It certainly hasn’t lost a step in terms of aesthetics! What a potent blend of muscular architecture and elegant curves. Whilst showing a little more sophistication in design than its predecessor, this C63 is certainly an intoxicating mix of beauty and beast. Swollen wheel arches combine with neat creases, a sloping roofline sits atop broad shoulders. The whole car is an oxymoron, a self perpetuating collision of opposites that results in a car that turns heads.

The interior retains the C-Class’ cascading dashboard and premium brushed aluminium detailing. This grown-up and well designed interior is a nice place to be for lengthy periods as this AMG doesn’t forget that it has a three-pointed-star on the bonnet. The centre console gently slopes down towards a touchpad and scroll wheel of which controls the above infotainment display. A pair of body hugging seats grip you firmly, but also offer that all important comfort for everyday use. An alcantara trimmed steering wheel is yet another hint that this is no ordinary C-Class Coupe. The rear seats are fine for children, but adults will find it a bit of a squeeze primarily due to the sloping roofline. Boot space is actually rather good for this caliber of car.

Under the long bonnet of this 2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe is a 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine of which you will also find in the flagship AMG GT. In standard guise the new C63 produces a hefty 469 BHP, but this is the S model and that means it is endowed with a brutish 510 BHP. That potential is then channeled through a 7 speed automatic gearbox and onwards to those wide rear wheels. You might think that this level of muscle would be a bit intimidating to use day to day, but you would be wrong. At low speeds the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe purrs along in a rather effortless manor. Yes, the suspension is firm, but lets not forget that this is a top flight performance car. Whilst people take pictures of the exterior, you are relatively relaxed and might even forget that this car has an AMG badge. That is until you tickle the noisy pedal because upon doing so the dragon awakes. Moving up though the driver settings the electronic nannies are sent on their way and more precision is added to the controls via more weighting. The throttle is sharper, the exhaust valves open, and the car is primed to deliver. Pull both steering mounted paddles and launch control is engaged. Throttle to the floor, sidestep the brake, and you take off like a scolded cat. Long before you can absorb the glorious gauze of V8 noise you are travelling at quite a rate with 0-62 MPH being completed in 3.9 seconds. It isn’t so much the power that singes the synapses, but more the immense amount of torque. 700Nm pins your internal organs to the seat as the horizon becomes considerably closer. It isn’t just impressive in a straight line, oh no! Its wide track provides plenty of grip and the accurate steering means there is nowhere an apex can hide. The car feels more dynamic than its predecessor of which was a bit “all or nothing”. It turns in keenly and applies its power to the ground much more effectively. Dynamic engine mounts are another sign of the slightly more scientific method AMG used to build this car. That said, it is more than willing to turn its rear tyres into smoke when the time is right. Huge 390mm disc brakes sit up front and the stopping power provided is almost as impressive as the car leaping into motion.

The nice thing about this 2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe is that it is no longer Dr Jekyll or Mr Hyde, instead the two characters blend to create an invigorating performance car that also rekindles that lovable rogue demeanour of the pervious C63. A BMW M4 will likely set a faster lap time, but you will find yourself laughing out loud every time you fire up the AMG. Any fears of this engine not living up to this models reputation quickly melted away as it is responsive and sounds biblical. A 2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe costs from £68,710 and do you know what? I think it is worth every penny.

By Tyler Heatley

The post Review: 2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe appeared first on Inside Lane.

Within the world of the automobile there are many breeds of car that populate a seemingly infinite number of segments. There are the good ones, bad ones, downright ugly ones, but every now and then something truly special is born. Mercedes’ AMG performance division has already had a crack of the whip when it came to producing a halo car. The SLS was a tremendous effort and is still one of my favourite cars to spend time with. However, it was a bit all or nothing. Not exactly a precise instrument, more of a powerful sledgehammer. In changing the focus of the German flagship, AMG has firmly set its new toy up as a key rival to the Porsche 911. I mentioned something special? The Mercedes-AMG GT S is a worthy successor.

This is one beautiful car with a classic GT profile. Long bonnet that stretches off and into the distance, small glasshouse, short boat tail rear overhang. From its sloping roofline to the curves that help form its shape, the Mercedes-AMG GT S is handsome. But that is just its silhouette… In the details it is devilish, sporting grills, artillery inspired exhaust pipes, and those black alloy wheels. This “Red Baron” appears to snarl at anything that glances upon it for a moment longer than it needs to. Its overall presence is rather sinister.

