Category: Mercedes-Benz

The Mercedes-Benz S-class has always been a leader in technology, being the first to add subtle changes like rain gutters to safely direct water flow, as well as technical leaps like traction and stability control. This tradition continues with the redesigned 2013 S-class.

Although it’s loaded with technological-wizardry, a lot of work has gone into making it as intuitive and easy to use as possible. This means drivers and passengers alike can enjoy this vehicle’s numerous features without them getting in the way of the driving experience.

Active Parking Assist: Parallel Parking Can’t Get Easier
Thanks to the addition of steering control, Active Parking Assist can now park and leave parallel parking spaces with no driver intervention. Simply activate the system, and when it detects a parking space, come to stop and put the shifter in “Park:” The car does the rest. Come back later, and the car can do something no other competitor can do: drive the car back out into the lane. Simply switch on the turn signal and shift into “Drive,” and the S-class will safely drive itself back onto the street. There’s no need to line up boxes on the navigation screen or steer as the system adjusts the throttle and brakes.

Distronic Plus: More than Cruise Control
Mercedes was the first company to introduce a radar-based cruise control system, automatically adjusting the car’s speed depending on the surrounding traffic. The same steering system which enables automatic parking, can also help keep the car in the lane, making highway drives less of a chore.

Stuck in rush hour traffic on the Dallas tollway? The system can also operate the car at low speeds, taking the stress out of stop and go traffic.

Advanced Headlights: See More of the Texas Road
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class uses only LED lights, which means one less item that needs to be serviced. However, the real stars in this setup are the headlights. The high beams automatically adjust to aim light away from oncoming drivers, keeping them from being dazzled while maintaining visibility. They also change their aim to illuminate the road ahead no matter how tight the curve. If a pedestrian or a deer is detected, the lights can direct a spotlight at them to get the driver’s attention.

Smartphone Connectivity: Access the S-Class Anywhere
A new app available for iPhone and Android devices allows vehicle functions to be accessed remotely. Don’t remember where you parked? The app can help you find your car. Don’t remember if you locked the doors? The locks can be operated remotely using the app.

Using Send2Benz, you can send route information from Google Maps directly from your computer or smartphone. Computer users can also add a widget to copy any address and send it directly to the car’s navigation system.

mbrace PLUS: A Concierge at Your Fingertips
With mbrace PLUS, owners will get a concierge service accessible both from the car and through the app. Faced with an accident, natural disaster or other catastrophe? The service can help there, too. Crisis Assist can help direct you away from closed roads and find emergency shelter.

Internet Integration for On the Go Planning
The COMAND infotainment system has greatly expanded in-vehicle Internet capabilities. Integrated social networking can help you plan meet-ups from your car. Google Local Search can be used not only to find locations, but also to call them or navigate to them. Want to know where’s the best place to eat in the Dallas-Fort Worth area? There’s integration with Yelp as well as a built in Zagat restaurant guide.

Top Quality Audio
The S-class comes standard with a harmon/kardon audio system, designed specifically for the cabin’s acoustics, with 15 speakers and 600 watts to provide superb audio quality. Want something that will truly impress audiophiles? Buyers can opt for an audio system from Bang & Olufsen, the leaders in audio reproduction.

The Perfect Seat
Active Ventilated seats are standard, helping each passenger cool down, warm up or dry off quickly. Four zone climate control lets each passenger have their part of the cabin at just the right temperature to make them comfortable. Adjustable lumbar, shoulder and side supports give each seat a custom fit, with total of ten adjustments in the front seats. Sound confusing? Don’t worry: Once everything is set up, the car remembers the position of everything from the side mirrors to the steering wheel angle, making driver changes a snap.

PRESAFE Plus: Preventing Accidents and Reducing Their Damage
The new system uses a series of sensors to identify possible collisions, whether it’s from the front, rear, or cross traffic at intersections. Not only can it apply the brakes, PRESAFE can adjust safety equipment inside the car to prepare for an impact. Is there someone in your blind spot? You’ll know, thanks to indicators in the side mirrors, and should someone swing into that space, the car will pull itself away to prevent an accident.

Learn more about the amazing Mercedes-Benz S-Class by visiting one of our Park Place Motorcars locations in Dallas, Fort-Worth, and Grapevine.

Since its 1954 conception, the elegant Mercedes-Benz SL line has dominated the Sporty and Lightweight Class of the auto market. Unlike other automobile manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz has maintained this dominance of the market by not making a lot of changes to their luxury convertibles. During the past six decades, there have only been four major alterations made to the SL line. However, from 2000 to present, the SL line’s marketplace dominance has been declining.  Mercedes-Benz is making some changes to the sixth-generation 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550. The manufacturers hope the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 will be a better embodiment of the Sporty and Lightweight concept.

