New Acura NSX Production Delayed

When the Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept made its debut at Detroit in 2007, it became evident that a new Acura NSX would not be available in 2008. Now, a Honda official has confirmed to Ward's Auto that the next generation Acura NSX will debut in 2010.

Honda Inspire Revealed (JA)

The all-new Honda Inspire sedan, aka Honda Accord in the U.S., makes its Japanese debut tomorrow, December 21. Targeted as a luxury sedan, the Inspire will keep close in price to its predecessor at ¥3,300,000 to ¥3,900,000. Same as the North American model, the Inspire receives for the first time in Japan the new 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC engine which includes cylinder deactivation making 8 more horsepower than the U.S. spec model at 207kW (280 PS or 276 hp). Visually, no exterior differences can be found. See press release below for full details.

Press Release

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new Inspire. The appeal of the new model has been dramatically strengthened with performance and comfort enhancements, yet the price range remains ¥3,300,000 to ¥3,900,000—very close to that of the previous model. The new Inspire will debut on Friday, December 21 at Honda dealers throughout Japan.

In keeping with its status as a luxury sedan, the new, 5th-generation Inspire has inherited the sporty performance and quality feel of its predecessor, adding significant improvements to all essential elements of sedan performance—driving, cornering, and braking. The new Inspire is infused with dynamism and intelligence in all aspects of design, interior space, driving, and functionality.

The V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine, available for the first time in Japan, features an advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that switches between six-, four-, and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions. This system is combined with numerous improvements to aspiration and combustion efficiency to achieve high output of 206kW (280PS) and high torque of 342N•m (34.9kg•m), and making the new Inspire the only domestic 3.5-liter-class sedan in Japan*1 to run on regular, unleaded gasoline. Fuel economy is also significantly enhanced.

The new Inspire is equipped with a full range of safety equipment. A driver and front-passenger i-SRS airbag system, front-seat i-side airbag system, and side curtain airbag system are standard equipment on all types, along with Honda’s original Advanced Compatibility Engineering body, which provides a high level of protection to vehicle occupants while also helping to reduce the force of the impact on the other vehicle during a collision. The 35iL also features Honda’s CMBS (Collision Mitigation Brake System) and E-pretensioners as standard equipment. CMBS determines if there is a danger of a rear-end collision and alerts the driver, further functioning to mitigate injuries and vehicle damage in the event of a collision.

In order to deliver the sort of direct handling feel and smooth ride comfort one expects in a luxury sedan, the new Inspire features a newly developed suspension, along with a lightweight, high-rigidity body for a lower center of gravity and reduced inertia. The interior design blends luxury with advanced functionality. A broad range of accessories provide all the amenities needed for a long drive, creating a relaxing, luxurious space that transports the vehicle’s occupants in comfort around town and on the freeway.

Key Specifications

Design

• The neat proportions of a luxury sedan with an exterior design that breathes powerful performance
• The new Inspire features the proportions of a sleek, sporty sedan.
• The front corners are boldly sculpted with wide, sharply delineated HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights (low beams, with auto-leveling device) positioned to create a front view that provides a sensation of speed.
• The rear area of the cabin has been tapered to emphasize the bulging rear fenders. The impressive rear view is enhanced with large-diameter exhaust pipe finishers on dual exhaust pipes left and right.
• Interior design combines elegant comfort with a refreshing driving environment
• The instrument panel is laid out horizontally in arcs that spread out to either side of the center panel, creating an elegant, relaxing space.
• The instrument panel’s wrap-around design spreads out from the center module where the audio and climate controls are clustered, flowing left and right to blend with the door lines.
• The center panel’s functional design positions visual displays on top and controls on bottom, for improved visibility and operability.

Interior Space Design

• A luxury sedan package that is easy to drive yet spacious enough to provide roomy comfort for all occupants
• The lower floor, longer wheelbase and more compact mechanisms all combine to secure ample interior space. For rear passengers, the tandem distance (a measure of the distance between front and rear seats) has been increased by 25mm*2 and the floor lowered to provide a more natural seating position. Knee space has also been increased by 35mm*2, while the couple distance for front occupants has been widened by 40mm*2 to secure an ample field of view for rear passengers.
• A thinner floor frame and slender fuel tank are employed along with optimized exhaust system layout to achieve a 15mm*2 reduction in floor height. This secures ample cabin height while contributing to enhanced driving performance and sporty styling.
• The trunk has been made 54mm*2 longer to create a spacious 510-liter*3 capacity for room to spare on long trips. The trunk and rear armrest through-holes facilitate loading of longer and larger items.

