Friday, September 28, 2012

Mercedes Drive Thru: "food on all fours"

Take a look at the latest rave reviews from around the web!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

 

 





 


 

 

 

www.WaltsMB.com

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Untitled

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Mb

 

Unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show is the most powerful AMG production

 

car to date. It will not depend on a gas gulping V-12 nor boost from large turbos. As the name suggests, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive is propelled by four electric motors with a total output of 740 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful (and eco-friendly) beast to come from the folks at Affalterbach.

Just for reference, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT is rated at 583 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The upcoming 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 is tuned to produce 621 hp and 738 lb-ft from its 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 and the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL65 Black Series we tested a few years ago was rated at 661 hp and 738 lb-ft.

We've known for a while that an electric-powered Gullwing was in the works and we even had an opportunity to drive a prototype (previously referred to as the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell). Perhaps the biggest and most welcome change between the prototype and the production version is the power figures, with the prototype "only" producing 526 hp and 649 lb-ft. Since then, engineers have made a number of tweaks to the powertrain, including a revised battery pack with a max load potential of 600 kW (prototype was rated at 480 kW). Mercedes-Benz claims the SLS AMG Electric Drive will accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.9 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

As previously reported an electric motor drives each wheel but is not hub-mounted. Instead, AMG has placed the motors near the wheels, which saves a significant amount of unsprung mass. The motors are regulated by a wheel-selective all wheel-drive system dubbed AMG Torque Dynamics, which monitors and maximizes traction and performance. AMG Torque Dynamics is offered with three modes: Comfort (C), Sport (S), and Sport plus (S+).

The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack features a total of 864 cells and was a team effort between AMG engineers in Affalterbach and folks from Mercedes-Benz AMG High Performance Powertrains. The latter team is headquartered in the U.K. and provided their F1 expertise, including KERS hybrid technology. Not surprisingly, the high-output battery is paired with an advanced temperature monitoring system, which can commission the air conditioning during extremely hot conditions. Charging the battery can be completed in about three hours thanks to a 22 kW quick-charge option.Without the quick-charge option, a full charge will take 20 hours.

Like the prototype, the production version will feature lightweight construction that includes aluminum body panels and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the battery monocoque. The composite is also used in brake components, which include 15.8-inch discs up front and 14.2-inchers at the rear. It also has a unique front suspension that includes an independent multilink setup with pushrod damper struts (normal SLS features a double wishbone setup).

The electric SLS will be visually similar to the gas-powered version, save for a distinctive front clip (CFRP splitter, darkened headlights, and honeycomb-shaped grille pattern), "Electric Drive" badges, and exclusive "AMG electricbeam magno" matte paint. Inside, the instrument panel displays electric power information where the tachometer would normally be found.

The SLS AMG Electric Drive will hit German showrooms next summer and details on additional market availability have yet to be finalized. We'd be surprised if AMG doesn't bring the special SLS to our shores, where its emissions-free powertrain would help it compete with other low-volume green supercars like the Porsche 918 Spyder. Speaking of green, the electric SLS is priced at 416,500 euro including the 19 percent VAT (or about $538,000 with current exchange rates). For comparison, a normal SLS in Germany stickers at around $240,000.

Source: Motor Trend

 

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Mercedes-Benz Owner Stories: Poetry in Motion

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Here's someone who spent 30 years trying to get a 300 SL Gullwing; now the he has it, "it's driven often and it's driven hard," just as it was meant to be. This asks the question: Classics or Concepts? Which do you like better?


 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Big thanks for this wonderful 5-Star review on Kudzu! Enjoy your new C250!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

vgalfayan
Riverside, California
Sep 26, 2012
Bought my c250 from Vincent at Walter's. I really don't like dealerships, let alone the people that are in them. However, Vincent made the whole "car buying" process pleasant. I went in with my feathers all fluffed. (I was there awhile) But Vincent was able to beat the price I got at Fletchers which made it happen for me. The whole experience was overall great for the most part.

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Kicherer Mercedes CLS63 AMG Yachting

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Mb

German tuner Kicherer recently unveiled their Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Yachting that includes a host of upgrades to the already near perfect four-door Mercedes coupe.

