With a Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) now in force in Klang, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor and Sabah, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia informs the public of the following measures with Mercedes-Benz Star Shield from October 14 to October 27, 2020.
The Star Shield Programme
The Mercedes-Benz Star Shield programme is a safety protocol for Mercedes-Benz dealers and customers. It consists of a comprehensive safety plan that includes social distancing, provision of masks and hand sanitizers, cleaning and sanitization of showroom cars and common areas, temperature checks and limit on customers present.
During this CMCO period, all authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships nationwide will remain open for business as usual. They will, however, strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the government for the protection of customers as well as their own employees.
Customers can still request for test-drives, while owners can bring their vehicles in for routine service and maintenance and/or repairs at service centres. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that have been observed for some months continue to apply.
24-hour support service
Customers can still obtain 24-Hour Roadside Assistance for emergency breakdowns and technical issues. They can call 1-800-88-1133 at any time of the day for support.
In order to minimize social contact, the Mercedes-Benz Star Shield also includes initiatives such as the Drop & Go, Door-to-door and Express Service.
While most people will think of cars when mention is made of Mercedes-Benz, the brand also has a range of exclusive lifestyle products for owners as well as those who are not owners [yet]. These products are available at most authorised Mercedes-Benz outlets and at Hap Seng Star’s new Autohaus, they are presented in a Luxury Lifestyle Boutique that is part of the showroom.
RM3.5 million investment
The Autohaus, situated along Jalan Sultan Ismail, was originally opened in 2004. It has since undergone a RM3.5 million refurbishment exercise to create the first new Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence in the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Kuala Lumpur. The Mercedes-Benz Accessories and Collection Boutique is the first of its kind in Malaysia.
“With this investment, we aim to create the best experience for our customers throughout their ownership journey. Hap Seng Star embraces the Mercedes-Benz spirit of innovation, luxury, and world-class service, delivered by experienced personnel with in-depth product knowledge and exceptional service skills,” said Harald Behrend, Group Chief Operating Officer of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and CEO of Hap Seng Group Automotive Division.
Providing the luxury experience
There’s also a private lounge on the second level, while a cafe on Level 3 is available with refreshments for customers. The Autohaus also sells cars, of course, and the spacious delivery bays, are special illuminated to provide a unique vehicle hand-over experience for the new owners.
“The new Autohaus by Hap Seng Star reaffirms Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s commitment to create a fascinating brand experience at every point in the customer journey. The new brand presence promises an authentic luxury experience with a modern touch. Our aim is to connect our customers not just with a car, but also a lifestyle experience that encourages a sense of joy, luxury and exclusivity,” said Dr. Claus Weidner, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Hap Seng has invested a total of over RM300 million to date in enriching customer touchpoints nationwide. Its Mercedes-Benz Autohaus network is in 11 locations nationwide, with three in East Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the latest Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe with the flagship GLS 450 4MATIC to be available in early 2021. The new models join the brand’s SUV range which includes compact GLA, GLC and G-Class.
“The new GLE Coupe seamlessly blends the unrivalled power of an SUV with the agility and elegance of a coupe. Every function and every detail aims to offer an incredibly enchanting experience in its segment,” said Michael Jopp, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe
The GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe is priced from RM661,009.42, while the GLE 53 4MATIC Coupe price starts from RM787,357.88, both prices without insurance but with relevant sales tax deducted until the end of 2020.
The GLE 450 Coupe is powered by the 3-litre turbocharged in-line 6-cylinder engine that produces 367 bhp/500 Nm, giving it a claimed acceleration capability of 5.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. The similar engine size and type in the GLE 53 Coupe generates 435 bhp/520 Nm, which can take off another 4/10ths of a second in the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time.
Both models ride on AIRMATIC air suspension system with adaptive adjustable damping. The system uses highly complex sensor systems and algorithms to constantly adapt damping characteristics to road and driving conditions for optimum comfort levels.
The interior of the new GLE Coupes shares many common features with the other models in the SUV range family with a clear emphasis sportiness while maintain the premium image. Large 12.3-inch screens complement the instrument panel, horizontally divided by a trim element tier, tom provide the driver with all the important information while on the move.
As with all the latest Mercedes-Benz model, the GLE Coupe comes with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. The latest generation of MBUX has a more intuitive operating structure and high visual quality.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC AMG Line
The GLS 450 4MATIC AMG Line is expected to be priced from RM899,888 when it goes on sale in 2021. As it will be after the sales tax-exemption period, the indicated price includes sales tax of 10% (unless there are changes when the new Budget is announced in October).
