2010 Ford Mustang GT to the Streets of Houston

Vehicle: 2010 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Premium

Price-as-tested: $35,470

Major equipment: 4.6L 3V OHC V8 engine, 5-speed manual transmission, Premium trim package ($395 option), 19″ wheels ($1,095 option), Safety Package ($395 option), Comfort group ($595 option), Glass roof ($1,995 option)

In the fleet: 1/29/2009 - 2/5/2009

Approximate mileage driven: 430

Birthdays. I celebrated my twenty-first by drinking until I fell over, and my insurance company celebrated my twenty-fifth by cutting my rate a few bucks — but I haven’t felt much like celebrating my thirtieth, which happened this past month. Still, the past twenty-nine years haven’t been short of good (or bad) times, particularly with regards to cars. On nearly any given day of the week during my high school years, I spent at least a couple of hours a day wrenching on cars with my friends. One friend had a beautiful red ‘68 Mustang with a 351 Windsor engine and the transmission out of a ‘91 Mustang LX 5.0 in it. Another had a ‘69 Mach One, complete with shaker hood and the original 3-speed manual transmission. Somewhere between the time spent under those hoods and the nights running down the Houston freeways, I became a real Mustang fan.

When I left high school, I put away my wrenches, went to work, and started appreciating other aspects of performance automobiles: finely finished interiors, refined styling, handling. The Mustangs of the time never embodied any of these qualities, so I could never convince myself to buy one. Though Ford made great strides in performance and quality with the 2005-2009 S197 Mustangs, I still felt there was room for improvement. The dashboards were still made of plastics that resembled my kitchen cutting boards, and the handling remained sloppy at best when corners were thrown into the mix. Even with those flaws, however, the S197 gave me some hope that there might someday be another Mustang to capture my heart the way the old cars did. Perhaps it was divine intervention that a 2010 Mustang GT was to be delivered to me for evaluation the week of my 30^th birthday, because if there was ever a pony car to rekindle an old flame, this is the one.

At first glance, the 2010 Mustang GT might appear to be nothing more than a slight design refresh of the S197, but a closer examination tells the truth: these are big changes. On the outside, the styling of the 2010 Mustang GT has been substantially updated, sharing only the roof panel with the 2009 model. The new headlamps, which feature integrated turn indicators, hearken back to the Mustang of the early 70’s, while a redrawn rear quarter-panel and fender line pays tribute to the 1969 Mustang Fastback that I so loved. All this is topped off by a new “Power Dome” hood that gives the 2010 Mustang a much more muscular look than its predecessor. This new beauty isn’t just skin deep, with Ford citing a seven percent reduction in drag, and a 23 percent reduction of front end lift from the updated sheetmetal.

On the inside, nearly every bit of the Mustang’s interior has been reworked, with the only carry-over being the door cards and other very minor pieces of trim. The rental grade two-piece dashboard and center stack is gone, replaced with a very clean looking one-piece dashboard and instrument panel complete with new HVAC vents and an updated gauge cluster. All the hard plastics of the dashboard and center console have been replaced with high grade soft touch materials. Center stack controls feature the high quality HVAC and radio controls that have made their appearance on other recently updated Ford products, and are very easy to use.

NVH is way down from the S197, thanks to strategic additions of sound padding and revised window seals. It’s so quiet that ford actually pumps engine sounds into the cabin by way of a “loud-tube”, similar to the arrangement in the BMW Z4. This loud-tube connects the intake to the firewall and delivers the smooth sounds of the Mustang’s V8 to the occupants while keeping annoying road noise out.

Though I didn’t care for the bright red leather seats or steering wheel of our test car, I really did enjoy the glass roof option. The glass roof covers nearly the entire passenger seating area, and really adds a nice touch to the already high class interior. Ford says this glass roof panel only adds 24 pounds to the weight of the Mustang, but at $1,995 it becomes an expensive alternative to a traditional sunroof. If you aren’t a convertible kind of person but love natural light, this is a great compromise.

Once out on the road, I immediately noticed significant improvements to the Mustang’s ride and handling. For 2010, Ford has updated the suspension on the Mustang with firmer springs, larger stabilizer bars, and recalibrated shock absorbers. Ford has also added a strut tower bar for models equipped with the optional 19″ wheel and tire package to increase chassis stiffness.

These improvements result in a far more neutral handling car than the old model, and significantly less body roll. Even though our test car was equipped with all-season Pirelli performance tires, the car seemed to have much more pavement bite than the old car with ultra high performance summer tires.

Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability control is now standard, and offers a sport mode that allows you a bit more freedom to kick the tail out. Because our tester was not equipped with the optional TrackPack, there was no way to defeat the electronic nanny completely.

About the only area where Ford really hasn’t done much to improve the 2010 Mustang is under the hood. The 4.6L V8 is pretty much a direct carryover from the previous car, with the exception of a cold-air intake setup and a heaver crank damper that increases the redline by 250 RPM; both of which were borrowed from the 2009 Bullitt Mustang. The result is a very mild power increase of 15 horsepower to 315. Peak torque has been increased by 5 lb-ft to 325, but isn’t found until a rather lofty 4,250 RPM.

As with the old car, the 2010 Mustang certainly has enough power to get the job done, but rather ironically, the chassis is ahead of the engine. The competition is ahead (the Challenger R/T has 375-plus horsepower, and the Camaro 2SS is expected to clear 400), so I have to wonder what Ford has up their sleeves. Another 50 or so horsepower would make the Mustang damn near perfect. There might be hope just over the horizon though, as rumors of the return of a 5.0 liter V8 in the Mustang are spreading through the enthusiast community like wildfire. Ford has denied all rumors of the new engine, but common sense says that Ford isn’t going to let their iconic car get overshadowed by the upcoming Camaro.

By spending money where it counts, Ford has massaged an aging platform into a true performer. Ford has also given interior-quality fetishists that much less to complain about by updating the Mustang’s interior to be a contender for best in class. All things considered, the 2010 Mustang GT is a vast improvement over the outgoing model, and really needs more than a casual glance to appreciate all the changes.

I absolutely loved everything about the Mustang, and driving it reminded me what it was like to feel young and invincible again. This is THE Mustang that has made me fall in love with the brand all over again. Sure cars like the R8 and Viper are a blast to drive, but they are fantasy cars to me. The new Mustang is a dream car that is easily within reach to me and most Americans. That said, a new Mustang is certainly in my future when it comes time to add a garage mate to my Audi TT sometime in 2010. Not only can I not wait to drive one again, I can’t wait to finally own one.

A3W Motiv: Julien Rondino’s three-wheeled concept bike

Pics: Julien Rondino, via Ottonero

We had earlier written about Nick Dagostino’s three-wheeled Hayabusa (which is not a regular trike…) here, and now here’s French designer Julien Rondino’s three-wheeled motorcycle concept – the A3W Motiv.

We’ve written to Julien, asking him for more details on the bike. But for now, what we know is that the bike has been designed around KTM’s 999cc LC8 v-twin. The chassis seems to be a mix of cast aluminium and steel tube sections and the bike is packed with interesting bits – hub-centre steering, adjustable ergonomics and Buell-style perimeter brakes.

Why three wheels instead of two? Umm… we’ll have to wait for Julien to get back to us on that one…

New Benz Car - 2010 Mercedes Benz E63 AMG spied again

The new 2010 Mercedes Benz E-Class has again been spotted in testing but this time the prototype is for the high-performance AMG version. The images were taken near the carmaker’s headquarters in Germany and reveal the final details of the car, with only the front-end being masked by black camouflage material.

A giveaway that this is the AMG version is the exposed rear bumper with quad tailpipes. Other details include perforated brake discs with oversized calipers.

Mercedes and its AMG engineers have been testing prototypes for the E-Class extensively – even recruiting former McLaren F1 ace Mika Häkkinen and race driver Klaus Ludwig to fine tune the upcoming car.

Just as the company did with the recently revealed SL facelift range, the new AMG version of the E-Class should be launched within a few months of the regular sedan. However, the Estate wagon variant isn’t likely to be unveiled for at least another year after that.

Despite current concerns about global warming and a possible end to the horsepower war between Germany’s in-house tuners, the new E63 Estate will continue with the potent hand-built 6.2L V8, although the rest of the car’s mechanical package is expected to have been given a major makeover. Power has been bumped up to 525hp (392kW). Engineers will be focusing more on improve handling and chassis strength, borrowing a number of features from the new C63 AMG.

The sporty AMG wagon is also tipped to receive a widened front track and unique steering ratio compared to the regular E-Class as well as a MacPherson strut and multi-link active suspension.

Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG revealing spy shots

New Car 2009 - Kicherer Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Kicherer Mercedes E-Class: E-Plus

The Mercedes tuners are impatiently kicking their heels and wanting to get their hands on the new E-Class. A first draft has now come from the Kicherer company.

The tuning company from the Bodensee has increased the performance of the current top E500 model from 388 to 430 PS. With the increased performance of the V-max down control which is included in the price the vehicle should be able to race well over 250 km per hour. Those who value optimum dynamics can not only obtain an electronic lowering of the vehicle but also a mechanical limited slip differential complete with a variable barrier effect of between 20 and 80 procent from Kicherer.

Moreover with these alterations Kicherer has reduced the gear transmission ratio. The maximum speed does suffer from this a little. The acceleration capacity, however, is improved. Only 4.8 seconds (standard: 5.2 seconds) are supposedly needed to go from 0 to 100 Km per hour. Kicherer has, of course, also improved the optics of the vehicle: with extra parts made of carbon fibre, 20 inch forged wheels and many other possibilities for upgrading the interior.

High resolution Kicherer Mercedes-Benz E-Class images

1800x1200

1600x1200

1679x1200

1752x1200

The 2009 Moto Guzzi V7 Café Classic. Back to the 1970s again...

Pics: Motoblog

Moto Guzzi have released more pics of the 2009-spec V7 Café Classic, Griso 8V and Nevada 750. They don’t look much different from the 2008 models, but, then… these bikes could just as well be from the 1960s, 70s or 80s…

We won’t get into the poetic PR-speak issued by Moto Guzzi, but here’s a quick look at the tech specs of each bike. The V7 Café Classic is fitted with Guzzi’s 744cc transverse v-twin that makes 49 horsepower and 55Nm of torque. The gearbox is a five-speed unit, the chassis is double-cradle tubular steel, the bike rides on 18-inch (front) and 17-inch (rear) wheels and dry weight is 182 kilos. Brakes are Brembo items – single 320mm disc at front, with four-piston callipers, and 260mm disc at the back, with single-piston calliper.

Of all the bikes Guzzi make today, this - the Griso 8V - is the one to have!

Next up is the Moto Guzzi Griso 8V Special Edition, which is powered by an air-cooled 8-valve 1,150cc transverse v-twin that makes 110bhp at 7,500rpm and 108Nm of torque at 6,400rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox and top speed is around 230km/h. The front fork is a 43mm USD number, while the adjustable rear shock is from Boge. Brakes are Bembo – twin 320mm discs at front, with radial-mount four-piston callipers. The bike rides on 17-inch wheels, shod with Pirelli Scorpion tyres, and dry weight is 222kg. With its blend of café-racer styling, powerful engine and high-spec suspension, this, in our opinion, is definitely the pick of the current Guzzi crop…

The 2009 Moto Guzzi Nevada 750. Yucky...!

And finally, the worst motorcycle that Guzzi make – the Nevada 750. It looks like a Japanese-made Harley-clone from the 1980s and we can’t imagine who would want such a machine. The bike is powered by the same 744cc engine that does duty on the V7, but rides on 18-inch (front) and 16-inch (rear) wheels. The gearbox is a five-speed unit, the bike weighs 182kg dry and as for the rest, really, who cares!

The coolest Guzzi ever? For us, it has to be this 850 Le Mans III from the 1980s. How can a company that made something that looks like this, also make the crappy looking Nevada 750...?!?

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG Facelift.

Along with the rest of the M-Class range, Mercedes-Benz also revamped the top-of-the-class, ML 63 AMG.

Along with the new headlamps, the 2009 ML 63 AMG features a new front apron, a redesigned AMG-specific radiator grille painted in high-gloss black, LED tail-lights with clear-glass look if the optional bi-xenon headlamps are specified, new 20-inch 5-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels and a new rear apron with integrated reflectors. The larger exterior mirrors as well as the standard-fit aluminium-look roof rails add the finishing touches to the styling modifications.

The new AMG ergonomic steering wheel with the aluminum shift paddles stands out in the interior of the 2009 ML 63 AMG. Like the rest of the range, the ML 63 AMG also benefits from higher quality materials and a new telematics generation in the cabin.There are no mechanical changes as the 209 ML 63 AMG continued to be equipped with a 510 Hp 6.3-liter V8 engine matted to a SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with three drive modes. The ML 63 AMG accelerates from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.0 sec while its top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h (155 mph).

