The 2012 SLK-Class unites premium comfort and high-quality equipment with an especially athletic flair. At the same time the new roadster is the most fuel efficient in its class matched with segment-leading safety. All-weather driving enjoyment - open or closed, during weekends or the daily commute - is built-in to the SLKs genes. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 goes on-sale in the U.S. in June 2011.

Outstanding on all fronts
The best or nothing - this motto is at the heart of the Mercedes-Benz philosophy, and also the guiding theme for the new SLK. From the start the roadster was designed to provide top performance in all areas, and Mercedes-Benz engineers have rigorously translated this requirement into reality giving the SLK attributes that provide the roadster with a peak position in its segment. Among them are extremely compact dimensions combined with a generous interior with numerous practical features. Outstanding performance and sporty, agile handling are also major characteristics of the new SLK. The new SLK is also the safest roadster with its unrivalled range of safety features.

Striking, athletic and stylish
The designers have tailor-made a body for the new SLK that emphasizes its classic roadster proportions. Behind the long hood is a compact passenger compartment and a short rear overhang - key attributes that characterize all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz.

Striking front end
The first eye-catching feature is an upright radiator grille that bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. The grille emphasizes the long and well-proportioned hood, and with its light-catching contours it already hints at the roadsters dramatic qualities. The wide radiator grille bears the Mercedes-Benz star in a prominent central position and displays a powerfully contoured chromed fin at the front. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look of the new SLKs face and resemble that of the legendary 190SL from the 1950s, which is regarded by many as being the original "SLK". However, the designers did not just focus on the past; with the new SLKs front end they also intentionally created a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG "gullwing" and the new CLS-Class.

The impressive result of this meticulously detailed work is that in spite of the more striking, steeper front and larger frontal area, the Cd value has been cut to just 0.30 - a brilliant achievement (the predecessor models Cd value was 0.32).

Dramatic lines
The timeless, classic shape of the side profile with the classic roadster proportions embodies aesthetics of the highest caliber and is a visual cue to the vehicles sportiness and driving pleasure. Fine details show the care that has been taken by the Mercedes-Benz designers. For example, a molding conceals the trunk joint, so that the side line doesnt interfere, as it usually does with similar roof designs. The ventilation grilles in the front fenders with a chromed fin are reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz roadsters of the 1950s. In the new SLK, they form the perfect starting point for a feature line, which flows to the muscular rear fender, using light and shadow to add style and timeless aesthetics to the sides. Meanwhile, the upper edge of the wide headlamps - which for the first time feature LED technology - also appears to flow into the feature line.

The line is emphasized by the stemmed exterior mirrors, which are positioned on the beltline where they allow a better forward view to the side with their very narrow stems painted in the vehicle color. Their sophisticated aerodynamics also helps to keep the side windows practically dirt-free, while ensuring a low level of wind noise.

Muscular rear end
At the rear, the eye is drawn to the integrated spoiler lip and wide tail light clusters. For the first time, the tail lights with their pronounced horizontal design are in all-LED technology. Their upper edge extends forward into the sides, culminating in the feature line. A twin exhaust system with trapezoidal tailpipes rounds off the muscular impression.

Premium materials and stylish sportiness
Despite the most compact dimensions in its class, the 2012 SLK has generous interior dimensions. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments that offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of quality and precision. The interior is characterized by stylish sportiness and genuine high-quality materials which have been manufactured with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Standard brushed aluminum trim covers the center console; wood trim can be ordered as an option in high-gloss dark brown burl walnut. Four round, metallic air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS AMG.

Echoing the exterior design, the black dashboard emphasizes the horizontal lines and width of the vehicle. The SLKs generous round dials flank a display for the onboard computer. The color display for the communications and entertainment functions is housed in the center console and is easily read by both the driver and passenger.

An ergonomic multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom and thick leather rim makes the high quality and athletic character of the new SLK a constant tactile experience. Shift paddles and metal trim on the spokes add both sportiness and inement. The interior can be enhanced even further with the Trim package which includes a wood/leather steering wheel and shift knob.

The sweeping lines of the upper dashboard section are continued into the door panels. The center panel of the door is color-coordinated with the interior and the door pulls and seat adjustment switches are trimmed in aluminum or optional wood.

Sporty yet comfortable seats
The sporty, ergonomic seats with adjustable crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints integrated into the backrests have high side bolsters for optimum lateral support and comfort on long journeys. Convenience and seating comfort is provided by electric seat adjustment with memory functions and 4-way lumbar support.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK350 offers a choice of Black, Sahara Beige or Ash sun-lecting leather as well as Black and Bengal Red Premium sun-lecting leather which noticeably reduces heat build-up. The leather has a special coating which lects the suns rays and measurements have shown that this reduces the temperature of the seats by more than 18 degrees Fahrenheit - a significant improvement in comfort when the car has been parked in the sun.

As in the previous model, the neck-level heating system AIRSCARF is available as an optional extra for the new SLK. This creates a flow of warm air around the neck and shoulder areas of the occupants from a vent in the front of each head restraint.

Attractive lighting
An ambient lighting system available for the first time as an option in the Sport Package creates an impressive effect in the interior of the new SLK. It consists of discreet optical fibers in SOLAR RED, which produce a pleasant yet dramatic lighting effect in the door panels, around the door pulls and on both sides of the center console. This mood-enhancing ambient lighting is activated when the doors are opened ("welcome home" effect), and its intensity can be individually varied by a dimmer.

The central interior lights are located in the overhead control panel and includes two interior lights and a center console spotlight. Additionally, a single LED is located in each A-pillar to provide extra interior illumination on entry and exit.

Clever storage compartment concept
The new SLK offers an exemplary variety of storage options to provide versatility and day-to-day utility. The glove compartment has been enlarged by 26% in comparison with the previous model. In addition, the glove compartment lid includes useful features such as holders for a pen, credit cards and coins.

There are three storage compartments in the center console - below the air conditioning controls, dual cupholders next to the CsayaAND controller on the center console and under the center armrest with a 12 V socket, USB interface and AUX connection (optionally a media interface for integration of an iPod is available as part of the Premium 1 Package). A net attached to the tunnel in the passenger footwell is fitted with a flexible bottle-holder which can securely accommodate even 50 fl. oz. bottles.

Excellent climate
The new SLK is equipped with a windshield defogging sensor in the stem of the rear-view mirror which registers the glass temperature and interior humidity level of the new SLK. In dry weather, when no cooling is required but the A/C is operating, the control system powers the compressor down but activates it as soon as it detects that the windshield is fogging-up. This has two advantages:

Innovative technology with a unique roof
Driving a roadster is a very emotional experience, conjuring images of cruising through the countryside with the sounds and smells of the outdoors, the top down and the sun shining. Rainy weather doesnt have much impact since the SLK-Class has always a retractable hard-top which converts the roadster into a coupe with a fixed roof at the touch of a button. Mercedes-Benz engineers have constantly ined the hard-top and maintained the SLKs pioneering role in this technology.

Unique equipment: MAGIC SKY CONTROL
For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction retractable hard-top for the new SLK:
    The standard roof is painted in the vehicle color.
    Optionally available is a panorama roof with dark-tinted glass.
    The third option is a world premiere - the panorama roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof switches to light or dark transparency at the press of a button. In light mode it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up from the suns rays. In other words: a comfortable atmosphere at the touch of a button.

The operating principle is based on the physics of a plate condenser: if the glass structure is subjected to an electrical voltage, particles in the structure position themselves so that light is able to pass through the glass. If the voltage remains switched off, however, the particles position themselves randomly. This partially blocks the light, and the glass remains dark. The control unit and converter are integrated into the front section of the roof, and the switch is in the overhead control console.

UV and infrared light are also effectively blocked in transparent mode, while insulation increases even more significantly and noticeably in darkened mode, thereby helping to keep the temperature on interior parts such as armrests cooler by up to 18 degrees Fahrenheit compared with conventional tinted glass.

Measurements using a device called a star pyranometer in Death Valley, one of the worlds hottest places, impressively demonstrated the effect. This device measures the intensity of exposure to sunlight. With an open roof, the thermal load from the sun in the heat of Death Valley reached 1000 to 1100 W per square meter. With the transparent glass roof it dropped to 200 W, and when the roof was switched to darkened mode with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, it dropped to 40 to 50 W - one 20th of the original value and less than a 60 watt bulb.

Since the innovative glass also shields against the suns rays far more effectively than conventional thermal insulation glass or sunblinds, the occupants of the new SLK also enjoy the highest level of climatic comfort. When driving with the roof open would be unpleasant due to intense heat, the driver and front passenger are able to relax under the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof - an important contribution to onboard comfort and the driver-fitness safety typical of a Mercedes. Even when the vehicle is parked the interior does not overheat since the roof is switched to darkened mode when the ignition is turned-off.

MAGIC SKY CONTROL not only benefits passengers but also the environment as some of the strain is taken off the air-conditioning system, thereby saving on CO2 emissions.

In addition, the frame of the three roof variants is now of magnesium. This makes each roof around 13 lbs. lighter than in the previous model, giving the car a lower center of gravity.

The engineers have also ined the operating mechanism for the roof and trunk lid. It now takes less than 20 seconds to open or close the roof completely. The improved mechanism also creates more trunk capacity.

Fully suitable trunk for everyday use
The luggage capacity with the retractable hardtop closed is 10.1 cubic feet. A golf bag or a large suitcase is also no problem.

