iIlusiorama Automotive: spy

Showing posts with label spy. Show all posts

Thursday, August 1, 2013

SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class XL (X 222) conquers the European roads

Mercedes-Benz will develop a consistent luxury range on the basis of the new S-Class. After the SWB (W 222) and LWB (V 222) versions were premiered in May at Hamburg, the Germans will launch a third model - the extralong wheelbase (XLWB) S-Class (X 222), nicknamed "XL".

According to reports, Mercedes-Benz decided to name the new model as the S-Class Grand. Compared to the other body variants, this one will have a total length of near 5.5 meters. To compensate the increased measures, designers had to enlarge the rear doors and also a visible third, triangular window on each side.

The new S-Class Grand is set to arrive next year, in April, and it is directly addressed to the wealthy clients from the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, the Middle East and China. The two passengers that will seat on the rear couch will be the most privileged given the consistent array of comfort features the car will offer them, such as various functions for massage, heating and ventilation, reclining possibilities, a refrigerator, Wi-Fi internet access and more.

It is important to know that the S-Class Grand has nothing in common with the S-Class Pullman that will be unveiled in 2015, will sport a dramatically different exterior design, a 2+2+2 seating structure inside, near six meters in length, more state-of-the-art technology than the standard S-Class models and will compete with the Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Rolls-Royce Ghost.

Moving back to the X 222 models, they will be recognizable through the modified lamella grille, as you can see, identical to that on the upcoming S 500 Plug-In Hybrid (see HERE). Power will come from both the current 4.7-litre 455 hp V8 unit and a new V12 engine, engineered by AMG, and capable of producing around 550 hp - 600 hp. The 12-cylinder S 600 model will feature quad design for the exhaust pipes. When introduced on the market towards the end of 2014, the new S-Class Grand should display a starting price tag of around 150,000 euros in Germany.

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk / Autoevolution / Worldcarfans

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

SPY: 2015 Mercedes-Benz MLC-Class (C 292) test mules snagged at Nurburgring

After some months with no news on the future MLC, spy photographers were able to capture new images of the test mules used to develop the C 292 SUV coupe at Nurburgring. These vehicles display a shorter clearance, a slightly enlarged wheelbase and modified wheel arches to house the new underpinnings until the finished ("frozen") design body comes into force.

In January, we were getting the first look at the forthcoming MLC-Class as the first test vehicles got out. Like then, the M-Class W 166 mules are still used to hide the new chassis of the car. The C 292 model series will be using a slightly different M-Class platform, modified with sharper settings for ensuring better driving dynamics, given the fact the MLC is intended to be a dynamic SUV coupe.

Arriving in early 2015, the new MLC-Class will sport a radical styling, so do not expect an evolution of the bland design seen on the M-Class. Inspiration might also come from the latest Mercedes-Benz concepts, in addition to obeying the latest philosophy. The cabin will have four seats and will boast refined materials, improved functionality and connectivity and a slightly different dashboard than on the W 166 and X 166.

Technology will be at the highest level whether we talk about drive management, assistance, safety or telematics. The latest generation of PRE-SAFE, Crosswind Assist, DIRECT STEER, AIRMATIC suspension, Head Up Display, the DISTRONIC PLUS with Traffic Assist, the COMAND Online with internet access and Car-to-X communication will certainly equip the new MLC. The engine range will be shared with the GL-Class and M-Class, so there will be a choice to suit every taste and driver from the frugal MLC 250 BlueTEC up to the grumpy MLC 63 AMG. The new 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox will be standard equipment for most MLC versions. Insiders suggest a hardcore MLC 65 AMG will also be launched, sporting a thoroughly revised M279 V12 engine rated at 630 hp.

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Viano shows some bold styling for a van

An all new generation Viano is set to arrive next year. The large-sized family van will showcase a striking design, in line with the new Mercedes-Benz philosophy, and more exclusive appointments and technology from the brand's latest passenger vehicles.

The new front end will be dominated by an aggressive attitude. The bigger headlights, with optional LED daytime running lights, are vetically placed, while the radiator grille features a two-slat design and, of course, the large Mercedes star placed in the center.

Inside, you will witness a total revamp with all new dashboard and more quality materials. On the high-end variants, it will be possible to opt for an enhanced infotainment system derived from the latest COMAND Online and some range-topping audio systems.

Powerplants for the new Viano are yet to be announced, but the portfolio will comprise 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder diesel units. Along with the new Viano comes the new Vito as well, but it looks that the current E-CELL variant will be discontinued for the new model series due to lack of demand.