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Mercedes-Benz South Africa announces introduction of five full Battery Electric Vehicles

vuyi on January 24, 2022

By H&H Admin

Through the introduction and inauguration of Mercedes-EQ to the South African market – the all-electric world of Mercedes-Benz and the brand which represents all electric powered vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has provided further proof that the age of electric mobility has arrived.

Five new models from the global Mercedes-EQ range will be launched during the course of 2022 in South Africa as part of a clear strategic push to position the brand as a global and local leader in the electric vehicle market.

The range for 2022 includes the EQA SUV, the family-sized SUV EQB, The mid-sized EQC, based on the GLC platform, the electric business sedan EQE and the luxury sedan EQS. These fully electric vehicles from the Mercedes-EQ family are part of a transformation that’s gaining momentum rapidly.

Mercedes- EQS world premiere with Alicia Keys

Leading in electric drive and digitization is a key pillar of the Mercedes-Benz strategy that was announced by Mark Raine, newly appointed President of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The new strategy aims to leverage the brand’s strengths in the luxury space, while unlocking the full potential of its unique speciality brands, namely AMG, Maybach, and EQ.

From L-R : Selvin Govender, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Mark Raine, President of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa
Market and network readiness

Raine is confident that South Africa will see a strong uptake and growth in the luxury electric vehicle market in the next 12-24 months. “Technology is the key to engineering a sustainable future. As the leading premium luxury automotive brand, we are once again leading the way into the future of the automobile and mobility as a whole”.

Raine announced that Mercedes-Benz Cars will collaborate with Grid Cars for public charging, and that every EQ customer will additionally receive a complimentary Mercedes-EQ wall charger, installed at a location of their choice.

Raine added that 36 of its Agent partners across South Africa have been appointed as Retail and Service partners for Mercedes-EQ, which will add to the public charging grid and also provide highly trained professionals both at sales and aftersales levels to help overcome any reservations around issues like range anxiety.

The new Mercedes-EQ range

Selvin Govender, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, stated that the “Mercedes-EQ range will provide benchmark performance for South African’s in the EV space. The EQ-design language of “sensual purity” combined with “progressive luxury” is highlighted by the specific exterior and interior design elements, and are completed by an EV-service ecosystem”.

EQA: all-electric dynamic sports SUV 

The EQA is a dynamic, all-electric sport SUV. A close relation of the GLA, it delivers all the characteristics of that vehicle, combined with an efficient electric powertrain.

The EQA 250 derivative will be available for the South African market, with a power output of 140KW, a range of up to 412km (WLTP) and a combined electrical consumption of 17.7kWh/100km.

Mercede-Benz EQA
The EQB: all-electric family size SUV 

The new EQB is an iconic electric SUV which incorporates the square forms of Mercedes-Benz off-roaders and projects them into the future. Whether it’s for a large nuclear family (7-Seat option available) or a small extended family, the new EQB offers space for many family configurations and a wide variety of transport needs. This gives it an exceptional position among compact electric cars.

This all-electric compact SUV will be available in the form of the EQB 350 4MATIC derivative. This all-wheel drive model offers a power output of 215KW, a range of up to 419km and a combined electrical consumption of 17.4kWh/100km.

EQC: all-electric mid-sized SUV

The EQC was the first car to be produced by Mercedes-Benz in the line of the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz EQ family with a battery electric drivetrain. It marked the start of the transfer of Mercedes-Benz towards future electric mobility.

This all-wheel drive model offers a power output of 300KW, a range of up to 437 km*(WLTP) and a combined electrical consumption of 21.3kWh/100km *(WLTP).

Mercede-Benz EQC
The EQE: all-electric business sedan

The new EQE offers all the essential functions of the range topping EQS in a slightly more compact format. The EQE’s interior dimensions even exceed those of today’s E-Class, carrying the concept of the business sedan into the future.

Mercede-Benz EQS
The EQS: all-electric luxury sedan

The first all-electric premium sedan from Mercedes-EQ, the EQS redefines the luxury vehicle segment. The innovative and holistic design is based on a new vehicle architecture which fuses technology, design, functionality and connectivity, delighting both drivers and passengers.

