PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz aims at BMW X6 with the new MLC

Guns are firmly pointed towards the Bavarian company and Mercedes-Benz is clearly stating its determined message to catch up the lost time. Starting with 2014, a new model will enter the Star's lineup: the MLC will reportedly be marketed as a SUV coupe, the first of its kind in the history of Mercedes-Benz. The new 4x4 vehicle will use the powertrain of the new M-Class, but don't expect eminent offroad capabilities, because the MLC will be street-oriented. The design team led by Prof. Gorden Wagener are met with a difficult challenge: creating the most beautiful coupe aura on a high-sitting car and visually emphasizing the dynamical potency of the future MLC. Don't be fooled by the funny rendition posted above - looks far from promising, we say. Sticking to basics, most probably, Mercedes-Benz will be kind enough to release a concept car serving as a preview sometime ahead of the official unveiling of the serial production car. Oh boy, things are really heating up...

Related articles:
- PREVIEW - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLC
- PREVIEW: A new Mercedes-Benz SUV concept in the pipeline - the GLS

Photo: Autobild


Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: A new Mercedes-Benz SUV concept in the pipeline - the GLS

While searching on the internet, we came across the above design sketch. You'll probably be tempted to say there's nothing to comment upon on the image as it may not look too revealing, but guess what: it appears Mercedes-Benz is planning to launch a new concept vehicle in the near future. The show car would serve as a preview for the anticipated BLK/GLA compact-sized SUV aimed at BMW X1 and Audi Q3, set to arrive in 2013, but it could as well tease the future GLC sports utility coupe. Latest information shows that the model would be entitled GLS Concept and feature a two-door, coupe-like body. Exterior design is said to be inspired by the strong, solid, rather rough lines of the iconic Gelandewagen as well as the chich, curvaceous looks of the CLS-Class. No more specific details are known by the time, but the next period should confirm us the likelihood of the GLS Concept.


Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Ultra Wheels For The Auto Enthusiast In The House

It would seem as if there is an unending selection of Ultra wheels with many colors and styles to choose from. The wheel exceeds market safety requirements and is bargained priced based on the years of service the rim provides. The Ultra looks great on the SUV and most light trucks.

Some people like to go to a store front auto rim display store where they can see the actual wheel they will be buying. Others like to shop on the internet for their rims because they can do comparison shopping without driving around town. The Ultra comes in every color and style from matte black with luster trim to classic chrome.

These wheels are manufactured with five and eight lug nut models. Make sure to mount the proper sized wheel because a vehicle with an improper fitting rim is a road hazard. Look up the vehicle's wheel size in the vehicle owner's manual or take the vehicle to a store front service center where the sales person will be able to determine the right size rim for the vehicle.

Many auto owners will attest to the fact that these rims are not the cheapest on the market. But because these wheels will probably last the lifetime of the vehicle, in the long run, the rims are a bargain. Vehicle owners concerned about price can shop on line and do quick comparative pricing and some companies offer internet users with a coupon code a discount.

The rims are warranted against structural failures and come with a limited lifetime warranty. The rims are guaranteed for material or manufacturing defects which take place during normal road use. Keep sales receipts in case there is a problem and proof of purchase needs to be established.

Many vehicle owners like these wheels because they are looking for a rim that adds flair and style to their vehicle's appearance. Each year there are new styles and colors added to the product selection so every year a vehicle owner has an even bigger selection to choose from. Many vehicle owners order the rims on line and have then delivered to their home and install the rims on their own.

Use only properly certified mounting equipment when installing the rims or else the wheels can be damaged. Perform a trial fitting of the rim before mounting the tire in order to properly line up the wheel and lug nut patterns. Avoid forcing a rim against the hub by using lug nut force. The wheel has to freely set in place.

2009 Infiniti FX37 A Genuine Fusion of Sports Car and SUV

2009 Infiniti FX37 Sports Car and SUV

A genuine fusion of sports car and SUV, the Infiniti FX37's dramatic styling sets it apart from the crowd. Built on Infiniti's FM (front-midships) platform, the Infiniti FX37 blends sports car proportions with the character of a 4x4. That means a long bonnet and wheelbase, short overhangs and a coupé-like roofline, with the stance and strength of an SUV.The Infiniti FX37 is powered by the 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 320PS at 7,000 rpm and a healthy 360Nm of torque (comparable figures for the V8 FX50 are 390PS and 500Nm).A member of the multi-award winning VQ engine family, the all-aluminium 24-valve twin cam unit features a bed-plate construction. A technique that has been used in motor racing for many years, the resulting two-part construction of the cylinder block is more rigid than a single piece casting.It is a configuration that signifies a high-performance sporting engine designed for the highest strength and reliability. Other benefits include reduced vibration levels and higher engine speeds to be reached consistently without damage.

2009 Infiniti FX37 Sports Car and SUV

Infiniti FX37 comes with a new seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) as standard providing a wider spread of transmission ratios for improved fuel consumption and drivability. The seventh speed is effectively an overdrive ratio, returning improved fuel economy on a steady throttle without compromising in-gear flexibility for overtaking.Suspension design is fully independent and uses lightweight aluminium components to reduce weight as much as possible. With a double wishbone set up at the front, a multi-link arrangement mounted on a subframe behind and an extremely rigid bodyshell, Infiniti FX37 combines agility with exceptional ride comfort.In keeping with its crossover role, Infiniti FX37 features Infiniti's ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) four-wheel drive technology.

2009 Infiniti FX37 Sports Car and SUV

When Infiniti FX37 accelerates from a standing start, ATTESA E-TS system provides power to all four wheels. Once up to speed, if the system's sensors detect that all-wheel drive is not needed, up to 100 percent of the power is sent to the rear wheels. This rear-bias offers better handling balance and improved fuel efficiency.An all-new design, the latest generation FX range adopts Infiniti's signature double-arch grille and 'double wave' frontal styling. The profile is dominated by a strong shoulder-line set off by functional side vents behind the front wheels while the swooping roofline is topped by roof rails, which are fitted as standard. At the rear, distinctive LED taillights wrap around the side of the vehicle.

2009 Infiniti FX37 Sports Car and SUV

The interior provides a driver-oriented cockpit combined with a luxuriously sophisticated passenger compartment. Natural materials including wood and quilted leather can be found throughout while the dashboard features the Infiniti signature double-wave design. Three interior colour schemes are offered: black plus duo-tone beige and grey or brown and black. Power adjustable front seats are ventilated for the ultimate in comfort at all times.Other items of standard equipment include Intelligent Key with keyless go, and Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) which automatically controls the aim and patterns of the headlights, based on steering wheel angle and vehicle speed (the headlights can swivel headlights up to 17 degrees).

2009 Infiniti FX37 Sports Car and SUV

“Infiniti FX37 is a significant model for Europe and we expect it to account for as much as 80 per cent of FX sales,” says Jim Wright, Vice President Infiniti Europe. “By combining excellent handling and punchy performance with genuine luxury and SUV practicality, Infiniti FX37 will appeal to customers who appreciate quality and individuality.”