Kicherer paired the CLS AMG with RS-1 forged wheels in size 20 inch on the front axle and in size 21 inch on the rear axle. Electronic adjustment allowed the chassis frame to be optimised, and a braking system with steel flex brake lines and full-cover film in star-graphite complement the exterior package.

Most importantly, for power, the German Tuners managed to upgrade the 5.5 liter biturbo engine’s performance to 625hp and 860Nm. The removal of the Vmax blocker ensures that the CLS 6.3 Yachting can now reach 300km/h (186 mph). Kicherer also fitted a limited slip differential and powerconverter, which increases the sense of acceleration by neutralising the moment of inertia on the electronic accelerator pedal.

On the inside, Kicherer designed an exclusive Yachting outfit in which leather, Alcantara and carbon fiber have been used.

Pricing details have not yet been announced.

 

Source: eMercedes-Benz

 

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Lots of wonderful feedback this morning! Thanks to all for writing these great reviews!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

tohowe
Riverside, California
Sep 25, 2012
Driving the car of my dreams feels even better than I thought it would. I got a smokin' deal at Walter's via the Internet Manager Vincent on a GL 450. I shopped at carmax and a couple of other dealerships first. Then I decided to check out Walter's and I am glad I did. Everything was done via Internet/phone and I couldn't be happier at how easy they made it. Vincent and team were great!

mminasyan
Riverside, California
Sep 25, 2012
From initially walking through the front doors of Walter's to shaking the finance manager's hand, everything went smoothly for the lease of my new gl450. Everything was handled expeditiously and professionally by everyone. Especially Vincent, who is an expert on these benz cars. I didn't know if I wanted to get an SUV or sedan, and he helped guide me to the right car.

Suzanna O.
Riverside, California
Sep 25, 2012
The obsidian black metallic looks great at night and at dusk. I recently leased a black e350 sedan from Walter's. Leasing or buying a car is never easy, but I knew exactly what I wanted, and that's exactly what I got. My new car is definitely better thant the camry I was driving (also black). Vincent (my salesman) showed me a few new cars with different options and upgrades but it ended up coming down to price and color. He was extraordinary and so was the finance manager. I lov e my car!

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Monday, September 24, 2012

Walter's September Newsletter is now out!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Walter's September Newsletter is now out! Did you know? Mercedes-Benz plans to reveal a relief-life sculpture to the public titled "Aesthetics S" later this month that will hint at the new 2013 S-Class design!


http://www.waltsmb.com/dealership/news.htm

Newssept12

 

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Wow! We are truly humbled by all the positive feedback we received over the weekend! Thanks to all who wrote reviews!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

KeDrake
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"Love my new e350. has everything I hoped for and more! Vincent helped me at Walter's and I give him 5 + stars! He makes buying a car headache free, painfree. It took a little longer than I had hoped to get in and out of the dealership, but maybe I was just eager to drive my new car home. For your next Mercedes, Walter's is the best place to go if you want to be treated kindly and fairly."

AsmNadr
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"After selling my Nissan Murano to my sister, I had no choice but to look into another car. Having never bought a luxury car, I was very hesitant to check out Mercedes. After talking to coworkers, I became convinced that I should at least test drive one.

I went to Walter's and tried the C series but wasn't impressed. After test driving the E class, I decided to make an offer. Vincent was my salesguy and he was top quality - patient, nice and cordial. He made is easy and fun to buy my car. I might even lease again once this one is up."

Dean P.
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"Got the silver e class with black interior. This is the sleekest car I have driven yet. Still getting used to the telematics systems and gadgets in the car, but I will probably take up Vincent's offer soon go over the car again. As for the dealership, I was pretty satisfied. The hardest part was choosing which color I wanted. My salesguy (Vincent) was full of information and explained everything in everyday terms instead of car jargon. He explained everything really well and I have no regrets on purchasing my car."

Ashken H.
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"I went in specifically looking for a 2012 e350 but wasn't set on the particular model. After driving the v-6 version and the diesel version, I decided to go with the "cleaner" burning car and drove home in the diesel. Vincent Troncoso helped me through this decision process. I am happy with my car and feel that I got a great deal from Walter's thanks to Vincent."

