The new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class: Overview, Statements, Design & Model Range

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I. The new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class establishes new segment: Sleek as they come

The CLA is set to establish a new segment, with world-leading aerodynamics (Cd value of 0.22 for the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition), avant-garde coupé design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive (optional). As a new four-door coupé it follows the idea of the CLS, whose design concept has spawned more than its fair share of imitators since its debut in 2003. The newcomer features a radar-based braking system (COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST) as standard which is able to warn the driver of an obstacle from a speed of 7 km/h and to initiate precision braking when the driver steps on the brake pedal.

"The resonance created by the Concept Style Coupé was overwhelming. By far the most frequent comment heard was: 'please put this car into series production' And that's exactly what we're doing now", said Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "The CLA is a car that does not confuse mid‑range with mediocrity. Its powerful design underscores the sporty side of the Mercedes-Benz brand."

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque turbo engines rated at up to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The technical highlights of this new design icon include a new world record in aerodynamics for series production automobiles (Cd value: 0.22) and numerous driving assistance systems, including the further-developed COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST.

This radar-based assistance system provides the possibly distracted driver with visual and acoustic warnings of identified obstacles and prepares the adaptive Brake Assist system for precision braking. Braking is initiated as soon as the driver steps emphatically on the brake pedal. When an impending danger of collision is identified, the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system calculates the precise braking force ideally needed to avoid an accident and makes the best possible use of any distance remaining. As a new feature, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST affords protection from typical rear-end collisions in dangerous traffic situations in the CLA from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: above 30 km/h).

Five lines and packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualise the striking compact mid-range coupé (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1437 millimetres). In keeping with the digital lifestyle of the CLA's social media-savvy target group, smartphones can additionally be fully integrated into the vehicle's display and operating system.

The CLA Edition 1 will only be available for twelve months. Among the exclusive equipment features of this model, which can be powered by any of the engine versions, the NEON ART interior with leather upholstery and black DINAMICA microfibre with yellow contrasting topstitching is worthy of mention.

The style rebel: exterior design

Its breathtakingly sporty proportions and powerfully dynamic design idiom, with its interplay between concave and convex surfaces give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look.

The vehicle's striking features include the bonnet embedded in the front end with powerdomes and the diamond radiator grille. The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime driving lights and indicators. This light signet defines the car's energetic appearance and shapes a new Mercedes face.

Numerous details indicate that on a design level the CLA represents a further development of the modern classic Mercedes-Benz CLS. Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third feature line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend depth and dynamism to the side profile.

The width-emphasizing rear end radiates power and athleticism, featuring an interplay between convex and concave surfaces and edges. The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window provide the CLA with a coupé-style character from the rear, too. The athletic impression from the rear results from the drawn-in C-pillars in conjunction with the shoulder muscle over the rear wheel arch linings. The tail lights are framed by the muscular lines of the shoulders which extend into the rear end, the horizontal orientation of the lights emphasizing the rear's powerful and aesthetic breadth. The light functions feature an arrow-style arrangement.

A large panoramic sliding sunroof is optionally available. This sunroof consists of a fixed polycarbonate cover at the front, a moving element made of mineral crystal and side trims to match the glass look.

"Cool touch" effect: the interior

The exterior's progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the vehicle. The interior additionally derives a very special quality feel from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials. All trim surfaces are galvanised, resulting in a metallic finish.

The instrument panel incorporates five round vents. The outer rings of the round vents have a high-quality electroplated finish. The airflow direction is governed by a galvanised insert that reveals a meticulous attention to detail. The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel and, in combination with COMAND Online a flush-fitting silver frame.

The CLA is fitted with integral seats in the front and rear, underscoring its sporty character. The rear bench seat emphasises the outer seats (2+1‑seater). Coloured contrasting stitching is available, according to the selected interior appointment options. A fibre-optic cable in the opening between head restraint and backrest is optionally available as part of the ambient lighting.

Sleek as they come: new record Cd value

With a Cd value of 0.23, the CLA sets a new benchmark – both within the Mercedes-Benz model range and among all production vehicles. The drag area, Cd x A – which is crucial to consumption at speeds above 60 km/h – also leads the field, at 0.51 m². The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition, which is due to hit the streets in June and can be ordered now, even manages to better these top values with its Cd figure of 0.22, and when it comes to the drag area, Cd x A, the four-door coupé crosses a magical line: it is just 0.49 m2.

