Market launch for 18 new Mercedes-AMG high-performance models: Performance meets efficiency

Mercedes-AMG sets the pace: This June witnesses the premieres of 18 new AMG high-performance models at Mercedes-Benz dealerships. With a power output spectrum ranging from 265 kW (360 hp) to 552 kW (751 hp), the new AMG vehicles demonstrate both performance and superb efficiency. This unrivalled model initiative from Mercedes-AMG represents the embodiment of the "AMG Performance 50" future strategy in the run-up to the 50th birthday of Mercedes-AMG GmbH in 2017.

Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The market launch of 18 new AMG modelsreflects our consistent focus on performance, dynamism and growth. The A 45 AMG will appeal to new customers and tap into new markets. The C 63 AMG "Edition 507", available in Coupé, Saloon and Estate variants, is a sporty model, full of character, for all fans of our high-capacity V8 naturally aspirated engine. We also have a broad range of new S-Models and 4MATIC all-wheel drive variants of the E 63 AMG and CLS 63 AMG – allowing our customers to benefit from tailor-made individuality. The SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive epitomise the state of the art in technical terms when it comes to the development of outstanding super sports cars."

A 45 AMG: the beginning of a new era

The A 45 AMG sees Mercedes-AMG embarking on a new era. For the first time in a company history that extends back over more than 45 years, Mercedes-Benz's performance brand is offering a fascinating high-performance vehicle in the compact class. With a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 newton metres, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is the most powerful four-cylinder engine in series production anywhere in the world. Its fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres according to NEDC combined means that the A 45 AMG leads its segment in this respect as well. New standards are also set by the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The fully equipped A 45 AMG "Edition 1" offers an expressive combination of exclusive exterior and interior details that cannot fail to fascinate.

C 63 AMG "Edition 507" as Coupé, Saloon and Estate

The C 63 AMG models are set to become an even more dynamic proposition: in exclusive "Edition 507" guise, the AMG high-performance models are equipped with an uprated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine. The 37 kW (50 hp) boost to 373 kW (507 hp), combined with maximum torque of 610 Nm, derives from the transfer of technology from the SLS AMG, with the forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft adopted from the super sports car's eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. The C 63 AMG "Edition 507" accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 / 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 280 km/h. An AMG high-performance braking system with red brake callipers comes as standard. The C 63 AMG "Edition 507" will appeal to those who aspire to a sporty driving style, who will relish the high-calibre technology and numerous exclusive design and equipment features.

E 63 AMG: With 4MATIC and as S-Model

The new E 63 AMG is also available with immediate effect as a particularly exclusive and powerful S-Model with an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and 800 newton metres of torque, along with the newly developed, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The all-wheel drive system is also available as an option for the other E 63 AMG models – in this case the output of the V8 engine increases from the earlier figure of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Nm to 410 kW (557 hp) with torque of 720 Nm. Fuel consumption according to NEDC combined ranges from 9.8 to 10.5 litres per 100 km.

CLS 63 AMG: The new benchmark

Performance update for the CLS 63 AMG: the CLS 63 AMG, in both Coupé and Shooting Brake variants, joins the E 63 AMG in benefiting from the latest model enhancements. In its S-Model guise, the CLS 63 AMG is similarly equipped with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and features the AMG 5.5-litre biturbo engine with a top performance of 430 kW (585 hp) and maximum torque of 800 newton metres. The variant with 410 kW (557 hp) and 720 newton metres is also available as an option with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The fuel consumption ranges between 9.9 and 10.6 litres per 100 km (NEDC combined).

SLS AMG Coupé Black Series: GT3 performance for the road

The SLS AMG Coupé Black Series is the high-end super sports version of the gullwing model. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version, the fifth Mercedes-AMG Black Series model boasts a fascinating mix of breathtaking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction in accordance with the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. With a DIN kerb weight of 1550 kilograms, the SLS AMG Black Series achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 2.45 kg/hp. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine generates a power output of 464 kW (631 hp) at 7400 rpm and accelerates the most dynamic road-going gullwing model of all time to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds.

SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive: the most powerful electric sports car in the world

With the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive, Mercedes-AMG is entering a new era: the locally emission-free super sports car featuring advanced technology from the world of Formula 1 represents the most exclusive and dynamic form of electric motoring. The current most powerful AMG high-performance vehicle has four electric motors producing a total output of 552 kW (751 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 newton metres. As a result, the gullwing model has acquired the status of the world's fastest electrically-powered series production vehicle: the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Meanwhile, the exclusively tuned "SLS eSound" means that this matchless driving experience stirs the emotions acoustically too in typical AMG fashion. Outstanding driving dynamics are ensured by the AMG Torque Dynamics with wheel-selective all-wheel drive. The extremely powerful high-voltage battery is the outcome of the cooperation between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth (GB). The Formula 1 experts in Great Britain were able to take advantage here of their extensive experience with KERS Hybrid.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive recently circled the Nürburgring Nordschleife (“north loop”) in a record time of 7:56.234 minutes. Therefore, the electric AMG super sports car is at the same time the first electrically-powered series production vehicle, which masters the legendary race track in under eight minutes.

An overview of all the new AMG models:

All prices for Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

A 45 AMG: € 49.682,50
A 45 AMG "Edition 1": € 56,977.20
C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Saloon: € 83.835,50
C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Coupé: € 85,085
C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Estate: € 86,394
E 63 AMG Saloon: € 103,054
E 63 AMG 4MATIC Saloon: € 106,981
E 63 AMG 4MATIC Estate: € 109,599
E 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Model Saloon: € 118,405
E 63 AMG S 4MATIC S-Model Estate: € 121,023
CLS 63 AMG Coupé: € 116.203,50
CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake: € 117.512,50
CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC Coupé: € 120.130,50
CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC Shooting Brake: € 122.034,50
CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Model Coupé: € 131.078,50
CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Model Shooting Brake: € 132.982,50
SLS AMG Coupé Black Series: € 249,900
SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive: € 416,500

Special experience: delivery at AMG Customer Centre in Affalterbach

As an alternative to the classic vehicle delivery method at dealerships and authorised agents of Mercedes-Benz, customers may choose to take delivery of their AMG high-performance vehicle direct from the AMG Customer Centre in Affalterbach. When collecting their vehicle in this way, customers are able to gain an exclusive insight into the world of AMG and experience the excellent quality of customer care that is so typical of AMG. After being welcomed by a personal customer service advisor and treated to some hospitality in the AMG Private Lounge, they are taken on a tour of the plant. This also includes a visit to the AMG Performance Studio, where some very distinctive limited-run AMG vehicles and one-off models are developed and produced by hand. In the AMG engine production facility, AMG customers are also able to experience the way engines are individually hand-assembled, in accordance with the traditional philosophy of "one man, one engine."

The ultimate highlight of the day is then of course the handover of the new AMG vehicle: customers are given a thorough introduction to the technical features and controls of their new model in the 360 square-metre delivery hall. Vehicle collection at the AMG Customer Centre in Affalterbach is available to customers in Germany for all AMG high-performance models.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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sport auto Award 2013: Threefold victory for Mercedes-AMG in the vote for the sportiest car of 2013

The sporting heart of Mercedes-Benz continues to beat firmly and with gusto - as confirmed by the latest reader poll undertaken by the German motoring magazine "sport auto", which had called for its readers to vote for "the sportiest cars of 2013". Mercedes‑AMG took the first place in three categories. Winners of the "sport auto Award" 2013 were the A 45 AMG, the C 63 AMG and the SLS AMG GT.

More than 230 cars, in 15 categories, lined up this year in the now traditional reader poll to determine the sportiest cars around. 15,353 readers of the specialist motoring magazine "sport auto" cast their votes.

The undisputed leader in the compact car category was the A 45 AMG, which took almost a third of all votes. With 265 kW (360 hp) from a displacement of 1991 cc, its four-cylinder engine is considered to be the most powerful four-cylinder turbo unit in series production anywhere in the world.