Kenneth D.
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"In my garage I have a Porsche Panamera and a Lexus GS300. However, now that I now have a Mercedes e350 in my "collection" I can definitely say I get more compliments on this car than any of the other two. I love my car too, because it has all the new technologies and gadgets I was hoping for, plus the drive is smoother than any other car. There is nothing I would change! Vincent was my salesperson at the dealership. I haven't always felt comfortable negotiating my car payment, but he made it sensible, easy, and effortless. Having gone back for service a few times, I can say they everyone is friendly and helpful over there too."

johnar
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"This is my first Mercedes, and I can say it compares to no other car. I have owned Lexus, Porsche, BMW and there is nothing like the luxury of a Mercedes. I bought the 2012 E350. It has rear wheel drive and V6 engine. It revvs nicely in the morning and makes my drive to work pleasant! As for the whole "buying the car" part Vincent (the internet manager) was unlike any other car salesman I have ever met. He was pleasant, open minded and knew his inventory by heart. The finance guys took care of me too and most likely I will be back to buy a GL 450 in a couple of years. I also get complimentary car washes!"

cghazi
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"Traded in my beamer for a benz and won't look back. I had a 2007 x3 and the ride just wasn't ideal for me. Vincent helped me at the dealership and I can honestly say without a doubt - the guy knows his cars. Walter's has a good mix of choices for used too. (I ended up going with new)"

ramtina
Riverside, California
Sep 24, 2012
"I was in the market for a luxury SUV; was closing a deal on a X5 when Vincent called me and offered me a deal on GL350 that I couldn't resist!"

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Friday, September 21, 2012

2013 GL-Class -- E! Arrives at the Emmys in Style

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Ample storage space, seating for seven, and meticulous craftsmanship make this incredibly versatile luxury SUV a perfect fit for any occasion, even the Emmy Awards.


 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

 

Thanks for the wonderful reviews this morning! We truly appreciate it!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Cynthia
Riverside, California
Sep 21, 2012
After 4 1/2 months of online searching, 3 dealerships later and endless hours of thinking about buying a benz, I finally ended up at Walter's in Riverside. The staff at Walter's was gracious, professional and friendly. Upon explaining my dilemma (I wanted a used c class with very low miles) Vincent showed me a few options. He offered me a deal on a 2011 c class and I couldn't pass it up. I love my car and plan on buying another benz when this one is paid off.

hasmik
Riverside, California
Sep 21, 2012
One afternoon I finally decided to take the "plunge" and check out a Mercedes. I really was having a hard time deciding between a Benz and an Infiniti. 2 hours after entering the dealership, I drove home in my beautiful new 2012 GL450. Thank you Vincent and the rest of the helpful team at Walter's!

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Thursday, September 20, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Mb

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 roadster is faster, more fuel efficient, bigger and yet significantly lighter than its predecessor and aggressively styled on the outside to evoke SLs of the 1950s.

But the high-tech and luxury features of this new, sixth-generation SL could bring buyers to showrooms, too.

After all, who wouldn't want to impress a friend or neighbor with a 0-to-60 sprint that takes just 4.5 seconds? And how about the active side seat bolsters that automatically hug passengers more tightly as the car takes turns?

The faster acceleration comes from a 429-horsepower, twin-turbo, direct-injection, gasoline V-8 that replaced last year's 382-horsepower, naturally aspirated V-8.

The active seat bolsters aren't dependent on speed. They instantly inflate and press forcefully -- and unnervingly for a first-time passenger -- to keep a person in place any time the steering wheel is moved appreciably.

Best of all, the SL550 has improved fuel mileage. The U.S. government gives the 2013 model a city rating of 16 miles per gallon, with highway travel rated at 24 mpg. The test SL was spot on with the government's combined city/highway rating of 19 mpg, affording a range of 375 miles.

Note the 2013 mileage is up from the 2012 SL550's 14/22-mpg rating and is better than the 15/22-mpg rating for Jaguar's two-seat XKR convertible.

Starting manufacturer's suggested retail price, including destination charge, for a base,

rear-wheel drive, 2013 SL550 is $106,405, an increase of $1,890 from the 2012 price.

Standard on every 2013 SL are seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for shift-it-yourself mode; a fuel-saving, engine stop/start system; seats trimmed with leather that's specially treated to reflect the sun's heat and, over time, reduce sun damage; a retractable, hard sunroof that's a heat-reflecting panel; dual-zone, automatic climate control; bi-xenon headlamps that swivel in turns and curves to illuminate the road ahead, and 12-way, power-adjustable and heated seats.