The good air flow characteristics, which are a major contributory factor to the vehicle's low fuel consumption in everyday conditions, result from numerous aerodynamic optimisation measures. These include a low A-pillar shoulder with adapted A-pillar geometry, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, streamlined rear section, wheels designed for low aerodynamic drag and serrated wheel spoilers on the front and rear wheel arches.

Extensive underbody panelling, additional panelling in the middle area of the rear axle and an aerodynamically optimised rear silencer followed by a diffuser improve the flow of air under the underbody.

When it comes to aeroacoustics too, i.e. noise level comfort, the four-door coupé is also at the top of its game.

Smart safety: advanced assistance systems

Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the CLA and reduce the driver's workload. Standard-fit features for the coupé include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect the CLA from collisions from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: above 30 km/h).

This feature combines with DISTRONIC PLUS to become COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, incorporating an additional function: when a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slow or stationary vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 30 km/h and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 20 km/h.

Established assistance systems, such as the Lane Tracking package with Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist or Adaptive Highbeam Assist, are also available for the CLA. Active Parking Assist (optional) enables automatic parking in lengthways and crossways parking spaces.

Designed for dynamism: the chassis and suspension

The chassis of the CLA features a McPherson front axle and an independent multilink rear suspension, featuring three control arms and one trailing arm per wheel. This means that longitudinal and lateral dynamics are virtually independent of one another. A CLA-specific feature is the flexible decoupling of the rear axle carrier, which benefits ride comfort. Wheel carriers and spring links are made of aluminium, in order to reduce unsprung masses. Two chassis and suspension set-ups are available: the comfort suspension and the optional sports suspension for sporty yet comfortable handling. The latter entails lowering of the body by 15 mm (front) and 10 mm (rear).

Irrespective of the selected chassis, all CLA variants come with the Direct Steer system. This electromechanical power steering offers improved feedback to the driver in comparison to conventional systems and makes an important contribution towards overall efficiency, as the steering assist function only requires energy when the steering wheel is actually turned. Additionally it enables various steering assistance functions which are activated by the ESP® control unit. These include countersteering in case of oversteering, corrective steering when braking on road surfaces offering different levels of grip (split-friction braking), mitigation of the extent to which the front-wheel drive influences the steering and compensation for crosswind and road gradients.

High tractive power reserves and outstanding agility: 4MATIC all-wheel drive

The CLA from Mercedes-Benz is optionally available with a new generation of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system featuring fully variable torque distribution. Similar to the other 4MATIC versions, this completely new development boasts high tractive power reserves and outstanding agility combined with superlative driving safety and energy efficiency.

The components of the new 4MATIC include the power take-off to the rear axle which is integrated in the 7G-DCT automated dual clutch transmission and the rear-axle gear with integrated, electrohydraulically controlled multi-disk clutch. This set-up enables fully variable distribution of the drive torque between front and rear axle. Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight compared with what is available from the competition as well as high efficiency.

All set for the future: powerful and efficient drive

Ahead of the scheduled introduction of the Euro 6 regulation, all petrol-engine variants and the top diesel variant of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA already meet the future requirements of this European exhaust emissions standard.

The petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres cover an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (122 hp) in the CLA 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the CLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the CLA 250. The two diesel engines combine dynamic low-end torque with the utmost efficiency: the CLA 200 CDI generates 100 kW (136 hp), with a maximum torque of 300 Nm (available from September 2013). The CLA 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and delivers 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, while emitting only 109 g of CO2 per kilometre.

All engines feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission, which reconciles comfort and sportiness in inimitable fashion.

An overview of the models and prices:

"Always on": the multimedia systems

The latest multimedia generation deployed in the CLA boasts new functions, additional apps and a modified graphic colour scheme.

Daimler's Digital Drive Style app concept, which together with the Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone® enables seamless integration of the iPhone® into the vehicle, has been extended. The highlights include Siri voice control and Glympse real-time location sharing. Glympse enables the user to share his or her current location with selected persons. Other functions are Facebook®, Twitter®, internet radio, AUPEO!™ Personal Radio and the advanced navigation solution from Garmin® with web-based real-time traffic information, online special destination search including Street View™ and 3D map display.