When the roof is opened the capacity is reduced to 6.4 cubic feet, sufficient space for two large sports bags, for example with tennis equipment.

To prevent luggage from colliding with the roof components there is a luggage cover in the trunk which can be pivoted longitudinally. The roof can only be opened if this cover is pivoted to the rear, and when the roof is closed the cover can be easily pivoted forward by hand to facilitate loading and unloading, and makes the full trunk capacity available.

Bodyshell structure with aluminum components
The bodyshell structure already proved highly successful in the preceding model, and was weight-optimized still further for the new SLK. Accordingly the hood and front fenders are made of aluminum for the first time, as are the dashboard cross-members and the rear end; the rear bulkhead module is made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The torsional rigidity of this optimized lightweight steel construction was improved even further thanks to the intelligent use of lightweight construction methods, reducing the bodyshell weight by around 29 pounds.

The doors are completely new, with reinforcement at the beltline and at the lower edge. A section of high-strength steel ensures excellent side impact protection. The well-proven A-pillars with welded-in oval tubes of hot-formed ultra-high-strength steel and a robust nodular connection to the side members remain unchanged.

To keep repair costs down, the front side members have a prescribed cutting point for a sectional repair, and their shape causes them to bend ahead of this area in the event of a collision.

Exemplary aerodynamics
In addition to familiar features such as a spoiler lip on the upper edge of the trunk lid, wheel spoilers in front of the wheels, and full engine compartment and underbody cladding, the newly designed exterior mirrors and painstaking modifications to the A-pillar cladding contributed to the excellent drag coefficient.

The A-pillar cladding is a good example of meticulous development work. It took more than one year to develop a plastic cover that would combine strict design requirements with proper functionality. The result is a pillar cover with a fine front edge and a drainage channel on the upper surface. This ensures a very close airflow and theore a significant reduction in air resistance, drafts, aeroacoustics and soiling of the exterior mirrors and side windows.

AIRGUIDE: Innovative windstop system
A comfortable alternative to the conventional windstop is the new pivoting AIRGUIDE which has been invented by Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics engineers. It consists of pivoting transparent plastic shields which are attached to the roll bars. This is the worlds first windstop that enables different comfort levels to be selected by the two occupants. The driver and passenger can individually pivot the units to the center of the vehicle in an instant and tame turbulent air flow without any installation or removal effort.

Modern headlamp technology and LED daytime running lamps
The Mercedes-Benz SLK350 is equipped with horizontally arranged LED daytime running lamps with four LEDs. The new SLK can be optionally equipped with the Lighting Package which provides active and cornering light functions.

The active headlamp includes intuitive headlamp range control which automatically adjusts the angle of the light beam to changes in the cars attitude - for example pitching movements when braking and accelerating - or to accommodate changes in vehicle loading.

The wide tail lights of the new SLK feature full-LED technology for the first time. This not only ensures an unmistakable nighttime design, but also enables LEDs to shine with different intensities in specific areas of the tail light cluster, depending on their lighting function. LED technology has other advantages: compared to conventional bulbs they light up around 0.15 seconds faster, and also have a considerably longer operating life.

Athletic spirit and ecological efficiency
The 2012 SLK350 is powered by a redesigned direct-injection V6 engine developing 302 hp/273 lb-ft. of torque from its 3,498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph). Its fuel consumption is estimated at 20 city/29 hwy mpg thanks to its 3rd-generation direct injection, piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition.

Launching later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a turbocharged four-cylinder direct-injection engine developing 201 hp/229 lb-ft of torque from a displacement of 1,796 cubic centimeters. The SLK250 is equipped with a standard 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 23 city/31 hwy mpg. From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.

New V6 engine with innovative technology
The six-cylinder engine is part of the new V6 family of efficient direct injection engines. Known as BlueDIRECT, this innovation establishes the V-engines from Mercedes-Benz as worldwide benchmarks and makes a further reduction in fuel consumption by 20 percent possible by engine modifications alone.

The V-angle of the new V6 engine is only 60 degrees. This enables the balance shaft for primary vibrations to be omitted. As a result, the driver notices a high level of comfort. The crankcase, pistons and cylinder heads of the V6 are made of aluminum while the crankshaft, connecting rods and valves are built from special forged steel.

The technology in the new engine generation includes a number of new developments that are unique in combination:

Lightweight construction techniques and detailed improvements have also reduced in-engine friction considerably compared to the previous engine.

Third-generation direct-injection system
Spray-guided direct gasoline injection (which Mercedes-Benz was the first car manufacturer to introduce in series production) is now in its third generation. The system pressure is up to 2,901 psi and is variably optimized according to the engines performance. New piezo-electric injectors allow up to five injections per intake stroke for the best possible mixture formation.

The crystalline structure of the piezo-ceramic changes in microseconds under an electric voltage and with the precision of just a few thousandths of a millimeter. The central component of a piezo-electric injector is the piezo-stack, which directly controls the metering needle. With a response time of just 0.1 milliseconds, the fuel injection can be very sensitively and precisely adjusted to the current load and engine speed, with a beneficial effect on emissions, fuel consumption and combustion noise.

In the V6 motor, the multiple injections even in tiny quantities made possible with piezo-electric injection technology were used by Mercedes-Benz engineers to control a wider, usable combustion process with efficient lean-burn operation.

Multi-spark ignition for optimal efficiency
The third-generation direct injection system also features rapid multi-spark ignition (MSI). Following the first spark discharge and a brief combustion period, the coil is rapidly recharged and a second spark is discharged. The MSI system enables up to four sparks to be discharged in rapid succession within one millisecond, creating a plasma with a larger spatial expansion than conventional ignition. Controlling this rapid multi-spark ignition enables both the time lapse before the next spark and the combustion duration to be optimally adjusted. This provides versatility in optimizing the center of combustion and improving residual gas compatibility, especially during stratified charge operation. Fuel consumption can be reduced by roughly two percent this way.

Fuel savings of up to 4 percent are possible alone by the use of piezo-electric injection technology in combination with multi-spark ignition, depending on the driving cycle.

Cylinder head with new camshaft adjuster
Mercedes-Benz engineers modified the variable, hydraulic vane-type camshaft adjusters for the intake and exhaust sides by using the basic architecture of the preceding engine. These now have a larger adjustment range of 40 degrees with erence to the crankshaft. Engineers were also able to improve the functionality, achieving a 35 percent greater adjustment speed and adjustability at an oil pressure as low as 5.8 psi. Despite the improved performance, this new component features significantly smaller dimensions and low weight. For this reason the installation space on the longitudinal and vertical axes of the engine was able to be reduced by around 0.6 inches.

Two-stage chain drive for low noise
The extreme compactness of the camshaft adjusters was achieved by the new, two-stage chain drive. A primary chain drives two secondary chains - one per cylinder bank -via an intermediate gear. All three chains can be individually adjusted via a chain tensioner. This results in low tensioning forces and low chain dynamics, ensuring consistent timing and outstanding acoustic properties, with friction reduced even further. In short, the new chain drive is compact and provides low-noise operation.

Exhaust system for stringent emission standards
The exhaust systems for the SLK were developed to meet the ULEV exhaust emission standards as well as noise emission standards. The exhaust system for the 4-cylinder engine consists of a firewall catalytic converter, a center muffler and two rear mufflers.

The emission control system for the V6 gasoline engine has a firewall catalytic converter for the right and left cylinder banks. The exhaust gases then flow into storage-type NOx catalytic converters. These are followed by a twin-pipe center muffler and rear mufflers designed as lection/absorption mufflers on the left and right and rounded-off by two exhaust tailpipes.

Four-cylinder with a bite
The four-cylinder engine for the new SLK250 follows the downsizing principle with the reduced cubic capacity compensated by homogeneous direct injection and turbocharging. This leads to advantages such as lower weight and reduced engine friction. A smaller engine also moves the operating range of the combustion process towards more favorable conditions with consequent fuel consumption improvements.

The direct injection system of the four-cylinder engine has an injection pressure of up to 2,031 psi. In the interests of improved efficiency, this allows the compression ratio to be increased versus a conventional port injection system. The fuel evaporating directly in the combustion chamber also lowers the temperature in the combustion chamber, reducing the engines tendency to knock. The engine is homogeneously charged.

Turbine rotors are used to generate charge pressure in the four-cylinder engine. The single-flow turbocharging of the four-cylinder engine operates more efficiently than a mechanical charger since no engine power needs to be devoted to the rotors.

Other characteristics of the four-cylinder engine include four-valve arrangement with forged intake and exhaust camshafts, as well as camshaft adjustment on the vane-cell principle. This enables the valve timing to be rapidly and variably adjusted. The result is high torque even at low engine speeds, and a higher specific output.

The crankcase and cylinder head are cast from aluminum alloy. The crankshaft is also cast, and has eight counterweights. To compensate the secondary masses inherent to a four-cylinder in-line engine, two Lanchester balancer shafts rotate within the crankcase at twice the crankshaft speed.

An electronically controlled thermostat provides controlled engine warm-up (no coolant flows through the cylinder head when the engine is cold), and theore intelligent thermal management and shortened warm-up phase.

Sporty exhaust note
A sporty exhaust note produced by a new sound generator provides an acoustic backdrop to the 4-cylinder SLK250. This generator is located immediately in front of the throttle flap, and enhances the exhaust note with elements of the intake noise. It filters out certain frequencies from the intake noise and conducts them into the vehicle interior via a pipe connection - an ingeniously simple and very effective solution for a sporty and appealing engine sound.

