Mercedes-Benz is launching a visually stunning, celebrity-studded storytelling campaign to spotlight its SUV family, which is being completely revamped this year and expanded to include six models. The campaign is to accompany the market launch of the new GLE, GLE Coupé and GLC vehicles. At the same time the 360° campaign positions Mercedes-Benz as the brand with the broadest selection of SUVs in the competitive environment. The campaign aims to accentuate this under the overriding claim "At home in every terrain". Each vehicle is therefore shown as part of the family group. While different landscapes in the print motifs emphasise the character of the different models, the TV ad shows the world of each SUV in conjunction with a celebrity ambassador. These are professional surfer Garrett McNamara, top model Petra Němcová, Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, show jumper Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and adventurer Mike Horn.

"We are consciously adopting a new approach for the SUV campaign. Instead of advertising individual vehicles separately, we are presenting the entire family of Mercedes off-roaders. We will be telling exciting stories and creating emotional visual worlds which show each vehicle in its perfect environment – always flanked by the other family members. At the same time the campaign will familiarise people with our new SUV nomenclature," explains Dr Jens Thiemer, Vice President Marketing Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars. "The overall campaign conveys the characteristics that distinguish our SUVs: effortless superiority, confidence and poise."

TV ad: five celebrities and five SUVs in their element

The TV ad tells how familiar celebrities master different challenges, accompanied by their SUV: professional surfer Garrett McNamara in the GLA, Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton in the GLE Coupé, show jumper Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum in the GLE, top model Petra Němcová in the GLC and adventurer Mike Horn in the G-Class. End of the year the GLS will also get a prominent counterpart. Each celebrity is shown pursuing his or her own passion – for example Garrett McNamara is seen big wave surfing and Petra Němcová at a fashion shoot. Each will be supported by their vehicle, which also appears very much at home in this environment. The ad ends with the G-Class, the original Mercedes-Benz cross-country vehicle. In an impressive closing shot all of the SUV models are lined up alongside the G-Class, emphasising the fact that they carry the same genes as the legendary cross-country pioneer. The TV ad is available in various lengths, ranging from ten to 60 seconds and, depending on market requirements, can be used with a different line-up. In Germany the TV ad will be broadcast from 23 August 2015.

Web special: off-road with the brand ambassadors

The personal stories that the TV ads tell are to be continued and expanded in a web special, available at https://www.mercedes-benz.com/suv. Users select their favourite brand ambassador/SUV team. They are then shown more detailed pages which provide an insight into the fascinating life story of this particular celebrity. In video interviews they get to know Lewis Hamilton, Mike Horn or Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and their professions better and learn what spurs them on. At the same time the user discovers detailed highlights of the relevant Mercedes-Benz SUV. They learn why it is the ideal vehicle for the brand ambassador's lifestyle and passion. Each portrait ends with the celebrity giving their personal thoughts about the future.

Print ads: positioning of the vehicles against different landscapes

The visual concept of the print motifs focuses on different landscape images to showcase the various SUV models. Architecture and environment plus distinctive colour palettes emphasise the character of each vehicle. For example the new GLE is staged on fine gravel by a mountain pass. The sun's rays bathe the green of the landscape in a warm light. The horizon sinks away into the distance below, providing an unobstructed view of a wide expanse of lake. By way of contrast, the new GLC appears in an urban environment. To emphasise the vehicle's off-road capability, the city is made to resemble off-road terrain. For example the vehicle is parked at the highest point of an urban ravine or on the slopes of a steep road - always surrounded by contemporary architecture. Each model is shown in a different natural or urban setting in keeping with the specified target group. The print campaign will appear in newspapers and magazines across Germany between end of August and November.

Mercedes-Benz's creative agency Jung von Matt is responsible for designing and realising the storytelling campaign.