A long list of safety features go beyond the usual air bags -- there are eight in the SL -- and antilock brakes.

For example, the SL550's brakes include automatic drying that activates whenever windshield wipers are turned on. This feature keeps brakes ready for maximum work when roads are wet.

There also are high-beam headlights that use a camera to automatically adjust the range of the lights depending on the proximity of other cars.

Competitors to the SL include the rear-wheel drive, 2012 Jaguar XKR convertible with 510-horsepower, supercharged V-8, automatic transmission and soft roof, which starts at $104,375.

Meanwhile, the rear-wheel drive, 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet with 400-horsepower, horizontally opposed, six-cylinder engine, seven-speed manual transmission and soft-top roof has a starting MSRP, including destination charge, of $108,950. And a new Porsche 911 Carrera S has a retail starting price of $113,030.

The new SL550 exterior styling is busy, for sure. There seem to be lines and swirls in the body everywhere, save for the rear end which, in contrast, seems a bit plain.

The stand-up grille in front especially evokes the early SLs.

One thing that's not obvious: Most of the SL550 body shell is made of aluminum for the first time. Steel is primarily found inside the window pillars. The lighter aluminum accounts for the loss of some 240 pounds from the previous SL. Indeed, the 2013 base car weighs in at less than 4,000 pounds.

The car looks good with hard top on and off. Mercedes boasts the complicated, power-operated maneuvering of the roof and rear window takes just 16 seconds. A driver only has to touch a button.

Roof storage reduces trunk room from 10.2 cubic feet to 7.2 cubic feet.

The SL550's newfound power can be addictive. It came on so smoothly and strongly in the test car that the driver typically was going 20 mph faster than expected.

The new engine -- a 4.6-liter, double overhead cam, direct-injection V-8 -- has twin turbos providing 13.1 pounds per square inch of boost.

Torque, that "oomph" feeling of being propelled forward forcefully, is plentiful in this car and comes on quickly. Peak torque is a hearty 516 foot-pounds starting at a low 1,800 rpm and continues to 3,500 rpm.

Even though Mercedes installed a start/stop system in the new SL that turns off the engine automatically to save fuel at stops, the test car got under way as soon as pressure on the brake pedal lightened, and it beat everyone away from stoplights. The start/stop worked seamlessly in the tester and was nothing like start/stop systems in earlier, lesser vehicles where the engine almost seemed to stall as it got going again.

Engine sounds were deep and confident, but steering, while direct, required a bit too light an effort at times.

It was weird not having "Park" on the gearshifter. Instead, a driver must push a button at the base of the gearshift lever to put the car in "Park."

Controls in the SL550 take some getting used to, though buttons are decently sized.

In the tester, seat leather was luxurious to the touch, carpeting was thick, and fit and finish was excellent.

Extras can be costly. The test car came with nearly $18,000 of options, including seats with the active bolsters plus a massage feature, a roof panel that changes transparency and adjustable body control suspension. Even the rearview camera was optional.

Source: MercuryNews

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Big thanks for this 5-Star review on DealerRater from a long-time service customer! We value your feedback and look forward to seeing you again! And great job Vincent for providing exceptional customer service!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Fldsan
Riverside, California
Sep 20, 2012
"We were looking for our fourth Mercedes, and had only purchased new vehicles in the past. We went to Walters because we had purchased a vehicle previously from them and continued to service our vehicles there even when we did not purchase from them. When we went to the dealership, we were looking for the COstco service manager, Vincent Troncoso. Vincent was great,even when we did not find the new vehicle we wanted and decided to look at pre-owned vehicles. We eventually decided on a pre-owned, which was our first. What we liked about Vincent was that he was not pushey. He answered our questions and told us about the autos we were looking at. He was one of the best sales persons we have dealt with, which have been a lot. Mercedes salesmen as a whole are great, and I have never left a dealership with a headache. That cannot be said for most car salesmen/women. I will look for Vincent in 5-6 years when I am looking for my next Mercedes Benz. I promise."

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Discover the A 250 Sport with its diamond grille.