Automatic transmission with fuel economy benefits
The improved seven-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment for the Mercedes-Benz SLK350 (optionally available on the SLK250). The transmission has undergone extensive further development to achieve decreased torque converter slip, a significant reduction in internal losses and optimized efficiency. Mercedes-Benz developers reduced vibration in the transmission by incorporating a new torsion damper which makes low speed operation more comfortable.

ECO mode reduces engine speeds and considerably improves fuel economy (up to seven percent) but also provides an even faster response to accelerator movements. A new hydraulic circuit and optimized torque converter mapping also contribute to better acceleration. Further fuel economy measures include a new transmission fluid with a lower viscosity and longer service life.

The optimized electrohydraulic control unit of the transmission and new reduced-friction materials in various parts of the transmission in combination with optimized software result in improved shifting comfort.

The closest connection to the road
It is the suspension that establishes contact with the road, and ride comfort and agile handling depend on it. The new Mercedes-Benz SLK offers a choice of two versions:
    A lowered sports suspension with harder springs and dampers ensures a systematically sporty driving experience
    An optional Dynamic Handling package is available as a special order option. Its merits include a suspension with continuous adjustable damping. It has an electronically controlled fully automatic damping system, so the vehicle rolls away gently even on poor road surfaces, but still offers high driving dynamics

Wheel location is the same for all three suspension variants: a 3-link suspension locates the wheels at the front, while at the rear this is done by a multi-link independent suspension which has already impressively demonstrated its unrivalled wheel location qualities in the preceding model. In the new SLK this has forged aluminum hub carriers, in order to reduce unsprung masses even further for even better handling. All models in the new SLK-Class also have a torsion bar stabilizer, which is attached directly to the body.

The sports suspension has a stiffer damper setup, shorter suspension springs and torsion bar stabilizers with a larger cross-section. The suspension is also lowered by 0.39 inches. The roll control system has been reinforced to achieve even smaller roll angles when cornering at speed.

Suspension with automatic, continuously adjustable damping
The suspension with automatic, continuously adjustable damping, which is included in the optional Dynamic Handling package, sets new standards. It allows sporty and agile handling for maximum driving pleasure on winding country roads. An electronic system automatically and continuously ensures that the dampers are always set to suit the driving situation. The response time is normally only around 10 milliseconds.

Setting the basic characteristics of the suspension is still left to the driver, however, using a switch that enables him to choose comfortable or sporty damping characteristics. At the touch of a button he theore has a suspension setup available which offers sport or comfort settings. If he chooses the sport setting, he is opting for a driving experience with a very high level of dynamic response.

Like the sports suspension, the suspension with variable damping is equipped with torsion bars with a larger cross-section, and the suspension is lowered by 0.39 inches.

Brakes for sporty driving enjoyment
The proven, dual-circuit hydraulic braking system and the distribution of the two circuits to the front and rear axles has been adopted from the preceding model. All variants are equipped with single-piston floating caliper brakes at all corners.

The brake covers at the front axle were optimized in the wind tunnel for even more efficient cooling of the brakes and wheel bearings, and to protect the brake discs from road debris.

Electric parking brake
The electrically operated parking brake in the new SLK helps in the design of a generous interior. Its switch is located in the dashboard, under the rotary light switch. Pressing it engages the electric parking brake, and pulling releases it. In models with an automatic transmission the brake is released automatically as soon as the engine is running, the transmission is in the D or R position, the driver has a fastened seat belt and the accelerator is pressed.

Direct and comfortable - the steering of the SLK
The 2012 SLK-Class features the hydraulically assisted Direct-Steer system which increases the agility and controllability of the SLK and improves steering comfort when parking as less effort is required. It combines these attributes with predictable and safe steering characteristics at high speeds. As a result, the agile roadster corners even more willingly and precisely, allows relaxed cruising on motorways and makes for even more exhilarating driving pleasure.

The new Direct-Steer system was developed from the familiar speed-sensitive steering that Mercedes-Benz offers for many of its models. With this system, the steering effort depends on the vehicle speed - the effort required increases with the speed. In practice, this means more steering comfort during parking maneuvers and more safety at higher speeds, for example on highways, where a greater steering effort ensures safe straight-line stability.

The new Direct-Steer system retains these positive attributes of speed-sensitive steering and adds a variable steering ratio that changes according to the steering angle. The ratio is indirect when the steering is centered, which ensures good straight-line stability and theore a high level of safety. In contrast to other variable steering systems, the ratio of the Direct-Steer system increases rapidly after a steering angle of 5 degrees, becoming extremely direct from a steering angle of just 100 degrees. Only relatively small steering movements are then needed to make course corrections.

During city driving the driver needs to perform less pronounced steering movements, making quick changes in direction possible with less effort. The Direct-Steer system is even more impressive on winding country roads, where only small steering movements are sufficient to steer the vehicle. Even on tighter bends, the drivers hands hardly need to change their grip on the steering wheel. Rapid sequences of bends can be mastered almost intuitively, safely, precisely and enjoyably.

Despite its remarkable performance, the key component of the Direct-Steer system is simply a steering rack. Its secret lies in the teeth cut into it: in the middle these teeth are slightly wave-shaped, with varying side profiles. Further outward the teeth are spaced at varying distances apart so the change in steering ratio is produced by purely mechanical means. With this solution, Mercedes engineers have been able to dispense with the complex actuators and sensor systems used by other variable steering systems. The advantages include very low complexity and weight. The system always responds predictably and consistently while other variable steering systems sometimes require rapid adaptation by the driver in rapidly changing situations.

ECO steering servo pump lowers fuel consumption
Driving straight ahead in the new SLK also means saving fuel. This is ensured by an ECO steering servo pump as standard in all SLK models. Its centerpiece is an electrically actuated proportional solenoid valve which variably opens a bypass aperture at the pressure connection to feed the steering gear with just the right amount of fluid. As the steering has a lower energy requirement when driving straight ahead, the pressure in the steering system can be minimized and less energy is consumed.

Advanced safety technology
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK sets new safety standards in the roadster segment. The safety experts have long adhered to the motto, "The best or nothing", coined by Gottlieb Daimler. Far from being satisfied with achieving rating targets, they work intensively on attaining a level of safety which far exceeds the standards required by the worlds legislators. The most important measure of their work is not the laboratory or crash test facility, but actual, real-life accidents. They call the results of their work Real Life Safety, a concept which is based on research into thousands of accidents. Using this irutable evidence, the Mercedes-Benz engineers have developed or initiated most of the assistance systems which today effectively support drivers and have been adopted by many of the companys competitors.

ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE as standard
The new SLK also features a unique combination of driver assistance systems which help to avoid accidents, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST. Thanks to this system, the roadster develops a precise feeling for the level of attentiveness of the driver and can provide an early warning of overtiredness.

Other standard equipment includes the ADAPTIVE BRAKE which consists of ABS, the acceleration skid control system ASR and also active yaw control (GMR). In addition, it features the following functions:

Safety and comfort
Those wishing to do so can extend the range of assistance systems in the new SLK even further with the addition of features enhancing both safety and comfort:

    The Lighting Package provides additional lighting functions (active curve illumination and cornering light function), which are activated depending on the driving conditions
    The optional PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance supports the driver when parking. Its ultrasonic sensors measure the length of parking spaces as the car drives past; the cockpit display then provides a schematic representation of the recommended parking maneuver.

Taking into account all of the requirements of the rating institutes

In developing the new SLK, the requirements of Euro NCAP as well as all of the global consumer ratings have been taken into account. This has contributed to the development of the bodyshell structure of the vehicle, which follows established concepts and has been optimized in a number of detailed areas. These include, among other things, reinforced members, a new side impact structure and new fiber-reinforced roll-over bar.

In the event of an accident, up-front sensors and lateral satellite and roll-over sensors help the central control unit to predict the nature and severity of the accident. New, additional pressure sensors in the doors as well as acceleration sensors in the front bumper help in detecting an impact with a pedestrian.

New headbag and crash-responsive head restraints
The restraint systems with two-stage driver and front passenger airbags have also been enhanced. A new feature is the headbag, which provides generous lateral protection for the head impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest protects the upper body in the event of a side impact. Both the driver and passenger are provided knee airbags as well. The seat belts, with belt buckle tensioners and speed-sensitive belt force limiters, serve to highlight the high safety standards of Mercedes-Benz.

Another new feature finding its way into the standard equipment of the 2012 SLK comes in the form of the NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz. They support the drivers and passengers heads in the event of a rear impact and reduce the risk of whiplash.

An intuitive companion
A radio and other entertainment media are a given in todays vehicles, electronic navigation systems are almost as common, and customers demand to integrate a mobile phone easily into the onboard network. To meet these requirements in the best possible way, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new SLK with latest-generation telematics.

The sophistication of the head unit is immediately apparent from the large color display. This monitor is positioned in the upper section of the center console, so that the driver is able to see the information provided without taking his eyes fully off the road. It can also be easily viewed by the passenger.

The head units share a common interface known as the "central controller". In the interests of relaxed and ergonomical operation, it is located within easy reach in front of the center armrest. This extremely sophisticated, metal rotary/pressure control can be moved in eight directions, and can also activate or confirm additional functions by rotating or pressing it. Navigating through the main menus and sub-menus is effortless and thanks to new user-friendly logic the system is quickly and intuitively mastered.