Yet, the interior shares more with an S-Class than a Tiger Shark. Deeply boosted seats offer support, but more importantly comfort as you nestle into the cabin. You are cocooned in high quality materials with everything you touch feeling like it is totally worth the money this car demands. A high aluminium trimmed console divides the driver from the passenger. Symmetrical buttons cascade towards the rear whilst Mercedes’ infotainment system provides satellite navigation, DAB radio, and phone connectivity. Further luxuries such as dual zone climate control and heated seats find a home. Our test car was specified with a glass panoramic roof which allowed more light into this finely finished cockpit. A rear hatch grants access to the boot which provides far superior storage than its predecessor.

A glowing red starter button taunts you, dares you, to push it. A mere prod detonates the new 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine under the bonnet. The initial roar is more than enough to inform every living thing within a mile that the beast has awoken. That said, simply setting off in this standard state reveals the Mercedes-AMG GT S to be something of a Jekyll and Hyde character. It happily clicks through its 7 speed dual clutch gearbox and the cars general noise is hushed. A well insulated interior means that there isn’t much in the way of wind or road noise. Around town I would even describe it as being one of the easiest supercars to live with, once you have adjusted to that elongated bonnet of course. However, this car has several modes and once you have finished doing ordinary things in comfort mode, prepare to do extraordinary things thereafter. Click the setting over to “Sport” where the throttle responsiveness increases, stiffens the suspension, and weight is added to the steering. “Sport+” turns everything up again, speeding up gear changes, opens the valves in the exhaust, suspension is now at its firmest, and traction control allows for some slip. Select “Race” and you should probably hold on tight. Right foot down unleashes 503BHP and 479lb ft of torque. 0-62MPH passes by in just 3.7 seconds! Top speed is 193MPH. It clearly has the correct credentials from its “hot-V” engine, but nothing prepares you for the intoxicating manor this car accelerates. A testosterone fuelled symphony of V8 noise is the soundtrack to being sucked back into your seat. Through the corners the car is very flat with accurate steering and wide tyres giving you the confidence to use its performance. This AMG GT S did not have the optional carbon discs, but the standard brakes present the driver with plenty of stopping power. The experience is raw, exciting, and one where you feel very much involved in the whole process. Many modern-day performance machines feel like they can do it all without you, but the Mercedes-AMG GT S makes you the organic part of the machine. The beauty of this car is that once you have finished giving your heart a workout, you can put it back into comfort and go about your business once again. There is even a mode labeled “Individual” that allows you to tailor a setup that is best for you.

A price tag of £110,000 again puts it in the same region as the 911. Tough competition indeed, but AMG has hit the sweet spot with this car. On top of being beautifully engineered, usable every day, and eye catching, it also brings a large helping if theatricality. How does that sound for a recipe?

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When it comes to carrying a lot of big awkward things you need a van to transport them around, however, when it comes to transporting big awkward people you need a van with windows. People carriers are great for families with children, but when it comes to seating eight adults the rearmost positions tend to be restrictive at best. Enter the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz Vito 114 BlueTEC Tourer PRO Long, the latest incarnation of the successful Vito nameplate. This specific variation will happily carry you and all of your mates to and from nights out, weddings, festivals, as well as family gatherings where Grandad has had a few too many pints of pop. Clearly those in the Taxi industry should be taking note…

Armed with a new visage, this 2015 model possesses more car-like traits than ever before. Gone are the days of the boxy van and here to stay are raked headlights and large grills. Our test car decked out in white with black bumpers was dressed for more work than play, but in profile its large amounts of glass and prominent body lines reduce the slab-sided proportions a van traditionally has. A set of handsome alloy wheels and the three pointed star on its nose completes the premium aesthetics of this Vito, something business owners will favour it for. First impressions are everything and arriving at a customers door in a Mercedes-Benz will no doubt boost brand image.

Enter the vast chasm that is this Vito’s interior and you will find seating for eight adults. Starting in the front row, the architecture is far more car than traditional workhorse. A familiarly sculpted steering wheel with neat buttons and chromed aluminium detailing marks the beginning of this new era for vans. Easy to read dials fill the instrument binnacle whilst a satellite navigation screen heads the centre console. Curved surfaces create an upmarket and less utilitarian ambience. This vans two separate front seats with large armrests negates the issue of gearstick protrusion found on other specifications with a third seat. Slide open the large rear doors and the middle bench will easily accommodate three adults with plentiful leg and head room. The final row does much the same but benefits from the natural light let in by the large windows that run the vehicles length. There is even a reasonable amount of boot space with the rearmost seats in place. Whilst there could be a few more storage solutions, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz Vito 114 BlueTEC Tourer PRO Long improves upon the success of its predecessor.