Web special films:

Mike Horn and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YYt0JCq19c

Garrett McNamara and the Mercedes-Benz GLA:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OSBpK660Bk

Petra Němcová and the Mercedes-Benz GLC:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPStC-nrdI0

Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and the Mercedes-Benz GLE:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlPxo8F8qgk

Lewis Hamilton and the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InEe50cZPRQ

TV ad:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ax45-TDVbM




































Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new GLC is in top form. Under all operating conditions the new mid‑size SUV excels with the outstanding safety that is a hallmark of the brand, the latest assistance systems and energy efficiency. Fuel consumption has been cut by up to 19 percent compared with the previous model. At the same time, the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension that is without parallel in this segment, the extended range of DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic transmission modes and the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive increase not only the ride comfort, but also the vehicle's sporty agility - whatever surface it is driving on.

"Our new GLC represents a further, systematic step in the implementation of our successful SUV philosophy. It combines the ultimate in driving comfort with a sporty touch, impresses on the road and – more than ever – off it as well, and appeals to the eye with the new design and equipment line," says Thomas Weber, member of the Management Board of Daimler AG and responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

The design philosophy behind the new GLC essentially favours sensual purity and modern aesthetics over the classic off-road look. The dynamic design exudes emotional appeal while also employing purist forms. Surfaces embodying a degree of tension and precise lines cite the clear design line followed by all state-of-the-art SUVs from Mercedes-Benz. The GLC only represents a departure from its progenitor – the G-Class – in terms of appearance, however. On a technical level it sets new benchmarks in all disciplines - the mid-size SUV's off-road capabilities remain as outstanding as ever.

The paradigm shift in the area of design affects not only the outside appearance. The model change also signals a marked upgrade for the interior. The new design idiom combines sensual purity with dynamic sportiness and embodies a new interpretation of modern luxury. In addition, a considerably more spacious interior awaits the occupants and their luggage.

A key focus of the totally new interior design is the dashboard and the centre console with its flowing lines. Here a large, one-piece console panel performs an elegant sweep below the semi-integrated media display from the centre air vents to the armrest. These clear-cut lines create a feeling of open space and establish a purist, modern vibe. The newly developed touchpad in the handrest over the rotary pushbutton nestles ergonomically in the centre console.

More space, more fun, more comfort

In comparison to its predecessor, the new model is substantially more spacious for front and rear occupants alike. The increase in the length and width of the GLC by 120 millimetres and 50 millimetres respectively in comparison with the previous model has been entirely invested in the most important comfort and safety parameters. This is further enhanced by more intelligent packaging, and in some areas the interior dimensions have increased more than the exterior dimensions:

- elbow and shoulder width +57 and +54 mm
- kneeroom in the rear +36 mm
- foot entry clearance in the rear +34 mm
- load compartment length +40 mm, min. load compartment width +150 mm
- load capacity +80 litres
- four-link front suspension +27 mm, greater ride comfort thanks to
- front module +18 mm, optimised perdestrian protection and more favourable comprehensive insurance category

Energy efficiency: crucial parameters

Mercedes-Benz has applied an extensive package of measures to enhance the GLC's energy efficiency and performance substantially. Modified or new drive systems, outstanding aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight design are the primary factors behind the vehicle's fuel efficiency. The diesel and petrol models boast significant reductions of up to 19 percent in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in comparison to the previous model, while at the same time improving performance with the same power output. The GLC 250 d 4MATIC now only consumes 5.0 - 5.5 l/100 km (129 - 143 g CO2/km). For the first time in this segment, with the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Mercedes-Benz is additionally offering a plug-in hybrid which combines the merits of agile all-wheel drive with the lowest fuel consumption and emissions: The mid-size SUV emits only 60 g of CO2 per km* and attains a top speed of 235 km/h with a best-in-class system output of 235 kW (320 hp). The semi-electric vehicle can cover up to 34* km in zero-emission all-electric mode, accelerating to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds if needed, courtesy of the boost function. * Provisional figures

Energy efficiency: crucial parameters

The design transition has also bestowed superlative aerodynamics on the new GLC. With a Cd value of 0.31 (GLK 0.34) and total aerodynamic drag of 0.794 (GLK 0.87), it sets a clear benchmark in this segment. Apart from the vehicle's substantially more aerodynamically efficient basic shape, this exceptional aerodynamic performance also results from a host of solutions relating to points of detail, such as sealing of the radiator and headlamp surrounds, a radiator shutter, the extended roof spoiler or the optimised underbody panelling.