Geneva Auto Show 2009: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

The Geneva Motor Show will see the comeback of an intriguing product idea when Mercedes-Benz presents the Coupé range in the new E-Class. Just three months after the presentation of the Saloon, the brand is therefore launching a new highlight in the new model series while continuing a tradition that has repeatedly met with great enthusiasm throughout the history of the E-Class.

The new E-Class Coupé offers a very special combination of two attributes for which the Mercedes brand is known: fascination and efficiency. With its classic coupé side aspect – no B-pillars and fully retractable side windows – the new two-door car is a particularly sporty interpretation of the E-Class's dynamic design. At the same time the most aerodynamic variant of the Coupés achieves a new world best in terms of drag coefficient: with a Cd-figure of just 0.24, this model is the world's most aerodynamically efficient series-production car. The model programme includes two new 4-cylinder engines, which consume up to 17% less fuel whilst offering a significant increase in performance and torque. The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. It combines driving enjoyment and excellent handling with the maximum comfort. The new E-Class Coupé will be in the showrooms of the European Mercedes-Benz dealerships and company-owned sales outlets at the beginning of May 2009.

The new Coupé offers all the technical innovations of the new E-Class series that one might expect to find in a sports-oriented luxury coupé. These include selective damper control, drowsiness detection, preventive occupant protection and the Active Bonnet. As a feature specific to the Coupé, the Dynamic Driving package allows different suspension setups at the touch of a button. Adaptive Main Beam Assist, road sign recognition and an automatic emergency braking system are other features with which the new series sets standards in this vehicle category.

The E-Class also takes on a pioneering role in the drive sector. The new diesels and direct-injection petrol engines combine efficiency with an effortless power delivery. The engine line-up includes two new four-cylinder models which deliver significantly more power and torque while consuming up to 17 percent less fuel. The best example is the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, which consumes 5.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres and emits 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre, making it one of the most economical vehicles in its class.

The exemplary, low fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements, plus the very decisive factor of outstanding aerodynamics .

Design which expresses passion and effortless superiority

The design of the new two-door model includes traditional styling elements which give Mercedes-Benz Coupés their unmistakable identity: for example the side windows, which are not interrupted by a B-pillar and are fully retractable. Another hallmark of Mercedes Coupé design is the sports radiator grille with the large central star. At the same time, however, the new model points the way to the future with an exciting, contemporary design idiom.

At the same time the Coupé shows its close family resemblance to the E-Class
Saloon. This is shown by the 'twin-headlamp face', with rhomboid contours but somewhat sportier, sharper treatment for a more dynamic and incisive look. Another design feature which the Coupé shares with the Saloon is the powerful contour of the rear wing - a styling cue which also gave the S 220 "Ponton" Coupé of 1955 its athletic appearance.

Although it shares family traits with the Saloon, the Coupé has its own, distinct identity characterised by effortless superiority and a greater sense of passion. The arrow shape of the entire front section from front bumper to radiator to bonnet, the more extreme interpretation of the twin headlamp face and its more sinewy build give it a racier and more dynamic presence.

Newly developed seats with a sporty design

The seats of the E-Class Coupé are new developments whose design and techno-logy reflect the sporty nature of this two-door Mercedes. They are electrically adjustable for seat height and backrest angle as standard. The high, sports car-like seat backrests have a practical Easy-Entry function to make access and egress easier for rear-seat passengers. In conjunction with electric seat adjustment with memory (an optional extra), the front seats are equipped with electropneumatically adjustable four-way lumbar supports; these are able to provide anatomically favourable support for the lower spine, which further improves seating comfort.

Luxury seats with leather upholstery and active ventilation are available as optional extras, as are newly developed multicontour seats with inflatable air chambers in the front seat cushions as well as in the centre and side bolsters of the backrests. Two comfortable individual seats are available for the rear passengers. These feature backrests which can be folded down individually or together to increase the capacity of the luggage compartment.

Engines: fuel consumption down by 17 percent

The diesel in the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is the top-of-the-range unit in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder engines, which are notable for features such as two-stage turbocharging, precise piezo injectors and the latest common-rail technology. The engine has an output of 150 kW/204 hp and develops a maximum torque of 500 newtonmetres which is available from just 1600 rpm. This means that it is some 36 percent more powerful than the four-cylinder diesel in the preceding model yet consumes 17 percent less fuel: 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). This corresponds to a carbon dioxide emission level of 138 grams per kilometre.

