Mercedes-Benz at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show: New products covering eight model series: Mercedes-Benz cuts fuel consumption and exhaust emissions by up to 12 per cent

Stuttgart -- Mar 04, 2008 -- Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz is continuing its commitment to further reductions in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions with new products in eight model series which will take centre stage at this year's Geneva Motor Show.

Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Bluetec Hybrid Concept

The Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID lends further substance to the Stuttgart-based automotive manufacturer's claim of developing the world's most efficient and cleanest-running passenger car engines. Equipped with a state-of-the-art diesel-hybrid system, the study version of the forthcoming Mercedes off-roader excels with NEDC fuel consumption figures of a mere 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres, and complies with even the strictest emissions regulations courtesy of the highly efficient BLUETEC treatment process.

The new BlueEFFICIENCY C-Class saloons as well as the coupé and roadster models likewise distinguish themselves by burning as much as 12 per cent less fuel than their predecessors, whilst still promising supreme safety, comfort and refinement.

The Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID gives a further foretaste of the new off-roader from Mercedes-Benz, whilst providing a fresh demonstration of the ingenious BLUETEC emission control technology's remarkable efficiency. The four-cylinder diesel engine fitted in the study combines with a hybrid module to deliver a total output of 165 kW/224 hp and 560 Newton metres of torque. The NEDC fuel consumption of the Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID makes even more impressive reading: a mere 5.9 litres for every 100 kilometres. This enables the Mercedes study to achieve a lower CO2 emission figure than any other model in the SUV market segment in the world: just 157 grams per kilometre. As a result of the highly efficient BLUETEC emission control with AdBlue injection, the GLK BLUETEC HYBRID is able to comply with the world's toughest exhaust emissions standards, such as BIN5 in the US and EURO 6.

In the hybrid drive train of the Mercedes study, a completely new four-cylinder CDI diesel unit with a displacement of 2.2 litres acts as the internal combustion engine. The technical highlights of this extremely compact and refined CDI unit with a geared camshaft drive mounted on the flywheel side include latest-generation common-rail direct injection with an injection pressure of 2000 bar and innovative piezoelectric injectors, as well as a two-stage turbocharger system. The compact hybrid module – a disc-shaped electric motor between the CDI engine and the automatic transmission – improves both the environmental compatibility and the effectiveness of the drive system.

The electric motor acts as both a generator and starter, and offer a two-pronged advantage: firstly it contributes decisively to fuel economy, and secondly it significantly enhances driving pleasure by virtue of the boost effect. The electric motor backs up the internal combustion engine during the fuel-intensive acceleration phase by contributing its maximum torque of 160 Newton metres. As a result the occupants experience an effortless rush of power right from the start.

In addition the system features a comfortable start-stop function which switches the engine off in certain circumstances – for example when the car is stopped at traffic lights. When it comes to braking, the procedures are reversed: the electric motor now acts as a generator, feeding the electrical energy obtained from the recuperation process into an efficient yet compact lithium-ion battery. This energy can be retrieved when needed – for the next "boost" phase, for example. All these processes take place fully automatically, thanks to intelligent drive management.

With the VISION GLK BLUETEC HYBRID, a distinctive character is entering the SUV stage whose special appeal lies in a combination of the angular original design of the legendary G-Class and the typical design features of today's Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Crisp lines and large taut body surfaces come together with the bodyshell characteristics of practical off-roaders, such as short overhangs, an upright front end, slim A-pillars, a steep windscreen and tight roof contours. An excellent view of the vehicle body and good all-round visibility go together with the raised seating position to enhance day-to-day suitability and ensure relaxed driving.

The Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID demonstrates how outstanding performance could be paired with highly economical fuel consumption in the future – a combination that need not be confined to the forthcoming GLK-Class.

BlueEFFICIENCY C-Class models that consume twelve per cent less fuel

Mercedes-Benz has concocted a BlueEFFICIENCY package for the four-cylinder C 180 KOMPRESSOR and C 200 CDI models which lowers fuel consumption in the two saloons by as much as twelve per cent, while retaining the high levels of comfort and safety that Mercedes is renowned for. Instead of the previous 6.1 litres of diesel, the BlueEFFICIENCY version of the 100-kW/136-hp C 200 CDI now makes do with just 5.1 litres for every 100 kilometres. This equates to 135 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre. In the case of the C 180 KOMPRESSOR Mercedes-Benz has reduced the engine's displacement from 1796 to 1597 cubic centimetres, but output (115 kW/156 hp) and torque (230 Newton metres) remain unchanged. It returns fuel consumption figures of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres, a whole 0.9 litres or twelve per cent below the figure for the standard production model.

