All models in the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class range offer excellent comfort and dynamic handling as standard. Besides the steel suspension with selective damping, there are also some new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems available, which are designed to make driving the new premium SUV an even more effortlessly superior experience. These include the AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS), the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation and the ON&OFFROAD package with six driving modes. A comprehensive package of measures has also been included to ensure that the M-Class is at the forefront of its segment for acoustic and vibration comfort too.

The third-generation M-Class sets a new benchmark in the SUV segment.In the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, the 3.0-litre V6 of the previous model is replaced by the thrifty four-cylinder EU6-standard unit already familiar from, for instance, the S-Class. The ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC features an extensively revamped 3.0-litre V6, which also betters the EU6 standard and offers far better performance coupled with a substantial reduction in fuel consumption.

The 2.2-litre CDI engine turns the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC into the most economical SUV in its class. With NEDC fuel consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, the model even outperforms any hybrid model currently offered by the competition. Despite the low fuel consumption figures, this Mercedes-Benz M-Class model boasts maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1600 rpm and rated output of 150 kW (204 hp) with outstanding performance: the M-Class accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds before going on to a top speed of 210 km/h.

The V6 diesel engine in the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC guarantees effortlessly superior traction. It develops 190 kW (258 hp) and impressive torque of 620 Nm. Despite its extraordinary performance this version boasts combined NEDC fuel consumption of 6.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. The highly efficient V6 diesel unit delivers effortlessly superior performance: the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds before moving on to a top speed of 224 km/h. While delivering performance on a par with the predecessor model, the ML 450 CDI 4MATIC with V8 diesel engine, the new unit, however, boasts 36 percent lower fuel consumption.

The ultra-modern 3.5-litre V6 unit has been designed as a naturally aspirated engine. As a major distinction from the preceding engine in the ML 350 4MATIC, the V-angle between the cylinder banks has been reduced from 90 degrees to 60 degrees. This has enabled the balancer shaft compensating primary vibrations to be omitted. As a result the driver notices an outstanding level of comfort. The design highlights of the 3.5-litre V6 include a completely new air intake and exhaust system in conjunction with a variable resonance intake manifold and optimised inflow and outflow. Result: with the same displacement, the output compared with the previous 200 kW (272 hp) model is increased by 12.5 percent to 225 kW (306 hp), while maximum torque has increased by 5.7 percent to 370 Nm (predecessor: 350 Nm) and now is available over a broader engine speed range from 3500 to 5250 rpm. In parallel with this substantial increase in power, Mercedes engineers have achieved an equally impressive reduction in fuel consumption. The predecessor’s NEDC fuel consumption has been reduced by 25 percent. The new V6 petrol engine in the ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY consumes 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres, making it the most economical petrol model in its class. The model combines excellent consumption figures with dynamic performance, accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, and with a top speed of 240 km/h.

PIECHA Design has unveiled a new tuning programme for the new Mercedes-Benz SLK R172. And thus, they present the “Accurian RS”, a sporty, elegant interpretation of the Stuttgart-based roadster. Piecha gives the new, more defined front of the SLK an Accurian RS front spoiler lip with lateral grids. The lip can be combined with a cover, which turns the grid into a three-part piece and further emphasises the LED daytime running lights on the right and left side. For a quieter airflow around the lateral body of the new SLK, PIECHA Design installed a set of Accurian RS side skirt covers. The covers are bonded easily and positively on the original side skirts. Furthermore, the opposed installed grids provide for a more prominent design. For all R172 models, no matter whether with the side skirts, the AMG or also the Accurian RS sills, PIECHA Design offers per side four LED recessed spotlights each.

The rear end has a considerable sportier appearance thanks to the Accurian RS rear diffuser, which is available in a small and large version. The diffusor, which runs up to the subfloor, not only provides for additional output at the rear axle, but also frames the QUADRO 4-tube mufflers in perfection. In both versions, the serial rear apron has to be slightly reworked. Moreover, a diffusor application is available for the AMG styling rear apron. The Accurian RS aerodynamic programme is completed by a classical rear spoiler lip, which has a simple adhesive fixation. Another world premiere are the PIECHA MP1 monobloc high-tech rims, which perfectly match the modern and sporty, elegant design language of the Accurian RS with its newly interpreted turbine design. In the front in 8.5×19 ET25 with 225/35 R19 and in the back in optional 9.5 or 10.5×19 with 255 or 275/30 R19, the MP1 monobloc wheel provides in connection with 25 mm lowering springs for a perfect wedge shape.

