The Maybach Zeppelin

Say you’re rich, richer than your wildest imaginings. Richer than Paul Allen, richer than Bill Gates, hell, you’re richer than Croesus, what kind of car do you get as your daily driver?

First off, you ain’t doing the driving, Jeeves will be taking care of that for you. And second, there is no second. What kind of car? An S-Class? Please, that’s what your chef drives? A Rolls or Bentley? Please! A Maybach 62? Perhaps, but perhaps it’s still a little plebian for you. There is only one answer:

The
Maybach Zeppelin.

Now, you go back to your truffles dipped in the blood of newborns, Jeeves and I will take a look under the hood.

First off the
Maybach is, essentially, the top of the line. Anything higher, and you’re deep into bespoke territory, and dealing with people like Figoni et Filacci on your body design.
Maybach has been at this since the 30s.

The new
Maybach
Zeppelin is a brute of a car, and, at roughly the size of a minesweeper, has a road presence akin to a Soviet tank, only with a much better interior.

Power? You want power? How about a 6.0 liter V12 biturbo under the bonnet, which now delivers 640 hp and a peak torque of 1000 Newton meters? That enough for you?

Wheels? The
Maybach
Zeppelin features newly designed 20-inch wheels in a Chrome Shadow finish. First they were painted with a black undercoat, then a silver topcoat applied using an elaborate painting process that causes the tone to gradually increase in darkness from the outside in. That enough bling for you Puffy? Oh, not to worry, Sean Combs couldn’t afford one of these.

There’s herds of leather, and there’s special two-tone paint. The interior looks like something from a sultan’s yacht, yet the whole thing is surprisingly understated (those Germans!). Think that’s over the top? Here’s what
Maybach has to say, just about the interior:

“The new
Maybach
Zeppelin is a car for connoisseurs, as is immediately apparent from its interior. Here, the luxurious leather appointments in California beige leather form a delightful contrast with the exclusive leather in deep Stromboli black that gives added impact to the shoulderline on the inside too. At the same time, the lustrous deep black tone of the leather harmonises beautifully with the exquisite piano lacquer finish of the trim elements. The precisely crafted contrasting topstitching in the dashboard and on the doors reinforces the
Maybach Zeppelin’s sense of dynamism. The unusual diamond quilting pattern on the seat cushions and backrests together with the black piping gives the opulently styled seats a character all of their own. The occupants’ feet rest on genuine lambskin carpeting.”

Lambskin carpeting? Dear God … the rich really are different from you and me, huh Scott?

Oh, and it doesn’t stop with dead lambs to rest your feet on either. Did you notice the
perfume atomizer?

Yes, I said
perfume atomizer, the only one of its kind in the world.
Maybach says, “It easily eclipses all previous efforts to produce something similar, both in terms of its visual appeal and its operation. “ Wait, there were previous efforts on the perfume atomizer front? Get out!

Price? Well, if you have to ask … well, OK.

The
Maybach 57
Zeppelin costs €406,000, the
Maybach 62
Zeppelin has a price tag of €473,200 (German list price, excl. VAT). The
perfume atomizer that is exclusive to the
Zeppelin can be ordered for an extra €3950 (German list price, excl. VAT). That’s right, the frickin’ perfume deal is more than a used Miata.

Get your buyer to ring up
Maybach poste haste, because they are only making 100 of these.

2008 Mercedes-Benz Concept FASCINATION

Mercedes-Benz will show its ConceptFASCINATION at the 2008 Paris Motor Show next month, further watering down the definition of a coupé and more importantly, previewing key elements of the next E-Class.

Mercedes said the ConceptFASCINATION's proportions "interpret the emotional appeal of a coupé in a new way." In fact, the concept comes off as a cross between a conventional sedan and a three door wagon. The squared-off hood, grill and headlamps seem to share more with the latest C-Class models than the current E- Class, while its missing B-pillars and steeply raked roofline clearly take cues from the CLS Coupe.

Under its skin the ConceptFASCINATION provides us further hints at the future. It rides on the next generation E-Class Coupe platform, and is powered by Mercedes' new 2.2-liter 204 hp diesel engine, which is being introduced to Europeans this fall in the C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY.

Inside the concept introduces a few interesting packaging details, most notably its inclusion of both a refrigerated compartment and a humidor.

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2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Coupe

Vehicle Summary: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Coupe

The stylish Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Coupe has a strong V6 engine and an even-stronger optional V8. It delivers good performance and comfort across the line. The V8 is the most significant change since a number of styling updates and other recent upgrades, the biggest of which was a more-powerful V6 engine in the CLK350. A new racing-inspired CLK63 AMG Black Series is also available for hardcore enthusiasts.

A beefy V8 engine adds muscle to the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Coupe.