For the new BlueEFFICIENCY models, Mercedes engineers have harnessed potentials from all fields of development to reduce weight, aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance yet further, and to organise the onboard energy management of these saloons even more efficiently. The extensive BlueEFFICIENCY package includes a newly developed lightweight front windscreen amongst its many features. In addition to lightweight construction measures, Mercedes-Benz also devoted particular attention to reducing rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag.

The specialists at Mercedes have carefully honed the excellent aerodynamics of the C‑Class with a series of intelligent details, resulting in an exemplary Cd figure of 0.25 in the BlueEFFICIENCY models. This represents an improvement of seven per cent on the value for the standard production models. Intelligent control of ancillary units and the reduction of friction losses also makes an important

contribution to reducing fuel consumption. In the BlueEFFICIENCY models of the C-Class, the power steering system is controlled on a needs-driven and therefore energy-saving basis. The engine must therefore generate less energy for driving the servo pump.

A newly developed gearshift display in the cockpit informs the driver when he should change gear to save fuel. In addition to gearshift recommendations, the instrument cluster features a newly developed display showing the present fuel consumption.

C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY with direct petrol injection

Mercedes-Benz Also is also be exhibiting the new C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with spray-guided direct injection at the Geneva Motor Show. This technology has previously been exclusive to just the CLS-Class and the E-Class, but is due to become available for the C-Class too from late 2008. Despite generating a higher power output and even greater torque, the new C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes around ten per cent less fuel than the C 350 saloon with the current V6 engine. This innovative new model is therefore set to offer a hitherto unrivalled combination of power delivery, agility, safety, economy and environmental compatibility in this vehicle class.

The CGI engine summons up an output of 215 kW/292 hp and 365 Newton metres of peak torque at 3000 rpm, 15 kW/20 hp and 15 Newton metres more respectively than the current V6 unit with port injection. Thanks to the state-of-the-art engine technology, fuel consumption of the C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY has been cut to approx. 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres (provisional NEDC figure), one litre below the figure for the current C 350. As such, the new six-cylinder engine makes a major contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. These significantly improved output and fuel consumption figures are achieved whilst still using cost-efficient premium grade petrol (RON 95).

Mercedes-Benz became the first car maker to put spray-guided direct petrol injection into series production in 2006. This technology is markedly superior to the direct injection system with wall-guided combustion used by other car makers, as the Mercedes technology achieves far better fuel utilisation due to its higher thermodynamic efficiency, meaning both reduced fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions.

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

The new Mercedes dream machines celebrating their public premiere in Geneva are spearheaded by the SL-Class. Mercedes-Benz has refined, improved and advanced the roadster further to a level of detail and extent that goes well beyond a mere model facelift. The result is a car that combines sportiness, safety and comfort into an unprecedented synthesis in this vehicle class, offering Mercedes motoring refinement at sports car level.

The new, decidedly sporty and assured exterior design reflects the handling characteristics of this Mercedes roadster which, thanks to a new direct-steer system, now boasts yet greater agility while offering even more safety and comfort too. Two new six-cylinder engines will round off the SL range from spring 2008: the SL 280 develops 170 kW/ 231 hp and gets the SL sports car realm off to a highly attractive start. The SL 350 is powered by a newly developed and particularly free-revving sports engine. Output has increased by 16 per cent to 232 kW/316 hp compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, while maximum torque has improved by 10 Nm to 360 Newton metres. This powerpack accelerates the new SL 350 from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, making it 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing SL 350. In this sports car, however, a higher output does not bring higher fuel consumption with it: 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 flagship models in the SL range continue to be 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.

The SL consolidates its substantial lead in the field of safety with bi-xenon headlamps and the optional Intelligent Light System, whose lighting functions are purpose-designed for typical driving situations. One new feature onboard is the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system invented and patented by Mercedes-Benz. This optionally available system enhances comfort when driving with the roof down, extending the roadster season until well into the colder part of the year.