Despite markedly larger outer dimensions, a longer wheelbase and a more extensive scope of equipment, the vehicle's weight has been cut by 80 kilograms. The main contributory factor to this reduction is the totally new body, which is 50 kilograms lighter than the smaller GLK counterpart, thanks to an intelligent mix of materials comprising aluminium and high- to ultra-high-strength steels. Aluminium components additionally reduce the weight of the chassis, which also benefits ride comfort due to the attendant reduction in unsprung masses. The optional AIR BODY CONTROL full-support multi-chamber air suspension features spring elements in lightweight yet robust glass-fibre-reinforced plastic, which reduce the system weight in comparison to conventional air suspensions. The use of the new compact transfer case as an add-on module and the 9G-TRONIC with its magnesium transmission housing results in weight reduction of 12 kg in comparison to the previous model.

AIR BODY CONTROL: innovative air travel

The new GLC features the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with steel springs and a variable damping system as standard. The GLC is the sole model in this market segment to offer the option of fitting the chassis with a full-support multi-chamber air suspension system and electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping. The AIR BODY CONTROL suspension combines excellent driving stability and sporty agility with optimum comfort and outstanding off-road capabilities. Specific characteristics are pre-selected according to the settings of the DYNAMIC SELECT driving dynamics program. In Sport mode the GLC's occupants feel as if they are sitting in a sports car with a high level of lateral dynamics due to the tauter connection of the chassis, which is additionally lowered by 15 millimetres. Comfort mode offers the very opposite ride experience, focussing on particularly comfortable running with soft connection of the chassis. To ensure maximum driving safety in this mode, too, the spring and damper forces adapt within 60 milliseconds in response to sudden evasive manoeuvres, for example.

When the GLC is equipped with the Off-Road Engineering package, AIR BODY CONTROL optimises the wheels' surface contact, ensuring good progress in off‑road terrain, by raising the driving level by up to 50 mm and providing for particularly soft basic tuning. Further benefits of the system include reduced rolling during cornering, automatic level control and lowering of the load compartment sill for convenient loading and unloading.

Powertrain: agility, dynamism and comfort à la carte

The new GLC offers the DYNAMIC SELECT handling control system with five driving programs as standard. In addition to the ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL settings which are familiar from other models, the new all-rounder can also be equipped with the Off-Road Engineering package. This comprises up to five programs. Four off-road specific driving modes apart from "Slippery" are completely new: Offroad, Incline, Rocking with a ground clearance of up to 227 millimetres in conjunction with AIR BODY CONTROL and a trailer. The latter facilitates moving off with an attached trailer on wet grass, for example. Like the DYNAMIC SELECT modes, all the off-road driving modes are individually depicted on the central media display.

The nine-stage 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission also comes as standard for the GLC 220 d 4MATIC, GLC 250 d 4MATIC and GLC 250 4MATIC. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control, the automatic transmission with a torque converter boasts great agility and responsiveness or poised composure. As with all hybrid models from Mercedes-Benz, the GLC 350 e 4MATIC is equipped with the latest version of 7G-TRONIC PLUS, which has been specifically optimised in line with the needs of hybrid applications and also combines high driving dynamics with excellent drive comfort and superior efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive: guardian angels on board