Among saloons in the price range up to 100,000 euros, more than one in four "sport auto" readers voted to put the C 63 AMG with V8 engine, a displacement of 6208 cc and 336 kW (457 hp), in first place, while among the coupé models priced at more than 150,000 euros, the SLS AMG GT leapt convincingly ahead to take the lead in this high-octane category. From a displacement of 6208 cc, this model boasts 435 kW (591 hp). The SLS AMG GT is also the model supplied by AMG, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz, as the Official F1® Safety Car – the 18th time it has been provided by the brand.

Fittingly enough, the main prize in this year's poll – the winner of which was drawn from among all entries submitted – was a Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. The lucky winner will therefore soon be driving a winning model.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Cooperation between Mercedes-AMG and ROTWILD: Driving performance on two wheels and four

Anyone wanting an AMG-branded model now has a choice of either two wheels or four. AMG, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz, is entering into a long-term, strategic partnership with ROTWILD, a world-renowned manufacturer of premium mountain and touring bikes. With a portfolio of exclusive, limited edition two-wheelers planned, the first product will be the R.X45 AMG All Mountain bike. The dynamic design and fresh colour scheme are inspired by the A 45 AMG "Edition 1". Available exclusively from ROTWILD dealers, the fully sprung, handmade carbon-fibre bike is priced at 6990 euros.

"Our aim with this partnership is to bring the AMG brand claim, "Driving Performance", to two wheels. We chose ROTWILD because the brand has applied a real passion and high level of technical expertise to take bike development to a new level," says Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "Both companies focus on performance and the products elicit the same responses from fans and owners: a racing pulse, excitement and enthusiasm." ROTWILD's CEO Peter Schlitt adds that "We are delighted to have found an excellent partner in Mercedes-AMG. In terms of philosophy and direction, the two premium brands are an ideal fit, sharing at their heart independence, German engineering expertise and the desire to set benchmarks in technological development." Since ROTWILD was founded in 1996, the company has enjoyed steady growth and continues to build on its good reputation in the international mountain biking and racing community.

Kicking off with a high-end mountain bike

To launch their new partnership, Mercedes-AMG and ROTWILD are unveiling the fully sprung, carbon-fibre R.X45 AMG bike. This bike is a genuine all-rounder that is suitable for virtually any terrain and yet stays true to its racing roots. Handmade and developed in Germany, the all mountain bike is designed to meet the requirements of demanding touring riders. To deliver optimum traction, directional stability and excellent responsiveness in a whole range of situations, the R.X45 AMG features the very latest in frame technology. The next-generation frame is made of carbon-fibre and represents a technological highlight that incorporates the combined expertise of developers at ROTWILD. The R.X45 AMG's rugged, lightweight and cutting-edge frame is designed to withstand extreme conditions, allowing the rider to unleash their true performance potential on all terrain.

In terms of look and feel, the bike's design is inspired by "Edition 1" of the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. The frame in AMG cirrus white, the rear swing arm in matt black and graphite grey, plus red detailing make the bike exceptionally distinctive. All models are handmade and distributed exclusively by ROTWILD.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. announces new version of the gaming classic Gran Turismo®: Three of the latest AMG vehicles celebrate their digital premiere in Gran Turismo® 6

With the combined power of more than 1400 hp, Mercedes-Benz is taking to the starting grid of Gran Turismo® 6 with three of its latest models. All set to provide pure excitement and fascination in the new version of the gaming classic for the PlayStation®3 are three high-performance vehicles from AMG: the SLS AMG GT3 producing over 367 kW (more than 500 hp), the E 63 AMG producing 410 kW (557 hp) and the A 45 AMG producing 265 kW (360 hp). In addition to the three new vehicles, no fewer than 21 further vehicles from Mercedes-Benz which featured in Gran Turismo® 5 will also be taking to the track to set the pulses of gaming fans racing. Gran Turismo® 6 will be celebrating its market launch this holiday season. Details of the game were announced yesterday by Kazunori Yamauchi, Producer and Game Director of Polyphony Digital Inc., on the occasion of the celebrations to mark the 15th anniversary of the popular Gran Turismo® series at Silverstone in England.