With ranges up to 780 kilometres and an output of up to 385 kW. The first models to come onto the market are the 245kW EQS 450+, with combined electrical consumption of 18.9-16.2 kWh/100 km.

We will share pricing and other details once it is made available to us

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is here and it offers a new kind of comfort

vuyi on December 15, 2021

By H&H Admin

A new type of comfort zone is here to challenge the status quo. The 6th generation C-Class boasts minimalist design, luxurious comfort and innovative assistance systems. 

The new C-Class, which reaches local showrooms from December 2021, is manufactured in the Mercedes-Benz Cars plants in Bremen, Beijing and East London. 

Mark Raine, Co- CEO for Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa says the fact that East London is one of three global manufacturing plants for the new C-Class is a ‘massive success story’ for the local industry.

Mark Raine:Co- CEO for Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa Image: Going Places/Malaysia Airlines
Bigger, better, sleeker

“The new C-Class is a sportive incarnation of luxury. It combines dynamic proportions with reduced design lines and sculptural surfaces. I have no doubt that the new C-Class will excite current and future customers with its wide range of high-tech features derived from the flagship S-Class”, said Mark Raine, Co- CEO for Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa. 

Considerably larger than its predecessor, with a length of 4751 mm and a width of 1820 mm, the wheelbase of the incoming C-Class has been increased by 25 mm to 2865 mm.   It features a dynamic exterior design and a sumptuous interior that borrows heavily from the flagship S-Class. 

“The new C-Class is being launched into the South Africa market initially with the C200 and C220d engine derivatives, both sporting four-cylinder units from the current modular FAME (Family of Modular Engines) Mercedes-Benz engine family,” said Selvin Govender, Director of Marketing and Sales for Mercedes-Benz Cars. 

The C200 boasts power delivery of 150kw and 300Nm of torque, while the C220d delivers 147kw and 440Nm of Torque. The C220d achieves a combined fuel consumption of 4.6l/100km and the C200 achieves a combined fuel consumption of 6.6l/100km. 

Govender added, “The C200 is also available at launch in a limited debut edition known as Edition 6, which has numerous visual accents which underlines its exclusivity. Edition 6 will be limited to 400 units. 

Technical view at a glance:

  C 200C 220 d
Displacementcc14961993
OutputkW150147
atrpm5800-61003600
Add. output (boost)kW1515
Peak torqueNm300440
atrpm1800-40001800-2800
Add. torque (boost)Nm200200
Combined fuel consumption[1]l/100 km6.6-6.24.6-4.3
Acceleration 0-100 km/hs7.37.3
Top speedkm/h246245
Total fuel consumption WLTPl/100 km7.2-6.35.2-4.4
Retail Price R849 000R908 500

End of an era : Mercedes-Benz Co-CEO Johannes Fritz bids farewell to South Africa

vuyi on September 13, 2021

Mercedes-Benz South Africa has announced that Co-CEO & Executive Director Mercedes-Benz Cars Johannes Fritz, who steered South Africa’s top-selling premium car brand since September 2017, will be moving back to Germany to head up Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans in Bavaria – one of the largest sales regions in the German market. 

Fritz will be succeeded by Mark Raine, who is currently Vice President of Product & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars in Korea. The move is something of a homecoming for Raine, who grew up in Pretoria before joining Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart in 2002. 

Mark Raine, new Co-CEO & Executive Director Mercedes-Benz Cars-Benz South Africa

Raine has played a key role in driving the company’s digital transformation and further enhancing its brand value in the Korean market, while working to reduce complexity and improve the product portfolio. He previously worked in the company’s Middle East operation, before heading marketing and sales for Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia. 

One of Raine’s main strategic objectives will be the successful introduction of the highly anticipated Mercedes-EQ range into the South African market from Q1 2022 onwards. To further drive the future-orientated transformation, essential strategic imperatives include to pursue sustainable sales growth by enhancing the digital e-commerce journey of Mercedes-Benz and its retail partners.

WATCH: Safety features on the Mercedes‑Benz Tourismo, a bus we’d like to see on South African Roads

vuyi on September 7, 2021

For years, Mercedes-Benz has been producing buses and coaches with increasingly varied and effective assistance systems, thus providing the best possible protection for all passengers and other road users. 