Almost all of the driver assistance systems which are familiar from the C, E and S‑Class are available for the new GLC. As part of the Intelligent Drive concept, these systems combine data from various sensor technologies to enhance comfort and safety substantially. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST are on board as standard. The Driving Assistance package Plus provides an even more comprehensive scope of active safety features, comprising DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE® PLUS. The latter feature also offers added protection in the event of a rear-end collision. By means of a radar sensor in the rear bumper PRE-SAFE® PLUS identifies impending rear-end collisions, alerts the traffic behind by operating the hazard warning lights at a particularly eye-catching flashing frequency, activates preventive occupant protection measures and brakes the vehicle to a standstill after a rear-end collision to reduce the levels of stress acting on the occupants. Greater safety for all road users is provided by Traffic Sign Assist with its wrong-way warning function, which in addition to speed limits can also alert the driver to no-overtaking and no-entry signs. On vehicles equipped with the LED Intelligent Light System, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows main beam to be left on permanently by masking out the area of the main-beam light cone which is occupied by other vehicles. Simpler handling and a clearer view when manoeuvring in tight spaces or driving in dense urban traffic are ensured by the 360° camera, which is able to show the vehicle and its surroundings from different perspectives, and by Active Parking Assist, which manoeuvres the vehicle fully automatically into detected parallel and end-on parking spaces.

The improved ergonomics and simpler controls in the GLC also help to enhance safety. All important vehicle functions and settings can be carried out intuitively using the central rotary pushbutton or the touchpad. The required settings or information are visualised in the large, semi-integrated colour media display in the centre of the dashboard. Direct selection buttons next to the light switch module to the left of the steering wheel additionally enable direct activation of the most important assistance systems.

Also new is the Head-up Display (HUD). The HUD displays important information directly in the driver's field of vision on the front windscreen, thus providing for clear legibility and less distraction from the road ahead. The system provides information on speed, posted speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from the DISTRONIC system.

Airbag & co.: cushioning protection for the occupants

In keeping with the Mercedes-Benz tradition, the body forms the foundation for exemplary crash safety. A high-strength safety passenger compartment forms the core of this concept. It is surrounded by specifically designed and field-tested deformation zones, which ensure maximum safety for the occupants by virtue of optimised force paths and a combination of die-cast aluminium components and ultra-high-strength materials.

In addition to 3-point safety belts with pyrotechnical and reversible belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and those in the outer rear seats, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. These include the combined thorax/pelvis sidebags for driver and front passenger and a newly developed windowbag extending over both seat rows, the optional sidebags for the outer rear seats and a driver kneebag.





Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz Cars kicks off in 2015 with record sales across all three main automotive brands of the company - Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and smart. The division sold 125,865 in the first month of the year. The sales figures did a particularly good performance in the USA, China and Germany, where the combined growth reached almost 10%. The top performers were the new C-Class in its two declinations, the luxury limousine S-Class, as well as the compact lineup consisting of the A-, B-, CLA- and GLA-Class. The newly revamped smart portfolio, which got its market launch back in November 2014, posted an impressive boost of near 30% year-to-date (YTD), thus paving the way to a strong performance in the future for the city car brand of Mercedes-Benz Cars. For more information, check out the press release posted below.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

- Best start of the year in the company's history for Mercedes-Benz with 125,865 vehicles sold in January (+13.6%)

- Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales: "We have started the 'year of the SUVs' at Mercedes-Benz with a sales increase of 37% in this segment."

- Increase of unit sales in all core markets, record sales in the two biggest markets USA (+8.9%) and China (+14.5%), strong growth in Germany (+11.4%)

- Over 50% more deliveries of C-Class Sedans and Estates than in the same month of the previous year

- smart increases unit sales with new models by nearly 30% compared to the previous year’s month; growth of over 60% in Germany.

Stuttgart, Germany, Feb 06, 2015 – Mercedes-Benz follows up on the success of the previous year and has started 2015 with record sales of 125,865 vehicles. Thus, 13.6% more Mercedes-Benz models were sold than in the same month of the previous year. In January, smart also posted a solid sales growth of 29.9%.

