Mercedes confirms new SL pricing

Mercedes has announced pricing for the new SL will start at £73,805 for the SL 400 AMG Line.

The SL range comprises of four petrol engines. The entry level SL 400 comes with a 4.0-litre V6 engine (175 g/km of CO2), which produces 367 hp – 34 hp more than its predecessor – has a 0-62 time of 4.9 seconds, and will be limited to just 130 vehicles. The SL 500 costs from £82,850 OTR and features a 4.6-litre V8 motor (205 g/km) with an output of 455 hp – for a 0-62 mph time of 4.3 seconds.

The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 will cost from £114,100 OTR and is powered by a 5.5-litre V8 engine (234 g/km CO2) with 585 hp, meaning it can sprint from 0 to 62 in 4.1 seconds. The SL 65, priced at £173,295 comes with a 6.0-litre V12 engine (279 g/m), which has an output of 630 hp and a 0-62 time of four seconds.

The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and SL 65 adds extra equipment, including: AMG high performance composite braking system; AMG DYNAMIC SELECT; AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather; AMG Sports Exhaust System; AMG sports suspension; and ‘V8 BITURBO’ lettering on the front wings (‘V12 BITURBO’ for SL 65).

The entire SL range is optionally available with Night Package (SL 400: £895; SL 500 £495; SL 63 £2,475; SL 65 £795). The Package consists of 19-inch AMG alloy wheels with a seven-twin-spoke design (20-inch alloy wheels with a cross-spoke design available on SL 63 and SL 65); a diffuser trim strip and front splitter in high-gloss black and exterior mirror housings in high-gloss black.

The KEYLESS-GO Comfort Package (£1,605) allows the vehicle to be accessed without the driver having to touch the key. Additionally, the HANDS-FREE ACCESS function includes fully automatic opening and closing of the boot lid with a simple ‘kicking movement’ under the rear bumper.

Inside, the SL 400 and SL 500 come with the new aluminium trim with dark longitudinal grain as standard, while SL 63 and SL 65 come with as standard with the AMG carbon-fibre trim. A light carbon grain trim as also been added as a no-cost option. Brilliant Blue has now also been added to the SL’s colour palette, and, like its other metallic colour options, is available at no extra cost.

For an additional £2,730, customers can add the Luxury Package which includes: Active Body Control including Curve Tilt Function; Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system; Active Multicontour Seat Package; climatised seats including seat heating and ventilation; and power closing for doors and boot lid.

The Mercedes SL is available to order now.

Mercedes confirms SLC pricing

Mercedes has confirmed its new SLC will cost from £30,495 OTR. 

The SLC, which replaces the SLK name, is available to order now with £30k getting you the entry-level SLC 200 Sport.

The new SLC is available with a choice of four engines, with the petrol line-up featuring a 2.0-litre motor producing 184hp (SLC 200) or 245hp (SLC 300 AMG Line £39,385 OTR). The SLC 200 is available as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox (150 g/km of CO2) or the optional 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission (137 g/km), while the SLC 300 comes with the 9G-TRONIC gearbox as standard (138 g/km).

The most fuel-efficient model in the range is the SLC 250 d (£32,995 OTR) which comes with a 2.1-litre diesel engine (204 hp), with CO2 emissions of 114 g/km.

Two model lines are available; the Sport and AMG Line, and these include standard equipment such as; re-designed halogen headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights; new sports exhaust system (standard with 9G-TRONIC on SLC 200 and SLC 300); sports pedals; LED tail lights; Active Brake Assist; Attention Assist; Active Bonnet; chrome-plated twin exhaust system; remote boot lid release; and Headlamp Assist. Sport models come with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels while AMG Line offers 18-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys. Inside, a light ‘carbon-grain’ trim comes as standard on the SLC 200, SLC 300 and SLC 250d, while the SLC 43 is available with dark carbon-grain trim.