The introduction of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with the “Controlled Efficiency” mode as standard along with a new power steering pump helps to reduce the combined NEDC fuel consumption by about ten percent to 12.0 l/100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km). The output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine is unchanged at 336 kW (457 hp) and can be increased to a maximum of 358 kW (487 hp) with the optional AMG Performance package. Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimise the AMG sports suspension.

The new bonnet with its modified powerdomes is now made of aluminium. New clear-lens headlamps emphasise the car’s distinctive, self-confident presence, especially when the optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) is also specified. The wide front wings with the “6.3 AMG” legend and the new 5 twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels which are painted in titanium grey and have a high-sheen finish dominate the side view. Good contact with the road is provided by the wide 235/40 R 18 and 255/35 R 18 tyres at front and rear respectively.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG features eleven new driving assistance systems which are already established in the S-Class flagship range and the trend-setting CLS. These assistance systems use the latest radar, camera and sensor technology and are designed to combat common causes of accidents, such as insufficient distance to the vehicle ahead, drowsiness and darkness. They raise the safety standard of the C-Class to a new level by warning the driver of a hazard, or, if necessary, taking active corrective measures.

The new C63 AMG is available as a Saloon and as an Estate; the market launch starts in July 2011. All prices at a glance (incl. 19 % VAT): Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Saloon:€ 71,340.50, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate:€ 73,899.00, AMG Performance package:€ 7166.20 / € 6471.70 Euro (Saloon / Estate)

The Mercedes-Benz B55 Concept comes with a B200 CDI and then fitted it with a 5.5 liter E500 engine (the M273) that produces 383 PS (378 bhp / 282 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. They coupled the power plant to Mercedes-Benz’s 7-speed G-Tronic transmission. The B55 does the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in just 5.2 seconds.

For the brakes the Mercedes-Benz B55 Concept also comes with perforated and internally ventilated disc brakes in size 345 x 34 mm were implanted at the front, with perforated and internally ventilated disc brakes in size 300 x 30 mm at the rear. The system was combined with striking 8.5 x 18 AMG sports wheels in a five-spoke design shod with 235/40 ZR 18 Y tyres at the front and 9 x 18 wheels with 255/35 ZR 18 Y tyres at the rear. The maximum steering angle at the front axle was limited to suit. The team had recourse to a typical item from the tuner’s toolbox for the suspension, installing a coil-over suspension by K&W.

Exclusive to Canada, and limited to just 30 units, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Affalterbach Edition was designed in the AMG Performance Centre in Affalterbach, Germany. The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Affalterbach Edition is finished in highly distinctive designo MAGNO Allanite Grey paintwork, and its unique appearance is further distinguished by high-performance AMG brakes with red calipers, 19″ AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels in black, carbon-fibre mirror housings and a rear lip spoiler.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Affalterbach Edition is powered by the hand-built, 6.2 L V8 engine that offers 481 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, which propels it from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Affalterbach Edition boasts an extensive list of standard equipment and also features each element from the C63 AMG Premium Package, which includes a rear view camera, PARKTRONIC, COMAND APS with HDD Navigation and DVD Changer, multi-media interface, rear window sunshade, harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround sound system and KEYLESS-GO. In addition, the Affalterbach Edition is equipped with the AMG Performance Package, which adds 30 additional horsepower, removes the speed limiter and adds a limited-slip differential.

Available in spring 2011, the Mercedes-Benz C63 Affalterbach Edition will be priced from $81,500.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK: in just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupe with a “fixed” roof at the touch of a button – and vice versa: The standard version is a roof painted in the vehicle color. Optionally available is a panorama vario-roof with dark-tinted glass. The third option is a world premiere – the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof switches to light or dark at the press of a button. In light mode it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up from the sun’s rays. In other words: a comfortable atmosphere at the touch of a button.

There will be two models of the 2012 SLK available in its first year, both powered by direct-injection engines. The completely redesigned V6 engine in the SLK350 develops 302 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph). Its fuel Later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimeters.

The SLK250 is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 27 mpg (combined). From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.

The new SLK can be ordered from 17 January 2011. The prices including VAT are as follows: SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY: 38,675 euros, SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY: 44,256.10 euros, and SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: 52,300.50 euros.

The 2012 SLK-Class makes its U.S. showroom debut in summer 2011.

An improvement of up to 31 per cent has been achieved in fuel consumption and all Mercedes-Benz C-Class launch models will feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. All the engine variants are now classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally compatible in their use of fuel. In future all automatic versions will feature the further-developed 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the overall ratio of all new powertrain variants has been optimised for better fuel economy.