"We have started the 'year of the SUVs' at Mercedes-Benz with a sales increase of 37% in this segment", said Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales. "In 2015 we will continue last year’s momentum with new products across all segments: in the high-end with the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 and in the microcar-segment with the new smart fortwo and smart forfour, which are highly popular among our customers. January unit sales of the new smart models increased by nearly 30% in comparison to the previous year’s month."

The European market continues to develop positively for Mercedes-Benz with a 14.5% sales increase to 47,693 vehicles. Particularly high growth rates were achieved in the UK (+20.4%), Italy (+16.3%), Spain (+47.4%) and France (+22.1%). In the toughly competitive German market, 11.4% more vehicles were sold than in the same month of the previous year (15,503 units), and additional market shares were gained. Mercedes-Benz is thus expanding its market leadership among the premium manufacturers in the domestic market.

In the NAFTA region, a total of 27,621 models were sold (+9.6%) – more than ever before. With sales of 24,619 vehicles, a sales record was achieved in the USA (+8.9%). A new record was also posted in Canada with a sales increase of 8.2%.

The Asia-Pacific region achieved a sales record of 46,269 vehicles (+16.4%), of which 28,080 Mercedes-Benz models were delivered to customers in China (+14.5%). A sales record was posted not only in China but also in Japan, where Mercedes-Benz holds the market leadship among the premium manufacturers.

In contrast to the general market forecast, Mercedes-Benz unit sales in Russia were up by 16.2% in January. However, it remains to be seen how the difficult economic situation will affect Mercedes-Benz sales in Russia during the rest of the year.

The compact cars of Mercedes-Benz continue to enjoy great popularity, which enabled a 24% sales increase in January. A total of 33,719 customers received their new A-, B-, CLA- and GLA-Class vehicles in January. The CLA Shooting Brake, which is the fifth member of the compact car family, will celebrate its market launch in March.

The C-Class Sedan and Estate were particularly successful in January. Sales of the two models are over 50% higher than in the same month of the previous year. Overall, some 31,959 C-Class Sedans and Estates were handed over to customers.

At the beginning of the year, the S-Class did not only win the hearts of "auto, motor und sport" readers, who voted the model as the best car in the luxury class. Unit sales of the best-selling luxury automobile in the world climbed by 9.2% to a new record high of 8,111 units.

The SUV boom has led to a 37% sales growth in this segment. The GLK- as well as the GL- and G-Class posted new sales records in January.

The new smart models launched in November 2014 are enjoying an excellent reception from customers. In January, unit sales increased to 8,457 smart fortwo and forfour models, which marks a 29.9% increase compared to the previous year’s month. Sales on the German domestic market grew by more than 60%.

Overview of sales by Mercedes-Benz Cars


Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

In terms of both design and technology, the second generation of the B-Class car has heralded a new compact class era at Mercedes-Benz. More than 350,000 of the sports tourer have been sold since the market launch in late 2011. Now the best-seller from Mercedes-Benz has undergone a major facelift including exterior and interior enhancements along with attractive, redefined design and equipment lines.

The breadth of choice is unique in this segment: five economical diesel models with consumption statistics ranging from 3.6 to 5.0 l/100 km, four efficient petrol engines at between 5.4 and 6.6 l/100 km, alternative drive systems (B 200 Natural Gas Drive and B-Class Electric Drive), as well as optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive. What is more, with a Cd value of less than 0.25 the sports tourer continues to be the role model for its class. Sales of the new B-Class commence on 12 September, with the world première taking place during the Paris Motor Show (4 to 19 October). The revamped models will be making their way to dealerships from 29 November 2014. Prices start from 27,102.25 euros for the B 180.

"As the first member of a completely new generation of compact class, for us the B-Class paved the way for great success in this vehicle segment. The pioneer is now in better shape than ever," says Ola Källenius, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales. "The B-Class is the perfect (family) car for anyone who attaches importance to practicality, comfort and safety, but at the same time doesn't want to miss out on sportiness or driving dynamics."