Powertrain

• Newly developed V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine with VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system combines powerful 280 horsepower output with outstanding fuel economy while cruising
• The V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine achieves high output of 206kW (280PS) and high torque of 342N•m (34.9kg•m), and make the new Inspire the only domestic 3.5-literclass sedan in Japan*4 to run on regular, unleaded gasoline.
• The newly advanced Variable Cylinder Management system, available for the first time in Japan, switches between six-, four-, and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions. The engine runs on six cylinders during startup, acceleration, and up hills, and on three cylinders while cruising. It can also run on four cylinders when driving at comparatively high speeds or under gentle acceleration—conditions under which the previous model would not have operated in cylinder idle mode—for improved fuel economy during high-speed driving.
• The engine offers outstanding clean performance, and has been certified by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport as having achieved emission levels 75% below 2005 Japanese government standards.
• A 5-speed automatic transmission makes the most of the engine’s performance characteristics.
• Shift Hold Control reduces unnecessary gear changes during performance driving.

Chassis

• Newly developed chassis delivers outstanding performance in both direct handling feel and smooth ride comfort
• The suspension features a double wishbone configuration in the front and a newly developed multi-link double wishbone design in the rear.
• VGR (variable steering gear ratio) is employed to deliver a smooth touch at the initial turn of the steering wheel, with the steering ratio quickening to increase wheel angle more rapidly as the steering wheel is turned farther. This results in handling that is surprisingly light for a vehicle of this size.

Body

• A highly efficient body design that is lightweight and rigid with outstanding aerodynamics
• Strong, lightweight, high-tensile steel is employed in approximately 48% of the main frame components, improving torsional rigidity by some 20%*5 while also achieving major weight savings.
• Effective use of aerodynamic parts on the body’s underside and flush surfaces throughout result in outstanding aerodynamics.

Quiet Operation

• Quiet operation ensures comfortable driving by eliminating unpleasant noises while making the most of the powerful engine sound
• Active control engine mounts are employed to cancel out increased vibration when the engine is operating in cylinder idle mode. Engine vibration is estimated and actuators located inside the mounts expand and contract with the same phase and cycle to absorb vibration.
• Active noise control is used to generate sound opposite in phase to the engine drone produced when cylinders are idling. The frequency to be attenuated is determined based on engine revolution pulses and a signal to cancel the frequency is generated via an audio speaker, thus reducing the drone.

Advanced Features

• Advanced functionality for enhanced security and comfort
• Advanced vehicle speed and inter-vehicular distance control system helps reduce the burden on the driver during freeway driving. It assesses driving conditions using data from a millimeter-wave radar unit built into the front grille of the vehicle that measures the distance to the vehicle ahead for up to 100m within a 16° arc, along with data from vehicle speed and yaw rate sensors. In addition to maintaining the vehicle at a set speed, this cruise control system automatically regulates vehicle speed and distance depending on whether or not there is a vehicle in the same lane ahead.
• The Honda Smart Key System enables users to lock and unlock the doors, open the trunk, and operate the ignition simply by carrying it on their person.
• In addition to independent temperature controls for occupants in the front seats, the intelligent, dual fully automatic air conditioner*6 uses GPS information and a sunlight sensor to determine the direction and intensity of the sun’s rays and regulate temperature and air output accordingly.
• An electric rear sunshade, standard equipment on all types, shades rear seat occupants from strong sunlight for increased comfort.
• The new Inspire is equipped with the latest Honda HDD InterNavi System*7. InterNavi Premium Club provides services to enhance customer safety and comfort, providing weather and disaster information to support safe driving. It features the world’s first*8 heavy rain prediction information service.