All the petrol engines in the model series have direct injection. One of the highlights is the introduction of the new V6 petrol engine with its innovative and highly efficient BlueDIRECT process in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY. The quantum leap in efficiency is particularly well illustrated by the six-cylinder unit: Power has increased considerably, the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY delivering 306 hp and 370 Nm (previously 292 hp and 365 Nm).

The most economical model in the Mercedes C-Class range has also become even more frugal: the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with the manual six-speed transmission and the standard ECO start/stop function. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In conjunction with the improved 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function included as standard, the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY both deliver top-class figures with a combined diesel consumption of 58.8 mpg. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 125 grams per kilometre.

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class also sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will also be gradually introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface now accommodated in the centre armrest.

Both the Saloon and Estate versions can be ordered from 10 January 2011. The European market launch will take place from March 2011.

The Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG engine performance has been improved using software optimisation, sports air filters, a sports exhaust system (plasma coated) including racing catalysors and larger pulleys and now boasts a startling 670 HP.

ANDERSON GERMANY also offers exclusive light metal rims. For the wheels, the elite tuner has selected 22 inch rims in black/gloss with carbon edging in jet black. These measure 9×22 inches and 10.5×22 inches and are equipped with high performance tyres by Michelin in size 275/25-22 and 295/25-22. Directly behind them are the large break shoes, also lacquered in jet black.

The Anderson Germany Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG Black Edition interior has also undergone positive change. The leather finishing has been elaborately decorated with double cord edging combined with a diamond pattern. Numerous extras in the interior like the mirror, central console, steering wheel, entrance ledges, door framing and light framing have a carbon finish. The interior also includes a complete HiFi system and an interior finish in carbon leather/dark brown leather/dark brown Alcantara. Despite all this, customer-specific tailoring is still possible upon request.

The new-generation Mercedes-Benz Vito is optionally available with a combination of Bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime driving lights, cornering lights, Add-Light system and a headlamp washer system. The cornering light is controlled via the indicator lever and is effective up to a speed of 70 km/h. The Add-Light system is active at speeds of between 40 and 70 km/h, depending on the steering angle.

The Mercedes-Benz Vito CREW is a new crewbus model variant aimed at applications in which robustness is more important than an extensive scope of equipment, e.g. in the building trade. It is also designed to appeal to particularly price-conscious buyers. The Vito CREW replaces the previous Vito Basic crewbus. Mercedes-Benz has upgraded the appointments in comparison to the predecessor model by way of exclusive interior panelling and a front passenger airbag. The Mercedes-Benz Vito CREW comes exclusively with CDI diesel engines rated at 70 kW (95 hp) and 100 kW (136 hp). The options are limited to rear bench seats, air conditioning, additional heat exchanger, trailer coupling, radio and all-season tyres.

Another new model variant is the Vito SHUTTLE. This up-market crewbus is aimed at discerning customers. Key features include the Tempmatik controlled air conditioning system, comfort driver seat, a cockpit with Softouch surfacing, comfort bench seats, carpeting in the passenger compartment, bumpers in the vehicle’s exterior colour and light-alloy wheels.

The new six-speed ECO Gear manual transmission comes as standard for all Mercedes Vito models equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine. This transmission is a substantial contributory factor to the reduced fuel consumption and further enhanced dynamic performance of the Vito CDI. Its defining feature is a particularly broad gear ratio spread, with a short first gear (i=5.076) and a long sixth gear (i=0.675) designed to keep the engine speed low.

Mercedes-Benzis a German manufacturer of automobiles, buses, coaches, and trucks. It is currently a division of the parent company, Daimler AG (formerly DaimlerChrysler AG), after previously being owned by Daimler-Benz. Mercedes-Benz has its origins in Karl Benz’s creation of the first gasoline-powered automobile in January 1886, and by Gottlieb Daimler and engineer Wilhelm Maybach’s conversion of a carriage by the addition of a petrol engine the same year. The Mercedes automobile was first marketed in 1901 by Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft. The first Mercedes-Benz brand name vehicles were produced in 1926, following the merger of Karl Benz’s and Gottlieb Daimler’s companies into the Daimler-Benz company. Mercedes-Benz has introduced many technological and safety innovations that have become common in other vehicles several years later.

Quality

Since its inception, Mercedes-Benz had a reputation for its quality and durability. Objective measures looking at passenger vehicles such as J.D. Power surveys demonstrated a downturn in reputation in this area in the late 1990s and early 2000s. By mid-2005, Mercedes temporarily returned to the industry average for initial quality, a measure of problems after the first 90 days of ownership, according to J.D. Power. In J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study for the first quarter of 2007, Mercedes showed dramatic improvement by climbing from 25th to 5th place, surpassing quality leader Toyota and earning several awards for its models. For 2008, Mercedes-Benz’s initial quality rating improved by yet another mark, now in fourth place. On top of this accolade, it also received the Platinum Plant Quality Award for its Mercedes’ Sindelfingen, Germany assembly plant. As of 2009, Consumer Reports of the United States has changed their reliability ratings for several Mercedes-Benz vehicles to “average,” and recommending the E-Class and the S-Class.