The turbocharged V6 diesel engine with common-rail direct injection remains in the line-up. Fitted in the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, it develops 170 kW/231 hp (previously: 165 kW/224 hp) and consumes 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres (combined) in the NEDC cycle. Its carbon-dioxide emissions are 179 grams per kilometre.

Two new petrol engines with direct injection

Mercedes-Benz has also chosen to move over to direct-injection technology for its petrol engines. Once again, the E-Class Coupé points the way: the powerplant at work under the bonnet of the E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is a newly developed four-cylinder direct-injection unit with 150 kW/204 hp and a five-speed automatic transmission as standard. This engine makes do with 7.0 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). CO2 emissions are 164 grams per kilometre. This is some 13 percent less than the figure for the previous four-cylinder engine (135 kW/184 hp) with conventional fuel injection.

Mercedes-Benz has replaced the previous V6 petrol engine with the world's first six-cylinder unit featuring spray-guided direct petrol injection in the new E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé. This engine develops 215 kW/292 hp – an extra 15 kW/20 hp – and consumes about 14 percent less fuel than the previous V6 engine: its combined NEDC consumption per 100 kilometres is just 8.5 litres. This corresponds to 199 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In the top-of-the-range model, the E 500 Coupé, the muscular V8 engine with 285 kW/388 hp and 530 newtonmetres of torque offers the performance characteristics of a sports car. Mercedes engineers have enhanced details of the eight-cylinder unit, reducing the fuel consumption (compared to the preceding model) by 0.5 litres to 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption). All the engines in the new E-Class Coupés meet the EU5 exhaust emission standard.

Safety: sensors, radar and cameras for safe driving

The safety systems newly developed for the E-Class are based on accident research findings; they can make a valuable contribution to enabling safe, accident-free driving, improving vehicle occupant protection and, moreover, helping to increase the safety of other road users. These trend-setting developments are also available for the new E-Class Coupé, or are included in its standard equipment. Based on highly sensitive sensors, cameras and radar systems, they turn this two-door model into an "intelligent partner" able to see, feel and react reflexively in critical situations and, if necessary, act independently if the danger of an accident is acute.

Drowsinessis one of the most common causes of accidents on motorways. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new E-Class Coupé. As the vehicle is being driven, the system continuously evaluates more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provide a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes engineers have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behaviour is recognised by a special steering angle sensor.

Also fitted as standard is the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system - a Mercedes invention which has received a number of awards and which is not offered by any other vehicle in this class. If there is an immediate danger of an accident occurring, the system activates protective measures for the driver and front passenger as a precaution so that the seat belts and airbags can provide their full protective effect on impact. This warning of an impending accident is possible because PRE-SAFE® uses the sensors of the Brake Assist system and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) to identify potentially critical dynamic handling situations.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist for the best possible road illumination

Like the Saloon, the new E-Class Coupé also offers the latest lighting technology. The headlamps adjust continuously to the current driving situation and react automatically to offer the driver the best possible degree of road illumination at all times. This task is taken care of by the Adaptive Main Beam Assist function: a camera fitted on the inside of the windscreen allows the system to detect oncoming vehicles/vehicles in front and automatically controls the headlamps to prevent the other road users from being dazzled. As a result, the range of the dipped-beam headlamps can increase from the current norm of 65 metres to as much as 300 metres. If the road ahead is clear, the system performs a gradual transition to high-beam mode.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist is based on the bi-xenon headlamps, which Mercedes-Benz offers in combination with LED daytime driving lights.

Automatic emergency braking when a collision is imminent

The well-proven assistance systems from the S-Class which help to prevent rear-end collisions are now available for the E-Class Coupé, too. They use long and short-range radar sensors to monitor the traffic situation ahead of the vehicle and warn the driver if there is a risk of an accident. Mercedes-Benz combines these technologies in the DISTRONIC PLUSsystem; along with the proximity control system - which automatically maintains the Coupé at a set distance from the vehicle in front and can brake it to a standstill if required by the traffic situation - this comprises Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake.

Brake Assist PLUS intervenes if there is suddenly a very rapid reduction in the distance. In this situation, the system warns the driver and almost instantaneously calculates the degree of braking assistance necessary to prevent a collision. This brake force is available immediately the driver depresses the brake pedal. Depending on the speed and distance, it allows controlled braking to a defined point or - if necessary - emergency braking.