Sporty Performance
This SL550 Roadster definitely embodies the idea of “sporty” as some of its new features help to improve its performance and power. The new 4.6L biturbo V8, combined with the stiff aluminum chassis and the standard SL550 Active Body Control gives the SL550 a great feel and more precision. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 goes from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds; compared to the 5.3 seconds the outgoing 5.5L engine takes. Moreover, the 4.6L twin-turbo V8 offers 429-hp compared to the 5.5L engine’s 382-hp, and raises the torque from 391 pound-feet to 516 pound-feet. The new engine’s rapid-multispark ignition and high-pressure direct injection  reduces fuel consumption, emissions and noise. Plus, it provides quicker and more widely variable valve timing, “on-demand” ancillary components  and reduced friction.

The SL550’s seven-speed automatic transmission also has been improved to make it even more efficient, responsive and smoother. The gear, overdrive ratios and adaptive logic make the vehicle automatically respond to virtually every driving situation. However, the driver can select one of three modes (Eco, Sport, or Manual) to customize the driving experience to suit his or her mood.

Virtually all of the suspension components and their subframes are made from rigid, lightweight aluminum. This makes the SL550 more nimble and precise with more predictable handling. Utilizing a network of sensors, the semi-active suspension with Adaptive Damping System continually adjusts to various road surfaces and driving inputs to improve handling and comfort. Drivers can select either the comfort or sport modes to customize the handling and comfort levels to match their own driving styles.

The electromechanical power steering with Direct-steer provides quicker steering and lighter effort while parking, yet maintains excellent directional stability and a crispy feel at higher speeds. The SL550’s entire brake system provides additional safety, control and precision through its adaptive braking technology and various types of brakes.

Sporty Lightweight Design
The new SL550 sports design has an upright grille with its central Star, as well as a long hood that sweeps past the cockpit into a sharply-contoured tail. Due to several unique techniques, the nearly all-aluminum body is stronger than its predecessor’s steel constructed body. The mostly all-aluminum make-up of various components which helps the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 to shed 275 pounds. This gives the SL500  an estimated curb weight that’s just a little over 3900 pounds. Yet, despite the decrease in weight, the car now has larger dimensions than its predecessor. Combined with a magnesium roof, the nearly all-aluminum monocoque chassis helps to lower the car’s center of gravity. A deep front air dam with mesh intakes and aerodynamic sculpting of the side sills and rear valance are included in the 2013 SL550’s aggressive-styled lower bodywork.

The sophisticated aerodynamics and LED lighting compliment the chrome-accented hood and fender vents. Plus, the SL550’s alluring standard 18-inch staggered-width alloy wheels feature a twin 5-spoke design with a bright silver finish and high performance tires. Additionally, the bi-xenon headlamps with their Active Curve Illumination feature provide greater visibility, especially in corners at night.

The roadster’s signature retractable hardtop gives it a sleek closed coupe or classic open roadster look. This fantastic retractable hardtop only takes 16 seconds to fold down into the trunk as the rear window is pivoting 180 degrees to preserve cargo space. The occupants can enjoy an expansive panoramic view through a heat-reflecting transparent panel or can utilize a manual mesh sunshade which reduces the amount of sunlight entering the vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz SL550’s innovative cockpit is lavished in supple leather and hand-polished Burl Walnut and Black Ash wood trim, keeping the two occupants feeling coddled and captivated. The SL550’s cabin is also teeming with user-friendly technology. The SL500’s sports a multifunction 3-spoke steering wheel, which features a premium leather-wrapped rim with raised thumb grips and a flat-bottom design. Fingertip controls on the steering wheel allow you to easily control the audio-volume and selection. The steering wheel buttons also allow you to send and end calls on your Bluetooth-enabled phone and scroll through features of the instrument cluster’s multifunctional display.

Fuel efficiency, safety, comfort and convenience
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 also has numerous features which add to its fuel efficiency, safety, comfort and convenience. For instance, it features an Eco-Start/Stop system that automatically shuts the down the engine whenever there’s a long idling situation. The safety system also includes Pre-Safe technology that sets safeguards into motion when it senses there might be a high-impact accident. However, there’s too many great safety, performance, design and high-tech entertainment features to mention them all individually. Overall, the Sl550 might just succeed in satisfying Mercedes-Benz’s hopes and standards for embodying the concept of sporty and lightweight vehicles.

When car enthusiasts think of Mercedes-Benz, they often picture the iconic “wings” of the classic 300SL Gullwing rising into the air, as if preparing for takeoff. First released in 1954, this vehicle marked the beginning of the now revered Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and was considered the fastest, most advanced production vehicle of its time.

