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We knew that it was coming, but now we have confirmation – Mercedes-Benz will launch a compact crossover based on the A-Class to compete with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.
The confirmation comes along with the announcement of the start of production for the all-new 2012 A-Class hatchback (pictured here). Mercedes listed the three new front-wheel drive models that will be built at its Rastatt, Germany plant: the A- and B-Classes – both now in production – and the new compact SUV. All three cars share the same Mercedes Front Architecture front-wheel drive platform, which will also be found under the upcoming CLA-Class four-door coupe and a yet-to-be-named Infiniti compact.
Mercedes declined to comment further about the new crossover, but we’ve already reported extensively on what to expect for the new small SUV. Thanks to the brand’s new naming scheme, look for this model to wear the GLA badge – G to denote SUV and A to denote the A-Class range. While primarily front-wheel drive, the GLA will also offer all-wheel drive. Power options will be spread across three gas and three diesel engines rated anywhere from 109 hp to 211 hp. Topping the range will be the high-performance GLA45 that uses a twin-turbocharged 2.2-liter I-4 good for 350 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.
With its 174.8-inch length, expect the GLA to almost mirror the proportions of BMW’s X1 crossover and be slightly roomier than Audi’s Q3. The design is expected to clean and almost-coupe-like with an upright grille with dual crossbars, LED headlights, and taillights with triple-chamber graphics like the 2013 GLK.
No word yet on when the GLA will begin production at the Rastatt plant, but expect to see the baby Benz SUV to go on sale for the 2015 model year.
Source: AutomobileMag
The hood ornament is something that has mostly disappeared in car design. I kind of miss them. I think they add a certain flair to a vehicle.
So I was happy to see that my tester for the week, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E550, had one.
That emblematic Mercedes logo roosted proudly on the hood of the E550, and rightfully so. The E550 is a vehicle that epitomizes Mercedes-Benz.
This five-person sedan combines high-quality luxury with top-notch engineering. No wonder that hood ornament was there, almost like a badge of approval.
And under that hood resides one powerful, well-tuned engine. The 4.6-liter bi-turbo V8 engine cranks out 402 horsepower and 443 lb./ft. of torque. And, as is the case with most German vehicles, the E550 is not shy about letting the torque be felt.
The Mercedes-Benz E550 pulls like a freight train. New for this model year is a standard 4Matic all-wheel drive system that makes sure that freight train stays on the rails. And indeed, the E550 instinctively grips the road as the engine works flawlessly with the 7-speed driver-adaptive transmission.
Also new to this model year for the E-series is electromechanical steering (replacing a hydraulic steering system). All of this engineering is not transparent to the driver, but felt throughout the flawless driving experience.
A meticulous interior does not disappoint either. Black leather seats comfort all passengers while the driver is especially spoiled with extra lumbar support and a massaging seat. Details like the black ash wood trim should not go unnoticed, as it’s touches like this and the high-quality materials that make this Mercedes stand out as a luxury brand.
Subtle nuances highlight the E550’s exterior design. The sedan lacks garish styling, instead opts for simple, clean lines and a stout appearance. The grille is equally understated, and the only real pizzazz is in the rear of the car where dual chrome tailpipes give a hint to its powerful side.
Despite such a big engine, the E550 remains relatively fuel-efficient. EPA estimates are 16 city and 26 highway. In a week’s worth of heavy-footed driving I averaged nearly 21 MPG. Premium fuel is required, and adds to the cost.
The entire E-series is one of Mercedes’ most versatile lines. There are five variants within the E-series, including a powerful station wagon that seats up to seven passengers, a four-passenger coupe, and even a convertible. Two sedan variants reside in the E350 series as well as the E550.
Because of this versatility, prices range from $50,000 for the E350 model to more than $90,000 for the souped-up E63 AMG. My tester had an MSRP of $59,790, but with several upgraded packages, including the sport package (with 18-inch AMG alloy wheels and lowered sport suspension), my tester came in at $75,655.
The Mercedes-Benz E-series is all things to all people looking for luxury, power and performance.
Source: Springfield News-Sun
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