The head units are connected to eight loudspeakers and feature speed-sensitive volume control from 12 mph, which increases the radio volume with the vehicle speed. All the units are also protected against theft by electronic assignment to the specific vehicle.

Audio 20
The basic Audio 20 radio is combined with a large TFT color display with a screen diagonal of 5.8 inches and a resolution of 400 x 240 pixels as a head unit. Audio 20 features:
    integrated AM/FM tuner,
    audio amplifier with 4x25 watts
    MP3-capable CD player and AUX connection in the glove compartment
    Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
    Bluetooth audio streaming

CsayaAND System
Optionally available is the CsayaAND head unit featuring the voice-operated Voice Control system. The display screen for this unit is a high-resolution TFT color display with a 7-inch screen capable of representing 800 x 480 pixels.

10 GB of storage for compressed audio files (mp3, wma and aac formats) is now included. CsayaAND also includes a 6-disc CD/DVD changer.

The Music Search function enables drivers and passengers to search the hard disc, SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and artists. The search can be according to various criteria, for instance album, music category or composer.

The fast hard-disc navigation system of CsayaAND also has new features such as 3D city views and recording of drive routes which can be recalled later. The driver can also set specific personal destinations via an SD card and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map, one of them an economical variation. CsayaAND also includes a voice-operated control system for audio, telephone and navigation with convenient whole-word recognition.

Sound system - striking the right note
Audiophiles are able to choose the optional Premium 1 Package featuring Harman/Kardon® surround sound system. This features an additional MOST amplifier with DSP and an output of 8 x 50 watts plus ten high-quality, high-performance loudspeakers. All the amplifier channels of the sound system are equipped with frequency compensation individually suited to the vehicle acoustics. Bass, treble, volume, balance and fader can be individually adjusted.

Telephony - reachable at any time
Both the Audio 20 radio and the CsayaAND system have an integrated Bluetooth hands-free system for mobile phones. The hands-free system can be operated via the multifunction steering wheel or the keys on the head unit. Bluetooth can also be used to transfer contact data from a mobile phone to the head unit.

The 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class is the latest version of 2011 Mercedes. 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class are latest Mercedes E-Class convertible sure will go on sale at the right time. 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class it has a price of not more than $88,000.

The 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class is a 2- or 4-door, up to 7-passenger sports coupe, luxury sports coupe, convertible, luxury convertible, luxury sedan, luxury sports sedan, or luxury wagon, available in 9 trims, ranging from the E350 Coupe to the E63 AMG Sedan.

Upon introduction, the 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class E350 Coupe is prepared with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 268-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the freeway. A 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class has 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan is prepared with a standard 6.3-liter, V8, 518-horsepower engine that achieves 13-mpg in the city and 20-mpg on the highway. A 7-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the latest version of 2012 MERCEDES. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class will expose its latest model named as 2012 C-CLASS sedan. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class will suggest a C-Class Coupe as well 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets a very modest face-lift for the latest model year.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class  is a 108.7-inch wheelbase is the same to the C-Class sedan and E-Class Coupe. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class engineering hardware isnt severely dissimilar.2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan has a biturbo direct-injection inline-four-cylinder engine to its lineup.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a 228-horspower, 221-pound-foot V-6 will be in the C300 4matic and range topping C350 will get a new 300-horspower,273-pound-foot, direct-injection V6. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a latest two-door C-Class holds the same 16.8 cubic feet as the  four-door model. the C250 with 201 horsepower and has 229 pound-feet of torque in the entry-level. We got our first up close and personal look at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class including the wagon version at a dinner last night.

Mercedes-AMG is once again demonstrating its qualities as a visionary, this time with the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake. The new AMG high-performance vehicle is the exciting enhancement of an innovative vehicle concept. As an attractive alternative for design-oriented car enthusiasts, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake combines performance with style and usability in a completely new way. Synonymous with the dynamism which is typical of AMG are features such as the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with a power output range of from 386 kW (525 hp) to 410 kW (557 hp), the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. The generous interior and luggage compartment with a volume of up to 1550 litres reveal the practical sides of the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake. In addition to attractive optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio to enhance the driving dynamics even further, another unique highlight is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. And as a truly exceptional offering there is also the time-limited Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake "Edition 1" boasting an additional 24 kW (32 hp) of power and 100 Nm of torque as well as some particularly exclusive appointment features.

Mercedes-AMG is showing courage and with the new CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake is presenting a performance trendsetter in a new market segment. The CLS55 AMG already had no direct competitors back in 2004. The first four-door performance Coupé inspired other automotive manufacturers and over the years has come to be copied many times. The successor model presented in 2006, the CLS63 AMG with an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, and the current CLS63 AMG with the 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine available since 2011, have consistently continued this strategy.

According to Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "After the successes of the CLS55 AMG and CLS63 AMG, with the new CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake we are consistently pursuing the philosophy of offering our customers unrivalled, exciting high-performance cars. The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake is establishing a completely new, small and select niche sector, and is expected to delight new customers just as much as it will existing AMG enthusiasts. The combination of performance, style and usability is unique."

AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine producing up to 410 kW (557 hp)
The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine impresses with a combination of direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, piezo injectors, biturbocharging, air/water intercooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.

The eight-cylinder engine is the embodiment of pure dynamism and high efficiency: offering power output and torque levels of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Nm respectively, the effortless superiority of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake can be enjoyed by the driver over every single kilometre. In conjunction with the Edition 1 these figures are pushed to 410 kW (557 hp) and 800 Nm. Both variants offer driving performance of the highest calibre: accelerating from zero to 100 km/h takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, and the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Effortlessly superior power delivery, low fuel consumption
Despite offering dynamism similar to that of a sports car, the consumption figures are maintained at a low level. Fuel consumption of 10.1 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC) corresponds to a CO2 output of 235 g/km and is identical for both power units. The driving experience in the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake is characterised by high levels of agility through all engine speed ranges. The absolutely effortlessly superior power delivery can also be heard by the driver too: the sports exhaust system with chrome twin tailpipes emits a sonorous eight-cylinder engine sound typical of AMG.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission - individual and flexible
The AMG eight-cylinder engine is not the only highlight - the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also boasts exciting levels of performance and efficiency. Equipped with four individual transmission modes as well as automatic double declutching and RACE START functions, its power delivery is characterised by responsiveness and maximum variability. In "Controlled Efficiency" (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is always enabled and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the vehicle is at a standstill. In "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) transmission modes, the engine and transmission are significantly more responsive: short, precisely defined interruptions of ignition and injection result in faster gear changes under full load.

The suspension, steering and braking system of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake complement the high-tech drive system perfectly. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, with steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, as well as automatic level control, is enhanced further by an electronically controlled damping system; it automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on the driving conditions and reduces the roll angle of the body. The effect of this is lightning-fast adjustment between optimum driving comfort and the best possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension modes of "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" at the press of a button. The 3-stage -ESP with SPORT Handling mode also enables three individual control strategies to be selected at the press of a button.

The AMG-specific front and rear axles with greater negative camber and optimised elastokinematics help to provide more stability at higher cornering speeds as well as better contact with the road. The front axle, with a track width which is 56 mm wider, is the optimum match for the electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering. It features a more direct ratio, variable power assistance which adapts according to the suspension mode, and also contributes towards reducing fuel consumption since the steering assistance system only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered.

Optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
Perfect deceleration even when driving extremely briskly is provided by the AMG high-performance braking system with 360 mm ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used on the front axle. The optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system with yet larger brake discs and specially painted brake callipers with "AMG Carbon Ceramic" lettering ensures an even higher level of braking performance as well as lower unsprung masses. Good contact with the road, meanwhile, comes courtesy of the titanium grey-painted, high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a triple-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the rear.

Distinctive, sporty and dominant: the sensational design
The excitingly elegant design idiom of a sensational vehicle design is combined in the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake with a distinctly sporty sense of dominance. Its high levels of performance are visibly expressed in such elements as the powerful AMG front apron with cross strut finished in high-gloss black, the AMG radiator grille with single slat and the AMG-specific design of the bonnet.

Further dynamic highlights also include the original, broader front wings with "V8 BITURBO" lettering, the AMG-specific rear apron with diffuser look and the AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome twin tailpipes. High-performance LED headlamps including Intelligent Light System and adaptive Highbeam Assist are fitted as standard.

Extensive appointments, exclusive atmosphere
From the quality of materials and workmanship through to the exclusive atmosphere, the interior of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake meets the very highest of standards. AMG sports seats in nappa leather with multicontour seat and memory functions, AMG black piano lacquer trim and the AMG-specific analogue clock featuring an IWC design all help to create a unique aura. The driver is also kept perfectly and fully informed too thanks to the AMG instrument cluster with AMG main menu including RACETIMER and AMG start-up screen.

The transmission modes, suspension setup, ESP® functions and the AMG program can all be configured via the AMG DRIVE UNIT with E-SELECT selector lever - a special feature exclusive to AMG - which is integrated into the centre console and angled towards the driver. Visually striking, ergonomic and reassuringly tactile: the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather features a three-spoke design with flattened top and bottom sections, a special shape, perforated leather finish and silver coloured aluminium shift paddles. A newly introduced feature on all AMG vehicles is the chrome-look electronic key with AMG emblem.

designo wooden luggage compartment floor in American cherry
A highlight among the extensive range of optional extras is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. This luggage compartment floor is made of open-pore American cherry wood, a decorative fine wood traditionally used in superior interior design work, high-quality furniture and exclusive ship outfitting applications. Selected veneer sheets are glued and pressed together by hand in cross-bonded layers to achieve high dimensional stability. The blanks are milled into their precise shape using a CNC machine, and the surfaces sanded to a smooth finish, waterproofed and oiled to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

Inlaid work using darker smoked oak, precisely cut into three millimetre strips using laser technology, helps to enhance the design of the wooden floor. The aluminium rails, manufactured using an extrusion moulding process, have a brushed finish as well as rubber inserts, and not only help to protect the wooden floor but also feature anti-slip properties.