The COMAND Online multimedia system has also been extended. The latest generation offers improved, photo-realistic map display, an additional Bluetooth® profile (to enable the internet to be accessed via iPhone®, for example), the display of images additionally in bmp and png formats and the real-time transfer of traffic data.

II. The Mercedes-Benz management team on the CLA-Class: "Breathtaking proportions"

"We are transferring the expressive design of the Concept Style Coupé seamlessly into series production. With its unmistakable design idiom, I am convinced that the CLA will significantly form the Mercedes-Benz brand image."
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management at Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars

"Everything is quite different – and yet the CLA remains true to Mercedes-Benz's core values by setting new standards in aerodynamics, efficiency and driving assistance systems."
Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development

"We aim to reach new target groups with the CLA – including those who never intended driving a Mercedes."
Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of the Management Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing

"The dynamic design idiom is manifested in breath-taking proportions, muscular, flowing contours and sculptural surfaces. The CLA is a style rebel."
Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, Mercedes-Benz Cars

III. The design: The style rebel

Its breathtakingly sporty proportions and powerfully dynamic design idiom, with its interplay between concave and convex surfaces give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look.

The vehicle's striking features include the bonnet embedded in the front end with powerdomes and the diamond radiator grille. The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime driving lights and indicators. This light signet defines the car's energetic appearance and shapes a new Mercedes face.

Numerous details indicate that on a design level the CLA represents a further development of the modern classic Mercedes-Benz CLS. Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third feature line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend depth and dynamism to the side profile.

The width-emphasizing rear end radiates power and athleticism, featuring an interplay between convex and concave surfaces and edges. The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window provide the CLA with a coupé-style character from the rear, too. The athletic impression from the rear results from the drawn-in C-pillars in conjunction with the shoulder muscle over the rear wheel arch linings. The tail lights are framed by the muscular lines of the shoulders which extend into the rear end, the horizontal orientation of the lights emphasizing the rear's powerful and aesthetic breadth. The light functions feature an arrow-style arrangement.

A large panoramic sliding sunroof is optionally available. This sunroof consists of a fixed polycarbonate cover at the front, a moving element made of mineral crystal and side trims to match the glass look.

Electroplated trim elements: the interior

The exterior's progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the vehicle. The interior additionally derives a very special quality feel from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials.

The instrument panel incorporates five round vents. The outer rings of the round vents have a high-quality electroplated silver-chrome finish. The airflow direction is governed by a galvanised insert that reveals a meticulous attention to detail. The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel and, in combination with COMAND Online a flush-fitting silver frame.

The CLA is fitted with integral seats in the front and rear, underscoring its sporty character. The rear bench seat emphasises the outer seats (2+1‑seater). Coloured contrasting stitching is available, according to the selected interior appointment options. A fibre-optic cable in the opening between head restraint and backrest is optionally available as part of the ambient lighting.

IV. The model range: Sporty and exclusive

With the "Urban" and "AMG Line" equipment lines, three design packages and numerous other optional extras, the CLA can be personalised to suit every taste. The CLA Edition 1 will only be available for twelve months. Among the exclusive equipment features of this model, which can be powered by any of the engine versions, the NEON ART interior with leather upholstery and black DINAMICA microfibre with yellow contrasting topstitching is worthy of mention.

With air conditioning, 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel with 12 function buttons, steering column adjustable in height and longitudinal direction, green-tinted heat-insulating glass, Audio 20 CD radio with dual tuner, colour display and MP3- WMA- AAC-capable CD drive, six speakers as well as Aux-in socket and USB interface in the centre armrest for external audio and video devices, even the standard equipment of the new CLA-Class is particularly generous. A colour display between the two large dials in the instrument cluster is likewise standard ex-factory for the CLA.

In addition, numerous driving assistance systems offer support for the driver. Standard-fit features for the coupé include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect the CLA from collisions from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: over 30 km/h).

With the equipment lines "Urban" and "AMG Line", three design packages and optional extras, it is possible to individualise the coupé further.

