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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 In New York Review

March 2008
Filed under: MERCEDES Car News | MERCEDES Headlines

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Mercedes-Benz is presenting three new SUVs equipped with the world’s latest and cleanest diesel engine at the New York International Auto Show 2008. The new R 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC use the highly efficient AdBlue exhaust aftertreatment system and are able to undercut the stringent Bin 5 limits applicable in the USA, with the potential to meet the coming EU6 standards.

Mercedes-Benz is also presenting the meticulously revamped new generation of the successful M-Class. The dynamic, stylish SUV now has even more distinctive characteristics, and looks even sportier and more powerful. The M-Class standard specification has also been significantly upgraded. It now includes the unique, anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints, as well as an all-new, high-performance telematics system. The Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, the dynamic top-of-the-line M‑Class, is also set to become more distinctive and striking.

Mercedes-Benz has developed, upgraded and improved the SL-Class Roaster down to the smallest detail - far beyond any normal facelift. The cult roadster looks sporty, poised and assured, is even more dynamic thanks to a new direct-steer system yet offers more safety and comfort. Two new six-cylinder engines round off the SL line-up: the SL 280 develops 170 kW/ 231 hp and offers a compelling entry-level route into the world of SL sports cars. Meanwhile, a newly developed, particularly free-revving sports engine powers the SL 350.

Mercedes-Benz is continuing its diesel passenger car initiative in the USA with three new SUVs equipped with the world’s latest and cleanest diesel engine. The new models R 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC will initially be available exclusively in America. They are powered by a cutting-edge V6 engine featuring the environmentally friendly BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz, with whose help the diesel models produced by the Stuttgart manufacturer already count as the world’s cleanest. The new SUVs are equipped with AdBlue injection, which has already been demonstrating its exemplary effectiveness and economy in Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses for a number of years. As a result the three new models achieve even lower emissions, are able to undercut the stringent Bin 5 limits applicable in the USA thanks to their highly efficient AdBlue exhaust aftertreatment system, and also have the potential to meet the coming EU6 standards. In addition, all three of these new SUVs have also been significantly upgraded with much more extensive standard equipment, and now offer even more comfort together with unique safety features. Accordingly, first-class environmental credentials and outstanding comfort are paired with the already legendary power, economy and operating range of Mercedes-Benz diesel vehicles. With this pioneering achievement, Mercedes-Benz is once again underlining its status as a technological leader. The new diesel cars with BlueTEC technology and AdBlue injection will be available in the USA from autumn 2008.

M-Class - more dynamic, more powerful and with even more style

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the trendsetter among today's SUVs. Its exceptional status is down to its characteristic dynamic, stylish design, a combination of compelling performance both on and off-road, the ride comfort and ease of operation of a saloon, along with a high perceived value. The M-Class also comes with a range of safety features that are unsurpassed in the SUV segment. Buyers have also come to appreciate these outstanding qualities. Since the second-generation M-Class was launched in April 2005, some 300,000 units have been delivered to customers around the world. As such, the state-of-the-art off‑roader remains one of the most successful vehicles in this rapidly growing market segment.

Mercedes-Benz has now substantially upgraded the new-generation M-Class with fresh styling touches, even higher quality and extensively enhanced equipment and appointments. The premium SUV now looks even more powerful and sportier, making a bolder statement in terms of character and presence.

The front end is dominated by a new-look, robust bumper as well as headlamps with a pronounced step in the lower edge. Three wide, black louvres with large, rectangular air apertures and a gleaming chrome edge give structure to the radiator, making the new-generation M-Class appear even more dominant.

The rear bumper with integrated reflectors has also been restyled, making the M‑Class appear even more poised. The reversing lights also feature darkened indicator repeater lenses in a smoked-glass look. Roof rails are now also included as part of the standard equipment in the M-Class.

Interior with high-grade appointments

The interior of the new-generation, state-of-the-art off-roader has been stylishly upgraded with high-quality materials. In the new interior the eye is drawn to the four-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with its chrome trim, improved ease of operation.

The new-generation M-Class features a brand new telematics generation developed by Mercedes-Benz, offering a new dimension in user-friendliness and high performance.The occupants are also able to enjoy a surround-sound experience of concert hall quality with the latest generation of the optional Harman Kardon® Logic7® sound system.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has always set the benchmark in terms of safety in the SUV segment. In future it will also come as standard with the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints.

Fuel consumption reduced by up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres

The M-Class features powerful yet economical V6 and V8 petrol or diesel engines, which are now even more fuel-efficient. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive offers outstanding performance both on and off-road.

Five units are available in the new-generation M-Class ranging from 140 to 285 kW (190 to 388 hp). The engineers’ meticulous attention to detail has reduced fuel consumption by up 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the outgoing models. Moreover, the most powerful engine developing 375 kW/510 hp is available in the guise of the ML 63 AMG 4MATIC.

Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, the dynamic top-of-the-line M-Class, is also set to become more distinctive and striking: a chromed underguard now adorns the new front and rear aprons; the AMG radiator grille in high-gloss black with chrome highlights appears much larger than before. A new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel, new 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels as well as 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels available as an option for the first time supplement the facelift features on the ML 63 AMG.

The new-generation SL-Class: sportier than ever before

The SL-Class takes its place alongside the very best Mercedes dream cars. Mercedes-Benz has developed, upgraded and improved the roaster down to the smallest detail -- far beyond any normal facelift. The result is a car that offers an incomparable synthesis of sportiness, safety and comfort in this vehicle class: Mercedes refinement on a sportylevel.

The new decidedly sporty, effortlessly assured appearance is in tune with the handling qualities of the Mercedes Roadster, which is even more dynamic thanks to a new direct-steer system yet offers more safety and comfort. Two new six-cylinder engines will supplement the SL line-up from spring 2008: the SL 280 develops 170 kW/231 hp and offers a compelling entry-level route into the world of SL sports cars. The SL 350 is powered by a newly developed, extremely free-revving sports engine. Compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, the output has been boosted by 16 percent to 232 kW/316 hp, while the peak torque has been increased by 10 newton metres and now stands at 360 newton metres. This powerplant accelerates the new SL 350 from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 6.2 seconds, making it 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing SL 350. With this sports car, however, the extra power does not come at the expense of fuel economy: at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the SL 350 is 0.4 litres more economical than the preceding 200 kW/272 hp model on the NEDC driving cycle.

The top-of-the-line models in the SL-Class line-up include the SL 500 with a V8 engine and the twelve-cylinder SL 600. Their engines consume up to 0.4 litres less fuel per 100 kilometres than before.

erica's premiere automotive enthusiast brand for over a quarter of a century, announced today at the New York Auto Show that it has entered into a partnership with American automotive legend Dan Gurney for creation of a special Gurney Signature Edition Mustang. "It is amazing that just two years ago Saleen was standing on stage here at the Javitz Center with Parnelli Jones and today we are with his long time rival and friend, and truthfully one of America's racing heroes, Mr. Dan Gurney," said Saleen President and CEO Paul Wilbur.

All 300 of the Gurney Signature Edition vehicles will feature Saleen's 465 Hp supercharged 281 cubic inch engine, short throw shifter, and 3.73 Max Grip rear axle. In addition, the vehicles will have custom two-tone seats that feature either blue or red AlcantaraTM inserts designed to keep your rear end planted firmly behind the wheel. The legendary Gurney Eagle© logo is featured on the steering wheel and several other places around the car.

The exterior reflects the look of Dan's 1969 Trans Am series Mustang, masterfully recreated in a fashion that honors history but looks aggressively towards the future. The heritage styled Gurney Edition body kit, 'duck bill' rear spoiler and 'stinger' style hood all come together in harmony with the carefully placed graphics and die cut Gurney Eagle insignia.

"I am pleased that they could make a car that is so beautiful but still so true to my old race car. At the end of the day, all I really want is a car that is faster than Parnelli's" said racing great, Dan Gurney.

Saleen executives were not prepared to make that statement, but what they did say is: "this is likely the best all around 281 supercharged car that Saleen has ever built," commented Saleen General Manager, Marques McCammon.

"Dan Gurney has always been about business on the track. His cars were light, fast and handled like they were on rails," said Saleen Vice Chairman and Chief Technical Officer, Chris Theodore. "I'll admit we added a little weight when we added the blower to this car, but you will be shocked at how this car cuts through a corner."

The Gurney Signature Edition gets its dynamic ability from the specially tuned Racecraft suspension, Generation-II Watts-Link Rear End, and super sticky Pirelli Corsa tires. This is a suspension combination that has never before been featured on a Saleen vehicle, and one that received the personal stamp from Dan Gurney himself.

"It is like a dream come true to spend time on the tarmac with the Gurney's. Together, we will create a package that I am sure that market will love," said Chassis and Dynamics Lead Derk Hartland.

The Gurney Signature Edition Mustang is slated to begin production this April and should start appearing in dealers later that month. With production being limited to only 300 cars, the Gurney Edition is sure to be a must have amongst collectors. In honor of Mr. Gurney's 'All American racer persona the cars will be offered in only three colors: Torch Red, Performance White, and the feature color Vista Blue. One hundred of each color will be made with contrasting color graphics and interiors, and a set of "#2" roundels to truly relive the Gurney experience.

The most important piece of the car to me is Dan Gurney's signature on the center of the dash," commented Wilbur. "I view it as the stamp of approval by one of America's greatest drivers."

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