Priced at £46,355, compared to £55,350 for the SLK 55 AM, the new Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine and offers performance of 367 hp plus peak torque of 520 Nm: allowing it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds, top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The SLC 43 comes standard with the 9G-TRONIC gearbox, enabling it to offer emissions of just 178 g/km – almost 20 g/km less than the previous SLK 55 AMG.

Standard equipment on the AMG SLC 43 includes AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather and DINAMICA combined with red contrast stitching; AIRSCARF neck-level heating; PARKTRONIC; LED Intelligent Light System; IWC analogue clock; AMG sports suspension; AMG sports exhaust system; AMG Handling Package; and AMG high-performance braking system with red–painted brake calipers.

Mercedes confirms E-Class Saloon pricing

Mercedes has revealed prices for the new E-Class Saloon.

Available to order in the UK now, there are two trim levels, the SE and AMG Line and two engine choices, the E 220 d and E 350 d.

The range starts with the E 220 d SE, priced from £35,935, and the E 220 d AMG Line from £38,430. The E 350 d SE costs from £44,930, while the E 350 d AMG Line starts at £47,425.

The E 220 d uses an all-new four-cylinder 2.0-litre bi-turbo engine producing 195 hp and 400 Nm, with the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox as standard on all new UK E-Class Saloon models. The 9G-Tronic gearbox helps contribute to the E 220 d’s 102 g/km CO2 rating and 72.4 mpg economy. By comparison the previous-generation E 220 CDI Saloon, launched in 2009, produced 170 hp from its 2.1-litre engine, and returned 53.3 mpg and 139 g/km of CO2. Acceleration from 0-62 mph in the new E 200 d takes 7.3 seconds – 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing E 250 CDI.

First deliveries of the six-cylinder E 350 d are due in the summer. This produces 258 hp and 620 Nm for 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds, while emitting 133 g/km and returning 55.4 mpg. These are improvements over the previous-generation of E 350 CDI Saloon of 27 hp; 80 Nm; 0.9 sec; 48 g/km and 14.5 mpg.

The petrol-electric hybrid E 350 e (279 hp; 600 Nm; 6.2 sec; 49 g/km; 134.5 mpg) joins the UK line-up later in 2016.

Standard features on the SE include a Garmin Map Pilot navigation system with 8.4-inch display; Parktronic parking sensors with reversing camera and Park Pilot self-parking system; Collision Prevention Assist Plus autonomous emergency braking system; 64-colour selectable LED interior lighting; leather upholstery with heated front seats; LED headlights and taillights; and 17-inch wheels (18-inch on the E 350 d) to name a few. AMG Line models come with AMG exterior styling including unique bumpers and side skirts; 19-inch alloy wheels; perforated front brake discs; three-spoke AMG steering wheel; and Artico leather and Dynamica microfiber upholstery with seat comfort package.

All E 350 d models come with Air Body Control multi-chamber air suspension as standard, as well as COMAND satellite navigation with 12.3-inch display and remote online services.

First customer deliveries are expected in May 2016.

Mercedes Roadster revamped and renamed SLC

Mercedes is revamping its SLK Roadster model and relaunching it with a brand new name – SLC.

In March 2016, 20 years on from the arrival of the first SLK Roadster, the new SLC will arrive with a new look and upgraded technology.

The name change is said to acknowledge the close relationship with the C-Class, from which much of the roadster’s technology is derived. 

As part of the facelift, there’s a new front section with a steeply raked radiator grille designed to elongate the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet. All SLC models feature a diamond radiator grille as standard, but the new LED Intelligent Light System is only available as an optional extra.

There’s also a new addition to the model line-up in the shape of the sporty, 3.0-litre V6 biturbo-engined Mercedes-AMG SLC 43.

Sporting a modified version of the suspension carried over from the Mercedes-AMG SLK 55, the range-topper can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, thanks to its 367hp and peak torque of 520 Nm.

The SLC’s dynamic characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, modifying the engine, transmission, steering and suspension to suit the driver’s taste. The DYNAMIC SELECT system offers a choice five driving modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Eco and Individual – and is fitted as standard in the 300, the 250 d and the SLC 43.