Two types of character: the equipment lines

The "Urban" equipment line can be combined with all the engine variants, except the CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition. Its dynamic impression comes courtesy of the sports seats with their upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/Corumba fabric. Seats, armrests, multifunction steering wheel and gearshift lever are in nappa leather. The 3-spoke leather steering wheel features perforations in the grip area. The seating comfort package, the multifunction switch on the centre console and the 12-V power outlet in the vehicle rear are all part of the standard equipment scope. Trim elements in silver wave-look (alternatively anthracite wave-look), with matching air outlet vents with nozzle ring and cross in silver chrome. Characteristic exterior features are the diamond radiator grille (with black pins, silver-coloured louvre and insert in silver chrome) as well as the twin-pipe exhaust system with rectangular-section tailpipe trim in polished stainless steel. A sports suspension with lowered vehicle body are standard features, however, a comfort suspension is also optionally available. The "Urban" design and equipment line rolls on 5-spoke 18-inch himalaya-grey light-alloy wheels.

"AMG Line" is the name of the second equipment line, available for all the versions of the vehicle with the exception of the CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition. Here the emphasis is on the colour red: in the contrasting topstitching on the sports seats (upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre), the multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather with flattened lower section, and the armrests. Matching these appointments, the stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs. This line features trim elements in light-tone longitudinal-grain aluminium. And the exterior is quite as sporty, too: the "AMG Line" features a twin-pipe exhaust system with rectangular-section tailpipes in polished stainless steel, a diamond-pattern radiator grille with silver pins, 5-twin-spoke AMG 18-inch titanium-grey high-sheen light-alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling (front and rear aprons, side sill panels). If the customer chooses the "AMG Line", he or she will also receive a CLA-Class with sports suspension and lowered vehicle body, perforated front brake discs and front brake callipers with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering.

Tailored-to-measure upgrades: the design packages

Three design packages, "Exclusive", "AMG Exclusive" and "Night package" offer further individualisation possibilities. The "Exclusive" package which can be chosen in addition to one of the two design and equipment lines, with its extremely select, high-level interpretation of this vehicle segment does all honour to its name, with sports seats upholstered in leather, dashboard and door centre panels in ARTICO man-made leather and trim elements in trapezium-grain aluminium. The beltlines are also in ARTICO man-made leather. A 3-spoke leather-clad steering wheel with 12 function buttons is standard equipment, as is the 4-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats and the seat heating. The locking system includes an infra-red receiver in the driver's door as well as the convenience closing system that allows the side windows and the panoramic sliding sunroof to be comfortably opened and closed using the car key.

The "AMG Exclusive package", which is only available in conjunction with the "AMG Line", features the following details:

- heated front sports seats with black RED CUT leather upholstery with red contrasting stitching as well as 4-way lumbar support

- dashboard in ARTICO man-made leather with red contrasting topstitching and air vents with silver-chrome surrounds and crosses

- aluminium trim elements with light-tone longitudinal-grain

- cover over the stowage compartment in the centre console

- closing system with infra-red receiver in driver's door and convenience closing feature

- shoulderline in ARTICO man-made leather with red contrasting topstitching and wrap-around look

- 3-spoke nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with red contrasting topstitching, perforations in grip area and flattened lower section

The "Night package" is based on the "Urban“ or "AMG Line" design and equipment lines, and offers this special exterior features:

- black-painted exterior mirrors (in conjunction with cosmos black metallic paint finish in vehicle colour)

- beltline trim strip and window surrounds in high-gloss black

- black radiator louvres

- heat-insulating dark-tinted glass as of B-pillar

- 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black and with a high-sheen finish (in conjunction with AMG Line: AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels)

From 'A' for accessories to 'X' for xenon: additional optional extras

The CLA-Class is optionally available with bi-xenon lights instead of halogen lights. Bi-xenon lights are furthermore optionally combinable with the Intelligent Light System (ILS). ILS, which is familiar from other Mercedes model lines, comprises bi-xenon headlamps with variable light distribution and dynamic headlamp range for country roads, motorways and dense fog, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, active light function, LED daytime driving lights and headlamp cleaning system.

In conjunction with "AMG Line", the ILS customer receives a car featuring red headlamp internal rings that enhance the "angry look" and remind one of the red eyes of the Concept Style Coupé.

A further highlight is the electric panoramic sliding sunroof with electric roller sunblind featuring obstruction sensor.