Described as the ‘S-class among Mercedes-Benz SUVs’, the latest version of the SUV will offer more of everything – space, comfort and luxury. It will come with an in-line 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with electrification by 48-volt technology. Maximum output is 367 bhp/500 Nm which is transmitted to all four wheels by the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.
The GLS 450 features an upright radiator grille, chrome-plated underguard with the bone-shaped air inlet grille and two powerdomes on the bonnet. LED lighting technology is used front and rear for maximum illumination at night.
The level of luxury within is enhanced by leather appointments and high quality materials. Styling elements are unified with the dashboard support flowing into the door panels and the integral trim element likewise extending to meet the doors.
Convenience features include electrically-adjustable seats with an EASY-ENTRY system for getting to the third row. The seats in the second row can also be moved forward to give extra legroom to those sitting in the third row.
The MBUX Rear Seat Entertainment System is available for the 7-seater SUV. Like in aircraft, the content on each screen can be selected by each occupant. This personalisation extends to movies, music and the integrated web browser, with two wireless headsets that come with the vehicle.
Mercedes me connect (Mmc)
Mercedes me connect is a connectivity system for Mercedes-Benz owners to stay connected and also remotely manage some functions of their vehicles using a dedicated app. The connected service, available in all the SUV models, enables unlocking their car, starting the engine remotely, getting customer support or even checking the level in the fuel tank from inside the home. Other features are remote vehicle diagnostics, pre=entry climate control, predictive navigation, parked vehicle locator.
Mmc includes an emergency call facility (E-call) that could make the difference between life and death should an accident occur. With a dedicated button on the roof panel of the vehicle’s cabin, drivers and other occupants can make an emergency call to a dedicated emergency response centre. The vehicle’s location will already be known which will help rescuers reach the vehicle faster.
‘Gelandewagen’ (and also ‘G-Wagen’) was a reference name to the 4×4 vehicle that Mercedes-Benz launched in 1979 which would evolve into the G-Class in the 21st century. It is also the name of the first outcome of a collaboration that is a first of its kind between Mercedes-Benz and Chief Creative Director and Founder of Off-White and Men’s Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton, Virgil Abloh.
Conceptual design project
Project Gelandewagen, a conceptual design project led by Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener and Abloh, used the Mercedes-Benz G-Class to explore ways of disrupting future perceptions of luxury. The result is a distinctive manifestation of the SUV as never seen before.
Compelled to support the arts at a critical time, a replica of the design piece will be auctioned as part of Sotheby’s Contemporary Curated, one of the auction house’s most revered series which is defined by the unique perspective of a different influential tastemaker each year, with all proceeds going to a charity that supports international creative communities. Advance bidding will begin on September 14th, 2020.
In support of creative communities
Describing Project Gelandewagen as perfectly encapsulating Mercedes-Benz’s manifestation of contemporary luxury, pushing creativity and innovative design, Bettina Fetzer, Vice-President Marketing at Mercedes-Benz AG, said: “Culture and the arts have always played an important part in both Mercedes-Benz products and the brand, and we are proud to donate all proceeds of the replica auction to support international creative communities to continue their education in the arts.”
“With Project Gelandewagen, we create a unique artwork that showcases future interpretations of luxury and the desire for beauty and the extraordinary. The result is something between reality and future,” said Wagener. “The collaboration with Virgil has seen two distinct design philosophies unite, for a one-of-a-kind re-imagination of the G that continues to celebrate the extraordinary at its core.”
G-Class racing car
From a 4×4 to a Landaulet, the G-Class has had many incarnations to date, but never a racing car – until now. The finished design simultaneously never forgets its point of origin and captures the experience of a racing car.
The design process was inspired by Wagener and Abloh owning and experiencing the G-Class first-hand and identifying opportunities for maximizing its Mercedes-AMG attitude. Together, they considered how to make the viewer look at the brand’s designs with a fresh perspective, while driving luxury away from a polished and flawless aesthetic to something raw, natural and altogether more honest.
The exterior is kept as clean as possible to emphasize the iconic silhouette of the G-Class, demonstrating its monolithic character. The final design lays its construction methods bare, and celebrates the handcrafted imperfections that make it unique. The paintwork was partially sanded by hand to create a sense of timeless simplicity.
