affalterbach. We anticipate the world premiere will take place next year, at the Geneva Motor Show 2013. Soon after, in mid-summer, Mercedes-Benz will also showcase their new CLA 45 AMG performance four-door coupe, featuring an identical technical package.

Continuing the wave of new models is the revised E 63 AMG lineup. For the first time in the history of the E-Class, the subsequent sports model will be standardly equipped with a completely new all-wheel-drive system, which aims to deliver more driving sensation, better predictability and extra security. This major shift from the rear-driven platform to the 4x4 traction is a must as the output of the 5.5-litre V8 with biturbocharging will be increased from 525 to 557 hp. Moreover, the sporty character will also be highlighted thanks to the new visual identity, which brings along an all new Star grille with distinctive twin-blade design. The new-generation Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG models (W 212) will celebrate their debut next year, during spring, at the New York Motor Show in April.

The future 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG (W 205) is next on our list. Even though details are scarce at the moment and the test prototypes have just hit streets some days ago, a few hints have surfaced from somewhere inside the factory. It looks that Mercedes-AMG is already developing a brand new 4.0-litre 8-cylinder unit to power the next generation of its C 63 AMG. Featuring state-of-the-art technologies for reduced fuel consumption and low CO2 emission figures, the direct-injection, turbocharged, gasoline powerplant could easily crank out at least 470 hp and more than 650 Nm. Moreso, given the latest trend, the future C 63 AMG might also use 4x4 instead rear-wheel-drive. Last, but not least: although yet to be confirmed, the designation of the new model could change to C 55 AMG. Official reveal is scheduled for late 2014.

Last, but not least, the sub-SLS supercar saga sees a new chapter, as new information confirms the 2015 SLC AMG will eventually be built. Mercedes-Benz have reconsidered plans amid the challenging market situation and found the introduction of a more accessible, mid-sized supermodel as a positive sign for a strong growth of the AMG division, which would add up to the financial performance of the entire company. Most probably, the new SLC AMG will arrive by 2015 and sport a more dynamic, yet conventional design. No more gullwing doors, an aluminium spaceframe for ensuring a lightweight body, several new assistance systems and a new engine with around 400 hp of peak output are the arguments the "Porsche 911 killer" has in order to beat the legendary rival from Zuffenhausen.

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