The Light and Sight package comprises the following details:

- single-tone ambient lighting (indirect illumination of front and rear door handles/door openers and footwell lighting at front and rear)

- illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and front passenger

- illuminated interior mirror

- illuminated stowage compartment in the centre console

- reading lights and console light in the roof lining in the rear

- illuminated door sill panels

- courtesy and warning lights for driver and front passenger

- warning and background light on the boot lid

- windscreen wiper with rain sensor (in conjunction with sports seats)

- illuminated of opening between head restraints in vehicle front and rear

- automatic rain closing function for vehicles with panoramic sliding sunroof

A reversing camera is optionally available starting with the Audio 20 CD. This is activated automatically when reverse gear is engaged. It supports the driver during lengthways and crossways parking manoeuvres by means of static and dynamic guide lines indicating the vehicle's line of travel and clearances. Active Parking Assist offers even greater comfort here (see section "Driving assistance systems").

As standard equipment on board every CLA-Class, there is a THERMATIC manual-control air conditioning. The THERMOTRONIC two-zone automatic climate control system is available as an option. Further optional extras include, among other things, front seats with Memory function, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors, an auxiliary heating system, a folding trailer coupling (from June 2013) and a stowage facility package. The latter consists of a spectacles compartment in the overhead control panel, stowage boxes beneath the front seats, a 12-V power outlet and luggage nets on the front seat backrests and at the sides of the front footwells.

Exclusive for the launch: Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1

With the CLA-Class, Mercedes-Benz continues its series of exceptional Edition 1 special models. Limited to the first year after market introduction, the Edition 1 combines special equipment features that underscore the sportiness and exclusivity of the four-door coupé. These features include paint finishes in mountain grey, night black, cirrus white or designo polar silver magno (due to be available from the 3rd quarter of 2013). AMG front and rear aprons and side sill panels in combination with the black-painted multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels create a powerful presence. The diamond radiator grille in silver features a black louvre and chrome inserts. Bi-xenon headlamps are standard, as is the sports suspension with lowered body.

Exclusively reserved for the special model: the NEON ART interior, with sports seats upholstery in black leather/DINAMICA microfibre, yellow topstitching providing a very special contrast. Dashboard and beltlines are in ARTICO man-made leather with yellow topstitching in wrap-around look. Trim elements in longitudinal-grain aluminium and a 3-spoke nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened lower section and perforations in the grip sector all round off the vehicle's dynamic presence.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Urban mobility meets urban living room: Design cooperation between smart and BoConcept

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smart, the car brand for urban mobility, and BoConcept, the Danish urban interior design specialist, have pooled their expertise in the disciplines of “form” and “functionality”. Together the design teams of both brands have created a collection of furniture and accessories and a smart fortwo cabrio. The aim of the design process was to combine the best of both product worlds: the inviting comfort and the warm personal touch of your own home with the vitality and speed of city life. The “smart fortwo BoConcept signature style” and the “smartville collection” will be presented in the BoConcept Friedrichstraße Store in Berlin on 28 February 2013.

The collaboration began as creative exchange about urban design and resulted in the two concrete projects because the requirements in terms of design, functionality and quality are very similar in both areas. The increasing limitation of usable space is a big challenge both in the car industry and in the design of living space – especially in the context of an urban environment and city living. This is why smart and BoConcept have both risen to the challenge of developing intelligent, space-saving solutions, but with no compromises in terms of design and quality. For example, the intelligent smart mobility concept provides an answer to limited parking space and multifunctional furniture helps optimise limited living space. At the same time both manufacturers offer their customers the widest possible options for individualising their products.

“smart and BoConcept unites one common aim: to make optimal use of the limited space available in the city with attractively designed products – products that allow our customers to both express their personality and organise their lives, and that also enable relaxed communication. The intensive exchange with BoConcept about how to create inviting living spaces was very exciting. It resulted in special furniture and a special smart that you feel at home in wherever you are in the city”, explains Dr. Annette Winkler, Head of smart. Claus Ditlev Jensen, Visual Director of BoConcept, adds: “It is of course a new experience for us to work with a car designer. The creative expression within the limits but also within the options of car design was extremely inspiring for us.”

The smart fortwo BoConcept signature style

Taking a smart BRABUS cabrio (75 kW) as their starting point, the designers from smart and BoConcept developed a vehicle that unites design trends from both product worlds. The exterior has a fresh and elegant appearance. At the same time the interior, which is dominated by natural materials such as leather and felt, has a warm, cosy character.

The typical smart bodypanels come in matt crystal white. Matt colours have found their way into car design inspired by home interiors where matt surfaces are very exclusive. The open texture of the paint offers both a high-quality look and an attractive feel.

