Mercedes-Benz

Country of Origin:
Germany
Austria
USA

Models:
B-Class
C-Class
CL-Class
CLK-Class
CLS-Class
E-Class
G-Class
GL-Class
M-Class
R-Class
S-Class
SL-Class
SLK-Class
SLR McLaren
Viano
 Key:
* Top speed electronically limited
2.5SC 2.5-litre supercharged engine
2.5TC 2.5-litre turbocharged engine
2.5D 2.5-litre diesel engine
2.5TD 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine
I4 4-cylinder engine in inline configuration
V6 6-cylinder engine in V-shaped configuration
FWD   Front-wheel-drive platform
RWD   Rear-wheel-drive platform
4WD   Four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive platform
5M   5-speed manual
5A   5-speed automatic
5AM 5-speed automanual
CVT Continuously variable auto transmission
l/100km   Litres of fuel consumed every 100 kms

Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The goofy B-Class is touted as a Compact Sports Tourer, when it really is a tall hatchback. Though the A-Class is still in production, its sale seems to have been cancelled here, with this one taking its place. Mercedes-Benz is also touting their the sandwich concept, to which it credits the space-saving arrangement of the engine and transmission partly in front of and partly beneath the passenger cell, which in turn offers the interior spaciousness of larger saloons and estate cars despite its compact external dimensions. There is a height-adjustable load compartment floor, an asymmetrically divided, folding and removable rear seat unit plus an optionally removable front passenger seat, all of which allows conversion from a comfortable touring car to a practical van. Models include the B 150, the B 170, the B 200 and the B 200 Turbo, all four-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive, and available with a choice of manual or CVT automatic, plus all the creature comforts and safety features of a Mercedes-Benz.


Compact Crossover Hatchback



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Audi A3
BMW 1-Series
Volkswagen Golf
Price Range
 Dhs 99000 - 136000 (US$ 26900 - 37000)
Body Styles
 5-door hatchback
Weight (kg)
 1300 - 1370
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.5 I4 RWD
1.7 I4 RWD
2.0 I4 RWD
2.0TC I4 RWD		 5M/CVT
5M/CVT
5M/CVT
6M/CVT		 70
115
136
193		 140
155
185
280		 7.3-7.5
7.6-7.8
7.9-8.1
8.2-8.4		 13.2-13.5
11.3-11.5
10.2-10.4
8.2-8.4		 174
188
200
226
Good
 Cabin ambience, interior volume, fuel economy
Bad
 Power, price, misguided prestige




Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Available only as a sedan for now, the latest C-Class range is all-new for the 2008 model year, with some upgraded and some carryover engines. Featuring a wide range of engines that just confuses the average consumer, the C-Class can be optioned out as a bare commuter car or a beefy sports car. The optional AMG sports package offers attractive suspension, a special grille and cosmetic add-ons to any model. Starting off the new line-up are two supercharged 1.8-litre engines, in the C 180 Kompressor and the C 200 Kompressor, at different states of tune. The 2.5-litre C 230 four-cylinder comes next. The 3.0-litre V6-powered C 280 and the 3.7-litre V6-powered C 350 round off the range. Many of the lower models are offered with a manual gearbox in addition to the automatic, though dealers might be hesitant to order one for you. The diesel models are not promoted in this region. All cars come with a full set of safety features, including electronic nannies and multiple airbags, but many luxury features, such as 17-inch rims, navigation and even leather are optional on the base models. Trim lines include Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde. Depending on dealer, prices might be much higher in some countries.


Premium Compact Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Audi A4
BMW 3-Series
Jaguar X-Type
Price Range
 Dhs 115000 - 202000 (US$ 31100 - 55000)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1485 - 1550
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.8SC I4 RWD
1.8SC I4 RWD
2.5 V6 RWD
3.0 V6 RWD
3.5 V6 RWD		 6M/5A
6M/5A
6M/5A
6M/7A
7A		 156
163
204
231
272		 230
240
245
300
350		 7.8-8.1
7.9-8.2
9.6-9.4
9.4
9.7		 9.5-9.9
8.6-8.8
8.4-8.7
7.2-7.3
6.4		 220-223
230-235
233-240
244-250*
250*
Good
 Looks, luxury, fast top models, handling
Bad
 Slow base models, limited rear space, bloated price