Welds are celebrated as key design motifs, as craftsmanship takes centre stage. The indicators, outside mirrors and the bumper bar have all been removed and the body of the car widened and lowered, for a sportier effect. The distinct personality of the G-wagen remains intact, with an exaggeration of the tyres and spare wheel.
Inside the art piece, reduction reigns and the racing inspiration is clear. All interior areas have been stripped back, and the safety frame becomes a central motif. The dashboard is removed and replaced with a clean, reduced version that incorporates an analogue speedometer and fuel gauges, reminiscent of a classic car.
This contrasts with the steering wheel and seats, which are more akin to a Formula 1 racing car. Safety features and key racing elements, such as the safety frame or the 5-point seatbelts are highlighted in baby blue and bright red tones. These strong accent colours create a new kind of colour grouping, and contrast against the bare interior.
After months of shutdown and cancellation of many activities, it seems that the auto industry is now making up for lost time with a vengeance. New models are being launched almost every month but in a new way: online. The traditional launch crowded with guests and media is no longer appropriate in the current pandemic situation where social distancing is necessary. So the car companies are instead using the internet to present their new models and it goes out to a global audience.
Actually, broadcasting a global debut online is not new and has been done for a number of years now, except that it is now more focused online. Money saved on renting spectacular venues and lavish events can now be used to produce even better presentations, and the technology today makes smooth and reliable streaming of events live possible.
France, UK and tonight, Germany
Yesterday, Peugeot revealed its updated 3008 and some hours later, Rolls-Royce presented its all-new Ghost. Today, it’s the Germans’ turn and Mercedes-Benz unveiled its flagship S-Class model with key board members personally introducing various aspects of the product.
As in the launch of the now-superseded W222 generation in May 2013, Alicia Keys, the singer-songwriter, also participated in the event along with 6-time F1 champion, Lewis Hamilton who drives for the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Racing Team.
Alicia Keys provided a virtual tour of the new S-Class.
A pioneer again
Highlights of the all-new S-Class – designated ‘W223’ – have been publicized in the last few months and as the ‘snippets’ suggested, this new generation is once again a pioneer with numerous innovations in the areas of driver assistance, protection and interaction. It is, of course, also a benchmark in the luxury segment, as its predecessors have been for decades.
‘Focus on people’ is how Mercedes-Benz describes its product development for the next generation of individual mobility. Extensive digitization is now used to provide convenience, comfort and connectivity for every occupant, besides enhancing operating efficiency. Even the well-being of its occupants is looked after, with an effective air filtering system referred to as ENERGIZING Air Control.
MBUX becomes smarter
Cars are becoming more ‘intelligent’ and in the new S-Class, this is exemplified best by the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). Debuting in its second generation with the new S-Class, this ‘learn-capable’ system is even more digital and intelligent. Both the hardware and software have made great strides with displays on up to 5 large screens, in part with OLED technology.
There’s a new 3D driver display which allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. It gives a real 3-dimensional effect without having to wear 3D glasses. There are also two different head-up displays (HUDs), one with augmented reality (AR) content and the other is a more conventional type.
MBUX now has services for each individual passenger, making the possibilities for personalization far more extensive. The voice assistant, which responds to ‘Hey Mercedes’, is even more learn and dialogue-capable by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword.
Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions.
With the MBUX Smart Home function, the S-Class now also becomes a control centre for the home. The driver or passengers can monitor and control things like room temperature and lighting, roller blinds and compatible appliances. Of course, there must also be smart and connected devices at home as well.
Dimensional concept and interior design
The S-Class is a big car, as befits its status and the W223 S-Class has increased in size compared to its predecessor. It has extra length and width, with the wheelbase extended as well (there is a long-wheelbase variant too). Apart from expanding rear legroom, it also makes for generous boot volume.
The interior design has associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. Systematic reduction in the number of controls gives a minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth.
Alongside up to five screens, there are large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear. One particularly attractive version of the trim is an open-pored wood veneer shot through with inlays of real aluminium that follow the contours.
New design elements include the flat, four-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles. Two slim, vertical side vents on each side round off the ends of the dashboard. The driver display and media display can be personalized in up to four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).
There are no less than 19 motors inside the front seats, which makes them quite complex structures. Therefore no one should complain that he or she cannot get a comfortable position. The flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness and different finishes give the seats different characters. Five different rear seat variants make it possible to configure the rear of the S-Class as a working or rest area.