In addition, a range of technology upgrades to the SLC’s safety, comfort and infotainment systems includes the fitment of Active Brake Assist, an improved vario-roof design and a larger media display featuring extended functionality.

Prices will be announced when the SLC is available to order in mid-January 2016, with first cars arriving in showrooms from April 2016.

Mercedes A 45 World Champion Edition unveiled

Mercedes-AMG has revealed an F1 World Champion Edition A 45 4MATIC.

It follows victory for Mercedes in the Formula 1 constructors' world championship as well as the drivers championship with Brit driver Lewis Hamilton. The exclusive special model - 'MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS 2015 World Champion Edition of the A 45 4MATIC' - blends the Formula 1 look of the victorious Silver Arrows with 'particularly extensive and unique equipment'.

The external characteristic of this exclusive edition is the hallmark 'foiling' with petrol green and black highlights in the design of the winning F1 W06 HYBRID car. There is also a 'streamlining package' - at the front it includes a larger splitter as well as special flics, a roof spoiler and streamlined tail end.

With a maximum output of 280 kW (381 hp) the A 45 4MATIC features standard-fit AMG Performance all-wheel drive and front axle differential lock. The special edition brings power to the road slip-free and 62mph is reached from a standstill in 4.2 seconds.

Available in mountain grey metallic, designo mountain grey magno and polar silver metallic, there are 19-inch cross-spoke wheels painted in titanium grey and accentuated with a petrol green rim flange to match. Further equipment includes the Night package, the AMG Performance seats, the AMG Exclusive package plus the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package.

The interior comes with a model distinguishing badge on the lid of the stowage compartment with the official lettering of the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. The electronically adjustable Performance sports seats in leather/Dinamica microfibre offer increased lateral support even in fast, dynamic bends and have an exclusive striped design. The 'fine petrol green' topstitching on the armrests and dashboard, the petrol green rings in the air vents plus the seat belts, also with petrol green highlight strips, round off the motorsport impression. The Performance steering wheel in Dinamica microfibre includes petrol green topstitching and a 12 o'clock mark in the same colour.

On sale now the F1 World Champion Edition A 45 costs 66,818 euros (Approx. £47,000) in designo mountain grey magno matt paint.

Facelifted Mercedes SL revealed in LA

Facelifted Mercedes SL revealed in LA

Facelifted Mercedes SL revealed in LA

Facelifted Mercedes SL revealed in LA

Facelifted Mercedes SL revealed in LA

Mercedes unveiled its facelifted 2016 SL at the Los Angels Auto Show.

With order books opening in January and first deliveries from April 2016, the revised SL features a host of 'significantly enhanced technical and visual features'.

The front end in particular has been made 'significantly sportier' says Mercedes, and as a result the bonnet, bumper and headlamps, among other features, are all new. The diamond radiator grille extends downwards, while two 'powerdomes' accentuate the long, drawn-out bonnet. Also adding to the SL's new appearance is the new standard-fit LED Intelligent Light System with headlamp housing extending far to the outside. The sporty silhouette is emphasised by the enlarged cosmetic air outlets with wing-like chrome inserts in the dynamic, broad vehicle wings and the exterior mirrors positioned on the beltline.

More powerful engines, the automatic transmission 9G-TRONIC, DYNAMIC SELECT with five transmission modes and Active Body Control with the curve tilting function all feature on the latest model. The vario-roof now opens at speeds of up to 25mph.

Ola Kallenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales & Marketing: "The SL is an all-season vehicle that is fully suited for daily use, but above all it is a dream car for those special moments as a couple. Whatever its owner desires - it fulfils the expectations with technical perfection."

The model range now comprises the SL 400 with V6 engine uprated to 270 kW (367 hp) and 500 Nm (additional 25 kW/35 hp and also 20 Nm) as well as the SL 500 with the powerful 335 kW (455 hp) V8 engine. As standard the power transfer is handled by the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. With DYNAMIC SELECT the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted in seconds at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the setup of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering at the driver's behest.