Safety Performance

• Advanced safety functions and equipment that assess the danger of rear-end collisions to help prevent accidents
• Working in conjunction with the seatbelt E-pretensioners, the Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) helps anticipate collisions and mitigate injuries and vehicle damage should an accident occur. The CMBS alerts the driver to take preventive action and activates the brakes to reduce speed. The E-pretensioners automatically retract the seatbelts immediately before a collision occurs.
• The E-pretensioners (driver and front passenger seats) also retract the seatbelts when brake assist is activated due to sudden braking by the driver, even if the CMBS is not in operation.
• The Vehicle Stability Assist system (VSA), which improves handling stability while cornering, is standard equipment on all types. A side curtain airbag system that helps protect the head in the event of a side collision, a front-seat i-side airbag system with passenger-side body position detector, and a driver and front passenger i-SRS airbag system are also standard on all types.
• The vehicle’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body provides a high level of protection to vehicle occupants while also helping to reduce the force of the impact on the other vehicle during a collision.
• The vehicle is also designed to mitigate pedestrian injury in the event of a collision, particularly to the head and legs, thanks to the use of impact-absorbing structures.
• ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and brake assist is standard on all types.
• Honda’s original G-CON (G-force Control) technology is incorporated to create a body with a crash safety design that can withstand a 55km/h full-frontal collision, a 64km/h front offset collision, 55km/h side collision, and a 50km/h rear collision. To further improve safety in real-world collisions, Honda has implemented its own vehicle-to-vehicle collision testing program*9 with its own independently established standards. This collision testing is much more demanding than conventional tests, in which the car is crashed into a fixed barrier. The safety design of the new Inspire meets even these stringent testing requirements.
• Front active headrests reduce load on the neck area during a rear-end collision.
• ISO FIX-compatible child seat anchoring bars and tether anchors (left and right rear seats) are standard on all types.

Environmental Performance

• Superior clean technology achieves outstanding environmental performance
• Complies with Japan emissions regulations for 2005.
• PVC use has been eliminated from interior and exterior components wherever possible to achieve over 90% recyclability*10.
• Meets reduction targets independently established by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).
• VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) levels have been reduced to within the indoor density guidelines set out by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to improve air quality inside the vehicle on all types, including those fitted with the leather interior.
  

New Mercedes 4MATIC for S-Class

1: Overview

Comfort and driving dynamics attain new level of perfection

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is now available with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. Developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-Benz, this all-new drive system combines perfect traction, first-class comfort and impressive driving dynamics with good fuel economy. Two powerful eight-cylinder models are available in the form of the S 500 4MATIC and S 450 4MATIC while the S 320 CDI 4MATIC is the first S-Class all-wheel-drive variant to be equipped with a particularly economical V6 diesel engine. The new models with all-wheel drive are identified clearly by the 4MATIC legend which appears both on the boot lid and on the wooden trim element on the centre console.

The top model from Mercedes-Benz with the new 4MATIC all-wheel-drive is aimed at drivers whose principal requirement is for a luxury saloon able to cope with all weather conditions with absolute assurance. This need is met by the S-Class 4MATIC models, whose newly developed drive system features a planetary-type centre differential. The permanent, fixed power split between the front and rear wheels in a ratio of 45 to 55 percent guarantees assured and absolutely predictable handling on all road surfaces. An integrated multiplate clutch ensures additional traction and optimum directional stability as soon as the wheels show any sign of slipping. With the support of the ESP®, ASR and 4ETS electronic driving safety systems, the S-Class 4MATIC offers a dynamic, comfortable and safe transport solution, even in adverse road conditions.

Trend-setting all-wheel-drive system developed by Mercedes-Benz

The 4MATIC system's compact, light and friction-optimised design offers clear advantages over other systems with regard to weight, fuel consumption, comfort and passive safety. Depending on the engine type, the all-wheel-drive technology results in an unrivalled low additional weight of just 66 or 70 kilograms.

Mercedes-Benz will also be offering this trend-setting all-wheel-drive technology in other passenger cars in the future. The new 4MATIC drive for the S-Class was developed independently by a team of specialists at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen and in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim. The all-wheel-drive components are produced in a coordinated production system comprising the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, Esslingen-Hedelfingen and Esslingen-Mettingen major component plants.

Two powerful eight-cylinder models with 4MATIC

Assured performance of the highest order is guaranteed by the S 500 4MATIC und S 450 4MATIC eight-cylinder models. In the S 500 4MATIC, the advanced 5.5-litre V8-engine with four valves per cylinder, 285 kW/388 hp and 530 Newton metres offers first-class performance: the new S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and is therefore as fast as the rear-wheel-drive variant. Thanks to the optimised weight and friction characteristics of the all-wheel-drive system, the additional fuel consumption is agreeably low. With figures of 12.1 to 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) compared with 11.7 to 11.9 litres per 100 km for the S 500 without all-wheel-drive, it is clear that the new drive system is able to offer impressive savings.