In earlier years, seats were carefully shaped and cushioned with advice from ergonomic specialists to reduce fatigue on long journeys. Today, cars like the S-Class have seats that massage your body so you reach your destination fresh and alert. There are 10 different massage programmes available using vibration motors. The relaxing massage is enhanced with warmth based on the hot-stone principle.
Even more support for the driver
The new S-Class arrives in the market ready for a high degree of autonomous operation. Specifically, it will be able to operate in Level 3 mode which means it can drive itself from point A to designated point b without human control – but the human must be ready to take over when necessary. Mercedes-Benz says this capability will be available in Germany from the second half of 2021 with the new DRIVE PILOT. Availability elsewhere would depend on infrastructure and regulations permitting autonomous operation.
Each S-Class generation has introduced new safety technologies and the W223 continues the tradition with numerous new or extended driving assistance systems. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display.
Innovations in restraint systems also confirm the leading role of the S-Class when it comes to passive safety. A significant new safety feature is the optional rear airbag system. During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seatbelt-wearing occupants on the outer rear seats.
During a severe side impact, depending on the direction of impact, impact severity and front seat occupancy, the new centre airbag positions itself between the driver and front passenger seat, reducing the risk of their heads making contact. It is integrated into the driver’s seatback in the middle of the vehicle.
The parking systems are also more sophisticated and the driver can park and recall the car via a smartphone with remote parking assist. With the INTELLIGENT PARK PILOT, the S-Class can provide Automated Valet Parking and if the required services are available, it can even enter and leave multi-storey car parks in highly automated mode – without a driver. In other words, the car can come to you on its own.
More maneuverable and dynamic
The new S-Class has rear-axle steering (optional) with a steering angle of up to 10° that improves maneuverability in urban areas to the level of a compact car, with the turning circle reduced by up to 2 metres.
The optional, fully active E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension on a 48V basis offers a unique synthesis of comfort and agility, plus additional protection in the event of a lateral collision. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment.
Mercedes-Benz has now added a new function of PRE-SAFE Impulse Side to its measures in the pre-accident phase. When a side impact threatens, the vehicle body can rise by up to 80 mm by the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension within a few tenths of a second. This reduces the loads on the door structures, as the door sill can absorb more of the energy thanks to its higher position. As a result, deformation of the passenger cell and the loads acting on the occupants can be reduced. Radar sensors are used to recognize a potential side crash.
The optional DIGITAL LIGHT system is introduced for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz. It is am exceptionally intelligent system which can warning of recognized roadworks by projecting an excavator symbol onto the road surface, aiming a spotlight at pedestrians detected at the roadside as a warning, and projecting guidelines onto the road surface in narrow lanes.
In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, enabling highly precise light distribution.
More electrification, more efficiency
Although its electrification program is well underway, Mercedes-Benz will still offer petrol and diesel engines with the new S-Class. These are 6-cylinder units with various outputs and there will also be a V8 engine with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48V onboard electrical system. A plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of around 100 kms will follow in 2021.
Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, also mentioned the EQ S, an all-electric S-Class to come in due course, but gave no details about it. It’s not something new, though, as the company displayed the Vision EQS concept which was described as a ‘future S-Class-like sedan’ with an all-electric powertrain and a projected range of 700 kms.
New factory for the new generation
Production of the new S-Class is now underway at the new Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, Germany. Like the S-Class which has been considered (by Mercedes-Benz) as the future of the automobile, the new facility also represents the future of automobile production at Mercedes-Benz. Advanced manufacturing technologies and processes enable it to have maximum flexibility to produce vehicles of different designs and drive systems, from conventional to all-electric drive.
Deliveries to customers in Germany will begin during the last quarter of this year and the new model will be progressively launched in other global markets from the start of 2021. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia would now be planning for the introduction of the new generation on the assembly line at its plant in Pekan, Pahang, and we should also see in sometime in 2021.
‘300 SL’ was the designation of the competition car from Mercedes-Benz with which the brand returned to international motorsports in 1952 for the first time after the Second World War. Although this car was not sold to the public, it did light the fuse for the development of the later SL-Class.
The development of the 300 SL began in 1950, when Mercedes-Benz began to think about a return to racing. The attempt to reactivate the 1939 W 154 Grand Prix racing car, however, met with failure in Argentina in 1951. So the engineers pressed forward the development of the new racing car, some of the components of which came from the 300 model.