Active safety to prevent accidents takes centre stage in the three-pointed star busses and coaches and these include:

  • the Anti-lock Braking System in 1981
  • the Electropneumatic Braking System in 1997
  • the Adaptive Cruise Control
  • the Electronic Stability Programme
  • the Lane Assist
  • the Continuous Braking Limiter
  • the Active Brake Assist

The Mercedes‑Benz Tourismo represents continuous safety innovation. Within an already generous safety specification, key highlights include Active Brake Assist 4 (ABA 4) with pedestrian detection, standard fitment as of 2021, and optional Sideguard Assist turning warning system.

Mercedes-Benz East London Plant starts production of the New Generation C-Class

vuyi on June 29, 2021

Following on Mercedes-Benz’s rich heritage of over 6 decades in South Africa, the East London Plant has officially started production of the New Generation C-Class. 

Since the investment announcement of R10 billion in 2018, the East London Plant has undergone numerous Plant upgrades in preparation for the production of the new model. 

At an event commemorating the start of production of the New Generation C-Class on 24 June 2021, Mercedes-Benz Cars announced an additional R3 billion investment into the East London plant. A sure sign of commitment and a concerted effort to revive the economic growth of South Africa as well as the socio-economic development of the East London region.

The launch of this new Mercedes-Benz C-Class, positions Buffalo City and the rest of Eastern Cape to continue its legacy of advanced manufacturing.

– Ebrahim Patel Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

The R10 Billion investment was utilised for a wide modernisation of the East London Plant, including upgrades to a new Body Shop and additional buildings.

“The launch of this new Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the latest generation to grace the roads of South Africa and the world, positions Buffalo City and the rest of Eastern Cape to continue its legacy of advanced manufacturing. Through the South African Automotive Masterplan, and the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP), we have created a platform for investment in the industry, deepening our technological expertise, creating local value chains, and securing jobs,”said Ebrahim Patel Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition,

East London Plant Sustainability

Mercedes-Benz is aware of the impact that its activities and products have on the environment, and the Company is addressing this in a holistic way along the entire value chain. With Ambition 2039, Mercedes-Benz strives for a fully networked and completely CO₂neutral vehicle fleet in less than 20 years, aiming to have plug-in hybrids or all-electric vehicles to make up more than 50% of its sales by 2030.

In support of Ambition 2039, locally, the Mercedes-Benz Plant in East London has embarked on numerous initiatives to help preserve the environment for future generations.

The new paint shop is more energy-efficient, reducing energy consumption per vehicle by 25 percent. The new buildings have been equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting, which uses up to 90 % less energy per lumen output. 

Through the implementation of energy efficiency measures and the adoption of more efficient technologies and processes, the Plant produces an annual saving of over 16 MWh. This is the equivalent of the annual energy usage for the East London Plant body shop and the buildings of the logistics put together.

Additional plant sustainability initiatives include battery storage containers; rainwater recycling with a water storage of 1 Million Litres; green areas which have been installed on the corridors and the roofs as well as soluble labelling which is being utilised on production parts packaging to minimize waste reduction.

From 2022, the Mercedes-Benz East London Plant along with all own Mercedes-Benz Plants will produce CO2-neutral products. This includes more than 30 passenger car and van plants worldwide and is a further step in the implementation of the Ambition 2039. 

WATCH: Ignition GT promo – Vuyi Mpofu chats about the BMW M3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class & Toyota Agya

vuyi on April 9, 2021

Thank you so much for being part of the Toyota Agya episode Vuyi. It came out fantastic!

– Zimkhita Kweza, Junior Producer, Ignition GT

The next episode of Ignition GT featuring our Editor Vuyi Mpofu debuts on Saturday 10th April at 10:30am on DSTV channel 189.