"Together with Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and Polyphony Digital, we are delighted with the unique success which Gran Turismo® has enjoyed over the last 15 years", said Anders Sundt Jensen, Head of Brand Communications for Mercedes-Benz Cars. "We are particularly proud that three of the latest models from our high-performance AMG brand are all celebrating their digital premiere in the latest version of the legendary game series. Mercedes-Benz and Gran Turismo® have a number of things in common. Above all, they share the same vision: to provide their customers – whether in real life or in the virtual world – with the ultimate in driving pleasure."

Globally the PlayStation® 3 racing game has so far sold more than 70 million copies, with version 5 alone being enjoyed by more than ten million gaming fans since November 2010. Mercedes-Benz can look back over a long and successful history as part of this race series. Models from the star brand have been represented in the game since the market launch of Gran Turismo® 2 back in 1999/2000. According to Anders Sundt Jensen: "Both Carl Benz in 1886 and Kazunori Yamauchi, the inventor of Gran Turismo® in 1998 recognised that a car can do more than just take us from A to B. Both lived the automotive dream. Driving a Mercedes or playing Gran Turismo® each therefore reflects a unique experience: unprecedented driving pleasure."

Anniversary wishes from Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz prepared a very special surprise for the guests at the anniversary celebrations in Silverstone. They were able to experience the breathtaking driving performance of the SLS AMG GT3 both live on the race track, courtesy of professional racing driver and AMG Driving Academy instructor Jan Seyffarth, as well as in the virtual world of the games console. The two other AMG models from the game were also on hand for onlookers to admire. The anniversary celebrations were rounded off with an exclusive shuttle service for guests.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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24h Race at Nürburgring: Special test comparison between a Formula 1 Silver Arrow and Mercedes-AMG cars

As part of the programme for the 24-hour race on 19th May 2013, Mercedes-Benz will put on a special event highlight for fans at the Nürburgring: during a high-performance demonstration, four Mercedes-AMG vehicles will go up against Michael Schumacher in a Formula 1 Silver Arrow. The vehicles will start at different times in front of the Mercedes-Benz grandstand but will cross the finish line simultaneously. The Mercedes-AMGs will be driven by: Formula 1 star Nico Rosberg, DTM record-breaking champion Bernd Schneider, ex-Formula 1 and DTM driver Karl Wendlinger and by the official driver of the Formula 1 Safety Car Bernd Mayländer.

The first vehicle to go out on track will be an A 45 AMG driven by Bernd Mayländer, followed by: Karl Wendlinger in the E 63 AMG S, Nico Rosberg in the SLS AMG Black Series, and Bernd Schneider in an SLS AMG GT3.

Finally, Michael Schumacher will set off in a Formula 1 Silver Arrow on the 20.832km lap around the Nordschleife (excluding grand prix circuit). On this special occasion, the Formula 1 record world champion will be the first driver to cover the Nordschleife in a state-of-the-art Silver Arrow since Juan Manuel Fangio in 1954.

Michael Schumacher: “This Mercedes AMG Performance Drive will be simply great, affording spectators at the 24-hour race a really top-class spectacle. Driving around the Nordschleife in a Formula 1 car will be an unforgettable experience both for me and for the motor racing fans. The legendary Nordschleife, famous throughout the world, is the perfect place for this demo, and the Mercedes-Benz vehicles taking part are all fascinating, powerful cars, a unique parade for all the spectators and car enthusiasts gathered there as they hurtle past.”

Nico Rosberg: “The Nürburgring will play host to two super motor racing events with the 24-hour race and this year’s Formula 1 Grand Prix. Our Mercedes-AMG Performance Drive on the Nordschleife with five Mercedes-Benz cars makes a fantastic warm-up for both events. It will be interesting to see how long Michael can delay starting before catching up with us at the finish. As for me personally, I am, of course, really looking forward to the German Formula 1 race in the Eifel (5th-7th July, but this too is going to be a fantastic weekend and I hope that many of the fans present for the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring will be on hand to cheer us in our Silver Arrows.”