The 1952 300 SL with the current generation of the SL Roadster which was launched in 2012. Production has ceased and there will be about a year’s gap before the new generation appears in showrooms
SL means ‘Super Light’
In June 1951, the Board decided to resume participation in racing events from 1952 and gave approval for the construction of the 300 SL, the two letters meaning ‘Super-Light’. Its M 194 engine was derived from the 300 type unit, the M 186, with an overhead camshaft, large inlet valves, combustion chamber in engine block and pistons, a displacement of 3 litres and an output of 115 bhp. For racing, the engineers increased the engine’s output to around 170 bhp.
The sports engine differed from the one installed in the saloon and coupe not only in its output, but also in its installation position, slanted 50 degrees to the left, and in having a dry-sump lubrication system, which due to the omission of the oil sump, enabled a lower installation height.
Weight savings were hardly possible with the engine and the transmission of the W 194 that was in the process of being created. And this was also true of the heavy steel axles which had also been taken from the 300 model. That left only the frame and the exterior skin for any possible weight-savings.
Early use of the spaceframe
Another possibility for enhancing competitiveness was to create a body as aerodynamic as possible. This led to a previous idea of a lightweight tubular frame and the designers then carried the concept forward to its logical conclusion – a lightweight, extremely torsionally-rigid frame. This consisted of very thin tubes joined together to form triangles, whose tubular elements were only subjected to tensional and compressive forces.
The racing prototype 300 SLR (W 196 S, 1955, extreme left) together with (from right) 300 SL (W 194, 1952), racing prototype 300 SL for the 1953 racing season, and 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ (W 198, 1954).
The entire frame weighed just 50 kgs and became the backbone of the W 194, as well as the basis for the production version of the 300 SL (W 198 I) and for the successful 1954/55 racing and motorsports car.
No effort was spared with the aluminium body. Thanks to the canted position of the engine and the aerodynamic profile, the car was very low, free of trim right down to the underbody, with an elegant low bonnet line, intuitively round-shaped, with recessed headlamps and its wheels entirely covered by the bodywork.
The classic Mercedes-Benz radiator shape was replaced by a flat racing car front end analogous to that of pre-war cars. The Mercedes star dominated the radiator grille prominently. The coupe greenhouse was made as narrow as possible, with a strongly raked windscreen, curving towards the A-pillars. The large rear window flowed over into the aerodynamic rear end.
The result was a relatively small frontal area: 1.8 square metres. A drag coefficient was measured on a 1:5 scale model and found to generate a Cd value of 0.25. That was even without taking into account the realistic airflow through the engine compartment.
Origin of the ‘gullwing’ term
In order to lend a spaceframe the desired high rigidity, it has to be as wide as possible in the passenger cell sector. This requirement led to the spectacular and later so famous gullwing doors. In the first cars, the door opening began at the waistline. The doors, deeply cutting into the roof, opened upwards, creating an image reminiscent of outspread wings. This is how the term ‘gullwing’ originated (created by the North Americans).
In order to facilitate access over the high side sill, the bodywork designers had even originally intended to have an access step in the lower part of the vehicle body flank; however, this feature was never realised. Although the FIA regulations of the time did not specify the type and direction of opening doors, the stewards were still somewhat disagreeable when the car was presented to them for scrutineering before the Mille Miglia in May 1952. To avoid any future protests, after the race in Italy, the doors were extended down into the car’s sides, thereby assuming their final shape.
The interior was fully padded and lined, radiating a level of comfort unusual for racing cars. Speedometer and tachometer were accommodated under a common hood, and below that were the gauges for water temperature, fuel pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure. Even a stopwatch was installed. The bucket-type seats with high side sections were covered with tartan-style woollen fabric; the four-spoke steering wheel was removable to facilitate climbing in.
Ten W 194 cars were built for the 1952 season. After the Le Mans race, it was planned to enter the SL in a sportscar race on the Nurburgring. To shed as much weight from the competing cars, the engineers cut the roofs off three coupes. A fourth car had been set up as a roadster right from the start. To permit easy access, the section of the door extending into the side of the car was retained, and a small windscreen was mounted to deflect air and flying insects. This resulted in a weight advantage of 100 kgs over the coupe.
The car which won the 1952 Carrera Panamericana Mexico, a 3,100-km race through Mexico.
