As, perhaps, the most fashion-conscious car company out there, Mercedes-Benz has taken the next step, tapping designer Gareth Pugh to design and style ads for their new sports coupe, the SLS AMG, shot by photographer Nick Knight.
The edgy pair seem to be a good choice for creating a scorching hot campaign for a cooler-than-thou car, and what we've seen proves as much. A model clad in Pugh patent leather armor leggings, corset and shoulder piece sprawls cosmically atop the hood of the whip, whose lines mirror the pristine severity of the outfit.
Look for the pics to drop during New York Fashion Week, then in subsequent issues of Vogue, here and worldwide.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Mercedes to confirm Schumacher return
Michael Schumacher's return to Formula 1 is set to be confirmed later today in a press conference hosted by Mercedes-Benz.
Speculation has been mounting for days that Schumacher has agreed a deal to join Mercedes GP, with reports suggesting that he flew to Britain earlier this week to sign a contract.
Mercedes GP has now confirmed that the identity of its second driver will be announced later this morning - with the team having confirmed several weeks ago that Nico Rosberg will be racing for it in 2010.
Schumacher's F1 return comes after three years on the sidelines, having originally decided to retire from grand prix racing at the end of 2006.
However, last season he came close to a sensational mid-season comeback when he was asked to fill-in for the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari.
Those plans had to be aborted, however, with Schumacher still suffering from a neck injury that he had picked up in a motorcycle crash earlier in the year.
Schumacher was deeply disappointed at the time, and it may have been the excitement he felt about returning to F1 then that helped motivate him to conclude the deal with Mercedes GP.
Speculation has been mounting for days that Schumacher has agreed a deal to join Mercedes GP, with reports suggesting that he flew to Britain earlier this week to sign a contract.
Mercedes GP has now confirmed that the identity of its second driver will be announced later this morning - with the team having confirmed several weeks ago that Nico Rosberg will be racing for it in 2010.
Schumacher's F1 return comes after three years on the sidelines, having originally decided to retire from grand prix racing at the end of 2006.
However, last season he came close to a sensational mid-season comeback when he was asked to fill-in for the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari.
Those plans had to be aborted, however, with Schumacher still suffering from a neck injury that he had picked up in a motorcycle crash earlier in the year.
Schumacher was deeply disappointed at the time, and it may have been the excitement he felt about returning to F1 then that helped motivate him to conclude the deal with Mercedes GP.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Brabus Mercedes Benz GLK V12 (2009)
With a top speed of 322.3 km/h (200.3 mph) the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 has set a new speed record for street-legal SUVs on the Italian high-speed test track on October 19th, 2009. The exclusive special model, powered by a twelve-cylinder twin turbo engine with 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW, celebrates its world debut at the Dubai International Motor Show. Brabus builds this high-performance automobile based on the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class. The Brabus GLK V12 starts at 397,000 Euros MSRP.
The new Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine was implanted in the small engine bay of the GLK with meticulous precision. The engineers and technicians drew upon their experience and know-how gathered from the development and production of the special model Brabus Bullit, based on the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The displacement engine, lubricated exclusively with ARAL Synthetic motor oil, delivers 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, limited in the car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).
To achieve this kind of performance, the engine - based on the latest Mercedes 600 twelve-cylinder engine - was completely re-engineered in the Brabus engine department. Displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore, special pistons and piston rods. In addition the three-valve heads are precision-machined and fitted with special camshafts.
For maximum power yield the Brabus engineers have developed a special twin turbo system with two larger turbochargers and more efficient intercoolers. Free-flow metal catalysts and a fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system custom-tailored to the GLK body let the Brabus SV12 R 750 Biturbo engine breathe more freely.
Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure an optimal symbiosis of power yield, running smoothness and especially eco-friendly exhaust emissions. Special mapping and OnBoard Diagnostics II result in clean emissions that meet the strict requirements of the Euro IV standard. The Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 is also equipped with the latest driving dynamics systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP.
The enormous power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a Brabus limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent.
Together these measures make the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 the fastest street-legal SUV in the world. But it is not just the incredible top speed of 322.3 km/h (211 mph) that are the basis for its fascination. With an acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) of just 4.2 seconds and 12.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) the five-door sets new standards for its kind.
Brabus manages this extraordinary SUV performance with custom modifications to aerodynamics, suspension and brakes.
The front apron of the Brabus WideStar version was developed in the wind tunnel. Its large air dams provide radiators and front brakes with ample cooling air. In combination with a carbon-fiber spoiler lip the front apron also minimizes aerodynamic lift on the front axle - a prerequisite for directional stability beyond 300 km/h (186 mph).
Favorable aerodynamic properties were also a top priority for the design of the Brabus WideStar fender flares on front and rear axle. They add five centimeters (two inches) to the width of the GLK. Custom-tailored rocker panels create a smooth transition between front and rear flares. The rocker panels feature LED lights in their undersides that are activated via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle. These lights illuminate the ground next to the SUV for safe entering and exiting the vehicle in the dark.