Motorsport

Since its inception, Mercedes-Benz had a reputation for its quality and durability. Objective measures looking at passenger vehicles such as J.D. Power surveys demonstrated a downturn in reputation in this area in the late 1990s and early 2000s. By mid-2005, Mercedes temporarily returned to the industry average for initial quality, a measure of problems after the first 90 days of ownership, according to J.D. Power. In J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study for the first quarter of 2007, Mercedes showed dramatic improvement by climbing from 25th to 5th place, surpassing quality leader Toyota and earning several awards for its models. For 2008, Mercedes-Benz’s initial quality rating improved by yet another mark, now in fourth place. On top of this accolade, it also received the Platinum Plant Quality Award for its Mercedes’ Sindelfingen, Germany assembly plant. As of 2009, Consumer Reports of the United States has changed their reliability ratings for several Mercedes-Benz vehicles to “average,” and recommending the E-Class and the S-Class.

Motorsport

The two companies which were merged to form the Mercedes-Benz brand in 1926 had both already enjoyed success in the new sport of motor racing throughout their separate histories- both had entries in the very first automobile race Paris to Rouen 1894. This has continued, and throughout its long history, the company has been involved in a range of motorsport activities, including sports car racing and rallying. On several occasions Mercedes-Benz has withdrawn completely from motorsport for a significant period, notably in the late 1930s and after the 1955 Le Mans disaster, where a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR collided with another car and killed more than eighty spectators. Although there was some activity in the intervening years, it was not until 1987 that Mercedes-Benz returned to front line competition, returning to Le Mans, DTM, and F-1 sports car racing with Sauber.

The 1990s saw Mercedes-Benz purchase engine builder Ilmor (now Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines), and campaign IndyCars under the USAC/CART rules, eventually winning the 1994 Indianapolis 500 and 1994 CART IndyCar World Series Championship with Al Unser, Jr. at the wheel. The 90s also saw the return of Mercedes-Benz to GT racing, and the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR, both of which took the company to new heights by dominating the FIA’s GT1 class.

Mercedes-Benz is currently active in three forms of motorsport, Formula Three, DTM and Formula One. In Formula One, the company part owns Team McLaren and has supplied the team with engines engineered by Ilmor since 1995. This partnership has brought success, including Drivers Championships for Mika Häkkinen in 1998 and 1999 and for Lewis Hamilton in 2008, as well as a Constructors Championship in 1998. The collaboration with McLaren has been extended into the production of roadgoing cars such as the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.

Business alliances (Studebaker-Packard Corporation)

In 1958 Mercedes-Benz entered into a distribution agreement with the Studebaker-Packard Corporation of South Bend, Indiana (USA), makers of Studebaker and Packard brand automobiles. Under the deal, Studebaker would allow Mercedes-Benz access to their U.S. dealer network, handle shipments of vehicles to those dealers, and in return receive compensation for each car sold. Studebaker also was permitted to use the German automaker’s name in its advertisements, which stressed Studebaker’s quality over quantity.
When Studebaker entered into informal discussions with Franco-American automaker Facel Vega about offering their Facel Vega Excellence model in the United States, Mercedes-Benz objected to the proposal. Studebaker, which needed Mercedes-Benz distribution payments to help stem heavy losses, dropped further action on the plan.

Mercedes-Benz maintained an office within the Studebaker works in South Bend from 1958 to 1963 when Studebaker’s U.S. operations ceased. Many U.S Studebaker dealers converted to Mercedes-Benz dealerships at that time. When Studebaker closed its Canadian operation and left the automobile business in 1966, remaining Studebaker dealers had the option to convert their dealerships to Mercedes-Benz dealership agreements.

Models

Mercedes-Benz range today

Mercedes-Benz has a full range of passenger, light commercial and heavy commercial equipment. Production is on a global basis. The Smart brand of city cars has also been part of the Mercedes-Benz Group since 1994.