In the full episode she shares her thoughts on the frugal city runner from Toyota, the Agya, laments about not attending the BMW M3 launch and shares the full unofficial (and ‘secret’) street name for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Click here for details about BMW M3 Competition: https://heelsandhorsepowermag.com/new-on-the-tarmac-meet-the-heart-thumping-bmw-m3-competition-sedan-bmw-m4-competition-coupe/

This episode also airs on the following dates:

Sat 10th 10:30 IGNITION GT
SUN 11th 16:30 IGNITION GT
MON 12th 00:30 IGNITION GT
MON 13th 10:30 IGNITION GT
TUE 14th 04:30 IGNITION GT
WED 15th 05:30 IGNITION GT
WED 15th 20:30 IGNITION GT
THUR 16th 08:30 IGNITION GT
THUR 16th 17:30 IGNITION GT
FRI 17th 14:30 IGNITION GT

New on the Tarmac: Meet the updated Mercedes-Benz Vito

vuyi on March 31, 2021

This year, the Mercedes-Benz Vito turns 25 and to celebrate, Mercedes-Benz South Africa is offering even more robust value propositions in its commercial van thus continuing its legacy of being reliable, safe and versatile.

The latest iteration of the Vito is locally available in Panel Van, Tourer and Mixto guise, with a maximum payload of 1369 kilograms. The updated Mercedes-Benz Vito not only sports an even more attractive form, but it is packed with value-adding enhancements on the inside as well. These refinements ensure that the latest version of the Vito will add to the more than 1.8 million units that have been sold globally, since the first-generation Vito was launched in 1996.

As Mercedes-Benz Vans, we are confident that the Vito facelift will be a valued partner to a number of small, medium and large enterprises in our country.

– Nadia Trimmel, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa

“The Mercedes-Benz Vito facelift is being introduced to the South African market at a challenging time. But as we know, challenges bring new opportunities and the Vito is a perfect solution for the upsurge in online shopping and logistics that accompany this, in terms of staff transportation, cargo and package deliveries,” said Nadia Trimmel, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa.

“As Mercedes-Benz Vans, we are confident that the Vito facelift will play an integral part in this upsurge, by being a valued partner to a number of small, medium and large enterprises in our country, as industries evolve amidst changing consumer preferences,” added Trimmel.

Exciting exterior

A nip and tuck facelift has resulted in an updated radiator grille design – with and without the chrome option. The options of the Vito facelift include Active Brake Assist, painted bumpers and a Driver Assist Package, ensuring that the vehicle attributes are even more attractive than its highly successful predecessor.

Comfortable cabin

The designers have also updated the entire Vito range’s interior. The hard-wearing and elegant “Caluma” fabric replaces the previous “Tunja” fabric. It features a white stripe pattern on the seat cushion and backrest, while the sides and headrest are finished off in a long-lasting black.

The Vito facelift includes new ventilation nozzles (similar to the class-leading V-Class).

To round off the star performer’s interior, a heavy-duty and waterproof floor covering provides improved dampening and an anti-slip surface for entering and exiting the vehicle.

Latest infotainment offering

The facelift also extends the range of infotainment systems. The new Vito uses digital radio reception for all radio options allowing crystal-clear and interference-free radio reception over long distances. The Audio 10 system also has a Bluetooth® interface with hands-free functionality or for streaming music.

The new Audio 30 and Audio 40 infotainment systems meet many customer requirements, with a 7-inch touchscreen with Smartphone Integration via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. A smartphone can be charged via the USB interface.

Enhanced safety and assistance systems

The Vito Facelift includes a new optional Active Brake Assist which detects the risk of a collision with a vehicle driving ahead.  Initially, it gives a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver responds, the assistance system builds up brake pressure appropriate to the situation.

However, if there is no response, the system actively assists with braking manoeuvres. In urban traffic, Active Brake Assist also reacts to stationary obstacles or crossing pedestrians.