The S 450 4MATIC is powered by a 4663-cc, eight-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder which develops, 250 kW/340 hp and 460 Newton metres of torque. Here, too, this V8 model with all-wheel-drive accelerates as quickly as its rear-wheel-drive counterpart, attaining 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. With NEDC combined fuel consumption of 11.6 to 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres, the additional fuel consumption - as in the case of the S 500 4MATIC - is only 0.4 litres.

A first for the S-Class: all-wheel drive in combination with a diesel engine

An even more economical choice is available in the form of the new S 320 CDI 4MATIC - a model which marks a first for the S-Class by combining all-wheel drive with a diesel engine. The advanced V6 turbodiesel with common rail high-pressure injection develops 173 kW/235 hp and 540 Newton metres of torque, accelerating the saloon to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds; the top speed is 245 km/h. With fuel consumption of between 8.7 and 8.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, this model has a range of more than 1000 kilometres. Like the V8 petrol models, the S 320 CDI 4MATIC consumes just 0.4 litres more fuel than the equivalent model with a standard drive system.

On all S-Class 4MATIC models, power management is performed by the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with steering-column DIRECT SELECT gear selector and steering-wheel gearshift buttons. The V6 and V8 petrol-engined models are equipped as standard with the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission, which is tuned for more direct, faster response.

Immediate market launch for V8 models, V6 CDI follows in December 2006

The S 500 4MATIC, S 450 4MATIC and S 320 CDI 4MATIC are available in short and long wheelbase versions. The market launch of the V8 models in Mercedes-Benz sales and service outlets and authorised dealerships will start in September 2006. The diesel variant will appear in December 2006, to be followed by the S 350 4MATIC with a 200-kW/272-hp V6 petrol engine in mid-2007.

Overview

	Cyl.	cc	kW/hp at rpm	Nm from rpm	Transmission	0-100 s	Top speed km/h	l/100 km NEDC combined
S 320 CDI 4MATIC	V6	2987	173/235 3600	540 1600	7G-TRONIC	7.8	245	8.7-8.9
S 450 4MATIC	V8	4663	250/340 6000	460/ 2700	7G-TRONIC	5.9	250	11.6-11.8
S 500 4MATIC	V8	5461	285/388 6000	530/ 2800	7G-TRONIC	5.4	250	12.1-12.3

Wide variety: 48 all-wheel-drive models from Mercedes-Benz

The extended choice of all-wheel-drive vehicles from Mercedes-Benz now comprises seven model series and impresses with its great diversity: it starts with the C and E-Class, both of which are available with 4MATIC in Saloon and Estate form, and includes the new S-Class and the R-Class touring SUV, both of which are available in two body variants. Furthermore, the Stuttgart-based auto maker produces three off-roaders - the new GL-Class, the M-Class and the G-Class, a classic among cross-country vehicles. In total, therefore, Mercedes-Benz offers no less than 48 all-wheel-drive models.

This product initiative reflects the considerable emphasis which Mercedes-Benz is placing on the market for all-wheel-drive passenger cars and off-roaders - a market characterised by a distinct year-on-year growth trend. A look at the S-Class segment also makes this clear: in the German market, the share of all-wheel-drive models increased from six percent in 2002 to nine percent in 2005. During the same period, the all-wheel-drive share of this segment in the European market also increased from six percent to nine. Worldwide sales of the S-Class 4MATIC predecessor model, which was launched in 2002, amounted to almost 29,000 vehicles in just under three years. In 2005, the all-wheel-drive S-Class models had a worldwide share of about 18 percent of the total sales volume of this model series. Overall, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 1.2 million passenger cars and cross-country vehicles with permanent all-wheel-drive (figures correct as of July 2006).

Over 20 years of 4MATIC from Mercedes-Benz

The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985. One year later, Mercedes-Benz presented the new technology in the E-Class of the time, the 124 model series. Delivery of the first models with the automatically engaging all-wheel-drive system began in spring 1987. The succes-sor model series, the 210, premiered a completely new permanent all-wheel drive system in 1997. As the first all-wheel-drive passenger car from the Stuttgart-based car brand, the E-Class paved the way for the adoption of this innovative drive and safety technology in other Mercedes-Benz model series.