Mercedes-Benz CL-Class

The CL-Class is a rare breed, always in the shadow of its S-Class sibling, on which is is based. Receiving a complete overhaul like the sedan, this coupe features numerous innovative safety technology, such as up-front sensors which make it possible to assess the impact severity at an early stage during a crash and activate the front passenger airbag in two stages depending on the severity of the accident. Other features include Active Body Control for better handling, Intelligent Light System using bi-xenon headlights with five different lighting functions to match weather conditions. Options include night-view assist with infrared headlamps, reversing camera, voice control for car radio, DVD changer and navigation as well as tyre pressure monitoring system. Models include the CL 500 with a 5.5-litre V8 and a CL 600 with a 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8, both with automatic transmissions. The standard automatic has the new DIRECT SELECT gearshift, which allows selection of the gear by nudging a lever on the steering column. Operating commands are transmitted electronically by wire.


Luxury Large Coupe



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Bentley Continental GT
BMW 6-Series
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Price Range
 Dhs 512000 - 700000 (US$ 139900 - 182000)
Body Styles
 2-door coupe
Weight (kg)
 1999 - 2190
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
5.5 V8 RWD
5.5TC V12 RWD
6.3 V8 RWD		 7A
5A
7A		 388
517
525		 530
830
630		 11.9
14.3
14.9		 5.4
4.6
4.6		 250*
250*
250*
Good
 Large presence, very fast, very luxurious
Bad
 Insane price, fuel economy, sedate styling details




Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

Available in both luxury convertible and pillar-less coupe models, the CLK-Class is an attractive extension of the C-Class platform. It packs the usual comfort and safety features typical of Mercedes-Benz, either standard or optional. Standard features include front and side airbags, ABS with Brake Assist and Electronic Stability Programme, common power features, pneumatically operated retractable rear head restraints, alloy wheels, good stereo and a host of upholstery options. The model range includes the 1.8-litre supercharged CLK 200 Kompressor, the 3.0-litre CLK 280, the 3.7-litre CLK 350, the 5.5-litre CLK 500 and the 6.2-litre CLK 63 AMG rocketship. Only the lower models have a manual gearbox option in addition to the automatic, though they make have to be special order. A new optional AMG package adds a sporty body kit, suspension and wheels to any CLK model. Other options include keyless start, navigation, an even better stereo and parking sensors.


Premium Compact Coupe / Convertible



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Audi A4
BMW 3-Series
Infiniti G35
Price Range
 Dhs 192600 - 367800 (US$ 52350 - 100000)
Body Styles
 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible
Weight (kg)
 1540 - 1820
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.8SC I4 RWD
3.0 V6 RWD
3.5 V6 RWD
5.5 V8 RWD
6.2 V8 RWD		 6M/5A
6M/7A
7A
7A
7A		 163
231
272
388
514		 240
300
350
530
630		 8.6-9.1
9.6-10.0
10.0-11.3
11.4-11.5
13.8-13.9		 9.1-9.7
7.2-8.2
6.4-7.1
5.2-5.3
4.6-4.7		 234
250*
250*
250*
250*
Good
 Quick, handling, non-offensive styling
Bad
 Price, rear seat access, relatively heavy




Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

The new CLS combines the elegance of a coupé with the practicality of a saloon. But even though it is a four-door sedan, Mercedes-Benz marketing folks like to incorrectly call it a coupe. Anyway, the CLS is a very expensive alternative to the car on which it is based, namely the E-Class. The CLS comes with an extensive list of standard features, including a 7-speed automatic transmission, ABS with stability program, CD radio with telephone keypad and 8 loudspeakers, cruise control with variable speed limiter, infrared remote control and visual locking-verification signal, speed-sensitive power steering, automatic climate control and two-stage front airbags and side bags, plus window bags. Models include the 3.7-litre CLS 350, the 5.5-litre CLS 500 and the 6.2-litre CLS 63 AMG, which replaces the outgoing CLS 55 AMG. Options include bi-xenon headlamps with Active Light System and cornering light function, COMAND control and display system for radio and navigation, Distronic proximity control, upholstery options, headlamp cleaning system, keyless start, parking sensors, semi-active air suspension, four-zone automatic climate control and a tyre pressure-loss warning system.