Our test Vito was the 114 BlueTEC which means power comes from a 2.1 litre diesel engine producing 136HP. This engine is refined and, thanks to 330Nm of torque from 1,200RPM, responsive. That potential is sent to the rear wheels, front wheel drive variations are available, enabling 0-62MPH in 13.2 seconds. It’s hardly Sonic the Hedgehog in terms of speed, but remember that this big boy seats eight, 13 seconds isn’t too bad. On the move the Vito is a smooth operator capable of soaking up road imperfections with little fuss. Engine and road noise are kept at bay making for a relaxing driving experience, something that is very important if this is to be your place of work. Gear changes are smooth and the steering well weighted. At urban speeds the Tourer is easy to manage thanks to good all around visibility. With the front wheels only having to cope with steering, this rear wheel drive model feels secure in its road holding with its change of direction having a bit more agility than the front wheel drive. Loads of grip and an acceptable amount of body roll for its size makes for a confident drive when tackling country roads. Hitting the motorway will only further confirm the new Vito’s competence. This engine allows for strong overtaking manoeuvres whilst returning a good 43.5MPG on the combined cycle. There is a small amount of wind noise from the door mirrors, but not enough to really bother occupants. A pleasing feature on this van is Crosswind Assist which is a system that recognises when Mother Nature is blowing the Vito around. Using Adaptive ESP it will correct any variation the wind causes at speeds over 50MPH. A great feature for windy afternoons on the M25.

This 2015 Mercedes-Benz Vito 114 BlueTEC Tourer PRO Long is a very complete product that the Germans hope will be as successful in North America (for the first time) as the rest of Europe. The model has a lot going for it with modern looks, refined cabin space and range of drivetrain options. Whilst the £28,125 before tax is not the cheapest in class, the badge and build quality do begin to justify it. Also this specific van had plenty of extras including a 70 litre fuel tank and metallic paint. Previous Vito vans have done very well and all signs point to this 2015 model doing the same.

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When it comes to vans size matters. Don’t let the postman with his tagline of “it does the job” persuade you otherwise, the most useful van is the one you can fit the most stuff inside. That is quite a generalisation and smaller vans do have their place, but when it comes to hauling an avalanche of miscellaneous goods, bigger is better. Dining room set? No problem. Fridge freezer? Easy. Entire bathroom suit? Piece of cake. In fact, this Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDI LONG WHEELBASE HIGH ROOF will swallow all of that in one go and still have plenty of space for more.

At nearly 7 metres in length and not too far from 3 metres high, there is no denying that this Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDI LONG WHEELBASE HIGH ROOF van is a behemoth! Doing a lap of this vehicle can take up much more of your day than anticipated as it is so vast. Its chiseled profile is bold and delivers the impression of a strong working machine. A large grill plays host to the three pointed star, something it wears proudly and a key reason why a business might choose the Sprinter over a competitor. This vans optional Brilliant Silver Metallic paint compliments the exterior design emphasising its professional demeanour.

Climb skyward and into the cabin you will find yourself in one of the most commanding driving positions possible. High above the traffic you can see all the goes on through its large front windscreen. Sat before the driver is a simplistic but clear instrument panel and large steering wheel with mounted buttons. Falling easily to hand is the gearstick in this manual model which is housed in the dashboard just below the centre console allowing for ample leg room for your other two passengers. The drivers seat has plenty of adjustment and deployable cup holders form the middle seat are a nice creature comfort. Its centre console houses optional air conditioning and a radio including Bluetooth. Its aesthetic design is nowhere near as pleasing as the exterior and dates the cabin with its blocky architecture. Storage in the cabin is plentiful with overhead compartments, cubbyholes, large door bins and a lockable glovebox. The Sprinters interior feels durable but places function before all else. Behind the solid bulkhead you will find a colossal 14m3 of space available. Opening the large 270 degree doors is like having a bowling ally presented to you. The cargo bay is well lit and possesses multiple anchoring points for objects that are likely to move around. As well as its rear doors our test van had a large side door which is very handy for manoeuvring large objects. If it is usable space you are after, this Sprinter does a fine job.

The downside of a large van is obviously its size. Dimensionally the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDI LONG WHEELBASE HIGH ROOF is not the TARDIS and so you have to remember just how much van is behind you when parking or navigating sharp corners. This specific Sprinter lacked a reversing camera or even parking sensors and unless you are a Jedi and use the power of “The Force” whilst driving, we would highly recommend them. Scale aside, this Mercedes-Benz is actually quite easy to drive. The controls are light, meaning you are never wrestling this big boy, and its turning circle isn’t bad at all. Its 2.2 litre turbocharged diesel engine may only produce 129HP but 305Nm of torque is more than enough for strong overtaking manoeuvres and lugging around heavy cargo. Whilst the 6 speed manual gearbox has a nice set of ratios for mixed driving, the feel whist changing is somewhat gravely and not very slick. Wind noise is surprisingly not all that intrusive, considering that a van of this size is about as aerodynamic as barn, and on the motorway the Sprinter settles down for longer trips nicely. Officially this van claims 35.3MPG which is a key consideration for any business looking to reduce fuel bills. Our van was fitted with a Euro VI emissions rated engine meaning that it emits 195g/km of CO2.