Additional variants include the two Mercedes-AMG models in the guise of the SL 63 and SL 65, the latter with a V12 engine.

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes has revealed its revised GL-Class - with the newly named GLS.

Described as 'the only full-fledged seven-seater' in the European premium SUV segment, the new model features 'ample spaciousness and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and also best-in-class safety'.

Mercedes says the facelift focused on redesigning the front end, while the rear has also been modernised primarily in the area of the bumper and tail lights. Chrome-look details such as the roof rails, underguard, shoulderline trim strips, luggage compartment handle and side skirt trim are joined by front and rear aprons and side running boards on the AMG model.

Highlights on the inside includes the newly designed instrument panel with semi-integrated Media Display, a new 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a modified centre console with touchpad and also the new appointment colours and trim elements.

Compared with its predecessor, the new generation features improved efficiency, extended DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the air suspension system AIRMATIC with enhanced damping system ADS, 'state-of-the-art' assistance systems as well as internet access.

All of the engines provide better performance, says Mercedes with reduced consumption values in some cases. The GLS 500 4MATIC with V8 biturbo engine featuring direct injection now generates 455 hp - 20 hp more than the preceding model, and at a maximum torque of 700 Nm combines 'outstanding performance with the high level of motoring comfort of these engines'. The V6 biturbo engine, also featuring direct injection, is used in the GLS 400 4MATIC, producing an output of 333 hp and 480 Nm of torque from 1600 rpm.

The top-of-the-range Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC now has over 28 hp more output, at 585 hp, than its predecessor. The peak torque of 760 Nm is now available from 1750 rpm. Despite a 'significant increase' in performance, the consumption remains unchanged.

Alongside the petrol engines, in the GLS 350 d 4MATIC there is the choice of the V6 diesel engine while, from launch, all versions will feature the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard (except the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63), optionally in combination with low-range gearbox and centre differential lock.

More power, more dynamism and more equipment are also offered by the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC. With a peak output of 585 hp, independent suspension and the revised AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, it also includes the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, which provide optimum flexibility, and the rear-biased AMG Performance all-wheel drive. The GLS 63 4MATIC has an updated design, featuring the AMG brand look and a high-quality interior, and runs on 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels.

The GLS will be available to order in Europe from November 2015 with deliveries starting from March 2016. UK pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Mercedes confirms C-Class Coupe pricing and spec

Mercedes confirms C-Class Coupe pricing and spec

Mercedes has confirmed the new C-Class Coupe will be priced from £30,955 OTR.

Available to order now ahead of first UK deliveries in December, the new C-Class Coupe comes with four engine options and two model lines. The new Coupe builds on the specification of the Saloon and Estate variants, and starts with the C 200 petrol engine, which produces 184 hp and is available with a six-speed manual (123 g/km of CO2) or 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox (125 g/km). The new C 300 engine produces 245 hp and comes only with the 7G-Tronic gearbox, with CO2 from 146 g/km.

Two diesel engines are available: the 170 hp C 220 d, with a six-speed manual (106 g/km) or 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox (106 g/km), and the C 250 d, which produces 204 hp and comes with a 9G-Tronic gearbox (109 g/km).

The two model lines are the Sport and AMG Line. Standard equipment includes LED headlights and tail-lights; Active Park Assist; PARKTRONIC parking sensors; a reversing camera; sports seats with ARTICO upholstery including heated front seats; 7-inch colour screen; Garmin navigation; electrically folding mirrors and Collision Prevention Assist Plus automatic braking system. The C 300 model also features, as standard, a sports exhaust system with switchable sound.

The Sport model comes with a gloss black interior trim with aluminium inlays in the doors, 17-inch alloy wheels and a 'diamond grille with black-painted pins'.

The AMG Line includes black ash wood trim, an AMG sports steering wheel with flat bottom, brushed steel sports pedals and a black roof lining. The exterior features an AMG bodystyling kit, 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, the diamond grille and 15mm lowered sports suspension.