Additional optional extras from designo:

The AMG Performance Studio offers products for even greater driving dynamics and exclusivity
To increase driving dynamics and exclusivity even further, customers can also opt for optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:

Also optionally available for the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system with 16-channel DSP amplifier, ICEpower amplifier, total output of 1200 watts and 14 high-end loudspeakers.

"Edition 1" as an aesthetic and very individual model
At the start of its market launch the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake will also be available as an "Edition 1" variant offering even more power and torque: the exceptionally exclusive appointment features of the "Edition 1" highlight the vehicles exciting aesthetics and individuality to impressive effect. The special model includes a number of high-quality details:

Also optionally available at no extra cost is the single-tone Exclusive PASSION leather upholstery in black, including dashboard and beltlines finished in nappa leather. This also includes matching designo velour floor mats in black.

The market launches of the Mercedes CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake and the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake "Edition 1" will commence in October 2012.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive is one of the latest version of 2013 Mercedes-Benz.  A 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive has four synchronized electric motors produce 552 Kw and a max torque of 1000 Nm,with an acceleration of 0 to 100 mph in 3.9 secondsand a top speed of 250 km/hr, making it the worlds fastest electric vehicle.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive design features a vibration-free engine and motors that provide maximum torque in an instant. each compact permanent-magnet electric motor weighs 45 kilograms and is capable of reaching 13,000 rpm. powering each wheel individually allows the torque to be distributed to a specific area of the car.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive convenient quick-charge feature allows the driver to recharge the vehicle in a very short time from the comfort of the home, and an sight-stage safety design constantly checks and re-checks the entire electrical system. an aluminum space frame contributes to its light-weight character, with an improved weight distribution and lower center of gravity. not only focusing on its ability to increase its speed, ceramic composite brakes provide the perfect even deceleration. If you can afford the €416,500 ($537,930) entry fee, throwing down the extra dough for a wall box should not be an issue.

 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, 2012

Outrageous proportions: a long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear. In 2003 the four-door Coupé was born: and the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class immediately established itself as a new style icon. The proportions have stayed the same - and yet everything is different: the second generation of this design trendsetter has adopted a completely new look.

What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not integrated into the bonnet but is formed separately. This highlights the long, sporty bonnet even further. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which underlines the cars relationship to the other coupés of the brand and strengthens the brand identity. The large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles also add to the vehicles athletic appearance.

Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the LED High Performance headlamps, which are the worlds first to offer all of the regular dynamic light functions using LED technology. This innovation boasts an impressive design - inside it is divided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offering LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the dipped beam function is switched on, thereby creating a novel and separate night-time design as a distinctive look. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LEDs not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also offer a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

The typical Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating attribute of the new model. The effect of the dynamic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and areas. The front edge of the structure above the wings slopes off towards the rear. This novel design feature, called the dropping line by designers, represents a new interpretation of a formal design element harking back to the uniquely rich wealth of forms present in historic Mercedes sports cars.

A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the new CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful thighs of a feline predator waiting to pounce.

The side view is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology which are arranged in the form of a linking element to the rear of the vehicle. The shape is emphasized by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the flat hardtop. A wide metal insert adds a further visual highlight at the rear.

The interior: Luxurious surrounds with many exclusive touches
Quite apart from its breathtaking design, the vehicle body of the new Mercedes CLS spoils all occupants with its generous interior measurements: in particular, the four-door coupé offers more elbow room (8/21 millimetres at the front/back) and more shoulder room (21/13 millimetres) than its predecessor. The starting point for this extra space was the vehicle body, which is 29 millimetres longer, 13 millimetres higher and 8 millimetres wider than its predecessor. The wheelbase has increased too, by 20 millimetres to 2874 millimetres.

The boot has a capacity of 520 litres and, for the first time in the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, comes with EASY-PACK quickfold as an optional extra for the rear seat backrest which folds down in a 1/3:2/3 proportion. Up to 19 different places to store and secure objects throughout the car make it quick and easy to accommodate smaller objects. The EASY-PACK comfort box for the boot, which is an optional extra, provides even more stowage space. It is normally folded flat and stored under the parcel shelf. If the EASY-PACK comfort box is needed, it can be pulled out and folded down. Thanks to its flexible base, its volume can be varied from 7 to 55 litres. Its can bear a maximum of ten kilograms in weight. The box, which is some 530 millimetres wide, can be removed from the boot without the need for tools if its full capacity is required.

Stylish cockpit with three round dials and two colour displays
In addition to the "wrap-around effect" of the instrument panel support, the newly-designed multifunction steering wheel in the 3-spoke design in Nappa leather is particularly eye-catching. The steering wheel is available in black or almond beige; a wood-and-leather finish is also available as an optional extra. In the optional AMG Sports package there is a particularly sporty steering wheel which has a flattened wreath in the lower half. Both steering wheel options have 12 multifunction keys to control the infotainment functions.

The highlight of the exclusive CLS instrumentation is the all-colour, three-dimensional TFT display in the middle of the speedometer, measuring 109 millimetres in diameter. The mileage and trip odometer appear in the lower area of the display, the top displays - amongst other things - information from the driver assistance systems. A three-dimensional image of the vehicle appears when getting into or out of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class.

Three tube-shaped round dials in the cockpit inform the driver of the coolant temperature and fuel tank level (on the left), speed (in the middle) and engine rpm (on the right). A large colour display in 16:9 format, elegantly integrated into the upper part of the instrument panel support, gives information on all the infotainment functions. The TFT display (Active Matrix Thin Film Transistor), which is backlit with LED lights, uses so-called IPS technology. IPS stands for "in-plane switching", which describes the shift direction of the liquid crystal. The benefit of this technology is that it displays high-contrast images which stay sharp outside the direct line of vision. Depending on the specification, two versions of this cutting-edge display are available: a 14.7 cm version for the Audio 20 and Audio 50 APS systems; and a high-resolution 17.7 cm variant for CsayaAND APS.

The centre console fits harmoniously with the shape and colour of the instrument panel. The control unit for the infotainment system and the optional car telephone can be found underneath the analogue clock and air vents. The push-button switches for seat heating, seat ventilation, the hazard warning lamps, rear window blind and other items of equipment ordered as options are arranged below this; they have been galvanised and are backlit. The large round control knobs for the automatic climate control, which is supplied as standard, are located in the lower part of the centre console. The controller in the tunnel trim serves as the central control element for the infotainment systems and provides a quick and easy starting point for navigating the well-organised menus controlling the systems.

THERMOTRONIC climate control with three individual climate modes
The second-generation Mercedes CLS can be optionally fitted with an automatic climate control system which not only allows individual temperatures to be set for three zones - for the driver, the front passenger and the rear passengers - but additionally offers special climate modes. This means that, if the optionally available THERMOTRONIC system is fitted, the car occupants can select "Diffuse", "Medium" or "Focus" settings on the THERMOTRONIC at the push of a button and thus adjust the air quantity and air distribution to their liking without having to leave the convenient automatic mode.

In "Diffuse" mode, for example, the THERMOTRONIC system operates with a lower air speed and distributes the air over a wide area so that there are fewer draughts. This is the purpose of the automatically controlled, upwards inclined diffuse nozzle in the centre of the dashboard. In "Focus" mode, meanwhile, the air outlets in the centre area of the dashboard are used for the most part, meeting the need for a direct flow of a larger quantity of air. The standard system fitted in the CLS is the two-zone THERMATIC automatic climate control.

The ultimate in seating comfort allowing adjustments to suit individual ergonomic needs
Refined sportiness - this philosophy applies also to the seats, as they combine the ultimate in seating comfort with sporty lateral support. Four different front seat types are available to choose from:

    The standard seat itself meets the highest ergonomic standards. Thanks to the filled seat piping, the feeling of comfort simply when getting into the vehicle is unique. A special upholstery technology is deployed here, which inserts additional foam filling immediately beneath the cloth or leather upholstery. The front seats can be adjusted electrically as standard. The Memory package, which enables three individual settings to be saved, is available as an optional extra.
    The shape of the optional multicontour seat can be individually adjusted by and for the driver and passenger to fit their anatomy or to suit their personal wishes with regard to comfort. Thanks to an innovative technology for adjusting the seat side bolsters, for example, the width of the backrest can be adjusted on both sides in a stepless operation by up to 45 millimetres, i.e. by up to 90 millimetres in total. Other bonuses of the new multicontour seat include the pneumatic height adjustment facility for the seat cushion and the high-comfort head restraints.
    The active multicontour seat offers the same comfort functions and additionally has high-speed piezo valves in the air chambers which adjust the charging pressure and volume of the air chambers in the side bolsters of the seat backs, depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and vehicle speed, to provide both the driver and front seat passenger with even greater support. It also has the high-comfort head restraint and, additionally, a massage function.
    Climate comfort is further enhanced by the optionally available active climatised front seats, which are available as an optional extra. Four ventilators in the seat cushion and in the backrest extract cool air from the floor area of the interior and distribute it evenly through a ventilation tissue beneath the seat surface. The mild airflow can prevent the cars occupants from sweating, even when it is extremely hot outside. Seat heating can also be selected for all four seats as an optional extra.