As a complete package the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDI LONG WHEELBASE HIGH ROOF acquits itself very well. Whilst providing some serious utility with all of that space in the back, it never seems intimidating to drive which is a pleasing trait indeed. At £32,964 the Sprinter does demand a premium over competitors even with costly equipment factored in. However, this Mercedes-Benz offers more than just a large cargo bay… Many businesses will enjoy the “first impressions” value that its three pointed star has on their customers.

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Building a car is an exceptionally costly affair of which most of us take for granted. Developing a new model costs many millions of pounds in research, design, testing and refinement. Even when all this money is spent, it is no guarantee that it will sell in vast numbers. More and more manufactures are forming alliances for parts sharing and joint development, not only to reduce costs for themselves, but also to share knowledge and lower the overall cost a product sells for. Most of the time these joint ventures are beneficial for everyone and so when Mercedes-Benz decided that they would venture into the small van market for the first time, they paired up with Renault who have a lot of experience in this segment with the Kangoo. The end Result is the Mercedes-Benz Citan 111 CDI Traveliner EXTRA-LONG WHEELBASE.

Based upon the new Citan van, this Traveliner can be seen as an MPV just like other “vans with windows” such as the Ford Tourneo and Citroen Berlingo. Looking at this Citan it is clear to see its family resemblance to the Kangoo. A short stubby nose leads the profile, but on this car it is the new Mercedes-Benz grill and three pointed star that it wears. Our EXTRA-LONG WHEELBASE model extends back finishing with a flush rear end. New bumpers, headlights, 15 inch alloy wheels and other small details do give the Citan a premium impression over its competitors.

The cabin on this seven seat model is vast! Not only is there a great deal of space to be taken advantage off, but large windows letting in a torrent of natural lighting amplifies the airy feel. In the front row you are presented with a simplistic but functional layout of instruments, buttons and dials. A chromed Mercedes badge sits proudly on the rake adjustable steering wheel reminding you that this is not a Renault. For the interior the Germans have changed the seats which are comfortable to sit on, but do lack some support noticeable on longer journeys. Something Mercedes didn’t change is Renault’s rather awkward handbrake that blocks a cup holder when released. Overhead storage shelves come in handy for those family trips. The second row will happily seat three adults with exceptional head and leg room. At the back, the Traveliner’s final row is not claustrophobic and is easily accessible thanks to the seats before it folding into the floor for ingress. These two individual chairs sit slightly higher than their counterparts for a clear view ahead. With all of the seats folded flat and the final two taken out, there is a very high volume of space to be used for van activities. The Mercedes-Benz Citan 111 CDI Traveliner EXTRA-LONG WHEELBASE possesses two sliding side doors, great to prevent children from hitting other cars, and two “barn-doors” at the back.

Our Citan was equipped with the 110HP 1.5 litre turbo diesel engine which proved to be this MPV’s perfect companion. A very usable 240Nm of torque meant that it never felt sluggish out of junctions and was very handy for overtaking manoeuvres on the motorway. Paired with a nice six speed manual transmission the Mercedes-Benz Citan Traveliner is a perfectly pleasant driving experience. Mercedes-Benz tuned the suspension and steering to their liking and I must say that they have done well. Its suspension in particular shines on our rather broken British roads it soakes up road imperfections. There is some body roll around corners but that is expected in a vehicle of this type. With cruise control activated the Citan will happily make good progress on the motorway where it is refined enough to sit all day, barring the requisite amount of wind noise associated with this body style. That isn’t to say it can’t cope in an urban environment, the large windows means that visibility is very good, the engine has a nice broad range.

Whilst there is a lot of common ancestry between the Mercedes-Benz Citan 111 CDI Traveliner EXTRA-LONG WHEELBASE and the Renault Kangoo, there is enough different in aesthetics and character to define this as a Mercedes-Benz product. With a few options our test car came to £20,588 which is a premium over competitors. That said, its badge alone adds value to any business using it for moving employees about or large families wanting a more upmarket brand. The small van market is highly competitive, but Mercedes-Benz have truly arrived.

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So you have a bit of money to buy a new toy but you don’t want to merely get something expensive, you want to make a statement. Your proclamation when behind the wheel needs to be “don’t you even think about it…” Clearly you are not shy, an introvert or a peasant. Sourcing its origins from a military vehicle, the G-Wagon, or G-Class as it is now known, has hardly changed in its appearance since 1979. Why? Because if what you have read above fits your description, you might just be one of the many cult followers of this German icon. We spent some time behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC LONG WHEELBASE in order to experience just what makes this car a dictators favourite.