The vehicles and their drivers

Car: Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG (360bhp, 0-100km/h: 4.6secs), Driver: Bernd Mayländer.
Car: Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG S (585bhp, 0-100 km/h: 3.6secs), Driver: Karl Wendlinger.
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 (more than 500bhp), Driver: Bernd Schneider.
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series (631bhp, 0-100 km/h: 3.6secs), Driver: Nico Rosberg.
Vehicle: MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 W02 (approx. 750bhp, 0-100 km/h: 2.7secs), Driver: Michael Schumacher.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Product offensive - A 45 AMG: First high-performance vehicle built at Rastatt

Start of production for the first high-performance vehicle at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt: after the A-Class and B-Class, the first AMG model in the history of the factory has left the assembly left recently. "The A 45 AMG is the sportiest car that ever rolled off the line here. We are very proud to be constructing high-performance vehicles in Rastatt. The team has exemplary integrated the AMG model into the ongoing production of the A-Class. For us, this milestone marks the start of a new era at the Rastatt site," said Peter Wesp, Head of Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt.

In the development of the A 45 AMG, the experts from Affalterbach have contributed with their extensive experience in motorsport and the construction of powerful high-performance cars. Thus the A 45 AMG will receive the typical AMG DNA and the brand promise of "Driving Performance" perfectly embodied. This is ensured with the implementation of the AMG-specific powertrain with the performance-oriented all-wheel drive AMG 4MATIC, the AMG sports suspension with independent front and rear suspension and the exclusive interior and exterior features. The Rastatt team has smoothly integrated the production of the volumes of the A-Class AMG model together with the AMG counterparts so that the assembly line is shared with the standard A-Class model. The A 45 AMG boasts a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp). With the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, it sets new standards in its segment. The acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 4.6 seconds, while top speed reaches 250 km/h (electronically limited). The high-performance hatchback is designed to appeal to new customers. The target group is between the ages of 30 and mid 40, which is a tad younger than the usual AMG customers.

The A 45 AMG is powered by an AMG 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which has been launched into production two weeks ago in the MDC engine plant in Kölleda. There, all BlueDirect four-cylinder engines for the A-Class and B-Class are built as well. Especially for the production of the new AMG engines, a new assembly line was set up at the plant according to the traditional AMG philosophy "one man, one engine". From now, the A 45 AMG can be ordered by clients. Starting June, the first units will be handed over to customers.

For the production of the new compact models in Rastatt, Daimler is investing 1.2 billion euros. 600 million euros were invested in a first stage, including the construction of a new body shop. A further 600 million euros follow in 2012 and 2013 for the second stage. These new investments will be including the reconstruction of the assembly line and the corresponding plant structure.

About the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant employs about 6,500 people, making it the largest private employer in the region. In 2012, over 200,000 compact vehicles rolled off the assembly line at the site. The new generation of Mercedes-Benz premium compact cars will include, in addition to A-Class and B-Class, three sporty, emotional models, including a coupe and an SUV. The five models of the new compact car will be produced in the production network of the Rastatt plant, and from the end of March 2012, at the newly opened plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. Rastatt is the competence center for the production of the A-Class and B-Class. In late 2013, the compact SUV under the name GLA-Class will enter production stage here.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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A 45 AMG and C 63 AMG "Edition 507": Two new AMG models go on sale

The A 45 AMG and C 63 AMG "Edition 507" are now available to order. These new high-performance models both received their world premiere in early March at the 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG represents the new benchmark in the high-performance compact class. It delivers a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and a peak torque of 450 Newton metres while consuming just 6.9 litres of petrol per 100 kilometres. What's more, the engine already complies with the EU6 emissions standard. The performance-tuned AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system fitted as standard ensures supreme driving dynamics, along with outstanding traction that enables the 0-100 km/h sprint to be completed in 4.6 seconds.