Two options packages are available: Premium and Premium Plus. The £1,695 Premium Package includes a panoramic glass roof, keyless go, seat memory package and ambient lighting. To this the £2,995 Premium Plus Package also adds a Burmester surround sound system and COMAND online with 8-inch screen. A £1,695 Driver's Assistance Package includes DISTRONIC Plus with stop and go (adaptive cruise control); Active blind spot and lane-keeping assist, Pre-safe with pedestrian detection (anticipatory safety system).

Topping the range is the £61,160 Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe. With a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine and AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed automatic gearbox, the C 63 produces 476 hp and 650 Nm, and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.0 seconds. The £66,910 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S produces 510 hp and 700 Nm, with 0-62 mph taking 3.9 seconds.

From launch, a limited-edition C63 S Edition 1 is also available. It features unique details including diamond-stitched nappa leather upholstery with contrast yellow stitching; carbon fibre interior trim; graphite AMG decals on the bonnet, roof and sides; an AMG aerodynamic package and bespoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, and is available for £76,900. The Edition 1 motorsport package adds to this yellow AMG decals, designo selenite grey magno paint, AMG high-performance ceramic composite braking system and exclusive 19inch front and 20-inch rear wheels with yellow detailing for an extra £3,000.

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled

Following the recent launch of the C-Class Coupe, Mercedes has revealed a new AMG C 63 Coupe.

Technical modifications over the C-Class Coupe are evident at first sight with the flared front and rear wheel arches, an increased track width and larger wheels - lending the AMG C 63 Coupe a muscular look while at the same time providing a basis for the agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics.

The 'extremely wide' front section is characterised by large air inlets and 'precisely positioned flics'. The low, arrow-shaped "twin blade" radiator grille with AMG lettering visually lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity. AMG A-wing front spoiler is three-dimensional, also serving as an air deflector for the three cooling air inlets while the front splitter at the bottom of the apron helps to reduce front-axle lift.

Taking its inspiration from the S-Class Coupe, the completely redesigned rear end includes a diffuser insert and optical air outlet openings improves the rear air flow. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system are integrated within the diffuser and the boot lid includes a narrow spoiler lip in the form of a sharp blade, reducing the rear-axle lift.

Powered by the AMG is a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with 350 kW (476 hp) or 375 kW (510 hp) resulting in a 0-62mph time of 4-seconds flat - while the 'S' variant completes the sprint in 0.1 seconds quicker at 3.9 seconds, with both models topping out at an electronically limited 155mph.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission features tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts and downshifts are executed 'noticeably faster' than in the previous model says Mercedes. This increased spontaneity is made possible by an even sportier set-up of the engine and transmission parameters.

The new AMG C 63 Coupe also features a 'sophisticated' AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, as well as AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, rear-axle limited-slip differential and dynamic engine mounts. For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the C 63 Coupe is provided with a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the S derivative comes with an electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel when cornering, without control interventions in the braking system.

The AMG C 63 Coupe comes as standard with 10-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 18" (front) and 10.5" x 18" (rear) as well as with tyres of size 255/40 R 18" (front) and 285/35 R 18" (rear). In the case of the C 63 'S' model, the tyre sizes are 255/35 R 19" (front) and 285/30 R 19" (rear) on 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 19" (front) and 10.5" x 19" (rear).

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe will receive its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show with a market launch set to begin in March 2016.

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe

Mercedes has revealed its new C-Class Coupe.

As the sportiest variant of the C-Class, the Coupe features a new front section with a diamond radiator grille and long bonnet, as well as a high beltline and frameless doors with free-standing exterior mirrors. A 'long drawn-out' dropping line typical of a Coupe, contrasts with the C-Class Saloon - while the suspension is 15 millimetres lower.