The PRE-SAFE® Brake goes a step further and automatically brakes the E-Class if there is imminent danger of a collision and the driver does not react to the warnings. This can reduce the severity of an impact considerably, as the system can be regarded as something like an "electronic crumple zone" which offers the occupants an even greater degree of safety.

Most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category

With seven standard-fit airbags, belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all seats, as well as crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, the new E-Class Coupé offers the most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category. The range of airbags, which can deploy in thousandths of a second in an accident, comprises front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver and windowbags. Rear sidebags are available as an optional extra.

The front crumple zone has four independent impact planes which allow the forces to be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell. Furthermore, increased use of extra-high-strength steel alloys helps the vehicle body to withstand high impact loads. In fact, particularly strong grades of steel like this account for about two thirds of all the sheet metal used in the bodyshell of the E-Class Coupé.

An Active Bonnet, which forms part of the standard equipment, is the latest development to result from Mercedes-Benz's long-standing and successful commitment to pedestrian protection. In the event of an impact, a system of springs raises the rear section of the bonnet by 50 millimetres within a fraction of a second, thereby increasing the available deformation space. A special feature of the Mercedes system is its reversible mechanism which allows the driver to reset the Active Bonnet without having to visit a workshop.

Comfort: advanced technology for a new driving experience

Along with safety, comfort has always been one of the outstanding qualities of the E-Class. Here, too, the Coupé lives up to the high standard set by the Saloon and demonstrates further noticeable progress, especially with regard to ride, seating and climate comfort. Another important comfort factor is the generous interior space, which Mercedes engineers created by increasing both the length and width of the vehicle body by 46 millimetres. This resulted in the distance between the front and rear seat reference points - an important dimension for the occupants' freedom of movement - increasing by ten millimetres to 789 mm while the elbow width improved by up to 49 millimetres, compared to the preceding model.

High standard of ride comfort through selective damper control

The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. In order to provide the best possible ride comfort, this system reduces the damping during normal driving but immediately applies the maximum damping force during dynamic cornering or sudden evasive manoeuvres. This ensures optimum stabilisation of the Coupé.

As an alternative to the standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension which is set up for comfort, a variant with a sportier damper response and more direct steering – the AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension – is available as an optional extra. To meet the requirements of even more demanding drivers, Mercedes-Benz has developed a dynamic handling package with an electronically controlled damping system. This processes sensor data about the current driving situation and adjusts the shock absorbers separately for each wheel. Furthermore, the driver can switch between two drive modes - Comfort and Sport - which make corresponding adjustments to the suspension set-up, accelerator response and the shift points of the automatic transmission. A newly developed speed-sensitive sports steering system with a more direct ratio and variable centring is also included in the dynamic handling package.

In order to allow a comparison of suspension characteristics, Mercedes engineers have developed the body index - a composite formula which is calculated from the readings for various typical driving manoeuvres. The body index is an indi-cation of how well the suspension is linked to the body, how closely the car hugs the road and how nimble the handling is through fast bends. The higher the figure, the sportier - i.e. the firmer - the suspension characteristics.

The body index shows how the dynamic handling package is able to meet customers' requirements for dynamism and comfort in equal measure: the index figure of 2.06 attained in Sport mode is reduced to 1.89 - a typical level for a saloon - when Comfort mode is selected.

Individual climatic comfort at the touch of button

The newly developed luxury automatic climate control system regulates the temperature, volume and distribution of the air in three zones to meet the requirements of the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. What's more, for the first time, this optional THERMOTRONIC system allows the selection of different climatisation modes: the occupants can choose "Diffuse", "Medium" or "Focus" modes at the touch of a button in order to adapt the air volume and distribution to their personal preferences while still benefiting from the convenience and comfort of automatically regulated climate control. Fitted as standard in the E-Class Coupé, the THERMATIC two-zone automatic climate control has been enhanced to offer five percent more heating and cooling power than the version fitted in the predecessor model.

Infotainment system with colour display in the dashboard

The well-proven operating concept from the S-Class, comprising the multifunction steering wheel, Controller on the centre tunnel, colour display in the dash-board and direct selection buttons also offers the occupants of the new E-Class Coupé a very high standard of operating comfort.