Multiple racing victories
The year 1952 was an extremely successful one for Mercedes-Benz racing cars with victories in various races in Europe. The last big adventure of the season was participation in the third Carrera Panamericana Mexico, a 3,100-km race through Mexico. Mercedes-Benz entered two coupes and two roadsters, all powered by engines with 180 bhp. At the end of the 5 days and 8 long stages, the team collected a legendary double victory for Mercedes-Benz.
The next generation of the SL Roadster is going back to its roots, which lay in motorsport back in 1952. Mercedes-AMG, which has been developing the new model, is now conducting a scheduled phase of wide-ranging driving tests at the Group’s own test course as well as on public roads. It is expected to be launched during the second half of next year.
An enhanced C 200 Coupe AMG Line has arrived at showrooms of authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Malaysia. While ‘enhanced’ often refers only to cosmetic changes, for this model, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also installed a new 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 204 bhp/300 Nm. Compared to the previous 1.5-litre EQ Boost engine, the increase in output is 20 bhp/20 Nm, with all 300 Nm available from 1,600 rpm.
The exterior appearance of the car is given a sporty, expressive character with the AMG Line accessories. The diamond radiator grille, integrated with the 3-pointed star and pins in chrome plus an AMG-specific front apron with new geometry, gives it a bold presentation.
Black trim elements in the AMG rear apron accentuate the LED rear lamps, while 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels are powerful elements in the styling.
The inside of the C 200 Coupe also has AMG Line features. These include ARTICO leather upholstery, multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather, galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles, AMG sports pedals and AMG floormats.
The driver now has the services of Mercedes me connect which adds more convenience to the ownership experience. The connected car service can be used to unlock the car, start the engine remotely, or simply check the fuel level. And of course, the app also assists in vehicle maintenance and scheduling servicing.
Other features of Mercedes me connect – which can connect from anywhere in the world that there is internet service – include Mercedes–Benz emergency call system (eCall), remote vehicle diagnostics, pre-entry climate control, predictive navigation, and parked vehicle locator.
Pricing for the new C 200 Coupe AMG Line starts from RM336,129.38 (excluding insurance) , with sales tax exempted for the rest of 2020. Buyers who require financing can consider Agility Financing which starts from RM4,288 per month (terms and conditions apply) with perks such as lower monthly instalments, flexible end-of-agreement options, a guaranteed future value of the car and a MobilityPlus replacement car programme.
As with some of its recent models, Mercedes-Benz is previewing the next generation of the S-Class (W223) in stages which highlight new features and innovations. First on the list is the new MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User EXperience – which goes into the second generation just two years after first being offered.
The new infotainment system has hardware and software progression with 50% more processing power, a 320GB SSD and 16GB of RAM. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will be available though this is fast becoming a common feature for cars with systems that can connect to internet services.
The ‘learn-capable’ system’s strong point is its networking with a wide range of vehicle systems and sensor data. For example, the exit warning function in the new S-Class will use cameras to recognize that an occupant wants to leave the vehicle. If another road-user is approaching in the blind spot, the active ambient lighting becomes part of the exit warning system and flashes red.
Advanced screen technologies with OLED
The latest screen technologies are used for MBUX, which is available for front as well as rear occupants (with up to 3 screens). The 12.8-inch media display has a spacious portrait format which, on request, can be offered with OLED technology and haptic feedback.
OLED panels emit light when subjected to an electric current and, unlike an LCD, they do not require external background lighting. Power is only consumed where pixels light up. Among other benefits, this ensures a better black level and even stronger contrasts. When showing typical video sequences, OLED technology has an up to 30% lower energy consumption than LCD technology.
More extensive personalization
The human factor is always the central consideration. The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation have become far more extensive even for rear occupants. For the driver, the new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. A real 3-dimensional effect is achieved without having to wear 3D glasses.
By scanning a QR code with the Mercedes App, the vehicle is automatically connected to the Mercedes me account. As the profiles (up to seven) can be stored in the Cloud as part of Mercedes me, they can also be used in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the new MBUX generation
MBUX Interior Assist checks whether the childseat is correctly attached to the front passenger seat. The driver’s attention level is also monitored and ATTENTION ASSIST warns if there are signs of microsleep. Depending on the equipment level, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes up to 20 control wishes.
New convenience functions include prepositioning of the driver’s seat and outside mirrors according to body size, and operation of the rear roller blind by glancing over the shoulder. The sliding sunroof can also be operated by hand gestures. In fact, hand gestures and voice commands will likely become the dominant form of activation and management of many systems.