On the inside, the driver and passengers share an ambience borrowed from the C-Class Saloon. The individually designed trim elements underscore the sporty character of the interior, says Mercedes, with a seating system - including integral sports seats - designed specifically for the Coupe. With an 80 millimetre longer wheelbase, the C-Class Coupe is 95 millimetres longer and 40 millimetres wider overall. This increased vehicle volume creates more spaciousness for the driver and front passenger and there is more shoulder room, elbow room and headroom in all seats.

The AMG Line trim adds exterior features such as special bumpers and sills, a diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Interior highlights include upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with contrasting topstitching, a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and AMG sports pedals. The trim in open-pore black ash, combined with aluminium in the dashboard and the doors, emphasises the look. An optional Interior Chrome package features numerous highlights shrouded in silver chrome, including the instrument cluster, the air vents and the door openers.

The C-Class's suspension is set up for a balance of comfort and agile driving dynamics. A new 4-link front axle with wheel suspension decoupled from the spring strut plays a part in the car's handling characteristics. Steel suspension comes as standard. There are two variants with a selective damping system available in conjunction with this suspension, each of which is 15 millimetres lower than on the Saloon: Comfortable AGILITY CONTROL suspension with a sporty character, and Sports suspension with tauter springing and damping including Sports Direct-Steer system for even more agile handling.

The new Coupe is powered by a choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with ECO start/stop functions. Compared with the predecessor they consume up to 27 percent less fuel. There will initially be four petrol engines available with the power spectrum ranging from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine in the C 180 with 115 kW/156 hp to the two-litre C 200 (135 kW/184 hp) and C 250 (155 kW/211 hp) models and the C 300, likewise with a displacement of two litres but with an output of 180 kW/245 hp. The two diesel models are equipped with an enhanced four-cylinder unit developing 125 kW (170 hp) or 150 kW (204 hp) and feature eco-friendly SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust gas aftertreatment.

A lightweight construction with a higher proportion of aluminium helps make the Coupe lighter than its predecessor. Light-alloy components include the wings, bonnet and boot lid. At the same time, the body is now much stiffer and stronger thanks to the use of high-strength materials, which Mercedes says has a positive effect on not only driving dynamics and noise levels but also crash safety.

There are several safety and assistance systems based on the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive concept to choose from. ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, is included as standard. Further standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 5mph and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions by boosting the braking effect in line with the current situation.

When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions. At speeds of up to 31mph the system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles, and is thus able to help prevent rear-end collisions at up to 24mph. In addition to 3-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. As in the Saloon, the air conditioning system in the new C-Class Coupe uses satellite navigation to detect tunnels, and closes the air recirculation flap automatically when entering a tunnel and opens it again after exiting a tunnel.

The new Mercedes C-Class Coupe arrives in showrooms in December 2015. Pricing has yet to be announced.

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart 'forrail' debuts on track

smart has revealed a special 'forrail' in a one-off experiment.

The smart forfour is described by the Mercedes-owned brand as the 'ultimate commuting machine' yet as it is reliant on roads, smart admits the train has an obvious advantage in that it can get from point-to-point through a more direct route. With this in mind, engineers set up a light-hearted, one-off experiment to redressed the balance and see if the two could be combined.

Nicknamed the forrail, it might appear like a lightly modified forfour but it is, in fact, a fully certified mini-train, says smart. The car's tridion safety cell underpins the forrail and to avoid any steering movement, aluminium supports were welded between the axles meaning the wheels are locked in position.

Following six months of engineering work and sophisticated CAD modelling, the smart forrail comes equipped with unique, solid steel wheels each measuring 22-inches in diameter and weighing 80 kg, allowing it the traction it needs on rails. Designed by Interfleet, a specialised British train engineering business based in Derby, the team - who usually work on 16-litre, 70-tonne diesel locomotives - had to employ a new approach to the challenge presented by a 999 cc, one-tonne smart.

Under close supervision, the smart forrail tentatively took to the tracks on the privately operated Bluebell Railway. Tackling the 10-mile stretch of railway cutting through Sussex the experimental 'train' successfully completed its test, much to the surprise of some local trainspotters.