Luxury Midsize Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 road test

Competitors:
Audi A6
BMW 5-Series
Lexus GS
Price Range
 Dhs 291800 - 478400 (US$ 79300 - 130000)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1730 - 1920
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.5 V6 RWD
5.5 V8 RWD
6.2 V8 RWD		 7A
7A
7A		 272
388
514		 350
530
630		 10.1
11.4
13.9		 7.0
5.5
4.7		 250*
250*
250*
Good
 Sleek looks, classy interior, powerful engines, handling
Bad
 Limited headroom, price, all-round visibility, not a coupe




Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class is the bestseller in the Mercedes-Benz line-up, with its perfect size and luxurious accessories, if optioned out properly. Available in sedan and unpopular wagon body styles, the E-Class comes with a range of petrol and diesel engines, though the diesel engines are close to unwanted in this region. It underwent a pointless facelift recently, but features the same carryover internals. Models include the 1.8-litre supercharged E 200 Kompressor, the 3.0-litre E 280, the 3.5-litre E 350, the new 5.5-litre E 500 and the new 6.2-litre E 63 AMG. All come with automatic transmissions officially, though the base model can be had with a manual. Options include bi-xenon headlamps with Active Light System and cornering light function, COMAND control and display system for radio and navigation, Distronic proximity control, upholstery options, headlamp cleaning system, keyless start, parking sensors, semi-active air suspension, four-zone automatic climate control and a tyre pressure-loss warning system. A new AMG sports package is also available for sedans makes any trim look like the AMG model.


Luxury Midsize Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class road test

Competitors:
Audi A6
BMW 5-Series
Lexus GS
Price Range
 Dhs 154300 - 423000 (US$ 41950 - 115000)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 1570 - 1860
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.8SC I4 RWD
3.0 V6 RWD
3.5 V6 RWD/4WD
5.5 V8 RWD/4WD
6.2 V8 RWD		 6M/5A
7A
7A
7A
7A		 163
231
272
388
514		 240
300
350
530
630		 8.4-8.5
9.6-9.7
10.0-11.0
11.5-12.5
13.8-13.9		 9.1-9.9
7.9-8.0
6.9-7.9
5.4-6.4
4.5-4.6		 234
250*
250*
250*
250*
Good
 Pleasant looks, powerful engine choices, comfortable
Bad
 Price, softer than a sporting BMW




Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Gelaendewagen stands out anywhere, even in the heart of the urban jungle. Its classic beefcake looks have remained untouched for over 20 years apart from the interior where the comfort levels have been repeatedly upgraded. The trademark clean-cut, square-jawed lines have already made the G-Wagen a cult classic. The G-Class represents pure off-road driving pleasure. It is among the elite few off-roaders that combine comfortable surroundings with a complete suite of off-road equipment. The model range includes a five-door wagon, a three-door wagon and a two-door soft-top version of the three-door. Specific versions for the latest incarnation include the 3.7-litre G 350, the 5.5-litre G 500 and the 5.5-litre G 55 AMG Kompressor, as well as a 3.0-litre turbodiesel G 320 CDI. Standard specification includes permanent four-wheel drive with an off-road reduction gear plus the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, the Electronic Stability Program and three differential locks which can be operated at the push of a button. The G-Class is built for Mercedes-Benz by Magna Steyr in Austria, and has been since 1979.


Luxury Large 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Cadillac Escalade
Hummer H2
Range Rover
Price Range
 Dhs 258000 - 442000 (US$ 70000 - 120000)
Body Styles
 3-door wagon, 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 2260 - 2445
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.0TD V6 4WD
3.5 V6 4WD
5.5 V8 4WD
5.5SC V8 4WD		 7A
7A
7A
7A		 224
272
388
500		 540
350
530
700		 11.0
15.5-16.0
16.7-17.3
16.5		 11.0
9.0-9.5
7.0-7.5
5.5		 177
180
200
210*
Good
 Tough looks, luxury interior, excellent off-road
Bad
 Price, top-heavy handling, poor fuel economy




Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

The new GL-Class, built in USA, was intended to be the replacement for the classic Gelaendewagen, but criticism from the general public killed that idea. The GL-Class is now a separate model, supposedly a state-of-the-art luxury 4WD that offers typical Mercedes-Benz luxury with true off-road capability. The GL uses 4MATIC, the permanent Mercedes-Benz four-wheel drive system, with special off-road features such as Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), hill-start assist and off-road ABS assist. The package includes a two-speed transfer case with a low range ratio and 100 percent differential locks for the transfer case and the rear axle. In addition to the newly developed 5.5-litre V8 in the GL 500, the second model is the GL 450 with a 4.6-litre V8. Both come exclusively with a 7-speed automatic. Equipped with the third-row individual seats, the GL-Class is a full-size seven-seater. Either one or both seats can be electrically folded to create a continuously level load floor. All the usual Mercedes-Benz safety and luxury power features are included in this one too.