2: Model range I

Model range: Four S-Class models with 4MATIC

• Two powerful V8 models initially, two V6 variants to follow
• All-wheel-drive available with powerful V6 CDI engine for the first time
• Output ranges from 173 kW/235 hp to 285 kW/388 hp
• Comprehensive high-tech standard equipment for all models
• designo range and AMG features optionally available

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC range impresses with its wide variety and its ability to meet the most diverse customer requirements. Four different engines and two body variants with a long and a short wheelbase are available. At the top of the range, the S 500 4MATIC has a 5.5-litre V8 engine which develops 285 kW/ 388 hp and thus offers an increase in performance of more than 26 percent com-pared with the previous eight-cylinder power plant. Its torque figure of 530 Newton metres is also significantly higher (by some 15 percent) than the peak value at-tained by its predecessor. Maximum torque is available from 2800 rpm and re-mains constant across a wide engine speed range up to 4800 rpm, for excellent acceleration and mid-range power:

• The new S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, the same time as that taken by the S 500 with rear-wheel drive. Compared with the predecessor model, the Saloon is more than a second faster.
• In third gear, the S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 60 to 120 km/h in just 5.6 seconds.
• The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically governed).

The eight-cylinder power plant in the S 500 4MATIC is the top unit in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz V-engines which was successfully introduced in mid-2004. Equipped with four valves per cylinder, infinitely adjustable intake and exhaust camshafts, a two-stage intake module and tumble flaps in the intake ducts, the V8 is among the engines with the highest power output and torque in its displacement class. Other technical highlights of this eight-cylinder engine include special shifting camshafts. These reduce the inherent pressure fluctuations in the exhaust train and thereby considerably improve the engine's gas cycle. This makes itself felt among other things by smoother running and higher torque in the lower and medium engine speed ranges. The Mercedes V8 employs the latest lightweight construction principles, with an aluminium crankcase, low-friction cylinder liners of aluminium/silicon alloy, a forged steel crankshaft and weight-optimised connecting rods.

Fuel consumption up by just 0.4 litres compared with S 500

The fact that the combined NEDC fuel consumption of 12.1 to 12.3 litres per 100 km returned by the S 500 4MATIC represents a saving of almost one litre compared with the predecessor model – despite the new unit's higher power and torque – clearly demonstrates the efficiency of the up-to-date design and high-tech features of the new Mercedes eight-cylinder engine. Furthermore, the newly developed all-wheel-drive system also has a positive impact. Optimised for weight and friction characteristics, it results in only a slight increase in fuel consumption – just 0.4 litres – compared with the two-wheel drive version of the S 500 (11.7 to 11.9 litres per 100 km).

Key data at a glance:

	S 500 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V8/4
Displacement cc	5461
Bore x stroke mm	98.0 x 90.5
Compression ratio	10.7 : 1
OutputkW/hp at rpm	285/388 6000
Max torque Nm at rpm	530 2800-4800
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	12.1-12.3
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	5.4 5.6
Top speed km/h*	250

*Electronically governed

S 450 4MATIC – second V8 model with 250 kW/340 hp

The second V8 model is the new S 450 4MATIC which is now also available as a rear-wheel-drive model. Its engine technology is closely related to that of the 5.5-litre eight-cylinder unit and includes four valves per cylinder, infinitely ad-justable shifting intake and exhaust camshafts, a two-stage intake module, tumble flaps in the intake ducts, an aluminium crankcase, low-friction cylinder liners, a forged steel crankshaft and weight-optimised connecting rods. With a displacement of 4663 cc, it develops a peak output of 250 kW/340 hp and its maximum torque of 460 Newton metres is available across a wide engine speed range from 2700 to 5000 rpm. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 5.9 seconds puts the S 450 4MATIC on a par with its rear-wheel-drive counterpart. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically governed). At 11.6 to 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres, its fuel consumption is only 0.4 litres higher than that of the "normal" S 450. This is analogous to the difference in fuel consumption between the corresponding S 500 models.