In the rear the Brabus roof spoiler reduces aerodynamic lift and thus makes an important contribution to the excellent directional stability of the world's fastest SUV. The rear appearance of the Brabus GLK V12 is further characterized by the Brabus rear apron with its centrally located reflector. Custom-tailored cutouts on the right and left side provide the perfect backdrop for the four characteristically shaped tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system.
The larger wheel houses of the record car provide space for Brabus Monoblock wheels up to king-size wheels with a diameter of 22 inches. The size 10Jx22 wheels come in five different designs: GLK V12 customers can choose from the new Brabus Monoblock G five-spoke forged wheels, three-piece Monoblock VI alloy wheels and one-piece Monoblock E, Q and S wheels. High-performance tires from Brabus technology partners Pirelli and Yokohama can be mounted up to size 285/25 ZR 22.
The Brabus coilover sport suspension was developed specifically for the twelve-cylinder SUV. It is height-adjustable on front and rear axle and features ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound.
To handle the extreme performance the brakes were upgraded as well and trimmed for maximum stopping power and endurance. The Brabus high-performance brakes system features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs.
The interior of the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 was also refined to reflect the exclusive character of this unique SUV: The GLK V12 comes with a Brabus fully leather interior that can be further refined with Alcantara elements if desired. The interior appointments are rounded out with an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 330-km/h (205-mph) scale and stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated Brabus WideStar logo.
Further exclusive interior highlights are wood trim sets or carbon-fiber trim panels for dashboard, doors and center console in any color imaginable. Custom-tailored consoles for the backs of the GLK front seats provide the perfect multimedia experience. They each feature an integrated seven-inch LCD screen and a DVD player.
The new Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine was implanted in the small engine bay of the GLK with meticulous precision. The engineers and technicians drew upon their experience and know-how gathered from the development and production of the special model Brabus Bullit, based on the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The displacement engine, lubricated exclusively with ARAL Synthetic motor oil, delivers 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, limited in the car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).
To achieve this kind of performance, the engine - based on the latest Mercedes 600 twelve-cylinder engine - was completely re-engineered in the Brabus engine department. Displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore, special pistons and piston rods. In addition the three-valve heads are precision-machined and fitted with special camshafts.
For maximum power yield the Brabus engineers have developed a special twin turbo system with two larger turbochargers and more efficient intercoolers. Free-flow metal catalysts and a fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system custom-tailored to the GLK body let the Brabus SV12 R 750 Biturbo engine breathe more freely.
Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure an optimal symbiosis of power yield, running smoothness and especially eco-friendly exhaust emissions. Special mapping and OnBoard Diagnostics II result in clean emissions that meet the strict requirements of the Euro IV standard. The Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 is also equipped with the latest driving dynamics systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP.
The enormous power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a Brabus limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent.
Together these measures make the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 the fastest street-legal SUV in the world. But it is not just the incredible top speed of 322.3 km/h (211 mph) that are the basis for its fascination. With an acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) of just 4.2 seconds and 12.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) the five-door sets new standards for its kind.
Brabus manages this extraordinary SUV performance with custom modifications to aerodynamics, suspension and brakes.
The front apron of the Brabus WideStar version was developed in the wind tunnel. Its large air dams provide radiators and front brakes with ample cooling air. In combination with a carbon-fiber spoiler lip the front apron also minimizes aerodynamic lift on the front axle - a prerequisite for directional stability beyond 300 km/h (186 mph).
Favorable aerodynamic properties were also a top priority for the design of the Brabus WideStar fender flares on front and rear axle. They add five centimeters (two inches) to the width of the GLK. Custom-tailored rocker panels create a smooth transition between front and rear flares. The rocker panels feature LED lights in their undersides that are activated via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle. These lights illuminate the ground next to the SUV for safe entering and exiting the vehicle in the dark.
In the rear the Brabus roof spoiler reduces aerodynamic lift and thus makes an important contribution to the excellent directional stability of the world's fastest SUV. The rear appearance of the Brabus GLK V12 is further characterized by the Brabus rear apron with its centrally located reflector. Custom-tailored cutouts on the right and left side provide the perfect backdrop for the four characteristically shaped tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system.
The larger wheel houses of the record car provide space for Brabus Monoblock wheels up to king-size wheels with a diameter of 22 inches. The size 10Jx22 wheels come in five different designs: GLK V12 customers can choose from the new Brabus Monoblock G five-spoke forged wheels, three-piece Monoblock VI alloy wheels and one-piece Monoblock E, Q and S wheels. High-performance tires from Brabus technology partners Pirelli and Yokohama can be mounted up to size 285/25 ZR 22.