Pricing and specification (valid as of date of publication) 
The
Vito
Panel
Van		Recommended
Retail
Price
(incl. VAT)		Engine
(cc/cylinders)		Power
(kW)		Torque
(Nm)		 
Vito 111
CDI
Panel
Van		 R 573,0411598/484270 
Vito 114
CDI
Panel
Van 		R 597,0562143/4100330 
Vito 116
CDI
Panel
Van  		R 677,0852143/4120380 
      
The
Vito
Mixto		Recommended
Retail
Price
(incl. VAT)		Engine
(cc/cylinders)		Power
(kW)		Torque
(Nm)		 
Vito 111
CDI
Mixto		R 668,4891598/484270 
Vito 116
CDI
Mixto		R 895,5842143/4120380 
      
The
Vito
Tourer		Recommended
Retail
Price
(Incl. VAT &
excl. CO2 tax)		Maximum
CO2 Tax applicable		Engine
(cc/cylinders)		Power
(kW)		Torque
(Nm)
Vito 111
Tourer
(Base)		R 621,283R 9,3841598/484270
Vito 111
CDI
Tourer
PRO		R 762,263R 9,3841598/484270
Vito 114
CDI
Tourer
PRO		R 794,399R 9,5222143/4100330
Vito 116
CDI
Tourer
PRO		R 901,634R 9,7982143/4120380
Vito 116
CDI
Tourer
SELECT		R 1,071,429R 9,7982143/4120380
Vito 119
CDI
Tourer
SELECT		R 1,109,788R 8,0042143/4140440

New on the Tarmac: Meet the sexy new E-Class Cabriolet and Coupé

vuyi on March 9, 2021

We have always made automotive dreams come true, and the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet facelift take this to the next level.

– Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars

Back in 1991, Mercedes-Benz debuted an elegant cabriolet at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. A four-seater with a fabric top, it was initially known as the 300 CE-24, and revived a long tradition of four-door open-top vehicles in company’s brand history. It was renamed the E-Class in 1993, launching a range that has become amongst the most emotionally appealing in the Mercedes-Benz stable. 

 

Fast forward to 2021, and Mercedes-Benz has just launched a comprehensive facelift for its already stunning E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. Upgrades include a healthy facelift, with the front sections, in particular, being given a fresh look; a good dose of new technology, including the next generation of driving assistance systems and the MBUX infotainment system; and a range of electrified, more efficient, petrol and diesel engines.

“We have always made automotive dreams come true, and the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet facelift take this to the next level. We have resharpened the brand identity and we are continuing to drive forward the revision of our entire E-Class family successively,” says Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

 

The emotive appeal of these two dream cars has been further reinforced by the model upgrade

– Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

“The emotive appeal of these two dream cars has been further reinforced by the model upgrade. The E-Class Cabriolet with the classic fabric top offers spaciousness and comfort on long journeys for up to four people, while the new E-Class Coupé combines the beauty and classic virtues of a grand tourer with state-of-the-art technology.”

South African customers will initially have two models available at launch. The E200 offers a 2 litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 145 kW and 320 Nm of torque. This results in a 0-100 time of 7.5. The E300 has the same engine, which is tweaked to deliver 190 kW and 370 Nm, with a 0-100 time of 6.4 seconds. 

The E-Class Coupé models at a glance:

    E 200 E 300
Transmission automatic
Engine   4/in-line 4/in-line
Displacement cc 1991 1991
Output kW 145 190
at rpm 5500-6100 5800-6100
Peak torque Nm 320 370
at rpm 1650-4000 1800-4000
Fuel consumption, combined[1] l/100 km 6.6-7.0 6.6-7.1
CO2 emissions1, combined g/km 151-161 151-161
Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 7.5 6.4
Top speed km/h 237 250
Retail Price   R1 036 000 R1 131 000
 

The E-Class Cabriolet at a glance:

    E 200 E 300
Transmission automatic
Engine   4/in-line 4/in-line
Displacement cc 1991 1991
Output kW 145 190
at rpm 5500-6100 5800-6100
Peak torque Nm 320 370
at rpm 1650-4000 1800-4000
Fuel consumption, combined1 l/100 km 6.8-7.2 6.9-7.4
CO2 emissions1, combined g/km 155-165 158-168
Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 7.8 6.6
Topspeed km/h 234 250
Retail Price   R1 164 000 R1 268 000
 

The Mercedes-AMG E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet at a glance:

  Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet
Transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G  AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G 
Engine 3.0-litre 6-cylinder in-line enginewith exhaust gas turbocharger andelectric additional compressor 3.0-litre 6-cylinder in-line enginewith exhaust gas turbocharger andelectric additional compressor
Displacement 2999 cc 2999 cc
Output 320 kW at 6100 rpm  320 kW at 6100 rpm 
Add. output with EQ Boost 16 kW 16 kW
Peak torque 520 Nm at 1800 – 5800 rpm 520 Nm at 1800 – 5800 rpm
Add. torque with EQ Boost 250 Nm 250 Nm
Drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution  AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution 
Fuel consumption, combined 8.9-8.6 l/100 km* 9.2-8.8 l/100 km*
Combined CO2 emissions 204-198 g/km 209-202 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h  4.4 s 4.6 s
Top speed 250 km/h** 250 km/h**
Retail Price R1 618 000 R1 756 000

Mercedes-Benz is once again South Africa’s top-selling luxury car brand in 2020

vuyi on January 25, 2021

In 2019, Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars, said he was optimistic about the brand’s prospects in South Africa for 2020

In 2019, Mercedes-Benz claimed a string of awards, including the coveted SA Car of The Year award for the new A-Class Hatch, ‘Coolest Motor Vehicle’ as awarded by the Sunday Times Gen Next, and ‘Top Brand’ accolade from Sunday Times.   

In addition to those accolades, the German automaker closed off 2019 as the top selling premium car brand in South Africa, despite challenging market and economic conditions that saw an overall decline in premium vehicle sales due to pressure on consumers’ disposable income and fragile business and consumer confidence. 

Also in 2019, Mercedes-Benz ended the year as global leader in the luxury car brands category and achieved its ninth consecutive record year of sales.

Fast forward to the end of 2020 and Mercedes-Benz has retained its position as the top selling premium car brand in South Africa; this in a year that saw a considerable overall decline in the market due to COVID-19. Globally, Mercedes-Benz ended 2020 as number one among the luxury car brands. 2020 saw the Stuttgart-based brand sell a total of 2 164 187 units (-7.5%) with China and Europe regions contributing most considerably to the overall number.

Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars, said that our number one position can be attributed to the consolidated effort of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and the agent network in these challenging times.

The large number of new models introduced across the Mercedes-Benz Range including the all-new GLA, GLB, GLE Coupe, GLS and G 400d SUV Models also had a very positive impact. Additionally the E-Class Family received a Facelift with updates to the Sedan, Coupe and Cabriolet derivatives.

Mercedes-Benz GLB, galaxyblau Mercedes-Benz GLB, galaxy blue
    • Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé 2019, designo hyazinthrot metallic, Outdoor Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé 2019, designo hyacinth red metallic, outdoor

    • Mercedes-Benz GLS, 2019, smaragdgrün Mercedes-Benz GLS, 2019, emerald green
    Mercedes-Benz GLA 220d mountaingrau magno; Leder – macchiatobeige/schwarz;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 4,9-4,7 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 129–123 g/km Mercedes-Benz GLA 220d mountain grey magno; Leather – macchiato beige/black;Fuel consumption combined: 4.9-4.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 129-123 g/km
 

On the High-Performance front, the brand launched the Mercedes-AMG A & CLA 35,  both of which received an outstanding welcome into the market, giving customers a head turning entry into the Mercedes-AMG brand. The Mercedes- AMG A & CLA45’s were also launched in 2020 as well as the GLC 43 & 63s rounding off the Mercedes-AMG Line-up.

“More than ever before, there are challenges which lie ahead of us as we constantly strive  to provide customers with the utmost convenience when it comes to their mobility solutions, which is why in 2020 we launched an online platform called Mercedes-Benz Online Store, enabling customers to start and complete their online buying journey from  the comfort of their homes.” concluded Fritz.

“This new Generation C-Class, which is also built in South Africa, follows a R10 billion investment in the East London Plant, and will contribute valuably to the South African economy”.

Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars

Globally, Mercedes-Benz was again named as one of the top ten ‘Best Global Brands’ in 2020 by renowned US brand consultancy Interbrand, and defended its position as the world’s most valuable luxury automotive brand for the fourth consecutive year. In South Africa, the Mercedes-Benz brand also maintained its position in 2020 as the ‘Coolest Motor Vehicle’ as awarded by the Sunday Times Gen Next, and earned yet another ‘Top Brand’ accolade from Sunday Times. The newly introduced Mercedes-Benz GLE 400d 4Matic was selected as the Top Premium SUV for 2020 by the Autotrader Car of The Year judging panel.