Individual seats for the passengers in the rear, for the first time fitted with ISOFIX child seat attachments

Two individual seats in the rear provide a particularly comfortable experience in the second row. These seats are well-liked for their extensive lateral support which comes from the contouring. There is a roomy stowage compartment in the centre armrest between the two seats, which if desired can also contain a cup holder for a bottle. An electrically-operated rear-window blind for the rear passengers is also available as an option, which can palpably and measurably reduce sunlight streaming in at the touch of a button. It is fixed to the C-pillars, as it is in the S-Class.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class with ISOFIX, the international standard securing system for child seats. The mechanism is fitted as standard and comprises two retaining brackets in each rear seat position, in the gap between the back rest and seat cushion, as well as an additional third anchor point above the backrest, the so-called top tether.

Car radio, CD player and Bluetooth interface as standard
Nowadays, nobody wants to miss out on the news, the telephone, route guidance or music listening pleasure when in the car. For this reason Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new CLS with state-of-the-art infotainment facilities, which stand out for their high performance capability, but above all for their ease of use. They are called the Audio 20 CD (supplied as standard), Audio 50 APS and CsayaAND APS (supplied as optional extras).

All of the devices include speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies, a colour display in the centre of the dashboard, and a Bluetooth interface to connect a mobile phone to the hands-free system wirelessly. Eight loudspeakers supplied as standard and located in the doors ensure excellent sound quality.

Features of the Audio 20 CD system, fitted as standard, include a CD player (with MP3 capability), a dual tuner for FM/MW/LW/SW, automatic station search, RDS function (FM reception) and a 4 x 20-watt amplifier.

The AUDIO 50 APS infotainment system is an all-in-one device featuring a combination of car radio, DVD player and Europe-wide navigation system with two-dimensional map display. The radio functions and the options for linking with other systems are the same as for the Audio 20 system. Mercedes customers who opt for the version with integral six-disc DVD changer also receive the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system.

The CsayaAND APS multimedia system developed by Mercedes-Benz includes a DVD player for audio and video as well as a Europe-wide navigation system whose data are stored on a 40-gigabyte hard drive, allowing extremely fast access to the navigation data and, compared to DVD-based navigation, even faster route calculations. The high-resolution map appears on the 17.7 cm colour display in the centre of the instrument panel and excels in providing useful additional information. By way of example, the map shows the outlines of prominent buildings along the route to aid orientation.

Mercedes-Benz combines CsayaAND APS with the voice-operated control system LINGUATRONIC and a so-called text-to-speech function as standard. This makes it possible for route-related traffic reports, SMS messages, address book entries or radio station names to be read out to the driver. The system automatically reads out new traffic reports that are relevant to the current route.

Additional systems for the ultimate in listening pleasure and entertainment

Mercedes customers can, if desired, combine the infotainment facilities for the CLS with other systems:

    The Logic7 surround sound system developed by Mercedes-Benz together with the audio specialists harman/kardon® delivers an outstanding performance with three-dimensional sound as a natural 360-degree musical experience for all passengers.
    iPods, USB sticks or other external audio devices can link to the infotainment system of the new Mercedes CLS through a media interface in the stowage compartment in the centre console.
    A separate DAB tuner (DAB = Digital Audio Broadcasting) and additional aerials (optional) allow passengers on board the new CLS to receive digital radio stations in CD quality. The system switches to analogue reception automatically when the DAB signal is too weak.

The model range: Every CLS is a one-off
Individuality is written large in the new Mercedes CLS. The model range for the four-door Coupé is correspondingly extensive - it will be at first be available with rear-wheel drive and then, from September 2011 onwards, for the first time as a 4MATIC with all-wheel drive. As regards the drive system, customers will at first have a choice between four petrol and diesel engines, with four, six and eight cylinders and an output range of between 150 kW (204 hp) and 300 kW (408 hp), or 2143 to 4633 cc displacement.

A total of 12 different paint finishes, including the SHAPE manganite grey matt paintwork, can be combined with the five interior colours - black, alpaca grey, almond beige, aubergine and porcelain. Three different versions of leather upholstery are available to choose from: leather (nappa leather), PASSION leather (a fine semi-aniline leather) and Exclusive PASSION leather (where also the instrument panel and beltline are leather-covered). There are five different finishes available for the trim elements - brown high-gloss burr walnut, black high-gloss ash, satin-finish light brown poplar, black piano lacquer as well as AMG carbon fibre for the CLS Edition 1. In this way, customers purchasing a CLS can, according to their own tastes, choose to accentuate either fresh naturalness or elegant sportiness.

Countless optional extras make it possible to individualise ones Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class further - including opting for active multicontour seats, LED High Performance headlamps, Keyless Go and the harman/kardon sound system, as well as many support systems including the new Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist with brake actuation (for more information on the latter, please refer to the section "Active Safety"). Over and above this, Mercedes-Benz has put together three packages offering appropriate combinations of optional extras.

A customer opting for the Exterior Sports package will get a Mercedes CLS with visible, chromed tailpipes. The Sport CLS also has a lowered suspension with sports tuning, alloy wheels in size 18 or 19 (and, optionally, in anthracite) and a trim element in black on the rear bumper.

The AMG Sports package comprises a multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather in the 3-spoke design, with flattened bottom section, aluminium pedals, AMG bumpers to the front (with single-louvred grille) and rear, AMG alloy wheels in size 18 or 19, AMG floor mats, visible tailpipes, and in the interior, in combination with black leather seats, light-coloured felled seams on the seats, headrests and armrests. With the AMG Sports package, the automatic transmission has a third shift programme - M - which allows the gear to be selected manually using the paddles on the steering wheel. In addition to this, the adaptive suspension is more sportily tuned.

The Exclusive package combines seats in fine semi-aniline leather with nappa leather for the instrument panel, centre console and parts of the door trim. The roof lining is made of alcantara. The Exclusive package, which also includes ambient lighting, is available with all the interior colours and trim elements.

The CLS "Edition 1" will be available for a limited period of one year following market launch. The distinguishing features of this special model are the SHAPE matt paint finish in manganite grey; the leather upholstery in designo corteccia tundra brown pearl which has a metallic shimmer to it; floormats with Edition 1 lettering; a black roof liner; and aluminium pedals. For the interior trim elements in the Edition 1 there is a choice between satin-finish light brown poplar, black piano lacquer or AMG carbon fibre.

The bodywork: A first: frameless, all-aluminium doors
Intelligent lightweight construction plays a decisive role in bridging the classic conflict of objectives between low weight and high strength in the new CLS. The CLS is thus the first vehicle from Mercedes-Benz to have frameless, all-aluminium doors. These are made from deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and in comparison with conventional steel doors, are some 24 kilograms lighter. This is not only beneficial to the environment, operating convenience is increased too: the Coupé doors can be opened and closed more easily, particularly on an incline. The new construction has called for new joining techniques: instead of welding, a combination of gluing and riveting has been used.

In order to assure quality, in the production process the doors are positioned in the frames by extremely precise robots; and the side windows are fitted with the greatest precision using laser measurement technology. As a result, this door design meets the same seal requirements as for the door frames on a saloon, which has to be demonstrated in a Mercedes internal test (one of several) in which it is subjected to high-pressure testing with water pressure at 80 bar. To put this in context: this pressure is about five times higher than the pressure needed by an espresso machine to produce a good crema.

Apart from the doors, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support profiles and substantial parts of the suspension and engines are all made of aluminium. The front end is a hybrid construction made of aluminium panels and plastic strengthened with fibre-glass. The one-piece aluminium crash boxes in the front area are fitted in the side members and are screwed into the side with them.

The large front bumper with the integral grille with the centred star is made of polypropylene. The materials experts at Mercedes-Benz have worked together with the experts from the supplier of this part to develop the plastics formulation, which has a specific talcum content of 15 percent, in order to achieve an optimum compromise between weight and rigidity, as well as excellent thermal properties. As supporting structure for the bumper there is a front end which is a hybrid construction of aluminium sheet and plastic strengthened with fibre glass. For every CLS, special adjustable fixtures are used to ensure the front fits exactly and the gap dimensions are the same all round.

About 72 percent of all panels used for the bodyshell of the new Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class are made from rigid and ultra-rigid steel alloys. The ultra-rigid high-tech alloys, which have three to four times more tensile strength than conventional rigid types of steel, account for around eight percent of total weight. They are deployed in areas in which there could be extreme material stresses in the event of an accident - for example, in the event of a side-on collision, in the B-pillars and side frame of the roof; as well as in the rear, to create a stable crossmember.

Front-end structure: crumple zone on four levels
Compared to the previous model series, the Mercedes engineers have further enlarged the deformation zones substantially in the front and rear sections of the new CLS, as well as improving the energy flows. The front crumple zone has four independently acting impact levels, meaning that the forces can be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell.