There is no getting away from the G-Class’ brutish charm. Its boxy visage detailed with design elements of pure function create a utilitarian and meaningful object. This sort of ethos is only seen elsewhere today on the Land Rover Defender. The Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC is truly unlike most in its class as it wears round headlights, stocky flared arches and a huge externally mounted spare wheel with pride. Our car was finished in an unusual Designo Mystic Blue and trimmed with chrome. This lean, mean, machine looks nothing short of intimidating preceding whoever may step out of it.

There is something beautifully analogue about the way the G 350’s doors open. A firm press of a button leavers open a weighty door. Climbing upward and into this tall German legend you will find a complete contrast to its exterior. Instead of being full of exposed screws and heavy things to bash your elbow into, the cabin is lavish. Sumptuous Mercedes-Benz luxury is tailored into every inch of this cars porcelain leather. The architecture in here might be dated due to its blocky layout, but the amount of comfort enhancing technology at your disposal fuses past and present together. From your highly adjustable throne you have access to Mercedes 8 inch infotainment screen which sits above a flush facia. Brushed aluminium contrasts piano black features creating an undeniable sense of quality within the cabin. The front passenger receives a dash mounted grab-rail which hints at the G-Wagon’s off-road potential. The second row seats five upon the same beautiful leather as those up front. Head room is plentiful, however, for such a large car space for passengers legs is less than you might expect. A highly usable boot makes up for this and thanks to its boxy shape, can be easily loaded with bulky items. Access to the loadspace is granted via a side hinged door which looks fantastically “old school.” That said, in a parallel parking scenario there needs to be ample space for it to swing open.

Looking out of the windscreen and over just about everything, you feel a huge sense of dominion. Fire up the Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC LONG WHEELBASE 3.0 litre turbo V6 diesel engine and this 2,570KG beast gets into motion. Do not go thinking that this car is all about image. Its retro looks provide good approach and departure angles for serious off-roading and the car is also equipped with a three way lockable differential. 540Nm of muscular torque will get this 4×4 up and over just about anything you point its nose at. It clearly is a highly focused machine when the going gets muddy, but this does somewhat compromise its driving experience. The high centre of gravity means that it leans almost comically through bends and heavy steering that doesn’t self-centre can become tedious in an urban environment. Put your foot down in a straight line and 211HP, along with all of the aforementioned  torque, surges this leviathan along at a rate that will get you to 62MPH from standing in 9.1 seconds. Not bad for something of this size at all. Pottering along the tarmac reveals its engine noise to be a bit intrusive and its 7 speed dual clutch gearbox in manual mode not as fast as you would like. Despite these attributes there is still an unrelenting charm to the G-Class which makes driving it an occasion. People take pictures of it as you drive past or stare up in wonderment from their considerably lower driving positions. There are very few cars that make you feel like a celebrity when you drive them, but this is a very fine example.

Ultimately the Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC LONG WHEELBASE is flawed by the usual standards, but this SUV is anything but usual. It is beautiful in its prestigious preservation of the past and stands today as a very unique vehicle. You can’t help but like its strange “peanut butter and jam” combination of old and new. Even if this one will set you back £106,150 and do a combined 25.2MPG.

The post Review: Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC LONG WHEELBASE appeared first on Inside Lane.

Convenience is great when possessed, but painfully frustrating when out of reach. A Swiss Army knife is a fantastic implement and saves you from carrying around a small toolbox. It fits in your pocket, has a device for almost every situation, and has a well engineered Swiss touch. Ideally your car should be like a Swiss Army knife in that it should perform multiple functions to the best of its ability. Unfortunately we often have to compromise; performance for practicality, or aesthetics for ability. Mercedes-Benz could just have a solution in the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC AMG SPORT.

I will be honest, the Mercedes-Benz GL is not for the shy. It is big, bold, and in this case black. Towering above its surroundings, this luxury SUV with its blunt facia and chiseled body shape isn’t going to get lost in a car park any time soon. Our test car, sporting AMG trim, had larger intakes and cooling ducts on its chromed bumper. An aluminium step runs between its long wheelbase mirroring strong body lines. A flat rear end is again decorated with chrome and a set of rather attractive rear lights. Body length roof rails span the GL tapering downward to a small rear spoiler. The cars overall appearance is one of class with just a hint of imposing aggression.

Climb up and into the cabin where you will find a vast interior. The cliched phrase “enough room to swing a cat” would be appropriate for the acres of space made available to occupants. A tall centre stack plays hose to a wealth of gadgets including infotainment and dual zone climate control. Comforting leather seats with a heater function are at the service of those sitting in the front. Aluminium details on a chunky steering wheel and gives the environment a true premium feel. Large leather armrests for each of the two front passengers further a promotes a sense of facilitation. The second row, seating three, presents a light airy space with a glass panoramic roof overhead. Both leg and head room are ample for even the tallest of specimens and cries of “are we nearly there yet” are kept at bay thanks to two headrest mounted TVs. A third row can be deployed from the boot floor revealing two further leather seats with just enough leg room for an adult on a short trip, or suitable for children. These two electrically deployable extra seats are also treated to cup holders. There is still 295 litres of boot space available with the car loaded to passenger capacity, but with the rearmost seats tucked away that grows to 680 litres. Fold flat all of the seating and a gargantuan 2,300 litres awaits. This on top of all of the useful storage compartments makes for a practical family space.