Mercedes-Benz continues to strive towards providing the best Premium Customer Experience and Customer Satisfaction remains a top priority in 2021.

  • Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+; jupiter rot; Leder, titanium grau / schwarz;;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 8,3-8,1 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 189-186 g/km* Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+; jupiter red; Leather, two-tone – titanium gray pearl / black;;Fuel consumption combined: 8.3-8.1 l/100 km; Combined CO2 emissions: 189-186 g/km*

  • Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC, Sonnengelb;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 7,3-7,2 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 167-164 g/km* Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC, sun yellow;Fuel consumption combined: 7.3-7.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 167-164 g/km*

  • Bildwelten zur Geländefähigkeit, Design und Onroad-Performance und greifen Naturelemente, wie Fels- und Lavaformationen, sowie Wasser auf, die wie die G-Klasse „stronger than time“ sind. Die Tonalität der Kampagne spiegelt den Charakter der Offroad-Legende wieder: starke Botschaften in beeindruckenden Bildwelten. Image worlds of off-road capability, design and on-road performance, and take on natural elements such as rock and lava formations, and water, which are like the G-class “stronger than time”. The tonality of the campaign reflects the character of the off-road legend: strong messages in impressive picture worlds.
 

Fritz said the product offering continues into 2021 with the launch of our brand new C-Class sedan, which will continue to set the benchmark for the midsize sedan segment. “This new Generation C-Class, which is also built in South Africa, follows a R10 billion investment in the East London Plant, and will contribute valuably to the South African economy”.

Speaking of Benchmarks, 2021 sees the introduction of the all-new Flagship S- Class, the pinnacle of technology and elegance in the industry. In addition, 2021 will see the arrival of three extremely special models in the S-Class Maybach, the GLS Maybach and finally the highly anticipated AMG GT Black series, which sets an all-new standard for performance road vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz is committed to making 2021 a great year for our customers and we are confident that we will once again raise the standard of automotive mobility with these exciting new products launches.

At a Glance: Meet the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon

vuyi on November 19, 2020

Vuyi Mpofu attended the media presentation of the new G-Class and shares a bird’s-eye-view of what the iconic SUV has to offer.

By far the longest-standing passenger car model series built by Mercedes-Benz, the G-Class is the forefather of all SUVs that carry the three-pointed star. It has become the standard against which others are measured in the off-road-vehicle segment: around 80 percent of all the G-Class vehicles ever produced are still in use, testament to its outstanding quality and durability.

The off-roader has shown its versatility in numerous special-purpose versions with the police, fire and rescue services around the world. It is also known the world over as the ‘Popemobile’, with Pope John Paul using a 230 G, painted in mother of pearl with a transparent special body, on numerous trips from 1980.

To mark its 40th anniversary in 2019, Mercedes-Benz had unveiled a range of highlights for G-Class fans, starting with the special STRONGER THAN TIME model – including the exclusive G 400 d, J40 Edition offering the most powerful expansion stage of the efficient inline six-cylinder diesel engine yet. 

“41 years ago, the combination of on- and off-road properties was a revolutionary concept. The current G-Class continues this tradition, and forms the basis for its status as an automotive icon,” said Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa. “We are celebrating this milestone with several highlights for our customers and fans. I am convinced that, for the G-Class, it is just the beginning.”

For eternity: Three STRONGER THAN TIME edition 

The three STRONGER THAN TIME Editions to mark the anniversary year as a real birthday treat.

The G 400 d offers a combined fuel consumption of 8.9-8.7 l/100 km, an output of 243 kW and an impressive maximum torque of 700 Nm at 1200 to 3200 rpm.

The G 400d comes in AMG Line guise, with flared wheel arches over black 20- inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, AMG design elements in the bumpers and an exterior protective strip, brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering and, The standard-fit Night Package gives the special model darkened lights as well as outside mirrors, a spare wheel ring and design elements in the bumpers in obsidian black and tinted rear windows. Attention to detail is showcased at night: the surround lamp projects the G logo and the lettering ‘STRONGER THAN TIME’ onto the road.