The 300SL was born from a racing heritage, and has speed engrained in its genes. It may surprise some people then, to find out that the car donned an unassuming 3.0 liter, six-cylinder engine churning out 215 horsepower. This may not sound impressive at all by today’s standards, but it was leaps and bounds ahead of comparable sports cars at the time. The car’s minimal weight (just 3,400 pounds) and sophisticated aerodynamics were in line with the SL, or “Sports Light” badge, and contributed greatly to its exceptional quickness, balance, and cornering ability. To put things in perspective, its 160 mph top speed was enough to shatter the previous record by a production vehicle and it pioneered the first-ever direct-injection system on an automotive application.

Many vehicles have recently adopted direct-injection technology because of its advantages in performance and fuel efficiency; all of these modern manufacturers owe a tip of the hat to Mercedes-Benz and the car that started it all.

Most Collectors and enthusiasts consider the 300SL to be the greatest all-around sports car of the 20th century. Today, a classic Gullwing can roll across the auction block for nearly $1 million, without breaking a sweat. Less than 1500 were built, so it comes as no surprise that these cars are highly desired and rarely go up for sale. If you’re looking to buy one, you might have better luck searching the obituaries instead of the classified section.

Road & Track magazine raved after an initial review of the 300SL, and had the following to say: “We are looking at a car where a comfortable interior is complemented by remarkably impressive handling characteristics, quite incredible roadholding, light and precise steering, and performance levels which are up there with – and even an improvement on – the best cars the automotive industry has to offer. There is only one thing left to say: the sports car of the future has become a reality.”

Moving forward, we see the future of the 300SL coming to fruition. The recently released 2013 SLS AMG® GT is the physical and spiritual predecessor to the Gullwing, and embodies all that made the original 300SL such an incredibly special car. Who says perfection can’t be improved upon? From its sultry curves and timeless styling, to its cutting-edge power plant and drive-train, the SLS AMG GT mirrors the idea behind the original 300SL and defines the parameters for what a sports car should be.

A quick glance at the SLS will leave no doubt about its lineage. Its traits are unmistakable: The impossibly long hood, the small, two seat cockpit and tiny trunk, the suave, rounded curves, the low-slung center of gravity, and of course, the often imitated Gullwing doors. All of it nods to the original 300SL.  However, there is something more dark and ominous about the SLS. Its aggressive body lines and widened, ground-hugging stance indicate that it is a different beast than the 300SL. Each vehicle was shaped by the principals of its performance, and the SLS quite literally screams that it was built for more power and greater handling control. It is essentially a modern 300SL on steroids.

The angry, snarling exhaust note on the SLS is similar to the original Gullwing in its ferocity, but what lies under the long, sleek hood is another animal altogether. A high-revving 6.3-Liter AMG V8 pumps out a ground-pounding 583 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque; its broad power-band is enough to send the SLS past 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. This engine is the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 ever stuffed into a production vehicle, and marks a momentous achievement in technological design and engineering.

As one might expect, the direct-injection technology first seen in the 300SL is carried over into the SLS. Other elements also set the car apart from its competition, including a dry-sump lubrication system, a 7-Speed dual-clutch trans-axle which shifts at a lightning-quick 100 milliseconds, a double-wishbone suspension system with electronically-controlled adaptive damping, carbon-ceramic brakes, the list goes on and on.

All of this performance does not come at the price of everyday drivability. Just as the 300SL was built to take a beating, the SLS was created as a true driver’s car, reliable enough to be driven daily, and tough enough for a weekend trip to the track and back. It was built to display extreme endurance without missing a beat.

The AMG division of Mercedes-Benz has outdone themselves with the 2013 SLS AMG GT. It represents all of the ideals that a sports-exotic should, and smashes any competition in the process. Faster cars lack its graceful styling and class, and more luxurious cars cannot match its balance of power and agility. Simply put, the SLS AMG GT is one of the most advanced, well-rounded vehicles ever built.

Against a field of 11 competitors for the coveted 2013 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year® award, one clear winner stood above the rest, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. In Motor Trend’s annual weeklong SUV battle royale, Sport/Utility offerings from various manufacturers are put through a battery of tests, outlining six criteria that provide objective insight into scoring the best of the best.

The six key criteria comprising the competition are Design Advancement, Engineering Excellence, Performance of Intended Function, Efficiency, Safety, and Value, all playing important roles in selection of the vehicle worthy of the distinction. Scoring highest overall, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, regardless of package or engine option, proved to do “more of what we expect an SUV to do” according to Motor Trend’s Frank Markus.