A 3.0 litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine provides the pulling power for the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC AMG SPORT. 258HP and a huge 620Nm of torque means that the GL never feels under powered. Step on the throttle and the bonnet rises with the surge of acceleration. Despite weighing 2,455KG, with this engine it is still capable of 0-62MPH in 7.9 seconds and go onto 137MPH. However, the first thing that strikes you whilst driving this large 4×4 is not its straight line performance, but how manageable the car is to manoeuvre. The steering is light, every input is met with swift responses and visibility is excellent all around. On the move the driving experience is quiet and comforting whilst the supple suspension soaks up road imperfections. Put the suspension into its sportiest setting and it will reduce the amount of body roll in faster corners, but at the cost of the ride whilst in this mode. Its 7 speed dual clutch gearbox is perfectly happy to swap cogs for you and on the whole the shifts are smooth, yet when manually selected via paddle shifter they are not as quick as you’d hope. From its commanding driving position to smooth running, the GL is very good at creating an atmosphere of relaxation. That is until you enter your local town. There is no getting away from the fact that this is a big car and most “normal sized” spaces will struggle to facilitate it. Whilst the birds eye view camera and multiple sensors make the act of parking easy, finding a large enough space in the first place is a bit trickier. On another note, you might look at the GL and think of it as a bit of a “Chelsea tractor” or “all show and no go.” You would be wrong… With adjustable ride hight, various terrain settings and hill decent control this Mercedes-Benz is equipped to deal with the rough stuff should the opportunity arise.

The Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC AMG SPORT is a real multitasker and a highly capable machine in many areas. The biggest problem this GL has is actually nothing to do with the car itself, but its competitor. Range Rover’s latest offering is undeniably the class king and with our test car coming to £73,675 you have to concede that the Brits have got the Germans here. That is not to say the GL is a bad car, not by a long shot.

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If first impression account for as much as we are told, then what you arrive driving makes a very big statement. Pull up in a clapped out old banger in todays fashion conscious world and you might be laughed out of the door. Equally, something overly ostentatious with big shiny rims will likely be read as a helpless cry for attention. Clearly there is a balance to be struck between style and the power of the understatement. In this ballgame the Mercedes-Benz CLS SHOOTING BRAKE 350 BlueTEC AMG Line could just be the most charismatic machine on wheels.

“Isn’t Shooting Brake just posh for estate?” Au contraire, a Shooting Brake isn’t simply an estate car. These are machines of opulence and class once designed to ferry privileged individuals around whilst game hunting. Whilst even the most wealthy don’t really go shooting everyday in this day and age, a modern Shooting Brake must not only be practical, but also desirable in equal measure.

This automotive sculpture is the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake and isn’t it just bite the back of your hand gorgeous? Freshly updated, the sleek yet muscular aesthetic of this car causes people to stop and stare. From its almost floating grill to the taut lines that run down its length, it just oozes class. The combination of a bold front end and elegantly sloping rear gets the Shooting Brake formula just right. This AMG Line car receives some AMG inspired bumpers which adds a hint of aggression in the details.

The cabin is exactly what you would come to expect from a Mercedes-Benz. Well thought out, durable in its function and premium in styling. Cosseting heated leather seats hold you in place as you survey the piano black finishes and classic analogue clock. A large screen heads the console housing all of your infotainment needs. Whilst all of the buttons that run down the centre are placed logically, the mobile phone keypad does date the facia. A thick rimmed steering wheel sits before the driver which is pleasingly not peppered with a million buttons, but just the essentials. Despite the sloping roofline headroom in the back isn’t too bad being suitable for adults of average hight. Leg room is accommodating enough for long journeys. 590 litres of boot space is yours extending to a colossal 1,550 litres with the seats folded flat. Even more conventional rivals find those figures difficult to swallow.