Key data at a glance:

	S 450 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V8/4
Displacement cc	4663
Bore x stroke mm	92.9 x 86.0
Compression ratio	10.7 : 1
Output kW/hp at rpm	250/340 6000
Max torque Nm at rpm	460 2700-5000
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	11.6-11.8
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	5.9 6.6
Top speed km/h*	250

*Electronically governed

Premiere for S-Class with diesel engine and all-wheel drive

The third S-Class all-wheel-drive model – and also the most economical one – is the S 320 CDI 4MATIC. This is the first time that all-wheel drive has been combined with a turbodiesel engine in the top Mercedes-Benz model series. The advanced six-cylinder CDI unit develops 173 kW/235 hp and offers maximum torque of 540 Newton metres which is available between 1600 and 2800 rpm. These impressive figures put the direct-injection diesel among the engines with the highest power output and torque in its displacement class. As the figures suggest, the powerful six-cylinder engine offers extremely respectable performance: with a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 7.8 seconds, the all-wheel-drive Saloon performs to the same high standard as its two-wheel drive counterpart; the top speed is 245 km/h; Thanks to the favourable NEDC combined fuel consumption figure of between 8.7 and 8.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, operating ranges in excess of 1000 kilometres are possible. Compared with the rear-wheel-drive S 320 CDI, the 4MATIC model consumes only an additional 0.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 km.

Key data at a glance:

	S 320 CDI 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V6/4
Displacement cc	2984
Bore x stroke mm	83.0 x 92.0
Compression ratio	17.7 : 1
Output kW/hp at rpm	173/235 3600
Max torque Nm at rpm	540 1600-2400
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	8.7 - 8.9
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	7.8 6.7
Top speed km/h	245

3: Model range II

Powerful six-cylinder diesel engine with high-tech features

A glance at the technical refinements which characterise the 3.0-litre engine explains the impressive performance data. The high-tech features of this compact V6 power plant include third-generation common rail direct injection. The combination of an injection pressure of up to 1600 bar and particularly fast-acting piezo-electric injectors ensures efficient mixture formation. Further highlights of the 320 CDI engine include electrically controlled intake port shut-off, intake air throttling, a VNT (Variable Nozzle Turbine) turbocharger with electrically adjustable guide vanes and exhaust gas recirculation with a control valve. Like all Mercedes-Benz diesel passenger cars, the S 320 CDI 4MATIC is equipped as standard with a maintenance-free particulate filter system.

7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with Sport program as standard

Power transfer in all S-Class 4MATIC models is handled by the 7G-TRONIC auto-matic transmission with steering-column DIRECT SELECT gear selector and steer-ing-wheel gearshift buttons. This combination ensures that optimum use can be made of the impressive performance and torque capabilities in every driving situation. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive models have identical gear spacing and ratios, which has a positive effect on the performance and fuel consumption figures.

An all-new development for all S-Class V6 and V8 petrol models is the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission. The S/C/M button on the centre console can be used to activate the manual "M" driving mode, allowing the seven gears to be shifted using the two steering-wheel shift buttons – downshifts are performed by pulling briefly on the left button while the right button is used for shifting up. In "M" mode, the system's electronics reliably maintain the last gear selected, even at full throttle. It is thus possible to make optimum use of the high pulling power of the V6 and V8 engines. However, fully depressing the accelerator (kickdown mode) causes the transmission to shift down in order to deliver maximum acceleration. 7G-TRONIC Sport reduces shift times by up to 30 percent in manual mode.

PRE-SAFE® as standard, Brake Assist PLUS as an optional extra

The unique PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system also forms part of the standard equipment of the S-Class all-wheel-drive models. PRE-SAFE® recognises a potential accident situation in its early stages: if the braking deceleration exceeds a certain level or there is a risk of skidding, the system tightens the front seat belts and pumps air into the chambers of the multicontour seats so that they envelop and support the driver and other vehicle occupants.

Available as an option, Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS) uses radar to register vehicles ahead and warns the driver if the distance is too small or if he or she is approaching the vehicle ahead too quickly. If a collision is imminent, the system instantly calculates the ideal braking assistance, which is immediately supplied even if the driver applies the brakes too gently. This makes it possible to reduce substantially the number of rear-end collisions. The combination of the new Brake Assist PLUS and PRE-SAFE® makes it possible to provide a higher level of occupant protection. Mercedes-Benz is the first and only automaker in the world to offer such a comprehensive safety system, which goes into action as soon as an accident risk is detected.