More light: LED High Performance headlamps now available

The easiest way to recognise a facelifted B-Class with a petrol or diesel engine is from the front: a new bumper, wide radiator trim with two louvres and now integral daytime running lamps in the headlamps give the vehicle a more organic and dynamic appearance. The rear bumper has also been modified and now features a contoured covering and an additional chrome trim strip. LED High Performance headlamps create a more striking look, both day and night (optional extra, not available for the B-Class Electric Drive or Natural Gas Drive). These increase safety at night due to their wide beam pattern and light of a colour similar to daylight. Bicolour tail lamps featuring LED technology provide emphasis and make the vehicle more visible.

A high-grade, functional interior underscores the B-Class's premium quality claim. The facelift gives the vehicle a more exclusive, up-to-date feel and boosts the scope for individualisation. Mercedes-Benz has enhanced a number of high-quality details in the B-Class such as the large, free-standing head unit display, which is now larger, with a diagonal of up to 20.3 cm (8 inches), and the stylish dial layout for the instrument cluster. There is a choice of 12 colours for the ambient lighting, allowing different moods to be created.

Mercedes-Benz has also revised the model range and aligned the logic to the other compact models. There are three new design and equipment lines: Style, Urban and AMG Line. Each features a number of distinctive exterior and interior details. The Night, Exclusive and AMG Exclusive packages build on these and provide more options for individualisation.

KEYLESS-GO is new as an optional extra. This access and drive authorisation system with KEYLESS-GO starting function allows the vehicle to be opened, started and locked simply by carrying the electronic key with you.

Safety: autonomous partial braking if the risk of a collision is detected

When it made its début, the B-Class redefined the standard of safety in the compact class with a variety of new driving assistance systems, some of them included as standard equipment. These functions have now been enhanced and new assistance systems added to give the driver more support. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS extends the functionality of COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with autonomous partial braking to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. The standard ATTENTION ASSIST feature has also been upgraded: operating within an extended speed range (60 - 200 km/h), this now uses a five-stage bar display to visualise the driver's current attention level.

"Mercedes connect me" links the B-Class to its environment

Next-generation telematics offer more intuitive operation; functions are more accessible due to animated menus and visual representations on a larger display in the head unit.

"Mercedes connect me" links the B-Class to its environment. Basic Mercedes connect me services can be used with the standard communications module.

The available services include, among others, accident recovery, as well as service maintenance and incident management. In an accident, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system automatically connects the occupants with the Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call Centre and sends the position and condition of the vehicle to the rescue operations centre. A rescue vehicle can then be dispatched immediately. The system works automatically but can also be triggered manually.

The special Remote Online equipment enables customers to connect with their vehicle anywhere and at any time via the URL "connect.mercedes.me" and to query by smartphone the fill level of their fuel tank, for example.

Mercedes connect me services are even more extensive for the B-Class Electric Drive: Via "connect.mercedes.me". The current charging level of the lithium-ion battery and current vehicle range can be queried comfortably from a distance. The range of Mercedes connect me services is rounded off by the ability (depending on the temperature) to preheat or precool the vehicle ready for a specified departure time.

COMAND Online customers are also able to receive real-time traffic information courtesy of Live Traffic Information.

A wide spectrum: petrol and diesel engines, all-wheel drive and alternative drive systems

In terms of efficiency, the new B-Class continues to set benchmarks with the best Cd value in its segment. The choice of efficient engines is extensive – four diesel engines, four petrol engines and two models with alternative drive systems. Also available are the B 180 and B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Editions.

Thanks to the new B 200 CDI 4MATIC, the pleasure of all-wheel drive and safety now start at around 130 g CO2/km instead of over 150 g CO2/km (B 220 4MATIC) as previously. In total there are now four models with all-wheel drive for improved traction, high driving stability and safe handling.