Highs

• Stylish and comfortable
• Good performance, especially with optional V8 engine
• Seven-speed automatic transmission
• Sharp handling with a fairly smooth ride

Lows

• Tight backseat area
• Coupe not offered in higher-performance AMG version
• Lousy V8 fuel economy

What's New

• CLK350 receives a standard sport suspension and six-spoke 18-inch wheels
• Racing-inspired CLK63 AMG Black Series newly offered with a 500-hp 6.3-liter V8 engine, unique Black Series performance upgrades and trim items, and added features, including active headlamps, navigation system, and Keyless Go entry/start system

Specs at a Glance:

Seating Capacity: 2,4

Available Engines: AMG 6.2L V-8 32 valve DOHC SMPI,3.5L V-6 24 valve DOHC SMPI,5.5L V-8 32 valve DOHC SMPI

Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive

0-60 mph: 5.2 seconds,6.5 seconds,4.9 seconds

Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 17/25 mpg,15/22 mpg

Standard Features: GPS, Power driver seat, Weather band radio, Brake assist, Driver front impact airbag, Passenger front impact airbag, Driver side impact airbag, Passenger side impact airbag, Overhead airbag, Electronic stability, Split folding rear seat

Optional Equipment: GPS, Heated front seats, Rear side impact airbag

2010 Mercedes Benz CLS

Five years ago, the term four-door coupe was an oxymoron. But in 2004,

Mercedes-Benz used it to describe the new CLS, and logic was trampled by star-struck customers waving their checkbooks. Rival manufacturers were equally enthralled. Witness the Jaguar XF and the Volkswagen Passat CC. In 2010, BMW will launch a thematically similar four-door, and Audi will chime in with the A7. Mercedes, meanwhile, is readying the second-generation CLS. A careful evolution of the original design, the new low-roof four-seater was masterminded by Gorden Wagener, who was recently appointed head of the design department, replacing Peter Pfeiffer. Sales of the first CLS have run about 40 percent ahead of expectations, and that good news is tempered only slightly by the fact that many of those sales were stolen from the E-class, which looks rather bland in comparison.

Subjectively at least, the second-edition CLS is even prettier than the model it replaces. The banana-like side view is less radical, the curious L-shaped headlamps are gone, and the cluttered front end has given way to a much more elegant appearance. The flanks are more three-dimensional, with rear power bulges, prominent character lines, and flared wheel arches. The A- and C-pillars are better integrated into the arc-shaped roofline. The rear window is bigger, and up front, the grille assumes a more upright position. Like all future Benzes, the next CLS boasts horizontally staggered LED daytime running lights as well as LED brake lights.

Inside, the CLS again gets its own dashboard, seats, and door panels. Like the current car, the new model offers tasteful alternative choices in terms of wood, leather, and color scheme. To further enhance the appeal, Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce new driver-assistance systems, such as automatic lane guidance, a 360-degree-view camera with in-dash monitor, and a second-generation night vision with head-up display.

The engine lineup of the next CLS will see a complete turnover:

• CLS350, 3.5-liter direct-injection V-6, 292 hp; power output increases to 306 hp in 2012
• CLS550, 5.5-liter V-8, 388 hp; superseded by 435-hp direct-injection twin-turbo V-8 in 2012
• CLS55 AMG, 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V-8, 570 hp; available from mid-2011 onward
• CLS320 CDI, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6, 224 hp; replaced in 2011 by 313-hp CLS350 CDI

The gasoline engines are tipped to incorporate a mild hybrid function in the form of small electric motors integrated in the transmission housing (technology that will debut on the ML and the S-class next year). And all CLS models, with the exception of the AMG version, will be offered with all-wheel drive.

The new mechanicals are all well and good, but, as with the original, the success of the next CLS hinges on its styling. Come late 2010, we'll see whether the new look can fend off the car's rivals.

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC

The M-Class Mercedes Benz is fuel efficient machine giving it a visual lift along with great attractive features.http://www.volcars.com/car_reviews/112_news_061017_02z+2007_mercedes_benz_ml320_bluetec+front_left.jpg Its amazing to see 2009 ML-Class a little different from its earlier models, the model is going to be unveiled soon at the New York Auto show. The new diesel engine sounds a lot different then its earlier models.

Benz’s new machines are diesel powered sport utility vehicles which includes crossover R320 BlueTEC, mid-size SUV, GL320 BlueTEC, etc. all of these machines were invented for a brand that originated from America that is ML320 BlueTEC. Each of these machines has AdBlue System which is developed by Mercedes, the latest designs are made to use a special exhaust aftertreatment spray that treats diesel emissions which in turn reduces the air pollution thus reducing the emission of nitrogen oxides.