The front-end design of the SL-Class shows that Mercedes-Benz has reinforced the sporty attributes of the roadster even further. The centrepiece is a wide and therefore very imposing radiator grille, whose arrow shape symbolises virtues such as its go-getting performance potential. A horizontal fin adds visual width to the radiator grille and thereby emphasises the muscular appearance of the SL's front end, which consequently seems surprisingly new yet, at the same time, reassuringly familiar.

CLS: new six-cylinder engine and fine-tuning down to the last detail

The unique, four-door CLS Coupé – which pioneered a new automotive segment – has also been made more attractive than ever by careful fine-tuning. The front aspect is dominated by a modified radiator grille, which now has two rather than the previous four louvres. The exterior mirrors also have a new shape, with integrated, arrow-shaped LED indicator repeaters and a mirror surface which is over 30 per cent larger. The tail lights also now feature LED technology, with the brake lamps, tail lamps and indicator lamps all using the extra-fast-reacting light-emitting diodes.

Great attention to detail was paid while updating the interior too: modifications include a restyled leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design with multifunction buttons, as well as a new-look instrument cluster, Here, white dials now contrast distinctly with the chased surface of the backplate. New chestnut wood inserts replace the previous trim.

Like the SL, SLK and CLC, the CLS also benefits from new-generation infotainment systems. These high-performance units combine ease of operation and intuitive menus with perfect in-vehicle entertainment. Features include speed-sensitive volume control, an MP3-compatible CD and DVD player, as well as a Bluetooth interface which can establish a wireless connection between a mobile phone and the vehicle's hands-free system. Audio 20, Audio 20 CD with CD changer, Audio 50 and Audio 50 APS with DVD changer and the LINGUATRONIC voice-control system now feature a 5-inch colour monitor. The COMAND APS comes with a high-resolution 6.5-inch colour display, LINGUATRONIC for audio, navigation and telephone calls, a music register for storing audio files, plus an SD memory card slot.

As the new entry-level model, Mercedes-Benz offers the CLS 280 with an up‑to‑date 2996 cc V6 engine developing a maximum output of 170 kW/231 hp and a peak torque of 300 Newton metres. Combined fuel consumption on the NEDC driving cycle is 9.8 - 10.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The second V6 petrol model in the range is the CLS 350 CGI. Its advanced six-cylinder engine with piezo-electric direct injection and a spray-guided combustion system musters 215 kW/292 hp and has an impressively low NEDC fuel consumption of 9.1 to 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

Under the bonnet of the CLS 500 is a V8 drive unit with a displacement of 5.5 litres and a maximum output of 285 kW/388 hp. The CLS 320 CDI with its 165-kW/224-hp V6 diesel engine excels above all with its high torque of 540 Newton metres accompanied by a low diesel fuel consumption of 7.6 to 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. All CLS models are equipped with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as standard.

CLC: new Sports Coupé with CDI engines in the five-litre consumption class

Mercedes-Benz is unveiling a stand-alone model series at the Geneva Motor Show in the guise of the new CLC, the compelling entry-level model in the Stuttgart-based brand's coupé family. The compact body dimensions and powerful proportions underline the sporty appearance of the new CLC. With its striking coupé radiator grille, which has a large Mercedes star at its centre, as well as the new projection-beam headlamps, the Sports Coupé stays true to the current Mercedes design idiom. The large boot lid conceals a variable luggage compartment with a capacity of up to 1100 litres. The tail lights, the long row of LEDs forming the third brake light and the rear bumper subdivide the rear end and accentuate its width.

The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz CLC is akin to a modern bespoke suit, having a precise and comfortable fit. Sports seats with further improved lateral support, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control and brushed aluminium trim all come as standard.

The new CLC is available with a choice of four four-cylinder and two six-cylinder engines developing outputs from 90 kW/122 hp to 200 kW/272 hp. Thanks to its up-to-date turbodiesel engines, the Sports Coupé ranks in the five-litre fuel consumption category: the CLC 200 CDI limits itself to 5.8 to 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC), i.e. up to 10.8 per cent less than the preceding model. The CDI models are capable of covering over 1000 kilometres with just one tank of fuel. The 135-kW/184-hp power unit in the CLC 200 KOMPRESSOR now has 15 kW/20 hp more output, and consumes only 7.8 to 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the NEDC driving cycle – up to 0.7 litres less than before.