Available with a 240hp diesel V-6 in the GL350 BlueTEC, 362hp or 429hp biturbo gasoline V-8’s in the GL450 and GL550 respectively, matched to a reengineered paddle-shift 7-speed automatic transmission providing smoother shifting and higher efficiency, all available packages were tested, and were collectively impressive throughout the competition. For those looking for efficiency, the BlueTEC equipped model returned an impressive 18.5mpg, besting several competitors equipped with smaller, less powerful engine options.

Beyond power and off-road capability, the GL-Class didn’t disappoint on the open road either. Drives down the highway and through winery roads, used as the proving grounds for testing, gave testers seat time to enjoy the beautifully engineered chassis and suspension. According to Motor Trend’s Mike Floyd, the 2013 GL-Class provides “An ueber-smooth ride, even in sport mode. You just float down the highway on a cloud and in silence.”

Hearing the glaring accolades from these seasoned testers can surely give you a sense of what Motor Trend’s 2013 Sport/Utility of the Year®, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, has to offer, but the easiest way to understand what makes the GL-Class experience marvelous, is to simply get behind the wheel and enjoy it for yourself. For more information on the 2013 GL-Class, or to schedule a test drive, visit us at your nearest Park Place Motorcars location in Dallas, Ft. Worth, or Grapevine, or on our website at www.ParkPlaceTexas.com. If you are interested in purchasing a ne GL-Class, click here to view our 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Inventory.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

It’s no surprise Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedans and coupes have endured for nine generations. These trendsetters make history and uncover the future of vehicles today.

Overview

After nine generations, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars continue to redefine what comes next with landmark innovations in safety, performance, efficiency and comfort. One glance at the exterior curves and one sitting in the beautifully crafted cabins of E-Class cars will awaken your passion for driving. In just one, you’ll discover a wholly unique and indescribable experience that will leave you feeling awestruck.

An E350 customer shares his experience in owning a 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350, his seventh E350, on Edmunds.com:

The ride and handling are superb! The technology is functional, but not overwhelming. Audio system (harman/kardon 610 watt 5.1 surround sound w/14 speakers) is the best I’ve ever heard in a luxury sedan. Outstanding acceleration when needed! Great visibility both front and rear. Blind Side Monitor is a must option. Wood/leather steering wheel in Walnut is like a piece of good furniture. 3D NAV system is phenomenal! Voice control system responds to every command. Mbrace system great addition! Best E350 yet!

Doesn’t that sound like a person who is passionate and enthralled by the E-Class car? How can you not be with its precisely engineered engines? A 302-hp Direct Injection gasoline V6 whips the E350 Sport and Luxury Sedans to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, yet they can get 30 mpg on the highway. With the cleanest diesel fuel and certified ultralow emissions, E350 BlueTEC Sport and Luxury Sedans can reach 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, pull in 33 highway mpg and run up to 600 miles per tank.

 

 

Technology in the cockpit of the E-Class is second nature and an extension of you with user-friendly controls, eye-pleasing high-resolution screen, ability to respond to your voice commands and delivering sounds that reward your ears. The intelligent central controller is the doorway to everything you need to access — from audio and navigation to vehicle settings and the cloud-based in-car Internet features available with the new Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 system.

You can keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times with the Bluetooth system lets you safely make hands-free calls, and access controls on the steering wheel with your thumbs to modify the audio and flip through the screens that show up in the speedometer right in front of you. With the available KEYLESS-GO, you won’t need to fish for keys as you can unlock the car and start the engine.

Make tracks for others to follow with an impeccable tailored 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class car. Head to Park Place Motorcars, Park Place Motorcars Grapevine or Park Place Motorcars Fort Worth to find out why this ninth generation car paves the way for all others in engineering, comfort and technology.

Interior

 

You see it in every detail of the Sport Sedans and Luxury Sedans, the new E-Class is designed, crafted and finished to fit you and your passengers. Get immediate satisfaction from the immaculately designed interior continually adapts to your changing desires.

Interior trim. Black Ash high-gloss wood (Sport models), Burl Walnut high-gloss wood (Sport and Luxury models).

Upholstery. Almond/Black (Sport Sedans and requires Burl Walnut wood trim), Almond /Mocha (Luxury Sedans), Ash/Black (Sport Sedans), Ash/Dark Grey (Luxury Sedans), Black, Natural Beige/Black (Sport Sedans and requires leather upholstery).

Digital dual-zone automatic climate control. Provides tailored comfort in any season by allowing driver and front seat passenger take control of their own temperatures. The system also filters dust, pollen and odors from the cabin air

Multimedia and technology. The controls and features of the E-Class feel like a virtual extension of your thinking. Easily accessible with a convenient central controller, the COMAND system includes audio, optional navigation and information such as real-time traffic reports on a high-resolution 7-inch display. Listening options range from Bluetooth audio streaming to a USB input and iPod/MP3 Media Interface.