    Sectional panelsabove the wheel arches form the upper side-member level. From here, the impact forces are channelled into the A-pillars and, subsequently, into the roof frame.
    An aluminium crossmember connects the forward-extended side members and ensures that the forces are transferred to the side facing away from the impact. The crossmember and the forward-extended side members form the central impact zone.
    The subframe to which the engine, steering and front axle are attached also serves as an impact level in the event of a frontal collision. It is made of high-strength steel and, depending on the engine variant, can be connected to the newly developed floor side members by means of special supporting tubes. As a consequence, the subframe can deform in a predetermined manner and absorb energy in the event of a crash on the one hand and channel high impact forces straight into the vehicle floor on the other.
    The side skirts have been extended forwards to support the wheel and prevent it from entering the footwell in the event of an offset frontal collision. In order to provide specifically targeted front-wheel support and location, Mercedes-Benz has also developed special struts and additional energy-absorbing elements for the wheel arches. The struts are arranged diagonally and prevent the passenger cell from sinking in the event of an impact.

The firewall is a four-part construction. This design enables Mercedes engineers to vary the material thickness according to the level of vulnerability in an accident. As the load acting on the firewall during a frontal crash is greatest in the lower section, the sheet steel used here is almost 50 percent thicker.

As well as being a major reason behind the high level of impact resistance, this intelligently designed bodyshell not only enhances ride comfort, it also reduces noise and vibration. The Sindelfingen engineers paid particular attention to the connecting points between the suspension and the bodyshell, which are required to withstand very high forces. These were specifically reinforced to ensure that road-induced vibrations are not transferred to the body at the expense of driving enjoyment. An indicator of the excellent overall result is the static flexural strength of the bodyshell, which shows a 28 percent improvement over its predecessor. Torsional strength increased by six percent.

Passenger cell: custom-designed floor panels and robust load-bearing sections

The passenger cell of the new CLS has been shown to be a structure which is virtually immune to deformation and which keeps the occupant space intact, even at high impact speeds, regardless of whether the collision is head-on, from the rear or from the side, or whether the vehicle rolls over. The use of high-strength steel and thicker panels plays as important a role here as the installation of additional load-bearing members.

The main floor assembly thus consists of different sheet-metal plates that either undergo flexible rolling or are welded together by laser beam and subsequently shaped. Flexible means that the high-tensile steel can be processed in such a way that areas with different steel thicknesses can be produced within a single component. The middle blank forms the tunnel - the actual backbone of the passenger cell. Here the thickness of the custom-designed panels varies between 0.7 and 1.1 millimetres, and between 1.55 and 2.0 millimetres for the tunnel reinforcements, depending on the stresses and loads to which they are subjected.

The continuous floor side members, the insides of which are further reinforced with extra sections, are very important both for occupant protection and the rigidity of the bodyshell. Their front faces connect to the side members, thereby lengthening the load-bearing paths along which forces can be distributed in the event of an impact. At the rear, the floor side members extend as far as the crossmember beneath the rear seat unit to stabilise the entire floor structure.

The Mercedes engineers have also incorporated sturdy aluminium transverse sections - known as transmission tunnel braces - into the floor assembly. One is located beneath the transmission, and is designed to direct forces to the side of the vehicle facing away from the impact in the event of a side-on collision. The second forms a connection between the two side members. It likewise braces the floor assembly and is able to channel impact forces into the floor structure at an early stage following a side-on collision.

Rear-end structure: side members with specifically graduated material thicknesses
Multi-piece side members and a robust, flexible crossmember made from ultra-high-strength steel form the key components of the rear-end structure. The rear side members are continuous, closed box sections with carefully graduated material thicknesses. These are able to absorb high forces, thereby making a decisive contribution to occupant safety in the event of a rear impact. The bolt-on flexible crossmember is manufactured using a flexible rolling process which likewise allows the material thickness to be varied as required. Accordingly, the material thickness on the outside of the crossmember - where impact loads are highest - is greater than on the inside.

Active safety: New assistance for drivers
Avoiding accidents and reducing the consequences of accidents: this is the comprehensive approach adopted by Mercedes-Benz in its safety research and referred to collectively by the company as "Real Life Safety". As part of this, a variety of systems designed to reduce the burden on the driver even further will be making their debut in the new CLS. These include Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist as well as LED High Performance headlamps offering various light functions. The new features represent a further improvement of so-called "driver-fitness safety" by the companys engineers. In addition to ride and seating comfort and also quiet running, a significant role is also played by the headlamp and windscreen wiper systems, for example, as well as the easy, safe operation of the vehicle. On top of this there are also the PRE-SAFE systems which can warn, support and protect the driver when a real risk of an accident has been detected.

Premiere: LED High Performance headlamps with complete light functionality
The new CLS is the first car in the world to feature optional LED High Performance headlamps, which combine the exciting daylight colour impression of LED technology with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of todays bi-xenon light generation. The new light system features the Intelligent Light System which has already been tried and tested in Mercedes-Benz models with bi-xenon headlamps. Its five light functions - country mode, motorway mode, enhanced fog lamps, active light function and cornering light function - have been specifically designed for typical driving or weather conditions.

In contrast to the first vehicles equipped with LED headlamps, no compromises are now necessary with respect to the functionality and performance of the lighting technology. There are further arguments for the LED-based lighting technology: the average operating life of an LED is around 10,000 hours, around five times longer than that of a xenon light; moreover, LED headlamps most closely approximate to the colour of daylight. This means that LED light is in keeping with the normal human perception patterns. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light comes to daylight, the less the strain on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K). The drivers experience of this effect is that colour impressions at night-time seem close to daylight colours and he or she has the feeling that there is greater brightness on the road.

The light specialists at Mercedes-Benz have also been able to combine LED technology with the innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist for the first time, leading to a completely new level of safety at night. The basic principle behind Adaptive Highbeam Assist is as follows: if the system detects an oncoming vehicle or a vehicle in front with its lights on, the system dims the headlamps and continually adjusts the headlamp range in such a way that the cone-shaped beam of headlamp light does not reach these vehicles. There is, in addition, the Night View Assist Plus system as an option.

But good visibility is not only needed at night - and can also depend on a number of seemingly irrelevant factors. So that the CLS drivers view when looking forward at an angle is not obscured - despite the angled coupé-like windscreen and A-pillars - the exterior mirrors are not mounted in the window triangle. Instead they have been given a new elevated position on the beltline. This improves all-round visibility, especially when turning into side streets, for example.

Premiere: Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist
Assistance systems are becoming increasingly important these days, providing support for drivers as they perform a complex activity. In the new Mercedes CLS, for example, proven technologies like ABS, ESP®and Brake Assist work alongside a dozen assistance systems to help prevent accidents and reduce their impact. These range from drowsiness detection to automatic full brake application on recognising that there is an acute risk of a collision, and from Adaptive Highbeam Assist to traffic sign recognition.

One new feature is the Active Blind Spot Assist. It warns the driver when changing lanes if a risk of collision is detected due to another vehicle in the neighbouring lane being in the so-called blind spot of the exterior mirror. If the driver ignores the warning and nevertheless initiates the lane-changing manoeuvre, the Active Blind Spot Assist intervenes. By applying braking force to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle, a yaw movement is created which counteracts the collision course.

Active Lane Keeping Assistis now also linked to the ESP® for the first time. This system kicks into action if the Mercedes vehicle inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In such a case, a warning sign in the instrument cluster and vibration of the steering wheel give the driver warning. If the driver does not heed the warning in the case of the solid line, Active Lane Keeping Assist can use the ESP® to brake the opposite wheels and thereby prevent the vehicle from crossing the solid line. You can read more about these two assist systems in the section "Under the Microscope: Assist Systems".

Premiere: Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC

Active Parking Assist will answer the prayers of many drivers in the chronically congested traffic areas of Europe: the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class can not only detect parking spaces, but also help with the parking itself. This is made possible thanks to a combination of the new electomechanical direct steering (see the section entitled "Suspension") and a series of ultrasonic sensors. This convenience system features the following functions:
    Measurement of the length and depth of potential parking spaces at a vehicle speed of up to 36 km/h
    Calculation of a suitable parking course based on the current position of the vehicle
    Control of the steering in order to maintain this parking course.

Parking spaces are measured using two enhanced ultrasonic sensors integrated into the right and left sides of the front bumper. Depending on the speed and driving cycle, these sensors are used to measure parking spaces and also to support the PARKTRONIC functionality.

When driving at less than 30 km/h, a "P" symbol is displayed in the instrument cluster to inform the driver that the active parking space search function is enabled. If a parking space is found, an arrow appears next to the "P" symbol. By default the arrow indicates parking spaces on the front-passenger side. If the turn indicator is set to the drivers side, parking spaces on the drivers side will be displayed. It is not necessary to switch on the parking space search function. The ultrasonic sensors only carry out a geometric assessment of the potential parking space, and do not assess whether this free space is actually a parking space. Responsibility during the parking process also remains with the driver. If the ultrasonic sensors detect a pavement then the vehicle is parked parallel to this.

Automatic steering: this is how the parking process works

The Active Parking Assist parking process begins when the vehicle is in front of the parking space indicated by the arrow, facing the direction of travel, and the driver has engaged reverse gear and confirmed an appropriate warning dialogue with the system via the instrument cluster. The driver continues to control the accelerator and brake pedals whilst manoeuvring into the parking space. The Active Parking Assist takes over lateral guidance by controlling the electric steering in accordance with the longitudinal dynamics specified by the driver and the parking course.

The maximum speed of this parking process is limited to 10 km/h. If the speed reaches 7 km/h, a warning appears in the instrument cluster - "Parking Assist only functions up to 10 km/h" - accompanied by a warning tone. The familiar PARKTRONIC function can be used without any restrictions being imposed. The system switches off as soon as the driver intervenes in the automatic steering control process, switches off the system via the PTS (Parktronic Sensor) button, both the drivers seat belt buckle is released and the drivers door opened, or a system error occurs.