Luxury Large 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Cadillac Escalade
Infiniti QX
Lincoln Navigator
Price Range
 Dhs 288000 - 362000 (US$ 78200 - 98400)
Body Styles
 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 2386 - 2400
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
4.7 V8 4WD
5.5 V8 4WD		 7A
7A		 340
388		 459
530		 13.3
13.4		 7.6
6.6		 235
240
Good
 Space, power, stability, luxurious cabin
Bad
 Price, fuel economy, outer size, unoriginal looks




Mercedes-Benz M-Class

New from the ground up in 2006 and much more better-looking, the American-built M-Class, which actually uses the ML moniker, is a better on-road and off-road 4WD now. Mildly worked over for 2008 and facelifted for 2009, including the addition of a new V8, the M-Class is built for better off-road performance, with permanent all-wheel-drive plus 4ETS, a hill-start aid to help when climbing, and Downhill Speed Regulation to ensure constant speed on downhill tracks. In addition, the optional AIRMATIC package and ADS adaptive damping system so you can increase the ground clearance up to 110 millimetres at the touch of a button. Various aesthetic options include the off-road styling package, the Chrome package, the Sports package and the Interior equipment package. Models include the 3.7-litre ML 350, a new 5.5-litre ML 500, and the 6.2-litre ML 63 AMG. All come with a 7-speed automatic. Features include 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, man-made leather/Aspen fabric or leather upholstery, tyre pressure loss warning system, crash sensors, front and side airbags, CD radio with pre-installation for mobile phone and more.


Luxury Midsize 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class first look

Competitors:
BMW X5
Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Volkswagen Touareg
Price Range
 Dhs 221700 - 350000 (US$ 60250 - 95000)
Body Styles
 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 2135 - 2310
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.5 V6 4WD
5.5 V8 4WD
6.2 V8 4WD		 7A
7A
7A		 272
388
514		 350
530
630		 12.6
12.8
16.5		 8.4
5.8
5.0		 215
250*
250*
Good
 Fair styling, luxury interior, quick, handling
Bad
 Hefty price, hefty fuel consumption, hefty weight




Mercedes-Benz R-Class

The facelifted-for-2008 R-Class, a so-called Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes-Benz, is certainly a trendsetter. This unprecedented vehicle concept attempts to mesh the qualities of a sporty saloon, a wagon, a minivan and a 4WD. All we see is a very sleek-looking minivan. Packed under the hood are rather powerful engines, but that hardly makes it a sporting vehicle. Models from 2008 onwards include the new R 280, the carryover R 350 and the upgraded R 500, most available only in long-wheelbase trim here, and then there is the shorter R 63 AMG. Amazingly, it is very hard to tell the difference between long and short models. Originally available only as a luxurious six-seater, the R-Class is now optionally available with five or seven seats too. Sadly, few on the road recognise its eccentricity and price tag, so it gets as much respect in public as a typical cargo hauler. Features include a 7-speed automatic transmission, cruise control with variable speed limiter, automatic climate control and all-wheel-drive. Options include a panoramic sunroof, air suspension and navigation.