Numerous individualisation options are available for the A 45 AMG (selection):

- AMG Night package: privacy glass, black anodised beltline trim strip, black tailpipe trims in chromed finish, radiator fins in silver chrome, high-gloss black painted finish for front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel inserts and rear apron trim: €797.30

- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package: front splitter, side sill panel inserts and trim on rear apron in genuine carbon fibre: €2975

- AMG Aerodynamics package: AMG rear aerofoil, additional flics in front apron, larger front splitter: €1785

- AMG Exclusive package: heated front sports seats upholstered in black leather with red contrasting topstitching, dashboard and door centre panels in ARTICO man-made leather with red contrasting topstitching: €1309

Mercedes-AMG is embarking on a new era with the A 45 AMG. The attractive entry-level model will capture new target groups and markets for the Affalterbach-based performance brand. The A 45 AMG will be launched in June 2013.

Expressive and exclusive: the A 45 AMG "Edition 1"

The A 45 AMG "Edition 1" stands apart both on a technical level and in terms of appearance. It boasts a fascinating array of exclusive exterior and interior details. The A 45 AMG "Edition 1" focuses on the car's affinity to motorsport: the exterior paint finish in cirrus white is complemented by AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey on the bonnet, roof and sides. The red detailing on the radiator grille, exterior mirrors and rear aerofoil leaves a lasting impression. These highlights combine to perfection with the red painted brake callipers and the AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with special AMG hub caps in central-locking look. The 8 x 19 light-alloy wheels are fitted all-round with 235/35 R 19 tyres. Both the AMG Night package and the Aerodynamics package feature as standard on the "Edition 1", providing the perfect finishing touch to the model's motorsport-inspired character.

Black and red dominate the interior of the A 45 AMG "Edition 1", too. Red contrasting topstitching embellishes the AMG performance seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre, the top section of the dashboard in ARTICO man-made leather and the AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre. Other visual highlights are the E-SELECT lever with embossed AMG emblem and the "Edition 1" badge on the AMG DRIVE UNIT.

An overview of prices in Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

- A 45 AMG: €49,682.50
- A 45 AMG "Edition 1": €56,977.20

C 63 AMG "Edition 507" featuring technology transfer from the SLS AMG

The C 63 AMG models are set to become an even more dynamic proposition: in exclusive "Edition 507" guise, the Saloon, Estate and Coupé are equipped with an uprated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine. The 37 kW (50 hp) boost to 373 kW (507 hp) combined with maximum torque of 610 Nm derives from the transfer of technology from the SLS AMG, with the forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft adopted from the super sports car's eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. An AMG high-performance composite brake system with red callipers comes as standard. The C 63 AMG "Edition 507" is designed to appeal to keen sports drivers who will appreciate the high-calibre technology and a wealth of exclusive design details and appointments.

The C 63 AMG "Edition 507" produces 373 kW (507 hp), and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds in Saloon or Coupé version and in 4.3 seconds in the Estate. It therefore betters the 336 kW (457 hp) base model by two tenths of a second. The top speed of all body styles is 280 km/h (electronically limited) as the "Edition 507" models are fitted with the AMG Driver’s package as standard. In addition to the higher top speed limit, the package also includes a voucher for a driver training course at the AMG Driving Academy. The market launch for the C 63 AMG "Edition 507" gets underway in June 2013.

An overview of prices in Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

- C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Saloon: €83,835.50
- C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Coupé: €85,085.00
- C 63 AMG "Edition 507" Estate: €86,394.00

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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International pop superstar Usher visits Mercedes-AMG factory in Affalterbach

It's no secret that the international pop superstar Usher is a self-proclaimed fan of Mercedes-Benz and its high-performance brand AMG. He is excited to visit Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach on 4 March 2013. Once there the multiple Grammy Award winner will be assembling the final parts on the V8 AMG engine in his new SLS AMG himself, and will also enjoy the exclusive opportunity to try out the brand-new A 45 AMG on the test track. Following on from this visit he will also be attending the official world premiere of this first compact car from AMG, which is to be celebrated at the Geneva Motor Show.

