Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Overview:

There are a lot of cars in Mercedes-Benz’ lineup and the luxury automaker looks to make 2013 another successful year.

Starting things out is the C-Class which gets a large update for 2012, now available as a coupe as well as a sedan. The C-Class is the entry-level Mercedes, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything bargain about it; the interior got big changes for 2012 as well and the revised cabin stacks up well against its class. For those who want more performance, the C63 AMG and its 451-hp fits the bill.

The E-Class represents the next level up, offering more power and interior space, and also great flexibility, available as a sedan, coupe, convertible, or a wagon. For 2012 the E-Class gets a few new engine options and a new E63 AMG performance wagon (you read that right).

Sitting atop the totem pole is the flagship S-Class line of full-size sedans which represent the pinnacle of luxury. They also include some of the most advanced tech on the road today, including a splitview screen that can simultaneously show different images to the driver/passenger. There is also a hybrid version for those who want better fuel economy.

Mercedes’ CL-Class of coupes is the two-door version of the S-Class, offering V-8 or V-12 power and a long list of safety technologies including night view assist and a system which will notify drivers when they are getting too tired to safely operate the vehicle.

Redesigned for 2012 is the ground-breaking CLS-Class which features striking coupe styling but also four doors for practicality. Of particular note are the new LED headlights which use 71 individual LEDs to make up the headlights, turn signals, etc.

Luxury isn’t the only thing going on at Mercedes they also produce a few sports cars. The SLK-Class of two-seater hardtop convertibles was redesigned for 2012 and now features the new Magic Sky Control system as an option, which can adjust the tint of the ceiling glass with the touch of a button.

The upscale two-seater SL-Class is the larger of two production sports cars in Mercedes’ lineup and for 2012 the performance enhanced SL65 AMG has been discontinued. What remains is the convertible hardtop, a long, long list of interior features (including a beverage cooler in the glove box), and two powerful V-8s.

For something with a little bit more utility than a sports car, Mercedes-Benz offers several different crossovers/SUVs, each bringing something different to the table. The diminutive GLK-Class is a compact luxury crossover with seating for five, optional all-wheel drive, and the interior refinement you’d expect from a Mercedes.

The M-Class ups the ante for 2012 with a complete redesign, meaning an all-new interior, exterior, chassis, and powertrains, the works. Also with two-rows of seats for up to five passengers the M-Class gets new features like real eucalyptus wood trim pieces and all-wheel drive is standard.

If you need more seating then the GL-Class with seating for seven has you covered.

There is one “true” SUV in the stable as well, the rugged G-Class which has the looks to match its off-road chops. The G-Class also doubles as one of the most luxurious cars in Mercedes’ lineup so you’ll be in comfort no matter where you end up.

The R-Class crossover (don’t call it a minivan) seats six or seven passengers offers standard all-wheel drive and more interior room than you’ll know what to do with. 

Finally, Mercedes also offers a class of Sprinter commercial vans for business applications.