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Discover the A 250 Sport with its diamond grille. The new A-Class. The pulse of a new generation. Anxious to get behind the wheel? We know.


 

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

 

We got some fantastic reviews this morning! Thank you both so much for your feedback!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Oscar
Rancho Cucamonga, California
Sep 19, 2012
"Great team Vincent and Tony make both are very informative and both listen to your needs. I would most recomend the sales team at walters to any of my friends and family."

J. S.
Riverside, California
Sep 19, 2012
"This is my 5th Mercedes from Walter's through Salesman Vincent Troncoso. The treatment my wife and I have received at Walter's has been second to none. We are looking forward to our next Mercedes Benz from Walter's in the future. Purchasing a vehicle from Walter's is effortless and hassle free."

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Mercedes-Benz Concept B-Class Electric Drive Bound for 2012 Paris Auto Show

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Mb

Just the Facts:
  • The Mercedes-Benz Concept B-Class Electric Drive joins a growing number of electric vehicles set for the 2012 Paris Auto Show.
  • A market launch of the EV is planned for 2014.
  • Mercedes-Benz previewed the Concept B-Class Electric Drive on Monday, saying it has a range of 124 miles.

PARIS — The Mercedes-Benz Concept B-Class Electric Drive joins a growing number of electric vehicles set for the 2012 Paris Auto Show.

A market launch of the EV is planned for 2014.

"The particularly family-friendly electric car is almost ready for series production," said Daimler in a statement on its Web site.

No word yet on pricing or whether the new EV is on tap for the U.S.

Mercedes-Benz previewed the Concept B-Class Electric Drive on Monday, saying is equipped with a 100kW electric motor and has a range of 124 miles. It features an "energy space" in the floor of the vehicle for the car's lithium-ion battery, thus providing more cabin space.

Daimler will also debut the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive and the smart Brabus electric drive at the Paris show.

Edmunds says: Daimler is showcasing its commitment to electric vehicles in three dramatically different approaches.

(Source: Inside Line)

 

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Monday, September 17, 2012

Monday Matchup: Can You Match The Car to the Celebrity

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Mb1

This Monday morning, we though there was no better way to kick things of than to play a game.  Can you match the car to the celebrity?  For instance, if you saw a 1950’s 300SL Gullwing, it’s likely you would know that the proud owner is none other than Hugh Hefner.  But what about the rest of these top of the line Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the list, who’s their celebrity driver.  Click the photos of the cars below to find out who the owner is.  Need a hint?  Here is a list of celebrities included; Michael Phelps, Kanye West, Reese Witherspoon, Kim Kardashian, Sylvester Stallone,  Nina Dobrev and Dwyane Wade.

Mb2

Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss

Mb3

Mercedes-Benz SLR Mclaren

Mb4

Mercedes-Benz GL350

Mb5

Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

Mb6

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

Mb7

Mercedes-Benz E350

 

 

Answers:

Kanye West - Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss

Dwayne Wade - Mercedes-Benz SLR Mclaren

Reese Witherspoon - Mercedes-Benz GL350

Sylvester Stallone - Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

Michael Phelps - Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

Nina Dobrev - Mercedes-Benz E350

 

 

(Source: eMercedesBenz)

 

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

 

 

 


 

Thank you Darlene for your wonderful review on Yelp! Congratulations on your C250! We'll see you next time. And great job Vincent for making it happen!

Visit WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!

Darlene P.
Rancho Cucamonga, California
Sep 17, 2012
"I was called in for a lease inspection and they had a promotional sale going on to see if I was interested. Lease not due for another 6 months was told I qualified for a new 2013. My main concern at that point was how much would I have to put down and how much will my payment increase too. Believe it or not Vincent Troncoso made it happen. It was the easiest process I have ever experienced in my car buying experience. My payment didn't increase at all and NO down was required at all. I was in and out in no time. Wayne Molter in finance dept. was great also. Paperwork was ready to sign once I got to finance dept. all I had to do was sign contract and a few questions were asked and answered quickly. This was my second car purchased here and I was totally happy to drive out with a showroom C250 in the most awesome color and good to go style. Thank you Vince and Walter's your the BEST!!!!!"

Visit www.WaltsMB.com to find your Mercedes-Benz today!