Passenger cars

Pope Benedict XVI in a Mercedes-Benz Popemobile in São Paulo, Brazil

The following passenger vehicles were in production in 2009:

• A-Class Hatchback
• B-Class Sports Tourer/Hatchback
• C-Class Sedan, Sports Coupe & Wagon
• CL-Class Coupe
• CLK-Class Coupe & Cabriolet
• CLS-Class “4-door Coupe”
• CLC-Class luxury compact car
• E-Class Sedan, Coupe & Wagon
• G-Class Cross-country vehicle
• GL-Class SUV
• GLK-Class SUV
• M-Class SUV
• R-Class Minivan
• S-Class Sedan
• SL-Class Roadster
• SLK-Class Roadster
• SLR-McLaren High Performance Coupe & Roadster

Significant car models produced

• 1928: SSK legendary racing car
• 1930: 770 “Grosser Mercedes” state and ceremonial car
• 1934: 500 K
• 1936: 260 D World’s first diesel production car
• 1936: 170
• 1938: W195 Speed Record-breaker
• 1951: Mercedes-Benz 300, knownly as “Adenauer Mercedes”
• 1953: “Ponton” Models
• 1954: 300SL “Gullwing”
• 1959: “Fintail” Models
• 1960: 220SE Cabriolet
• 1963: 600 “Grand Mercedes”
• 1963: 230SL “Pagoda”
• 1965: Mercedes-Benz S-Class
• 1966: 300SEL 6.3
• 1968: W114 “New generation” compact cars
• 1969: C111 experimental vehicle
• 1972: Mercedes-Benz W107 350SL
• 1974: 450SEL 6.9
• 1974: 240D
• 1976: 300D
• 1979: 500SEL and G-Class
• 1983: 190E 2.3-16
• 1986: First ‘E-Class’
• 1991: 600SEL
• 1993: First ‘C-Class’
• 1995: First ‘Joint Mercedes-Benz & AMG’ (C43 AMG)
• 1995: Mercedes-Benz SL73 AMG, 7.3L V12 (biggest engine ever put in a Mercedes-Benz)
• 1996: Mercedes-Benz Renntech E7.4RS
• 1997: Mercedes-Benz M-Class
• 1998: Mercedes-Benz CLK
• 2004: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
• 2004: Mercedes-Benz CLS
• 2007: E320, GL320 Bluetec, ML320 Bluetec, R320 Bluetec

McLaren cars

A silver SLR McLaren on display at the 2006 European Motor Show in Brussels.

Mercedes-Benz has also produced a sports car with McLaren Cars, an extension of the collaboration by which Mercedes engines are used by the Team McLaren-MercedesFormula One racing team, which is part owned by Mercedes. The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has a carbon fiber body with a 5.4l V8 supercharged engine. This is the same block as featured in SL55 AMG and the CLS55 AMG, though modified to give 460 kW (630 PS; 620 hp) and 780 N·m (575 ft·lb) of torque. The SLR has a maximum speed of 337 kilometres per hour (209 mph) and costs approximately US$500,000. Due to European pedestrian-protection regulations, McLaren has decided to cease production of the SLR in 2009.

The most recent new joint-venture model, expected to reach production, is the mid-engine P8 sports car. Based around a unique carbon fibermonocoque, manufactured by McLaren, the P8 was originally predicted to receive the new naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 from Mercedes-AMG, but insiders[citation needed] now say that the engine will be modified for the car and will probably be twin-turbocharged to produce in excess of 600 bhp (450 kW). The car is still in development, but likely to reach production to go on sale in early 2008, and have a price tag less than that of the SLR.

Car nomenclature

In 1994 (starting with the 1994 models), the traditional nomenclature of Mercedes-Benz vehicles changed. Since the early days of the company the name would be in the form of 500E where the engine displacement made up the first three numbers and the last letter(s) represented the type of engine and/or chassis; for example: “E” for fuel injection (“Einspritzung” in German), “D” for Diesel, “L” for long wheelbase etc.

In 1994, this was altered so that the prefix reflected the model (“class”, German “Klasse”, in Mercedes-Benz terminology) and a number the displacement. The suffix was retained in some cases, for example “L” for long wheelbase, and “CDI” for Diesel (CDI = Common-rail Direct Injection). Thus, the 500E in the example above became the E500 (“E-Klasse”, 5 liters displacement). It should also be noted that while in the past the model number generally accurately reflected the actual engine displacement, this is currently not always the case—for example the E200 CDI and E220 CDI actually both have a 2.2 liter/litre displacement, and the C240 actually has a 2.6 liter/litre engine.

Electric vehicles

At the 2007 Frankfurt motor show, Mercedes-Benz showed seven hybrid models, including the F700 concept car which combined hybrid drive with the innovative DiesOtto engine. In 2009, the S400 hybrid sedan is scheduled to go on sale.

On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz says it will have a demonstration fleet of practical, if small, electric vehicles on the road in two to three years, from 2008.