The Brabus coilover sport suspension was developed specifically for the twelve-cylinder SUV. It is height-adjustable on front and rear axle and features ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound.
To handle the extreme performance the brakes were upgraded as well and trimmed for maximum stopping power and endurance. The Brabus high-performance brakes system features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs.
The interior of the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 was also refined to reflect the exclusive character of this unique SUV: The GLK V12 comes with a Brabus fully leather interior that can be further refined with Alcantara elements if desired. The interior appointments are rounded out with an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 330-km/h (205-mph) scale and stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated Brabus WideStar logo.
Further exclusive interior highlights are wood trim sets or carbon-fiber trim panels for dashboard, doors and center console in any color imaginable. Custom-tailored consoles for the backs of the GLK front seats provide the perfect multimedia experience. They each feature an integrated seven-inch LCD screen and a DVD player.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG - First Drive Review
Over at Mercedes-Benz, they take their flagship S-class very seriously. As the halo car for a brand represented by a star, the S had better shine pretty bright in its segment—a segment full of customers who are as diverse as they are discriminating. Thus, the S-class has to be all things to lots of very rich people, which explains why there are no fewer than six S-class models, two of which are warmed over by the wild bunch at the company’s AMG tuning division, which tends to turn everything it touches into a big fat pot of fast.
Case in point: the E63 AMG, an E-class sedan (or wagon, if you ask really nicely) blessed with a snap-to suspension and stuffed with a 518-hp version of AMG’s pride and joy, a mellifluous 6.2-liter V-8 with a truly satanic exhaust note. But whereas the E63 is as raucous as a rabid wolverine, the larger, costlier S63 AMG behaves more like a mildly irritated lioness chasing pesky hyenas off her territory. Of course, with the S63’s 518 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque shooting though fat 20-inch rear wheels, those hyenas don’t stand much of a chance. During our most recent test of the S63 AMG—which is virtually identical under the hood to the 2010 model—the big saloon pegged 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, hit the quarter-mile in 13 flat at 110 mph, and stopped from 70 mph in 159 feet, which is pretty awesome for a 4900-pound cruiser.
Hyper-Composed, not Hyperactive
All is done, however, in the utmost of style, thanks to new LED head- and taillamps, which comprise the most major among the year-to-year upgrades for all 2010 S-class models. The high performance is also delivered in extreme composure, thanks to the Active Body Control suspension, which Mercedes has been honing for years and seems to have gotten just right in the 2010 S63. Some credit must be given to the new variable-ratio steering system that feels both natural and beautifully weighted. Over the road, only the occasional rough impact will remind you that AMG has indeed had a hand in the suspension tuning. But in the corners, the confidence level rises somewhat higher than one would expect given the car’s size.
The S63‘s interior remains as decadent as Hearst Castle, and as with every 2010 S-class, it gets new ambient lighting color choices between “solar” (amber), “neutral” (white), and “polar” (ice blue). The seats are snug, with active bolsters and massage functions that keep the driver and front passenger firmly in place when gettin’ jiggy in the twisties. The enhanced night-vision system now recognizes and highlights people in view (à la the system in the latest BMW 7-series), though our daytime drive allowed us no opportunity to chase down pedestrians to see how they look in infrared.
Also for all 2010 S-classes, Mercedes has further developed its assistance devices, including adaptive high beams, lane-keep assist, collision mitigation, and a crosswind stabilization program, as well as adding a drowsiness detector. During our two-hour, fair-weather California drive in the S63, there didn’t seem to be any crosswinds . . . at least not that we noticed, anyway. So maybe that means it worked? We’ll never know.
Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
BASE PRICE: $134,425
ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 379 cu in, 6208cc
Power (SAE net): 518 bhp @ 6800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 465 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic with manumatic shifting
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 124.6 in Length: 206.5 in
Width: 73.7 in Height: 58.0 in
Curb weight (C/D est): 4900 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 4.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.0 sec
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph
FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 11/18 mpg
You Want Crazy? Look Elsewhere
Of course, pretty much all of what we just highlighted also applies to the competent and handsome S550, which takes about a second longer to reach 60 mph but, with its optional AMG sport package, looks virtually identical. Indeed, without much separating the S63 AMG from the S550—performance-wise or character-wise—this begs the question: is the S63 worth the $134,425 price of entry when the S550 starts some 40 grand less?
That is the same question that we grappled with when we first tried the S63 AMG out two years ago, and one that we still answer with a “not really.” With six versions of virtually the same car, ranging in price from the S400 hybrid’s $88,825 to $202,025 for the top-dog, 604-hp S65 AMG, Mercedes might have let the S63 AMG stand out with some of that “You want crazy? I got your crazy!” demeanor that makes the C63 and E63 so wildly addictive. But, while the S63 and all those other “63”-powered AMG cars share more or less the same heart, that heart certainly doesn’t beat the same way in the S; the S63 AMG remains an S-class first, and an AMG second.
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