Luxury Large Minivan



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mercedes Benz R 350 L road test

Competitors:
Chrysler Grand Voyager
Honda Odyssey
Toyota Previa
Price Range
 Dhs 200000 - 405000 (US$ 54300 - 110000)
Body Styles
 5-door wagon, 5-door long wagon
Weight (kg)
 2195 - 2300
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.0 V6 4WD
3.5 V6 4WD
5.0 V8 4WD
6.2 V8 4WD		 7A
7A
7A
7A		 231
272
306
514		 300
350
460
630		 10.9
11.6
12.9
16.5		 9.6
8.3
6.9
5.3		 220
230
240
250*
Good
 Tons of space, luxury cabin, interesting styling, power
Bad
 Oversized exterior, V8 fuel economy, soft handling




Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The new generation S-Class is the top-selling luxury automobile in the Middle East thanks to its mix of luxury and road presence. Models mostly include long-wheelbase versions for now, which are the S 350 L, the S 500 L and the S 600 L, with a short-wheelbase S 65 AMG, all with automatic gearboxes. The new model features new steps in road safety with the second generation of the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system that predicts accidents and prepares the car's occupants for the crash by initiating safety measures such as pre-tensioning seatbelts, raising seat backs to the optimum position and even closing the sunroof. In addition, it also has optional Night View Assist which is an advanced after-dark vision system. Other features include enhanced COMAND system with 8-inch display and a controller on the centre console, Airmatic adaptive suspension and adaptive brake lights. Options include a reversing camera, panoramic sunroof, AMG bodystyling and either 19-inch or 20-inch light-alloy wheels.


Luxury Large Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class first look

Competitors:
Audi A8
BMW 7-Series
Lexus LS
Price Range
 Dhs 313000 - 626000 (US$ 85050 - 170000)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan, 4-door long sedan
Weight (kg)
 1925 - 2180
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.5 V6 RWD
5.5 V8 RWD
5.5TC V12 RWD
6.0TC V12 RWD		 7A
7A
5A
5A		 272
388
517
612		 350
530
830
1000		 10.2
11.9
14.3
14.7		 7.2
5.4
4.6
4.3		 250*
250*
250*
250*
Good
 Unique look, powerful engines, luxury cabin space
Bad
 Fuel economy, size, complicated gadgetry




Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

The SL has undergone a major redesign for 2009. Models now include a new 3.0-litre SL 280 base model, the continuing 3.5-litre SL 350, the carryover 5.5-litre SL 500 and the existingtwin-turbo 5.5-litre SL 600 rocketship. Upping the ante are two sport-tuned models, namely the new 6.3-litre SL 63 AMG and the twin-turbo 6.0-litre SL 65 AMG. Interesting features include optional Active Body Control suspension and optional neck-ventilation fan thingies. The redesigned front end sports different headlights and bumper, while the rear is mildly updated by new tail-lights and bumper spoilers. Along with new wheels on the outside, new interior appointments include new materials and colour schemes. Standard features include front airbags and head-thorax sidebags, ABS brakes, automatic climate control with dust filter and air recirculation, automatic steering wheel with adjustment on entry and exit, brake assist, central locking, cruise control with variable speed limiter, stability control, xenon headlights, leather upholstery, light-alloy wheels, CD radio with 8 speakers and more.


Luxury Sports Convertible



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
 Bentley Continental GT
BMW 6-Series
Cadillac XLR
Price Range
 Dhs 330000 - 920000 (US$ 89900 - 250700)
Body Styles
 2-door convertible
Weight (kg)
 1815 - 2120
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.0 V6 RWD
3.5 V6 RWD
5.5 V8 RWD
5.5TC V12 RWD
6.3 V8 RWD
6.0TC V12 RWD		 7A
7A
7A
5A
7A
5A		 231
316
388
517
525
612		 300
360
530
830
630
1000		 9.4
9.9
11.9
13.9
13.9
15.1		 7.8
6.2
5.4
4.5
4.6
4.2		 250*
250*
250*
250*
250*
250*
Good
 Stylish exterior, very quick, practical top
Bad
 Expensive to own, petrol hog, too heavy, luggage space




Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class

The second-generation SLK, a hard-top convertible, boasts a better-looking design than its limited competition from Germany. Several details take their cue from Formula 1, like its arrow-shaped nose. The range starts with the 1.8-litre supercharged SLK 200 Kompressor, and goes up to V6 models such as the 3.0-litre SLK 280 and the new 3.5-litre SLK 350, while Mercedes-AMG builds the top 5.4-litre SLK 55 AMG. Standard equipment includes light-alloy wheels of various sizes, projection-beam headlamps, LED tail-lights, manual six-speed transmission on non-AMG models, stability control, remote control locking system and cruise control. Options, standard on high-spec models, include 18-inch alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling, Designo upholstery, sports suspension, speed-sensitive power steering, steering wheel gearshift buttons for the optional automatic transmission, bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light, parking sensors, electric seats with memory function, infrared remote control for the vario-roof, COMAND navigation system with DVD player, and a Harman/Kardon LOGIC7 surround-sound system with 11 speakers.