The typical smart contrasting colour on the smart fortwo BoConcept signature style is a matt oriental brown metallic. This is found on the tridion cell and the door mirror caps. The soft top is also brown. The colour is a clear reference to the wood colours of the furniture world and looks very elegant on a car. Stripes in smart light lemon that adorn both the door mirror caps and the matt oriental brown metallic BRABUS Monoblock VII alloy wheels provide an eye-catching contrast.

The interior clearly carries the signature of the Danish designers: it is dominated by the tobacco brown leather that covers the seats, the interior door trim, the indicating instruments and the sporty BRABUS three-spoke steering wheel. A grey felt material has been worked into the seat backrests, interior door trim and the upper part of the knee pad. As on the exterior, the smart light lemon also creates vivid accents in the interior – in the quilting and double stitching on the seats, on the steering wheel and in the surround of the indicating instruments. The BoConcept lettering on the black velour floor mats and the labels sewn into the seats mark the cooperation. The trim of the oak gear button is the first time that real wood has been fitted in a smart.

As of March 2013 BoConcept Stores in various cities around the world will be using the smart fortwo BoConcept signature style as an agile brand ambassador.

The smartville collection

The jointly designed smartville collection reflects the colour scheme and materials of the smart fortwo BoConcept signature style in the furniture and accessories. At the same time the functionality of the smart is the driving force behind the designs. The heart of the collection is a modular sofa, whose standard size of 2.69m corresponds exactly to the compact measurements of a smart fortwo. The furniture collection is supplemented by an iconic lounge armchair with several references to a car seat as well as a coffee table which is modern and light in its look. The accessories collection includes smartville tableware, special cushions and a table clock that smart customers will recognise from the cockpit of their smart fortwo.

The smartville collection is available from 5 March 2013 in all BoConcept stores around the world and online at www.boconcept.com.








Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG: Design and equipment

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Design and equipment: Even more individuality than ever

Distinctive, athletic, dynamic and offering greater individuality than ever – the design and equipment of the Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG. In the Saloon or Estate variant, the E 63 AMG lives up to its role as the high-calibre top V8 model of the E-Class range in consummate style.

The new sculptural design idiom immediately sets the new model apart from its predecessor. The E 63 AMG presents the new AMG design philosophy. The new "A-wing" in the newly designed front apron provides the perfect backdrop for the "twin blade" radiator grille with two louvres in silver chrome and a large, centrally positioned Mercedes-Benz star. This three-dimensional design feature in the form of the stylised AMG signature "A" also serves as an air deflector for the three air openings. In particular, the two large air intake openings at the sides are defining features of the new front view, with the black flics above the openings ensuring an ideal inflow of air into the cooling modules. At the bottom of the front panel a front splitter helps to reduce lift. The E 63 AMG is fitted with LED High-Performance LED headlamps.

Dynamic convex and concave surfaces on the front end combine sleekly with the distinctive 34 mm wider wheel arches. Behind the wheel cutout, "V8 BITURBO" lettering alludes to the superior engine power on board and identifies the E 63 AMG as the top of the E-Class model range. Special side sill panels and attractive 10-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish define the side view.

Dynamic and sporty features dominate the rear end, too: striking air outlet openings at the sides, the black grille, the diffusor insert with prominent vertical fins and the AMG sports exhaust system all highlight Mercedes-AMG's long traditions in the field of motor sport. The two sets of chrome twin tailpipes provide a look and sound befitting this racing lineage.

Even more striking design on the E 63 AMG S-Model

A number of even more striking design features distinguish the E 63 AMG S 4MATIC from the other models. At the front, the "A-wing" is finished in high-gloss black, rather than the vehicle's body colour. The front splitter, the three-dimensional side sill panel inserts and the trim strip on the rear apron come in silver chrome. The twin tailpipes sport an exclusive design on the S-Model. The spoiler lip in the body colour on the boot lid reduces lift at the rear axle at high speeds (E 63 AMG S 4MATIC Saloon only). Another highlight on the rear of the most powerful E-Class of all time is the AMG logo on the boot lid featuring an "S" in contrasting black.

Dynamic, sporty and exclusive interior

Inside, the E 63 AMG treats its occupants to a unique combination of business class comfort, exclusive quality, high-grade materials, excellent workmanship and hallmark AMG dynamism and sportiness. The three appointments colours black, silk beige and crystal grey in combination with various trim elements enable the interior to be configured in accordance with the owner's individual wishes. A new feature is the AMG-specific analogue clock in IWC design between the two central air vents.