The Mercedes-Benz Editions are available in two looks: traditionalists will be delighted by a variant whose interior is characterised by black nappa leather with golden topstitching as well as trim elements in open-pore black ash. There are several paint and interior options available to those wanting a particularly exclusive G-Class.

Customers can choose from a wide colour palette for the nappa leather on the steering wheel, instrument panel and seats, and for the topstitching and seat belts. For the exterior, 4 paint colours offer a choice for every taste – and the spare wheel ring is now also available in the vehicle colour.

The technical data of the new Mercedes-Benz G 400d is as follows:

  G 400d 4MATIC 
Model/Number of cylinders/Arrangement Diesel/6 in-line
Displacementcc 2925
Rated output, combustion enginekW/hp at rpm 243/330 at 3600-4200 
Rated torque, combustion engineNm at rpm700 at 1200-3200 
Acceleration 0-100 km/hs 6.4 
Top speedkm/h 210
Consumption, combined or weighted l/100 km 8.9-8.7 
CO2 emissions, combined or weighted g/km235-229
Image courtesy of Motorpress

We will be better positioned to give an in-depth review of the G 400 d when we get it on test.

Price from:

G 400d 4MATIC: R2 874 000 

At a Glance: Meet the GLB, the newest compact SUV from Mercedes-Benz

vuyi on November 19, 2020

Vuyi Mpofu attended the media presentation of the new Mercedes-Benz GLB and shares a bird’s-eye-view of what the compact SUV has to offer.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLB has arrived in South Africa – and it’s aims to redefine the versatile compact SUV market. The new GLB is the first for Mercedes-Benz in the compact segment and is optionally available as a seven-seater. It is powered by completely updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines that offer a combination of fuel economy and performance.

The new GLB joins the Mercedes-Benz compact car family of the A-Class Hatch, A-Class Sedan, B-Class, CLA and the GLA. 

Powerful proportions with short overhangs and off-road-oriented design, standard LED headlights, as well as 4MATIC all-wheel drive in the GLB 220d make the GLB a versatile SUV and a spacious family car.

With a wheelbase of 2829 millimetres, the GLB is 10cm longer than the new B-Class. The car is 4634 millimetres long, 1834 millimetres wide and 1658 millimetres high. 

Driving assistance systems are drawn from the S-Class, with improved camera and radar systems that allow the GLB to see up to 500 metres ahead and drive in semi-automated mode in certain situations.

The MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) offers powerful computer, brilliant screens and graphics, customisable presentation, full-colour head-up display, with optional navigation and augmented reality, learning software, and voice control activated with the prompt “Hey Mercedes”.

South Africans will be able to choose from the GLB 250 and the GLB 220 d 4MATIC at launch. Mercedes-Benz states that the GLB 250 offers a combined fuel consumption 7.4-7.1 l/100 km.

According to the German auto-maker, the two-litre diesel engine in the GLB 220d 4MATIC offers a combined fuel consumption of 5.4-5.1 l/100 km.

Seating variability in detail:

Variability Five-seater (Standard)Seven-seater (Optional)
First seat rowFolding front passenger seat (option) 
Second seat rowSeat backrest with 40:20:40 folding split  
Multi-stage seat backrest inclination adjustment  
Seat row can be moved fore and aft by 140 mm, seat with 40:60 split (option)Seat row can be moved fore and aft by 140 mm, seat with 40:60 split (standard) 
 EASY-ENTRY function 
Third seat row –Two retractable bucket seats 

The two GLB models at a glance:

 GLB 250 GLB 220 d 4MATIC
Transmission 8G-DCT (automatic) 8G-DCT (automatic) 
Displacement Cc1991/L4 1950/L4 
Output kW165 140
At Rpm 55003800 
Peak torque Nm350400
atRpm1800-4000 1600-2600
Combined fuel consumption[1]l/100 km7.4-7.1 5.4-5.1 
Combined CO2 emissions[1] g/km 168 144 
Acceleration 0-100 km/h S 6.9 7.6 
Top speed km/h 236 217
Image courtesy of Motorpress

 Priced from:

GLB 250 – R 831 000-00

GLB 220 d 4MATIC   R 841 000-00