PRE-SAFE® Brake uses the latest radar technology

For the first time in the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz is complementing this multiple-award-winning anticipatory protection system with the newly developed PRE-SAFE® Brake. This works in combination with Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS), which not only gives the driver visual and audible warnings that he or she is in imminent danger of running into the vehicle ahead, but also automatically calcu-lates the brake pressure required to prevent an accident. This braking assistance is available as soon as the brake pedal is operated. If the driver does not react to the BAS PLUS warnings, the PRE-SAFE® Brake system triggers automatic partial braking if an acute accident risk is detected and decelerates the S-Class with about 40 percent of the maximum braking force. The automatic partial braking provides the driver with another clear signal of the need to take action. If the driver then immediately applies the brakes, the maximum braking force is avail-able and it may be possible – depending on the situation – to avert the accident at the last moment. If an accident is unavoidable, the PRE-SAFE® Brake system re-duces the impact severity and, in turn, the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants.

As with Brake Assist PLUS, the new PRE-SAFE® Brake system also utilises state-of-the-art radar technology to scan the situation in front of the car and detect a potential accident. Two short-range radar sensors with a range of 30 metres and a scanning angle of 80° are located behind the front bumper fascia on the S-Class. The additional long-range radar in the radiator grille has a range of 150 metres. Mercedes-Benz offers BAS PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake system in conjunction with the optional DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system.

DISTRONIC PLUS: even operates in stop-go traffic

The radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS system works in a speed range from 0 to 200 km/h and makes driving even more comfortable. In stop-go traffic, DISTRONIC PLUS keeps the S Class at the right distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically brakes the car to a standstill if necessary and accelerates it back to the pre-programmed speed following intervention by the driver. In this way the assistance system reduces the driver's workload and provides considerable benefits with regard to driver-fitness safety.

The Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS equipment package also includes a radar-based Parking Assist system. The system provides early warning if there is danger of a collision when manoeuvring backwards and forwards.

Night view assist: infrared headlamps for greater safety after dark

Night view assist represents another contribution by Mercedes-Benz to reducing the risk of accidents at night. This system uses infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye and therefore does not dazzle oncoming traffic. Two infrared headlamps illuminate the road, significantly extending the driver's range of vision when on low beam. An infrared camera mounted on the inside of the windscreen picks up the reflected image of the road ahead and displays this in the instrument cluster.

Comprehensive and stylish standard equipment and appointments

Many high-tech systems which increase safety and comfort are standard in the S-Class 4MATIC models. They include the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, second-generation PRE-SAFE®, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, the COMAND system with a DVD player, the DIRECT SELECT gearshift and automatic climate control.

Highlights of the standard equipment list include:

• Adaptive driver and front-passenger airbags
• Adaptive brake light
• AIRMATIC with Adaptive Damping System
• 7G-TRONIC Sport automatic transmission
• Brake Assist
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE
• COMAND system with CD/DVD player and PCMCIA slot
• Diesel particulate filter
• DIRECT SELECT gearshift
• ESP®
• Electric parking brake
• Belt force limiters on front and outer rear seats
• Belt tensioners on all seats
• Automatic climate control
• 17-inch seven-spoke light-alloy wheels
• Multifunction steering wheel
• NECK-PRO head restraints
• Speed-sensitive power steering
• Two-stage rain sensor
• Tyre pressure loss warning system
• Front and rear outer seatbelts with automatic comfort-fit feature
• Sidebags front and rear
• Doorhold
• Front seats with lumbar supports and electric adjustment for height and fore/aft position
• Windowbags
• PRE-SAFE®

The specification of the S 450 4MATIC V8 Saloon includes the following additional features:

• Tinted, sound-insulating, infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round
• 17-inch five-spoke light-alloy wheels

The S 500 4MATIC includes the following additional top-level features:

• Automatically dimming rear-view mirror and driver's side exterior mirror
• Leather upholstery
• Memory package for front seats, steering column and exterior mirrors
• Metallic paintwork
• Heated front seats

The long-wheelbase version of the S-Class includes the following additional features as standard:

• Leather upholstery
• Roller blind for rear window, electrically operated
• Tilting/sliding glass sunroof, electric, with PRE-SAFE® function
• Front passenger seat also electrically adjustable from the rear
• Rear bench seat with electrically adjustable outer seats; outer seats and outer head restraints with PRE-SAFE® positioning function
• Heated front and rear seats

AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels for an even more dynamic character

Two optional packages from Mercedes-AMG – AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels – are also available for the S-Class 4MATIC models. The AMG equipment features give these potent yet elegant top-of-the-line Mercedes models an even greater air of power and authority.