The entire PARKTRONIC and Active Parking Assist system comprises the following components:
    Control unit
    Ten ultrasonic sensors, two of which have an extended range
    PTS warning elements on the dashboard and in the roof lining at the rear
    PTS button

A maximum of five manoeuvres are allowed (backwards-forwards-backwards-forwards-backwards). The wheels are then straightened out again. The final parking manoeuvre is notified in the instrument cluster with the message "Parking Assist completed", accompanied by a confirmation tone.

Wake up: ATTENTION ASSIST issues warning on detecting drowsiness
Studies have shown that around a quarter of all serious motorway accidents are caused by drowsy drivers, making this factor an even bigger cause of accidents than drink-driving. With ATTENTION ASSIST, fitted as standard in the new CLS, Mercedes-Benz is therefore making another important contribution towards helping to avoid accidents: it employs high-resolution sensors to observe driver behaviour and can recognise whether the driver is tired or not paying attention, based primarily on steering wheel movements.

The ATTENTION ASSIST system developed by Mercedes-Benz measures more than 70 parameters which are analysed to detect fatigue. This continual monitoring is important in order to recognise the gradual transition from alertness to tiredness and give the driver plenty of warning. Based on a variety of data, ATTENTION ASSIST creates an individual driver profile during the first few minutes of each journey and compares this with sensor data and the driving situation as recognised by the vehicles electronic control unit. Alongside values such as the steering behaviour of the driver, the Mercedes-Benz system also measures driving conditions such as speed, longitudinal/lateral acceleration, indicator and pedal usage, as well as external factors such as the unevenness of the roads, for example.

DISTRONIC PLUS: now with enhanced functions
The radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control supports the driver at speeds between zero and 200 km/h by automatically adjusting the distance to the vehicles in front. In doing so it is able to apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a complete standstill and also accelerate it again. As a result, the system is also particularly convenient in stop-and-go traffic. If the system detects that the distance is being reduced too quickly, it warns the driver with both visual and audible signals.

With the introduction of the new generation of the CLS, the functionality of DISTRONIC PLUS has been enhanced even further. It now reacts earlier to vehicles which cut in, and the vehicle accelerates quicker when changing lanes itself and where the overtaking lane is clear. Thanks to the incorporation of information from digital maps (navigation mode), automatic control has also been further refined.

Additional assistance: from the ADAPTIVE BRAKE to the PRE-SAFE® Brake
    ADAPTIVE BRAKE: this Mercedes-Benz brake system offers assistance functions for greater safety and comfort, such as a HOLD function when waiting at traffic lights, and Hill-Start Assist which can help prevent rolling backwards when moving off on a slope.
    Adaptive Highbeam Assist:when vehicles are detected ahead of or oncoming to the vehicle, this system automatically dips the beams and adjusts the range of the headlamps appropriate to the distance.
    Brake Assist PLUS: this system is able to recognise an impending rear-end collision using radar sensors. It calculates the necessary degree of braking assistance and makes it available immediately when the driver presses the brake pedal.
    Headlamp Assist: a sensor on the windscreen detects the lighting conditions. As a result, the headlamps can be turned on automatically when darkness falls.
    Speed Limit Assist: a camera fitted behind the windscreen detects speed limit signs at the roadside and compares this data to information contained in the GPS system. The relevant speed limit is then displayed in the instrument cluster.
    Night View Assist PLUS: The display in the dashboard shows a realistic grey-scale image from an infrared camera that monitors the road ahead of the vehicle. Any pedestrians detected are additionally highlighted in the display with so-called photo corners.
    PARKTRONIC: ultrasonic sensors assist the driver when parking.
    PRE-SAFE® Brake: autonomous braking if acute danger of an accident is detected. At first the driver is given both an acoustic and an optical warning if the system identifies there is a danger of collision. If the driver does not react to this, the system brakes the vehicle autonomously. This occurs in two stages: around 1.6 seconds before the calculated impact point the system decelerates the car with around 40 percent (approx. four m/s²) of the maximum braking power, gives the driver an additional, haptic warning of the impending impact and as a precaution activates the reversible PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system. If the driver still fails to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake activates the maximum braking power around 0.6 seconds before the now unavoidable collision - this emergency braking can greatly reduce the severity of the impact. The system therefore acts like an "electronic crumple zone", offering the car occupants even greater protection. The PRE-SAFE® Brake is active at speeds of between 30 and 200 km/h when moving vehicles are detected in front of the car. The system also reacts if the car approaches a stationary queue of traffic, providing its speed is below 70 km/h.

Passive safety: Nine airbags as standard
Drivers of Mercedes vehicles are safer on the road than drivers of other car brands. This is the result of a study by Mercedes-Benz accident research based on official, anonymous data samples from the Federal Office of Statistics. Having looked at 18,748 accidents resulting in personal injury during the period from 2003 to 2007, the study found that the risk of being seriously or fatally injured as the driver of a Mercedes is 9.6 percent lower than for vehicles of other brands. The result represents clear evidence of the contribution made by the passive safety systems of Mercedes-Benz to reducing the consequences of an accident.

The main prerequisites for this include a stable body structure (see the section entitled "The Bodywork") as well as a whole host of sophisticated restraint systems. With nine airbags fitted as standard, not to mention four seat-belt tensioners and belt-force limiters as well as NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, the new CLS offers an even more extensive package of safety equipment than the previous model. The airbags, which can deploy in a matter of milliseconds in the event of an accident, include two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver, two sidebags in the front-seat backrests and two large windowbags which extend from the A-pillar to the C-pillar during a side impact. For the first time, pelvisbags are included as standard for front seat passengers, which in the event of a side collision can help to reduce loads in the pelvic area. Sidebags are also available for the rear as an optional extra, which means that the new CLS makes a total of eleven airbags available for occupant protection.

Three-point automatic safety belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters are fitted as standard for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. Mercedes-Benz is offering adaptive belt force limiters for the rear seats as an option. These adapt to the size of passengers automatically. The system detects whether the rear seat passenger is large or small as soon as the seat belt is put on, based on the length of the pulled-out seat belt, and can adapt its protective effect accordingly. The maximum belt force is activated immediately if the rear passenger is large in size, while in the case of smaller occupants the force exerted by the belt is initially set to a lower level.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering the CLS with ISOFIX, the international standard securing system for child seats. The mechanism is fitted as standard and comprises two retaining brackets in each rear seat position, in the gap between the back rest and seat cushion, as well as an additional third anchor point, the so-called top tether.

NECK-PRO is the name Mercedes-Benz has given to a crash-responsive head restraint whose development, like that of PRE-SAFE® and other Mercedes-Benz innovations, is based on analyses of real accidents. NECK-PRO is an effective means of reducing the risk of whiplash injuries during a rear-end collision. If the sensor system detects a rear-end collision with a defined impact severity, it releases pre-tensioned springs inside the head restraints, causing the head restraints to move forward by about 40 millimetres and upwards by 30 millimetres within a matter of milliseconds. This means that the heads of the driver and front passenger can be supported at an early stage.

The occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®: preventive measures reduce the consequences of an accident by up to 40 percent

In 2002 Mercedes-Benz became the first automotive brand to offer an anticipatory occupant protection system which can initiate measures to protect the occupants of the vehicle if there is an imminent risk of an accident: PRE-SAFE®. Mercedes-Benzs intelligent approach takes its lead from nature: PRE-SAFE® activates protective measures for the car occupants as a precaution, just as living things react instinctively and search for cover when they are in danger. The aim is to prepare the occupants and vehicle for an imminent collision so that the seat belts and airbags are able to fulfil their protective function to the full during an impact. Whats more, the PRE-SAFE® protective measures are reversible: if the accident is averted, the advance tensioning of the seat belts is halted automatically and the occupants are able to reset the positions of the seats and the sliding sunroof. The anticipatory occupant protection system is then ready for action again straightaway.

Early accident detection is possible because PRE-SAFE® is an intelligent synergy of active and passive safety. It is linked to Brake Assist and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), whose sensors detect potentially critical driving situations and send the relevant information to the electronic control units within a matter of milliseconds.

The new Mercedes CLS is able to offer even more preventive measures ahead of an imminent accident than ever before:

    Whereas PRE-SAFE® previously responded to emergency or panic braking - in other words when the driver hit the brake pedal reflexively - the system in the new CLS can also be activated if the optional DISTRONIC PLUS has detected an impending collision with the aid of short and long-range sensors, and a certain level of delay in braking has been exceeded. The occupants are prepared for the collision by tensioning of the seat belts and repositioning of the front-passenger seat (if the seat memory function is installed) - which is also optionally available with fully electric seat adjustment - enabling the seat belts and airbags to offer the best possible protection.
    The active multicontour seat (optional extra), ensures that the driver and front passenger are seated even more securely, thereby limiting dangerous whiplash movements by the upper body in the event of an accident. If the PRE-SAFE® control unit detects a critical driving situation, it immediately activates the air chambers in the seat cushions and backrests. These then envelope the seat occupants and give them support.
    Tests at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center have shown that this PRE-SAFE® function and preventive belt tensioning increases the distance between the shoulder and the inner door lining by up to 40 millimetres at a lateral acceleration of 0.6 g. This enables the sidebag to fulfil its protective function even more effectively.