The B 200 Natural Gas Drive and the B-Class Electric Drive coming soon (sales release: 3 November) join the portfolio as two models with alternative drive systems. Both use the B-Class's modular ENERGY SPACE body concept: The underbody houses one large and two smaller gas tanks and a 14-litre petrol tank (B 200 Natural Gas Drive) or the lithium-ion battery (B-Class Electric Drive). Due to this intelligent packaging method, the five-seater model has been able to retain the generously proportioned luggage compartment for which it is known.

The model range: new product logic with three lines

As part of the facelift, Mercedes-Benz has revised the B-Class's model range and brought the model breakdown into line with the other compact models. There are three new design and equipment lines: Style, Urban and AMG Line. Each features plenty of distinctive exterior and interior details. The Night, Exclusive and AMG Exclusive packages build on these and provide more options for individualisation. New KEYLESS-GO functions simplify operation.

The Style equipment line underlines the B-Class's stylish appearance. Exterior characteristics include light-alloy wheels in an expressive design, radiator trim with two louvres painted in iridium silver with chrome inserts, and shoulderline trim strips in chrome. For the stylish interior there are seats with Vianen upholstery fabric, trim with a line pattern, and selected elements in silver chrome such as the moulding on the multifunction steering wheel, highlights on the gear lever, and the switches on the top control panel. Useful details like a double cup holder on the centre console and a 12V socket in the rear round off the high-quality feel.

The Urban equipment line emphasises the vehicle's sportiness both inside and out. The radiator trim with two louvres painted in iridium silver and chrome inserts, 43.2 cm (17-inch) 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, and a twin-pipe exhaust system integrated into the bumper with chrome-look tailpipe trim create a dynamic impression. In the interior the sporty character is on display with seats featuring upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/Montfoort fabric and a leather multifunction steering wheel with perforated grip area. Details like contrasting topstitching, silver chrome highlights and sail pattern trim round off the high-quality feel.

The AMG Line augments the vehicle's sportiness and exclusivity. Powerful AMG bodystyling ensures a dynamic appearance along with the radiator trim, which has two louvres painted in iridium silver and chrome inserts, and the two-pipe exhaust system integrated into the bumper with chrome look tailpipe trim. A lowered comfort suspension with Sports Direct-Steer system improves handling and boosts driving enjoyment. 45.7 cm (18-inch) 5-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, perforated brake discs at the front, and brake callipers at the front with Mercedes-Benz lettering complete the striking exterior. Seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre and the multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section, as well as a gear lever with perforated leather, add stylishly sporty elements in the interior. This equipment line also includes red contrasting topstitching on the door armrests, centre console, seats, and gear lever. Brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs are another highlight.

The Night package allows the exterior to be individualised further. It includes selected design elements in black. The radiator trim sports two high-gloss black louvres and chrome inserts. The 45.7 cm (18-inch) high-sheen light-alloy wheels, exterior mirror housing, and shoulderline trim strips also come in black. Dark-tinted glass from the B-pillar to the rear protects against prying eyes and simultaneously emphasises the sporty character.

Comfort, quality, and design are hallmarks of the Exclusive package. Highlights include heated front seats with 4-way lumbar support that, like the multifunction steering wheel and gear lever, are covered with high-quality leather. The instrument panel and door centre panel are trimmed with matching ARTICO man-made leather. Leather seats are available in the following expressive colours: cranberry red, hazelnut brown and black. Silver chrome design elements also help to create an exclusive ambience. Among the many other practical details are infrared convenience closing and a 12V socket in the rear.

Building on the AMG Line, the AMG Exclusive package offers even more exclusivity, individuality and sportiness. Features include heated seats with 4-way lumbar support where black RED CUT leather upholstery with red contrasting topstitching creates striking highlights. To match them, the instrument panel and door centre panels, as well as the armrests in the doors, are trimmed with ARTICO man-made leather and have red contrasting topstitching. The leather multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and perforated grip area and the leather gearshift lever emphasise the sporty character.

All diesel models at a glance:


All petrol models at a glance:


All models with alternative drive systems at a glance:
















































Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.