The Controller puts all the functions of the advanced infotainment system - such as the radio, CD/DVDplayer, telephone and navigation system - at the fingertips of the driver and front passenger. The Audio 20 CD radio with eight loudspeakers, a CD player and a Bluetooth interface for a mobile phone is fitted as standard. Customers who specify the optional COMAND APS multimedia system benefit from additional functions: a Europe-wide hard-disc navigation system, a DVDchanger, the Music Register (storage for about 1000 music tracks) and voice control with whole-word recognition. Further options for even greater listening pleasure are available in the form of a 500-watt surround sound system, a media interface for connecting external MP3 players and a tuner for digital radio reception.

Model range: individuality through variety

With an initial line-up of five engines, three suspension variants, a wide choice of colours, six different wheel/tyre combinations and many optional extras, the new E-Class Coupé offers plenty of scope for customers to turn their individual automotive dreams into reality. The basis for configuring the look and feel of the Coupé is provided by the ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE interior concepts.

These not only offer different upholsteries and items of trim, but are complete configuration packages designed to create a harmonious atmosphere. Depending on the choice, the interior differs in its colour scheme and mix of materials to emphasise the elegant or progressive character of the Coupé.

The AMG Sports package, on the other hand, clearly focusses on agility and performance potential. AMG bodystyling includes the unmistakable contours of the AMG front apron with large air intakes, AMG side skirts and the expressive AMG rear apron with a black insert. High-sheen 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 6 twin-spoke design with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 at the front and 255/35 R 18 at the rear provide further highlights. The AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension with a stiffer spring, shock absorber and stabiliser setup is combined with large, perforated brake discs at the front, plus brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering. Perfect road contact is ensured by the sports speed-sensitive steering with a more direct ratio.

Striking interior features include upholstery in black ARTICO man-made leather. Leather or the particularly exclusive nappa leather is also available in a wide range of colours. Multicontour seats for the driver and front passenger provide the best possible adjustment to personal comfort preferences, thereby ensuring outstanding long-distance comfort.

With production limited to the first few months, the E-Class Coupé is also available as a Prime Edition series which particularly emphasises the new model's character with selected, high-grade features. Among the most eye-catching are the palladium silver metallic paint finish, a panoramic glass sliding roof and 18-inch AMG high-sheen light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey. Inside, a designo-interior with two-tone designo leather upholstery, matching designo floor mats and a sports pedal cluster of brushed stainless steel rounds off the exclusive overall impression.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé can be ordered from 19 February. Prices in Germany (including 19 percent VAT):

E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé: 44,684.50 Euro
E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé: 48,671.00 Euro
E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé: 44,684.50 Euro
E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé: 51,408.00 Euro
E 500 Coupé: 66,045.00 Euro

Carlsson Aigner CK55 RS Rascasse: Luxury in Unexpected Dimensions

• Specialist automobile manufacturer Carlsson and Lifestyle Leather Brand Etienne Aigner develop a third model.
• Carlsson Aigner® CK55 RS Rascasse powered by a 456 hp V8.
• Special edition limited to 20 cars.

Exclusive automobile manufacturer Carlsson Autotechnik GmbH, and the luxury leather brand Etienne Aigner AG are proud to present the third model to emerge from their co-operative venture.

The Carlsson Aigner® CK55 RS Rascasse, based on the Mercedes-Benz GL 500, makes its world premiere at the Geneva Auto Salon. The Rascasse will be an exclusive limited edition of 20 cars.

Distinguished Exterior Design

The star qualities of this car are obvious at a glance. The striking two-tone paintwork, a hallmark of the Carlsson Aigner® range, confirms that the Carlsson Aigner® CK55 RS Rascasse is no ordinary luxury car.

Several coats of perfectly smooth, hand-rubbed Bordeaux Rouge metallic paint have been applied to just below the window line. Above this, rich black paint takes over with a thin, black coachline softening the transition between two shades. The visual marraige of these two contrasting yet complementary colours imparts a regal air to the Rascasse.

Adding to that presence is the Carlsson Aigner body styling kit consisting of wider wheel arches visually linked by side skirts. The front wings carry white illuminated Aigner logos. The door rubbing strips are colour-coded in black, which visually lengthens the car.

The nose of the Rascasse has been made more imposing with a new bonnet carrying two larger power domes. Under this, a new larger front grill and sub-grilles feature chromed wire mesh.

Additional driving and fog lights are set into the bumpers, stainless steel grids and LED daytime running lights are integrated into lower edge of the deeper front apron extension. All these elements give the Rascasse a much stronger face, reinforcing its already commanding presence.