Panorama roof. This power-operated class-exclusive option delivers grand skyward views to the first and second seating rows. The front section of the roof can tilt up for ventilation or slide open for fresh air. When closed, a power sliding screen blocks the bright sunlight.

mbrace2. Standard on every 2013 E-Class with a six-month trial subscription, mbrace keeps you connected to the world as you always have through your computer, your smartphone and your car. With mbrace, you use Google Maps and Yelp to navigate and friends can send you a text message with their location to your car.

Exterior

 

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupes are the only cars in its class with a view of the horizon through four fully retractable side windows without any interruption from the framework. The pacesetting design of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan shines through the timeless elegance of its iconic chrome grille and four headlamps.

Exterior colors. Black, Cuprite Brown metallic, Diamond Silver metallic, Diamond White metallic, Iridium Grey metallic, Iridium Silver metallic, Lunar Blue metallic, Obsidian Black metallic, Palladium Silver metallic, Pearl Beige metallic and Steel Grey metallic.

Lighting. LED lighting is a blend of smarter thinking and a dazzling presence with the standard bright white Daytime Running Lamps, the turn indicators in each side mirror and the wide wraparound taillamps. The stylish LEDs ensure your E-Class is more visible on the road while consuming less energy and having a longer life than conventional bulbs.

Safety

 

Mercedes-Benz invented safety features that have become today’s standards including the Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and emergency-sensing Brake Assist. To see what’s next in safety standards, refer to 2013 Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

ATTENTION ASSIST: This standard feature is a Mercedes-Benz innovation continually monitors a variety of driving behaviors for signs of drowsiness on longer trips alerts the driver audibly and visually.

Rear view camera: On the in-dash screen, the available rearview camera displays the area behind the E-Class.

Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assists: This available system alerts the driver to unseen vehicles in the adjacent lane and helps warn the driver when drifting out of the lane.

PRE-SAFE: Helps detect instability during certain vehicle maneuvers that suggest a collision or rollover may be looming. PRE-SAFE tightens the seat belts, adjusts the passenger seat and closes the windows to prepare occupants and restraints moments before a collision.

DISTRONIC PLUS: This available radar-based cruise control adapts your set speed in response to the flow of traffic ahead — automatically slowing until your path clears. If the car ahead slows to a stop, DISTRONIC PLUS can brake the Mercedes-Benz E-Class car to a full stop, then resume automatically when traffic starts moving.

Nine standard air bags: Provide 11-way protection including dual-stage front air bags, pelvic air bags and side curtain air bags.

Performance

2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 Sedan. The Sedan features a new-generation 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 that combines many advances to deliver more torque over a wider range of rpm. Its rapid-multispark ignition fires up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection tunes the fuel spray, lowering emissions, fuel consumption and noise. Its 7-speed automatic transmission is smoother, more responsive and more efficient.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC Sedan. The E350 BlueTEC Sedan contains clean diesel technology with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 that delivers 210 hp, a 400 lb-ft of torque and acceleration on par with many gasoline V8s. By injecting AdBlue solution into the exhaust, BlueTEC turns smog-causing NOx into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. Its 7-speed automatic transmission is smoother, more responsive and more efficient.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 4MATIC Sedan. The Sedan features a new-generation 402-hp 4.6-liter V8 that combines many advances and twin turbos that deliver more low-end torque. Its rapid-multispark ignition can fire up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection tunes the fuel spray to lower emissions, fuel consumption and noise. Its 7-speed automatic transmission is smoother, more responsive and more efficient.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Sedan. The Sedan ports a handcrafted 5.5-liter Direct Injection biturbo V8 that delivers 518 hp and 0 – 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Its lightweight body and fuel-saving ECO-Stop/Start system help ensure ultralow emissions and maximized fuel-efficiency. The E63 AMG includes a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission with a wet startup clutch.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe. The Coupe features a new-generation 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 that combines many advances to deliver more torque over a wider range of rpm. Its rapid-multispark ignition fires up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection tunes the fuel spray, lowering emissions, fuel consumption and noise. Its 7-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles is smoother, more responsive and more efficient. Available 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive adds to its confident performance in any season.

2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe. The Coupe features a new-generation 402-hp 4.6-liter V8 that combines many advances and twin turbos to deliver noticeably more low-end torque. Its rapid-multispark ignition can fire up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection tunes the fuel spray to lower emissions, fuel consumption and noise. Its 7-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles is smoother, more responsive and more efficient.