Behind its blunt nose and under that rakish bonnet is a 3.0 litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine which is good for 258HP and a vast 620Nm of torque. Combined with a new 9 speed dual clutch gearbox the CLS Shooting Brake will do 0-62MPH in just 6.6 seconds and go onto 152MPH. As you have just read, this car is more than just a pretty face. Its smooth torquey diesel engine effortlessly get the car into motion and remains quiet and refined. Its lack of noise and vibration makes for a very peaceful driving experience. The firmer ride on this AMG Line model is a worthwhile trade for the composure it demonstrates through the corners. Steering is well weighted and very precise allowing of accurate placement of this big car. As a driving package the CLS Shooting Brake handles well, much better than a machine of this size has any right to. Its strong V6 heart pulls relentlessly and the new gearbox shifts in a seamless fashion. Changes could be a tad faster when manually clicking through cogs via the steering wheel mounted paddles, but this is a minor irritation. Both around town and on the motorway the car runs as smooth as honey, exactly as a Mercedes-Benz should be. However, you would be wise to remember the amount of performance under your right foot, this car is rear wheel drive after all. This specific CLS didn’t have a parking camera fitted and due to its small rear window, visibility isn’t great. That said, you are aided by parking sensors and a clever visual display in the roof lining. But once you have finished with shopping or dropping the kids to school you can enjoy the surge that its engine has to offer. Caution, it can be intoxicating.

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS SHOOTING BRAKE 350 BlueTEC AMG Line is a product that could not be mistaken for anything else on the road. Our test car came to £51,765 which to the everyman is a lot of money, yet in the CLS Shooting Brake you are not buying a car that the everyman will drive. It is both graceful and audacious in appearance, enchanting and empowering to drive. In short, it strikes that much searched for balance.

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Joining the fast growing SUV crossover market, the GLA is a high riding variation of the A-Class. Looking extremely premium in AMG Line trim, our test car in white with 19 inch AMG alloy wheels and contrasting black details turned many heads. More aggressive AMG bumpers gives this GLA sporting appearance which compliments its compact proportions. Further details such as bold bonnet lines and tinted windows complete a package that looks deserving of the three pointed star it proudly wears.

Inside the lavish styling continues in a manor seldom seen in this class. The cabin is dominated by two large red stitched seats armed with a tremendous amount of bolstering. They are man eaters and very supportive. Flowing facias with highly polished aluminium details creates an environment that feels expensive. A large dashboard mounted screen serves as infotainment whilst three shiny air vents sit below in an orderly line. Light floods in through glass panels in the roof making for a more airy space. Practicality on the rear bench is good seating three in the back. Leg room is more than is on offer in an A-Class although the aforementioned roof option does cut into head room. The boot is again larger than the A-Class, by a full 40%, sitting at a respectable 481 litres. Fold those rear seats flat and its capacity goes up to 1,235litres.

Under that rather masculine bonnet is a 2.1 litre four cylinder turbo diesel engine which sends 168BHP and a chunky 350Nm of torque to all four wheels. Around town this combination of low down torque, available from as little as 1,400rpm, and all wheel drive traction makes for brisk getaways from notoriously difficult junctions. At low speeds the steering is light and the 7 speed dual clutch gearbox smoothly clicks through the gears. There is some road noise but not vast quantities. This Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC AMG Line strikes a fine compromise between riding well over lumpy roads, even with this cars sports suspension, whilst maintaining composed body control through corners. This models 19 inch alloys did lend to thumping into potholes and so we would recommend a smaller size for our rather battered road surfaces. There is plenty of grip to be had and that reassuring all wheel drive can send up to 50% of its power rearward if required. Whilst the GLA is a relaxing car to drive and performance for its turbocharged engine is strong, the diesel engine is not the quietest. It is a little intrusive at ideal and when accelerating hard it isn’t the most orchestral sound. That said, it does make the GLA capable of 0-62MPH in 8.3 seconds and a claimed 55.4MPG combined. More dynamic driving reveals the chassis to be well setup but the steering could do with a more interactive approach. It is also in this scenario where its 7 speed gearbox also falls a little short not offering the fastest of changes when directed with the steering wheel mounted paddles. Even in its sportiest setting, upshifts are acceptable but downshifts are preceded by a slight hesitation before the change is made. For the majority of potential owners this is nearly a minor irritation, but with competitors using the superior ZF gearbox, Mercedes-Benz have some catching up to do. As a whole the driving experience of the GLA is perfectly pleasant making for an easy drive and a very nice means to get back home after a long day.

This car will sell in vast numbers I have no doubt at all. The ever growing popularity of this segment  means that for Mercedes-Benz to build such a car was an easy decision. It is a desirable object with style, practicality and good build quality. However, our Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC AMG Line does have an achilles heel… The price. With all of its options including luxuries such as heated seats, AMG body styling, aluminium roof rails, dual zone climate control, reversing camera, surround sound and more its price tag of £37,065 is colossal for a small car. The range starts at just over £26,000 without all wheel drive and so its toys make an expensive car even more so. It could be argued that, like an Apple iPhone, such a premium product can demand such a cost.