The rear valence incorporates cut-outs for the four chromed exit pipes of the freer-flowing sports exhaust system. This is optimised for both lower backpressure and a throaty V8 soundtrack.

Apart from enhancing the look of the car, the front spoiler, side skirts and rear valence extensions are designed to help reduce aerodynamic drag and lift. All these parts are made from PU-RIM, the flexible material used by OE manufactures like Mercedes-Benz for their production bumpers.

PU is much more expensive than glass-fibre in small runs, but is lighter and has good low speed bump resilience. It also requires a much larger tooling investment, demonstrating Carlsson’s commitment to OE quality levels.

The 5,461cc, 48-valve, DOHC V8 motor has 388hp (285 kW) and 530Nm of torque in standard form. Carlsson’s proven conversion for this engine uses a free-flow exhaust system with metal catalytic converters, gas-flowed cylinder-heads, high-lift camshafts and a remapped ECU to boost output to 456 hp (335 kW) with 640Nm of torque.

Thus endowed, the Carlsson Aigner® CK55 RS Rascasse is the most powerful normally-aspirated GL in the world, accelerating from 0 to a hundred km/h in just 5.9 seconds. This compares to 6.5 sec for the standard GL500.

To help transmit this extra power and torque to the road, Carlsson use their three-piece 3/11 UL forged alloy wheels with highly polished outer rims in 11J x 23-inch size with 305/30ZR23 tyres.

The forging process creates a very light but exceptionally strong alloy wheel that helps to counter the increased unsprung weight of the larger diameter wheels and tyres.

The Carlsson electronic lowering kit, C-Tronic® SUSPENSION AIR, drops the ride height of the Airmatic suspension by 30mm. In combination with the wider wheels and tyres, this delivers superior handling and roadholding characteristics.

An abundance of precious materials

Colour matching is one of the keystones of the fashion industry. Where Carlsson elevates the mechanicals to new heights, Aigner demonstrates the art of haute couture with the plush interior of the Rascasse.

Picking up the Bordeaux Rouge dark red shade from the bodywork, Aigner uses the finest hides and Alcantara in this colour to cover the seats, dashtop, door panels and centre console. All four seats are covered in perforated softwalk-nappa-leather with applications in alcantara, large, styliced Aigner logo discreetly stitched into the seating. The headlining is also softwalk-nappa leather, stitched in a bespoke pattern. The RS sport airbag steering wheel in a leather-alcantara combination, the floor mats and the fine wood equipment match the Carlsson Aigner leather interior. Aluminium pedal protectors, the aluminium foot rest and the entrance panels with the white illuminated Carlsson logo support the interior.

Total comfort for rear compartment passengers means sumptuous seats and plenty of space in all directions. For that reason, Carlsson and Aigner decided that the seven-seater configuration should be ditched in favour of just two individual rear seats.

Supporting this hedonistic concept is an integrated fridge in a compartment between the rear seats. Drinks can be served in bespoke hand-blown Carlsson-Aigner glasses also stored in this compartment.

The comprehensive Rear Entertainment System is centred around the eight-inch screens integrated into the headrests of the front seats. A surround sound audio system provides the soundtrack as well as just music if you just want to relax on a journey.

Rascasse – A Sting in the Tail

Carlsson, manufacturer of special cars based on Mercedes Benz models, and high fashion leather goods manufacturer, Aigner, are proud to present their third unique limited edition model in the short space of one and a half years.

In September 2007, this dynamic duo introduced the Carlsson Aigner® CK65 “Eau Rouge“, based on the CL-Coupe. This was followed in July 2008 by the Carlsson Aigner® CK65 RS “Blanchimont“, a car to fill the obvious void between the S-Class and the Maybach.

The Carlsson Aigner® CK55 RS “Rascasse“ completes the family, and is offered at a basic price of 228,500 euros excluding VAT.

As with the first two automobiles designed by the Carlsson and Aigner team, the new model is also named after a legendary racetrack bend. But unlike the Eau Rouge and the Blanchimont, the Rascasse name does not origin from the racetrack Spa-Francorchamps. Rascasse is the second last bend of the Monaco Grand Prix Circuit as well as a famous street cafe located by the track.

In fact, the Rascasse name originally comes from the French red rascasse, a member of the Scorpion fish family that is an essential ingredient in Bouillabaisse, the most famous French gourmet soup. A perfect blend of performance, speed and breeding, the Carlsson Aigner Rascasse is also red, tasty, sporting, and carries a sting in its tail.