CL: permanent all-wheel drive with no fuel penalty

The Mercedes Coupé family continues to be headed by the luxurious CL-Class, which offers the widest model range in this vehicle class with the CL 500, CL 600, CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG. In addition, the new CL 500 4MATIC with permanent all-wheel drive will be joining the line-up from summer 2008. This two-door model is equipped with a 285 kW/388 hp V8 engine, and in addition to 4MATIC it features innovations such as the Intelligent Light System and the preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® as standard.

Mercedes-Benz has further refined all aspects of its all-wheel drive system, and uses the latest-generation system in the CL 500 4MATIC – the same one that has already proved so successful in the S-Class. 4MATIC is permanently active and therefore requires no response time to come to the driver's aid in unfavourable weather and driving conditions. As a result, critical situations can be mastered with greater ease.

With a weight of just 70 kilograms, the newly-developed 4MATIC is the lightest drive system of its kind. The combined NEDC fuel consumption of the CL 500 4MATIC is 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres, which puts it on a par with the rear-wheel drive CL 500 – a further bonus of the new, highly efficient Mercedes all-wheel drive system. The CL 500 4MATIC requires just 5.4 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h, and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

SLK: even more driving pleasure with considerably lower fuel consumption

Following a comprehensive model facelift, the Mercedes-Benz SLK is now yet more dynamic and provides an even more emotion-charged driving experience. The most important visual changes include a redesigned front and rear end, as well as a carefully modified interior with a new instrument cluster and three-spoke sports steering wheel. The V6 sports engine from the SL-Class is also deployed in the new SLK 350, where it develops an output of 224 kW/305 hp at 6500 rpm – 24 kW/33 hp more than the six-cylinder unit in the previous SLK 350. The peak torque has also been boosted, by 10 Nm, and now stands at 360 Nm when the engine is running at 4900 rpm. Despite this higher output and excellent performance figures, the fuel consumption of the SLK 350 has been significantly reduced. Its combined fuel consumption with the six-speed manual transmission is now only 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres, which represents a remarkable reduction of 1.1 litres for every 100 kilometres.

In addition to the SLK 350, the four-cylinder model SLK 200 KOMPRESSOR and the six-cylinder SLK 280 continue to form part of this compact Mercedes roadster range: the output of the supercharged four-cylinder engine has increased by 15 kW/21 hp to 135 kW/184 hp, while fuel consumption has been lowered by one litre to 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The NEDC fuel consumption of the SLK 280 (170 kW/231 hp) has been reduced by 0.4 litres to 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The SLK 55 AMG continues to be powered by the familiar 5.5-litre V8 engine developing 265 kW/360 hp.

The designers have honed the looks of the cult two-seater for added sportiness. Eye-catching features include the new-look front bumper with a modified air-dam arrangement and a more pronounced arrow shape. The tail end has also been remodelled by the design team, with the diffuser-look styling at the bottom giving the roadster an even more powerful appearance from the rear too. Trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes and dark-tinted tail lights do even more to accentuate this impression. The exterior mirrors now have LED indicator repeaters with a pronounced arrow shape, and also have a larger mirror area.

The name says it all: the Viano X-CLUSIVE special model

The airy, spacious feel of an MPV coupled with the exclusive appointments of a luxury saloon and the technical and visual attributes of a sports car – the new Viano X-CLUSIVE conjures up this exceptional combination. The interior pampers passengers with an extremely high standard of comfort. Features include soft carpeting, six leather-upholstered individual seats, which can be arranged to face each other in the rear, a multifunction steering wheel, plus leather trim for the shift lever and parts of the door panelling.

The new special model is powered exclusively by high-performance six-cylinder engines developing 150 kW/204 hp or 190 kW/258 hp. Power is transferred to the wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.

Both powerplants are partnered by the latest emission control systems, allowing them to meet EU4 standards. And making economical use of fuel benefits not only the owner's wallet but, above all, the environment too.

Source: Daimler