AMG bodystyling, consisting of front and rear aprons and side skirts, is designed in the typical AMG mould: at the front, the restyled bumper with large air intakes, black honeycomb grille and chrome-rimmed fog lamps all add to the sporty theme and give the "made by AMG" S-Class an even wider and lower-slung appearance. The distinctively styled side skirts continue the lines of the front apron and provide a link between it and the rear apron. At the rear, the styling comes to a powerful conclusion in the striking bumper design, with further highlights provided by two large, oval, chromed AMG tailpipes (not for the S 320 CDI 4MATIC).

The sporty theme continues with the new 19 and 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, which are available in two different 5-spoke designs. The high-sheen 19-inch 8.5 x 19 AMG wheels are equipped with 255/40 R 19 wide-base tyres while the titanium-silver-painted 20-inch 8.5 x 20 AMG light-alloy wheels are fitted with 255/35 R 20 tyres. As well as filling the wheel arches perfectly and being decidedly sporty in appearance, the AMG alloy wheels also provide further enhanced handling charac-teristics. AMG bodystyling and the handsome AMG light-alloy wheels are available for all the 4MATIC models and both wheelbase versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

designo: individually tailored range of colours, leather and select woods

The designo range allows Mercedes-Benz customers with particularly demanding tastes to create a highly individual S-Class 4MATIC by choosing from a comprehen-sive collection of paint finishes, leather colours and trim elements. It is a measure of the exclusivity of the designo range that Mercedes-Benz is the only car maker in the world to offer customers a choice of trim elements made from real stone (designo Star Galaxy and designo Labrador blue pearl in the case of the S-Class). Special designo interior appointments packages allow the S-Class to be enhanced with specially selected combinations of designo leather upholstery and designo trim elements. Two different packages are available:

• The designo Edition I equipment package puts the accent on contrast: the very soft pastel yellow designo aniline leather on the seats and armrests combines with trim parts in deep-black high-gloss piano lacquer and the Alcantara roof lining in anthracite to create unusual highlights in a predominantly black interior.
• designo Edition II creates a tasteful lounge atmosphere. This classic combination consists of designo aniline leather upholstery in armagnac, high-class trim parts in designo natural maple grain and the Alcantara roof lining in anthracite.

In both packages, the seats feature distinctive ten-rib vertical fluting, double top-stitching and designo metal badges in the front and rear backrests. The designo equipment packages also include black velour floor mats with edging in black designo leather and designo metal badges.

Mercedes SLR McLaren Production Photo Album

Mercedes SLR McLaren Production

Bailey Blade Becoming Reality

Beyond engineering, there is a massive challege to designing any new sports car. How do you create a sports car that is unique, while paying homage to the sports cars of the past?

For 35-year-old Texan Neal Bailey, the answer is in history itself. When creating the concept for his own racer, Bailey looked to every sports car he could find for inspiration. He eventually landed on the original Shelby Cobra and decided that his car would be a powerful beast, embodying many design elements of a car from the 1960s.

It does take some balls to be willing to step out, design, and produce your own sports car. Bailey, a married man with two kids, works on his vision at any chance he can get.

"It’s been a dream of mine since childhood to do something like this," Bailey says on his MySpace page. "I got tired of dreaming and just started doing."

The Bailey Blade is based on a heavily modified chassis from a replica Cobra, tweaked to fit an independent front and rear suspension. His intention on the exterior is to build a car that is "sleek, sexy and aggressive," according to the Bailey Blade website. However, at 6'4" tall, Bailey found it ultra-important to make sure he could fit into his own car. Bailey got to work on making the cab big enough so his head does not press up against the retractable roof of the Blade.

Bailey hopes that his car is successful enough to be wanted by the public on the other side of the pond (meaning Europe, not Florida). Thus, he is building the Blade to be either a left or right side driver. Bailey is also trying to meet European standards to make export of the Blade easier.

The Bailey Blade should build out to a full-functioning prototype by mid-2008. Bailey's dream car may be available for sale by the end of 2008, and Bailey plans on making the car affordable. Exact pricing is not yet known.

WorldCarFans will check back with Bailey periodically to see how things are going, and we will bring you any news when we get it.