The AMG sports seats in transverse fluting look feature electric adjustment, heating and AMG badges. All seats, armrests and door centre panels are covered in fine nappa leather. Characteristic features of the AMG Performance steering wheel are the flattened top and bottom rim sections, the grip areas covered in perforated leather and the aluminium shift paddles. The AMG instrument cluster welcomes the driver with a striking AMG logo on the colour TFT display. Three modes integrated in the AMG menus display information on the vehicle's current status: "Warm Up" indicates the temperatures of the engine oil and the cooling water; "Set Up" displays the current ESP® mode, the suspension set-up – "Comfort", "Sport" or "Sport plus" – and the transmission mode – "C", "S", "S+" or "M". In "RACE" mode, the RACETIMER becomes available. The driver can use this to record lap times on a closed-off racing circuit. The gear display is located above the central display.

The AMG DRIVE UNIT in the centre console incorporates the E-SELECT lever with embossed AMG emblem, along with controls for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP® functions, the suspension set-up and the AMG programme.

Fine differences distinguish the interior of the S-Model

Fine points of detail distinguish the high-calibre E 63 AMG S 4MATIC from the other E 63 AMG variants: in conjunction with a black interior, the AMG sports seats, the door centre panels, the door armrests, the centre console and the AMG Performance steering wheel feature grey contrasting topstitching. Silver seat belts provide an additional highlight in conjunction with the black interior. Nappa leather comes as standard for the S-Model. Embossed AMG emblems in the head restraints of the AMG sports seats add a special touch, as do the "S AMG" logo and red applications in the 320 km/h speedometer. The standard scope of equipment has also been upgraded once again. The E 63 AMG S 4MATIC comes with sill panels featuring white LED illumination, an electrically operated rear roller blind (Saloon only) and the anti-theft protection package.

The standard scope of equipment and appointments for all E 63 AMG models includes (selection):

- Active Parking Assist
- AMG door entry sills
- AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
- Metallic paint finishes
- LED High Performance headlamps

The following individualisation options are available (selection):

- AMG Carbon Fibre I package (A-wing on the front apron, side sill panel inserts and upper trim on the rear apron in carbon fibre)
- AMG Carbon Package II (exterior mirror housings and AMG spoiler lip in carbon fibre on the Saloon)
- AMG Night package (A-wing on the front apron with trim strip, front splitter, side sill panel inserts, exterior mirror housings and trim strips on the rear apron in high-gloss black, black twin tailpipe trims in chromed finish)
- AMG carbon-fibre engine cover
- AMG 5-spoke forged wheels with covered wheel bolts, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish
- Trim in carbon fibre/piano lacquer
- designo roof lining
- designo trim

The AMG Business package is now optionally available for E 63 AMG customers who attach special importance to understatement. This tailor-made option comprises a discreetly designed rear apron from the AMG Sports package and a twin-pipe exhaust system with square tailpipe trims in polished stainless steel. The understated look of the Business package is rounded off by the omission of the model designation on the boot lid and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering on the wings. This option is available for all E 63 AMG models.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A very special highlight among the optional equipment and appointments for the E-Class Saloon and Estate is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes‑AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The sound system also offers playback in Dolby Digital 5.1 quality and enables an exclusive audio experience of the very highest standard.

This performance is made possible by a 1200 W amplifier and 14 high-end loudspeakers with neodymium driver in conjunction with precision distribution of the audio signals by the sound processor. This integrated digital sound processor (DSP) enables the driver to select a special B&O sound menu via COMAND. Front, central or rear sound setups can be selected in True Image™ mode, resulting in an authentic audio experience in the selected listening position. Various sound modes are additionally stored in the "Sound Mode" menu, enabling selection between a "Reference" high-end studio sound and a surround option. While "Reference" focuses on an authentic, unadulterated rendering of the artist's performance, the special surround sound mode is particularly ideal for live or concert music, creating a unique panoramic sound in the vehicle without compromising the natural character
of the recording.

The illuminated 50 W tweeters featuring Acoustic Lens Technology in the mirror triangles add special highlights. High-quality Bang & Olufsen aluminium loudspeaker covers in "silver chrome" bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo additionally allude to the exclusive character of the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

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