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The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an exceptional automobile and every right minded motoring journalist worth his salt will tell you the same. Mercedes’ execution and dedication to every detail has resulted in one of the worlds most technologically advanced and best engineered cars. If you are looking for a world beater, this is it… There are several variants of the S-Class offering different flavours dependent on a customers needs. From the sensible S300 BlueTEC to the bonkers AMG, Mercedes have covered almost all of the bases. Its final frontier takes the S-Class to a market where Mercedes-Benz has the opportunity to showcase future powertrains. Emitting just 65g/km of CO2, this is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 PLUG-IN HYBRID AMG Line L.

A plug-in hybrid offers the best of both petrol and electric power providing efficiency as well as conventional convenience. So what exactly is this S500? Put simply, it is exactly what you would expect of an S-Class from an interior perspective, but accompanying the twin-turbo 3.0 litre V6 engine is an electric motor. With a battery located in the boot, this car can be plugged in to a fast charging point, hence the term plug-in, for a full battery in 30-45 minutes dependent on the current. The benefit of this setup is that whilst the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 PLUG-IN HYBRID AMG Line L is capable of 0-62MPH in just 5.2 seconds, it is London congestion charge exempt and will do a claimed 100.9MPG combined.

Visually the S-Class is an extremely elegant looking machine with soft flowing lines. A large stately chromed grill is joined by some AMG bumpers sporting more muscular details. Further chrome trim compliments the multi-spoked wheels making for a truly executive affair. The only giveaways that this car is anything other than ordinary, if such a thing can be said about the S-Class, is a small door in the rear bumper for charging and a neat boot lid badge. In black this package very much looks the part.

The interior is a triumph of artistic design and ergonomic ingenuity. Enter this cars cabin and you are bathed in beautiful cream leather, aluminium and highly polished finishes. Two large screens dominate the console, one for instrumentation and the other for infotainment. The size of these screens gives the user good peripheral vision when using things such as the satellite navigation, but also more real-estate for camera views to be displayed. A high console divides the front passengers whilst the rest of the interior seemingly wraps itself around them. Every tiny detail has been engineered to perfection from the high quality of stitching to the weighting of buttons. It could just be the most flawless cabin of any car and undoubtable a very comfortable place to spend many hours behind the wheel. However, the rear is where most owners of this Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 PLUG-IN HYBRID AMG Line L will spend their time. With reclining seats that are heated and cooled as well as capable of providing a hot stone massage, well catered for is an understatement. Two TVs provide access to everything from seating controls, media and access to the internet. Its boot is the only real compromise for this plug-in model as it is reduced over the standard car. A battery pack takes up some space, but that said the S-Class boot still isn’t what you would call small.

Push the starter button and the dials come to life before you. Lifting off of the brake the car goes into motion but in absolute silence. In E-Mode the car is running on pure electricity and so generates next to no noise. As the world silently whooshes by the window you realise what Mercedes-Benz has done with this car. They have taken the already sublimely refined S-Class and used this technology to make it even more blissful. Acceleration is reasonable from the 114BHP electric motor, considering the sheer mass of this car, and it can travel like this up to 85MPH. The well insulated cabin can be this hushed for a range of 20 miles. At which point charge mode activates using the V6 and regenerative braking to charge the battery. E-Save mode works in a similar fashion but retains battery power for use at a later point. However, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 PLUG-IN HYBRID AMG Line L is at its best in Hybrid Mode. Here you get the best of both running in pure electric when milling about the city, but put your foot to the floor and both the electric motor and twin-turbo V6 work together making 436BHP and a huge 650Nm of torque. When required this palace on wheels sucks you back into your seat and fires off down the road. It is a staggeringly quick car especially when you factor in its size. The V6, which was once a silent partner, seamlessly joins the party and then begins to emit a fantastically sonorous noise. Power and toque deliver is silky smooth giving you that almost “magic carpet” effect. Before you know it the car is traveling a quite a rate of knots, but thankfully its brakes are more than capable of bringing things back to reality. On the motorway the S-Class is just about the most tranquil mode of transport you could choose and on twisty roads its good body control, precise steering and firmer mode for its suspension makes for a good handling machine. These aforementioned items are all part of the science and technology of the S-Class which stretches far beyond air suspension. Night vision cameras aid the driver when visibility is poor, the car will steer to remain in a motorway lane, it can adjust the ride at the split second you go over a bump to cancel it out, rear seatbelts are fitted with airbags to protect your ribs in a crash and birds eye camera views make parking this large vehicle a piece of cake. The almost over engineering of this car is what defines it and makes it feel very special.

Obviously all of this doesn’t come cheap with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 PLUG-IN HYBRID AMG Line L starting at £87,965. Our test car exceeded that with all of its options coming to well over £110,000. Its is the sort of car where you arrive at your destination more relaxed than when you left. Its is an engineering marvel, and in my eyes, worth every penny.

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