2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class legacy of uncompromised safety, unbeatable performance and unequaled refinement are why the revolutionary Mercedes-Benz sport utility vehicles remain the yardstick for SUVs.

Overview

Like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class paves the way for coupes and sedans, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class sets the standard for SUVs. An SUV that tries to copy dilutes is diluted, but that’s not the case with the M-Class, an original. “Any luxury SUV can promise a quiet cabin and a smooth ride. But very few can claim a 174-mph top speed on the German autobahns or offer the stump-pulling torque of a fuel-efficient diesel engine. The well-regarded safety features of the M-Class are just another selling point, as is its 7,200-pound tow rating,” KBB.com writes.

In the M-Class, you get the space and road-tamer of an SUV with the handling and comfort of a luxury sedan. You can pack all the things you need into the M-Class without shuffling things to make it work. And no matter how demanding the elements are, the M-Class is always in its element as it blazes its way through everything. “The 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class can tame the hazards of ruts, snow and muck – not to mention rush-hour traffic and speed bumps – while treating its driver and passengers to a supple travel experience,” writes KBB.com in its review. “Even at freeway speeds, the cabin is remarkably hushed.”

An efficient 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 in the ML350 with a paddle-shifted 7-speed automatic can leap to 60 mph within 7.5 seconds and get a striking 22 mpg on the highway. Yes, it’s an SUV with sedan-like numbers. For more torque and 27 highway mpg, check out the ML350 BlueTEC with its advanced diesel turbo V6 that spurs a massive 240 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque.

 

 

Those desiring even more power and torque will fancy the ML550 or the ML63 AMG. The ML550 contains a Direct Injection 4.6-liter V8 engine that generates 402 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The ML63 AMG, on the other hand, has a 5.5-liter biturbo V8 with a fierce 518 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque.

New standard equipment in the 2013 M-Class includes the mbrace2 telematics system and COLLISSION PREVENTION ASSIST. The mbrace2 system comes with a six-month trial to provide added security, such as Roadside Assistance and sending a monthly email report on the SUV’s health to tell you what’s going on with the SUV without opening the hood. It also connects the M-Class vehicle with your compatible devices to access the information you need with ease.

COLLISSION PREVENTION ASSIST has radar-based technology reviews speed and distance to alert the driver when nearing a vehicle ahead that may lead to a collision. The system can detect immobile objects and automatically brake as needed until the driver steps on the brake pedal.

“There is no substitute for the solid build quality and the road holding ability of a Mercedes-Benz. Before I got out of the dealer’s lot, I could feel the difference with the ML350,” writes a customer on Edmunds.com. “I want to feel the vehicle is built like a tank, with the ML350 that’s what you get.”

Make big tracks softly, dominate the road with confidence and ride through all terrains in comfort in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV. Visit Park Place Motorcars, Park Place Motorcars Grapevine or Park Place Motorcars Fort Worth to see and experience the M-Class.

 

Interior

 

Interior trim: Burl Walnut high-gloss wood, Eucalyptus high-gloss wood (ML350).

Upholstery: Almond/Beige, Black, Grey.

MB-Tex upholstery: MB-Tex upholstery offers a rich appearance and supple leather-like feel that offers legendary durability and easy care. (ML350 and ML550)

Designo Leather upholstery: The craftsmanship of designo leather upholstery offers refinement that matches the vehicle’s performance. It’s fitted by hand to the deeply contoured sport front seats and the rear seats. Seats, dash, armrests and door trim have contrasting double top-stitching. (ML63 AMG)

Dual-zone climate control w/ dust and charcoal filters: Separate left and right temperature controls allow the driver and front passenger to enjoy personalized comfort. Along with automatic or manual control of blower speed and airflow distribution, the system includes a dust/pollen and charcoal filter that helps remove odors from the cabin air.

Premium leather multifunction steering wheel: Wrapped in supple Premium leather, the M-Class steering wheel includes tilt and telescopic adjustment. Convenient buttons on the steering wheel let you control the audio volume and selection, send and end calls on a Bluetooth-enabled phone and scroll through the features of the color multifunction display in the instrument cluster. (ML350 and ML550)

AMG sport steering wheel: With pronounced contouring, thick padding and Premium leather-wrapped rim, the 4-spoke AMG sport steering wheel puts the delights of precise handling in the driver’s hands. Convenient multifunction controls give you instant access to the most frequently needed vehicle features. (ML63 AMG)

Power front seats with driver lumbar support: Both front seats have reach, height, tilt and recline power-adjustments. For comfort and lower-back support, the driver seat comes with 4-way power-adjustable lumbar support. (ML350 and ML550)

Power AMG sport front seats: Bolstered sport front seats are hand-fitted in designo leather and detailed with metal AMG badges, double-stitched seams and lateral piping. In addition to 10-way power adjustment and 3-position memory, each seat includes 4-way power lumbar support. (ML63 AMG)

Power liftgate: For convenience in the rain or hands full of items, you can open and close the liftgate through a switch on the driver’s interior door panel or a button on the SmartKey remote. A sensor automatically stops the liftgate if it detects an obstruction, and you can set the system to limit the opening height when under low ceilings.