‘Hey Mercedes‘ becomes more intelligent
The voice assistant ‘Hey Mercedes’ listens even more carefully, and understands the occupants even better. It has the capability to understand up to 27 languages and can also be controlled from the rear. Several microphones help to tell the system which seat the voice is coming from. Flashing ambient lighting identifies the current speaker.
Domestic systems and home appliances can also be linked to the vehicle and voice-controlled, thanks to the Smart Home function although this probably means having dedicated compatible items at home.
HUD with augmented reality
Two different head-up displays (HUDs) are available, with the larger type having augmented reality (AR) content for more comprehensive route guidance. When navigating, for example, animated turn-off arrows (‘fishbones’) are projected onto the road lane at a virtual distance of about 10 metres. As this is superimposed directly onto reality, the result is directly perceptible information that is important for the current driving situation.
The driver display and media display offer a comprehensive aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be individualized with a choice of up to four display styles. The number of ‘classic controls’ has been greatly reduced with 27 fewer hardkeys (mechanical switches) than in the current model.
“Our overarching goal is to offer the utmost in comfort, personalization and convenience for our customers. A system that is more detailed, thoughtful and individual than ever before. So I would even call it ‘My MBUX’,” said Sajjad Khan, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG. “Through even more ease-of-use, our customers gain extra time and added value. This goes beyond just displays and voice control. My MBUX now becomes the spinal cord, or even the central brain of the vehicle.”
More information will be presented in the next few months and the new S-Class will have its global debut sometime in September.
Although the flagship model’s history goes back to 1954, the introduction of the S-Class designation and model line began with the W116 model in 1972 (above). The current W222 generation (below) is the sixth which was launched in 2014.
A Mercedes-Benz is a valuable asset which an owner would want to protect ub the best possible way from damage or loss. To give owners peace of mind, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM) now offers Mercedes-Benz Protection with two new insurance and takaful solutions. The Star Protect and Star Protect Plus insurance and takaful solutions, as the packages are known, are available at all authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
A temporary replacement vehicle will be provided if the car has to be at the authorised Mercedes-Benz service centre for repairs for many days.
Replacement vehicle for up to 20 days
The solutions are said to be first-of-its-kind in the premium motor insurance and takaful category, and amongst other things, offer a temporary Mercedes-Benz replacement vehicle benefit for up to 20 days per period of insurance if the insured vehicle is in an authorised Mercedes-Benz workshop for accident repair.
There are also new benefits for Star Protect and Star Protect Plus. These include a nationwide limitless towing distance and reimbursement of car key replacement costs (today’s sophisticated key fobs are not cheap!). Coverage is also for all authorised drivers and does not require a prior driver name submission to the insurer.
Losing this key is bad enough but at least if you have Star Protect insurance, the replacement cost is covered.
“The entire automotive industry is transforming and motor insurance is preparing for changes as the connected vehicle ecosystem comes into being and as consumer ownership preferences shift. Through our customer-centric approach, not only have we widened our insurance partner base, we deep dived into our current offerings in order to develop a more comprehensive motor insurance coverage for Mercedes-Benz owners,” said Mike Ponnaz, MD of Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia.
“Our aim is to increase the number of insured and satisfied customers under Mercedes-Benz Protection by offering products which provide owners with greater peace of mind,” he added.
Under the enhanced packages, vehicles will be covered for basic loss or damage such as damage resulting from accidental collision, burglary, housebreaking, theft and attempted theft, or any malicious acts, and liability to third parties, with additional protection for impact damage caused by falling trees due to acts of nature.
No mileage limit for towing assistance
The towing assistance, which includes unlimited towing distance for breakdown and accident, includes one-way toll charges of up to RM30. Under the towing plan, customer can utilize the flood towing for up to six occurrences, 24-hour minor roadside repairs and free assistance in arranging value-added benefits that offer accommodation, taxi transportation, and cross-border towing services. Customers will only have to pay for the value-added benefits if used.
The packages also offer owners compensation for loss of possessions as a result of window snatch theft, flood relief allowance for damage due to flood, and personal accident coverage for the driver and up to 4 passengers.
Compensation will be given for accidental damage to any of the four rims or tyres on the car.
Those who opt for Star Protect Plus will also have coverage for 4 tyres and 4 rims. The coverage is for accidental damage caused by road debris or curbing which can adversely impact the resale value of a car, as well as optimum vehicle performance.