The New Series from Mercedes ML Class boosts of new front bumper and headlights which is said to improve the visibility, it has new improved foglamps and new lower ribbed grille. The new model contains more of chrome trim which gives it an altogether new look. According to the company, this model is one of the strongest for the year 2009 and stands as a new fashion for the crowds of New York.

Overall, the M-Class models as they are famously known across the globe enhance its look with a refreshed rear end and a dual exhaust which improves the performance and speed. It also has an altogether improved reshaped bumper and skid plates. The interiors of the new Benz SUV contains reupholstered doors, new steering wheel, lumbar in a driver’s seat, an iPOD connection, Blue tooth, etc. it also comes with an optional Logic7 audio system and an entertainment system with voice recognition.

The 2009 Mercedes Benz ML320 sets safety equipment which adds on to its PRE SAFE system to its M class portfolio. The new technology – PRE SAFE system works by using sensors that detects if there are any chances of imminent crash or the vehicle is in danger because of brakes, throttle, or uneven steering and prepares the car for the possible impact which tightens the seatbelts, the passenger seats are geared up to the better position and shape, the windows gets closed and for the extreme rollover chances it also closes the sunroof. As we discussed it earlier too, the new model is far more fuel economized that makes the machine better by up to 20 to 30 per cent in the diesel series.

The ML320 goes on sale later this year in all the 50 states across the continent.

MERCEDES BENZ PRICES IN INDIA

Image Model Variant Price
cclass model
Mercedes Benz C 220 CDI MT 27.91
Mercedes Benz C 220 CDI AT 29.45
Mercedes Benz C200 Kompressor MT 25.55
Mercedes Benz C 200 Kompressor AT 27.09



cls model
Mercedes Benz CLS 350 68.50
Mercedes Benz CLS 500 82.18





e200 model
Mercedes Benz E280 Elegance 45.21
Mercedes Benz E280 CDI Elegance 43.88
Mercedes Benz E200 K Elegance 45.08
Mercedes Benz E200 K Classic 38.08



sclass model
Mercedes Benz S 320 CDI L 72.77
Mercedes Benz S 350 L 77.69





slk model
Mercedes Benz SLK SLK 350 66.64
Mercedes Benz SLK SLK 200 K 47.57

Upscale sports sedans: American dream

BMW and Mercedes-Benz have long been considered by many to set the standard in the sport-sedan category. But this month a newly redesigned Cadillac outscored cars from both of the German automakers in our 2008 upscale sport sedan review in our 2008 upscale sport sedan review, earning high marks for agility, powertrain, and refinement.
The 2008 Cadillac CTS beat out the BMW 328i and the redesigned Mercedes-Benz C300 in our upscale sport-sedan group. It also outscored the freshened Saab 9-3.
While the CTS vaults past most competitors, the Infiniti G35 and Acura TL still outscore it and lead the 2008 upscale sport sedan class in our Ratings.
Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on Yahoo!.
Upscale sport sedans emphasize style and performance more than traditional luxury cars. They tend to have less interior room and ride more firmly, but they have better steering and nimbler handling, which makes them fun to drive.
While German cars have historically dominated this category, more recent offerings from Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus have proven their worth. Now the CTS gives them a run for their money.
The new CTS carries over the taut ride and agile handling of the previous model and is now more refined. There are more safety features and interior amenities in the new model. Fit and finish is greatly improved, and the interior is much more pleasant than in the outgoing car. Our tested CTS had the base 263-horsepower, 3.6-liter engine, which was the top offering in the previous model. Also offered is a stronger 304-hp, direct-injection version.

Mercedes-Benz C300
In this group, the Cadillac, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are all rear-wheel-drive cars; the Saab sends its power to the front wheels. But in catering to the needs of drivers in northern climates, each vehicle in this test is available with optional all-wheel drive. That gives significantly better traction, but we found in our 2008 upscale sport sedan review that the extra weight and friction of the additional drivetrain components often has a slight negative impact on fuel economy and acceleration.
Two models in this test are recommended. The 328i and 9-3 both have average or better reliability as of late. The reliability of the redesigned CTS and C300 is unknown, so we can't recommend either vehicle.
For this 2008 upscale sport sedan review, we tested the most-common versions of the CTS, 3 Series, and C-Class, whose prices range from $37,325 for the C300 to $40,835 for the CTS. More powerful and luxurious versions of those cars can easily add thousands to their prices. For the Saab 9-3, we chose the comparably priced Aero version.
There will be new competition in this category soon: Audi will introduce a redesigned A4 later this year as a 2009 model. The current A4 is a strong competitor in this market and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive. Audi says the new A4 will be longer, with more rear -seat space, which answers one criticism of the current model.
For complete Ratings and recommendations on over 200 cars and trucks, electronic gear, appliances, and everything for your home, check out ConsumerReports.org and subscribe today for full access.

MERCEDES C-CLASS....COURTESY -BRABUS