COMAND system with central controller and 7-inch LCD screen: Featuring a large high-resolution color-LCD display mounted high in the dash and a central controller on the console, the Cockpit Management and Data (COMAND) system lets you control audio, video, hands-free calling and optional navigation functions. You can access many features through the integrated steering-wheel controls.

mbrace2: Standard on every 2013 M-Class with a six-month trial subscription, mbrace keeps you connected to the world as you always have through your computer, your smartphone and your car. With mbrace, you use Google Maps and Yelp to navigate and friends can send you a text message with their location to your car.

Bluetooth: Place and answer calls, and access select phonebooks without taking your hands off the steering wheel with standard Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. Visit www.MBUSA-Mobile.com to learn more about Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth audio streaming makes it easier to enjoy your digital music player. Wirelessly connect your Bluetooth-equipped iPod or other MP3 player to the M-Class SUV’s audio system for cable-free playback.

 

Exterior

 

Exterior colors: Arctic White, Black, Cinnabar Red, Dakota Brown, Diamond White metallic, Iridium Silver metallic, Lunar Blue metallic, Obsidian Black metallic, Palladium Silver metallic, Pearl Beige metallic and Steel Grey metallic.

LED Daytime Running Lamps: Bright white LED Daytime Running Lamps help increase the visibility of your vehicle to oncoming traffic by illuminating front lights whenever the car is switched on. With long life and low energy consumption, the light-emitting diode (LED) lamps also add a distinctive high-tech styling touch.

LED taillamps: LED taillamps feature a stylish fiber-optic effect for a distinctive nighttime appearance. Long-lasting, attention-getting LEDs are also employed for the rear turn signals and red rear foglamp.

Chrome exterior accents: From its front skid plate to numerous exterior accents, the bright chrome detailing of the ML350 underscores its quality and highlights its elegant design.

Premium leather 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel: Standard in the ML350 and ML550, the 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel is wrapped in supple Premium leather.

Eucalyptus wood trim: Dark brown Eucalyptus wood trim adorns the dash and all four doors. Its linear grain and deep, hand-finished gloss bring a modern style and a warm aura to the ML350 cabin.

Burl Walnut wood trim: Hand-polished Burl Walnut wood trim graces the dash and all four doors, lending the ML550 and ML63 AMG cockpit a further air of refinement and exclusivity.

Aluminum roof rails: Sleek and purposeful, the roof rails accommodate a variety of available accessory attachments for carrying bikes, surfboards, skis, snowboards and cargo carriers. They’re crafted from elegant aluminum that adds modern style even when you’re not using them.

19-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels: Legendary AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels are standard in the ML550. They’re fitted with beefy 255/50R19 all-season tires for an optimal year-round balance of surefooted handling and a quiet ride.

19-inch twin 5-spoke wheels: Standard in the ML350, 19-inch alloy wheels feature five twin spokes and a luminous silver finish. They’re fitted with beefy 255/50R19 all-season tires for an optimal year-round balance of surefooted handling and a quiet ride.

20-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels: Standard in the ML63 AMG, 20-inch wheels are a new take on the signature AMG 5-spoke design, with a high-sheen finish and subtle Titanium Grey pockets. Measuring 9 inches in width, they’re outfitted with 265/45R20 high-performance tires for an excellent balance of powerful grip and precise steering feedback.

AMG body styling: The visible muscle of the ML63 AMG offers evidence of its all-around capability. Performance cues dominate its powerful front end. A matte-chrome strip underscores the air dam, highlights the LED Daytime Running Lamps, and draws the eye around to the widened front fenders and AMG side sills. At the rear, the aggressively sculpted AMG rear apron is pierced by two pairs of chrome tailpipes, outlined in matte chrome and divided by a black mesh central diffuser.

 

Safety

Mercedes-Benz pioneered safety breakthroughs that have become today’s standards including the Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and emergency-sensing Brake Assist. To see what’s next in safety standards, refer to 2013 Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

ATTENTION ASSIST: This standard feature is a Mercedes-Benz innovation continually monitors a variety of driving behaviors for signs of drowsiness on longer trips alerts the driver audibly and visually.

COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST: At speeds above 20 mph, this new system’s radar-based technology alerts the driver if when approaching a vehicle ahead at a speed and distance that suggest a collision is likely. It can also detect stationary objects when moving up to 40 mph. Its Adaptive Brake Assist automatically provides the ideal level of braking as soon as the driver steps on the brake pedal.

PRE-SAFE: Helps detect instability during certain vehicle maneuvers that suggest a collision or rollover may be looming. PRE-SAFE tightens the seat belts, adjusts the passenger seat and closes the windows to prepare occupants and restraints in the moments before a collision.

Nine standard air bags: A system of 9 air bags offers 11-way protection. This includes dual two-stage front air bags, front and rear side-impact air bags, a driver’s knee air bag, and standard window curtain air bags for both seating rows.

Electronic Stability Program (ESP): This Mercedes-Benz safety breakthrough continually monitors driving inputs and the vehicle’s motion to help keep it going in the intended direction, especially in corners and during evasive maneuvers. If it detects wheelspin, severe understeer (plowing), or oversteer (fishtailing), ESP brakes individual wheels and reduces engine power to help the vehicle regain control.

Brake Assist: Brake Assist senses emergency braking based on the speed the driver pushes the brake pedal and immediately applies maximum available power boost. Brake Assist can potentially decrease the overall stopping distance by eliminating the delay caused by a common human tendency not to brake hard enough, fast enough. To release Brake Assist, just let up the brake pedal.

Adaptive braking technology: This is a suite of advances including Predictive Brake Priming, Automatic Brake Drying, Hill-Start Assist and HOLD. If the driver lifts off the accelerator quickly, Predictive Brake Priming sets the pads closer to the discs for more immediate response when the diver applies the brakes. When raining, Automatic Brake Drying periodically applies the brakes to sweep water build-up from the discs. Hill-Start Assist helps prevent unwanted rollback during uphill starts. A HOLD feature can make long red lights or stopped traffic a little easier.

 

Performance

 

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350: An efficient 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 in the ML350 combines many advances to deliver more torque over a wider range of rpm. Its rapid-multispark ignition fires up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection microscopically tunes the fuel spray, reducing emissions, fuel consumption and noise.

A pair of paddles behind the steering-wheel spokes lets you manually manage the 7-speed automatic transmission with a tap.

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC: The 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 generates 240 hp, 455 lb-ft of torque and acceleration as quick as its gasoline counterpart. AdBlue is injected into the exhaust to reduce smog-causing NOx to harmless nitrogen and water vapor. And with 27 highway mpg, it offers a cruising range of over 600 miles.

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML550: An efficient 402-hp 4.6-liter V8 in the ML550 combines many advances and twin turbochargers to deliver 12 percent more power. Its 443 lb-ft torque peak offers 45 percent more thrust at 2,000 rpm. New rapid-multispark ignition can fire up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection can microscopically fine-tune fuel spray in just 0.1 milliseconds, reducing emissions, fuel consumption and noise.

Always engaged and optimizing torque to every wheel, 4MATIC works with the standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for maximum effectiveness in corners and slippery conditions. It also incorporates our 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS), which monitors for wheel slip and responds by ensure that torque is sent to the wheels with the best grip — even if it’s only one wheel. A pair of paddles behind the steering-wheel spokes lets you manually manage the 7-speed automatic transmission with a tap.

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG: With reduced displacement, many innovations and twin turbochargers, the advanced 5.5-liter V8 in the ML63 AMG outputs a 518 @ 5,250 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-5,000 rpm. Its twin turbochargers spin up to 185,000 rpm to boost low-end torque. The AMG sport exhaust is tuned to optimize revs, gear changes and full-throttle acceleration.

High-pressure Direct Injection microscopically fine-tunes the fuel spray while rapid-multispark ignition fires up to four times in a millisecond. Its 32 valves are driven by dual overhead camshafts that can precisely vary their timing by up to 40 degrees. Along with improved efficiency and emissions, the ML63 AMG hits 60 mph in a breathtaking 4.7 seconds.

When it comes to celebrating, Mercedes-Benz knows how to do it right. Marking 45 years of the Mercedes-Benz SL, is a project that is sure to be one of the most exclusive and impressive vehicles ever built by the iconic car company. Intended to be an incredible collectors item, there will understandably be very few produced, and they will likely be spoken for very quickly.

“With the new SLS AMG GT3 “45th ANNIVERSARY”, Mercedes-AMG is presenting an exclusively appointed special series which is aimed at car collectors with a particular penchant for motor racing. The customer sport racing car is being built by hand in a limited edition of no more than five vehicles in Affalterbach. Record DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador Bernd Schneider is involved hands-on in the production process, installing the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the SLS AMG GT3”

Read more about the 45th Anniversary SLS AMG at eMercedesBenz.com