Premium Sports Convertible



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Audi TT
BMW Z4
Porsche Boxster
Price Range
 Dhs 180000 - 300200 (US$ 48900 - 81600)
Body Styles
 2-door convertible
Weight (kg)
 1390 - 1540
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.8SC I4 RWD
3.0 V6 RWD
3.5 V6 RWD
5.4 V8 RWD		 6M/5A
6M/7A
6M/7A
5A		 163
231
272
367		 240
300
350
510		 8.7-9.1
9.6-10.0
9.9-10.3
12.0		 7.9-8.1
6.2-6.5
5.6-6.0
4.9		 230
250*
250*
250*
Good
 Looks, nimble, quick, flexible top, nice cabin
Bad
 Seats only two, limited luggage space




Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

The SLR McLaren is an impressive celebration of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula 1 partner McLaren in the development and production of high-performance sports cars. The two-seater, with its striking swing-wing doors and styling elements borrowed from the Formula 1 Silver Arrows, builds on the legacy of the famous SLR racecars of the 1950s. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it is designed to ensure a high standard of safety, comfort and class-leading speed. The specially-developed supercharged 5.4-litre V8 engine, with an automatic, delivers an impressive output rivaling traditional super cars, powering up to as much as 334 kph. The body of the new SLR, like F1 racecars, is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composites. However, the body itself is hardly the most attractive of supercars, with an overlong snout and a short rear. Many might confuse it for a 'bargain' SL or SLK, though it should still attract a lot of attention. The SLR has a spoiler mounted on the rear which pops up when braking from high speeds. A special lighter 722 edition has black alloy rims and more power. A convertible Roadster joined the range for 2008.


 Luxury Sports Coupe / Convertible



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Aston Martin Vanquish
Ferrari 599 GTB
Lamborghini Murcielago
Price Range
 Dhs 1887800 - 2024000 (US$ 513000 - 550000)
Body Styles
 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible
Weight (kg)
 1724 - 1768
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
5.4SC V8 RWD
5.4SC V8 RWD		 5A
5A		 626
650		 780
820		 14.8
15.0		 3.8
3.6		 334
337
Good
 Look-at-me styling, nice cabin, quite fast, great handler
Bad
 Seats only two, fuel economy, outrageous price




Mercedes-Benz Viano

The Viano is a very large and versatile minivan that can be optioned up to become a true luxury transportation. It has a variable seating rail system that lets you remove or reposition seats in a short time, and a variety of storage options. The Viano can accommodate up to eight people and luggage of all shapes and sizes. And with innovative equipment, including a folding table and a cool box for long journeys, it is a great long-distance cruiser. This is because, in addition to the independent suspension all round, the optional air suspension for the rear axles uses automatic level control to maintain optimum weight distribution for the best possible traction and steering in all situations. The air suspension also lets you raise or lower the Viano’s rear floor by up to 50 mm at the touch of a button. Various trim choices include a short body, long body and very long body. Engine choices include two 2.2-litre turbodiesel engines with different tuning, and a 3.7-litre petrol motor. All come with automatics, though the diesel models can be had with a manual.


Premium Large Minivan



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Chrysler Grand Voyager
Kia Carnival
Toyota Previa
Price Range
 Dhs 120000 - 200000 (US$ 32600 - 54400)
Body Styles
 5-door minivan, 5-door long minivan
Weight (kg)
 2040 - 2135
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.2TD I4 RWD
2.2TD I4 RWD
3.7 V6 RWD		 6M/5A
6M/5A
5A		 109
150
231		 270
329
345		 7.4-7.8
7.0-7.1
18.2		 17.6-18.0
13.0-14.9
10.0		 154-157
173
200
Good
 Utility, tons of space, luxury features, comfortable
Bad
 Very slow, outer size, handling






Back to New Vehicle Guide
Home

















Copyright © 2004-2040, DriveArabia.com; All rights reserved
Drive Arabia serves Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates car markets, but is also relevant to the Middle East region, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Bahrain.