For the American singer and actor, Mercedes-Benz is the luxury brand par excellence. "When I think about luxury, the first thing that comes to mind is Mercedes. So it was a very special moment for me when I was able to buy a Mercedes-Benz for my mom. So far it was the only car I have given her as a gift", explains Usher. The star himself is currently driving a CLS 63 AMG, until his new gullwing SLS AMG is delivered. And when it comes to family cars, the father of two children enjoys driving a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Usher has been ranked by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) as one of the best selling artists in American music history, having sold over 44 million albums worldwide.

As a fan and connoisseur of Mercedes-AMG, the chart-topping star is extremely excited about his test drive in the A 45 AMG. "I can hardly wait to get behind the wheel", says Usher. "It looks so absolutely cool and sexy, and I'm really excited about experiencing the power of the first AMG four-cylinder turbo engine." After the test drive he will be talking all about his experience on his Facebook page. Producing a peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 Nm, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder AMG turbocharged engine is the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine in series production. The new CLA 45 AMG, which will be celebrating its world premiere in New York at the end of March, also benefits from the same engine. Usher has already confirmed the first test drive for this innovative high-performance Coupé too – an event which he will also be sharing with his fans.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG and A 45 AMG in new Driveclub™ racing game for PlayStation 4

On 21st February, in New York, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) presented Driveclub a brand new racing franchise developed exclusively for Playstation 4 by Evolution Studios. The car line-up in this pioneering game, which conveys better than ever before the heart and soul of motor racing and the passion it inspires, includes several exceptional sports cars from Mercedes-Benz – first and foremost among them the new CLA 45 AMG and the new A 45 AMG. Both these high-performance vehicles will be celebrating their real-world premiere in March 2013. Driveclub and the new Playstation 4 console will be launching this holiday season.

Playstation 4 is SCEI’s next generation computer entertainment system that redefines rich and immersive gameplay with powerful graphics and speed, intelligent personalisation, deeply integrated social capabilities, and innovative second-screen features. Driveclub is the perfect fit for the lifestyle of the next generation of PlayStation gamers: an exhilarating, visceral and highly socially connected racing experience that showcases the immense capabilities of Playstation 4. Driveclub is a networked game to be played in real clubs, encouraging players to team up and to collaborate and compete with one another while experiencing the thrill of driving the best cars in the world, on the best roads in the world. The audiovisual quality of the cars and the tracks is staggering, and the view from the cockpit is absolutely true to life, immersing the player in every race and recreating the power and the drama that they would feel if they were actually sitting in the driver’s seat.

As well as the CLA 45 AMG and the A 45 AMG, further vehicles with the three-pointed star will join Driveclub.

Firing up the world's most powerful four-cylinder production engine

In March the A 45 AMG will be presented at the Geneva auto show. With this new family member Mercedes-AMG will for the first time be offering a high-performance vehicle in the compact class segment. The AMG-Version of the new four-door Coupé, the CLA, is celebrating its world premiere in New York. With a peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and a maximum torque of 450 newton metres, their turbocharged AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is the world's most powerful four-cylinder power unit in series production. The power density of 133 kW (181 hp) surpasses even that of the most powerful super sports cars. At the same time they excel with outstanding efficiency, while also meeting the EU6 emissions standard. The A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG are equipped as standard with the fully variable, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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The new A 45 AMG: Video Features - Trailer, Driving Scenes & Design

The all new Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG is the ultimate sports hatchback on the market. An unparalleled level of performance and technological sophistication sets the W 176 apart from the main competitors. The new AMG M133 TURBO powerplant with a total displacement of 1,996 cmc fully deserves big applause and apraisal from world experts - clearly, this is one of the engines of the year. 360 hp at 6,000 rpm and 450 Nm available between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm tell a beautiful story about the capabilities of the petrol unit. 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.6 seconds, while the top speed reaches 250 km/h (electronically governed). Apart from the engine, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT gearbox and the Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive platform combine the pleasurable, dynamic driving experience with an efficient functioning. The technical upgrades to the suspension and brakes come from high-end models such as the SLS AMG supercar, giving the new A 45 AMG complete supremacy in the compact field.

Check out the new model from Affalterbach in a series of videos - see it in action and analyze its styling! Enjoy! :)



Video Credits: Daimler AG /cms-GOMEX™

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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