William Maley

It is no secret that Jeep has been toying with the idea of introducing a model smaller than the Renegade (see our story back in January). According to a new report from Autocar, Jeep might announce plans to do just that. In June, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles will be holding their five-year plan announcement. This is where the company outlines what's in store for the brands under the FCA umbrella. Autocar says Jeep is likely to announce their sub-Renegade model during it. As we reported back in January, the 'baby' Jeep would likely use the platform that underpins the Fiat 500 and Panda 4x4. It would be aimed at the European market where there is a growing demand for small crossovers. Jeep CEO Mike Manley said Latin America could also be another market for the 'baby' Jeep. Source: Autocar View full article

BMW has plans of launching 25 electrified models by 2025 - 12 of those being fully electric. But don't expect to start seeing mass production of those 12 models anytime soon. BMW CEO Harald Krueger told analysts in Munich that its current electric vehicle technology is not profitable enough to scale up to volume production. “We wanted to wait for the fifth generation to be much more cost competitive. We do not want to scale up with the fourth generation,” said Krueger. The difference in costs between the fourth and fifth-generation according to Krueger "was a “two digit number” in percent terms." BMW is currently developing a sixth-generation of electric technologies that encompasses research into battery cells, and will hopefully bring down the costs. Currently, BMW's only EV is the i3. The lineup will expand beginning next year with the MINI E. This will be followed by the iX3 crossover in 2020. A sedan based on the iVision Dynamics concept will also be joining the lineup, though when exactly is unclear at this time. Auto Express which first reported this news says it will come out in 2020. But when asked by Automotive News Europe, Krueger said, "we shall see." Source: Reuters, Auto Express, Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required) View full article

Cadillac is updating the CT6 for 2019 with revised styling including a grille inspired by the Escala concept, new headlights, and reshaped trunk lid. The interior boasts an updated infotainment system with a 10-inch 1080P touchscreen and rotary dial controller with physical shortcut buttons to most used functions. But the big news is under the hood. Cadillac is introducing an all-new twin-turbo 4.2L V8 engine with double overhead cams. Making its debut in the all new CT6 V-Sport, the V8 produces 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Cadillac says this engine is a clean-sheet design, as evidence by the “hot-V” configuration - the turbochargers sit in between the cylinder banks to reduce turbo-lag and making the engine more compact. The V8 sends its power through a new 10-speed automatic to all four wheels. The engine will be hand-built at GM's Bowling Green, Kentucky's Performance Build Center. In 2019, a lower output version of the twin-turbo V8 will become an option on the CT6, producing 500 horsepower. The only differences between the high and low-output versions are a different ECU tune and more restrictive exhaust. Other performance goodies for the CT6 V-Sport include revised settings for the steering and Magnetic Ride Control system; limited slip differential, larger brakes, active exhaust system, summer-only performance tires, and a Track Mode setting. Exterior changes include a blacked-out grille, 20-inch wheels, "high-lumen" headlights, and integrated spoiler. The introduction of the CT6 V-Sport also marks a change in how Cadillac organizes their trim lineup. It will become forked with Luxury trim on one side and V-Sport on the other side. No word on when the 2019 Cadillac CT6 will arrive at dealers. Source: Cadillac Press Release is on Page 2 Cadillac Introduces First-Ever CT6 V-Sport New high-performance V-Performance model V-Sport model boasts all-new Cadillac 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 First in a series of new Cadillac performance vehicles Cadillac today unveiled the CT6 V-Sport, the first-ever V-Performance model of its top-of-range sedan. The introduction of the high-performance variant coincides with a makeover of the entire CT6 lineup that incorporates the newest iteration of Cadillac’s design language featured on the Escala Concept. The Cadillac V-Sport portfolio currently includes the CTS V-Sport and the XTS V-Sport. “Cadillac V-Sport is the embodiment of our passion to deliver an exhilarating driving experience without compromises,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “The all-new CT6 V-Sport provides the perfect balance of performance and luxurious refinement.” The CT6 V-Sport boasts an all-new Cadillac 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 Cadillac -estimated at 550 horsepower (410 kW) and stunning 627 lb-ft of torque (850 Nm) that elevates the CT6’s performance to a new plateau and offers drivers an unparalleled experience behind the wheel. The engine is a clean-sheet design and introduces unique design elements developed to balance performance and efficiency with compact, mass-efficient packaging. At the center of the Cadillac Twin Turbo V8 is a “hot V” configuration that transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems to mount the turbochargers at the top of the engine — in the valley between the heads — to virtually eliminate turbo lag and reduce the engine’s overall packaging size. “With the introduction of the all-new CT6 V-Sport, Cadillac begins a new chapter in its performance legacy with the introduction of the brand’s first-ever twin-turbo V-8 engine,” added de Nysschen. “It is the centerpiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sport sedan infused with DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned and championship-winning motorsports program.” The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Its broad, 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance and contributes to reduced engine speed on the highway for refinement and efficiency. Narrow steps between the gear ratios also help the engine maintain the optimal speed for maximum power at almost all vehicle speeds. OPTIMIZED FOR PERFORMANCE The first-ever Cadillac CT6 V-Sport includes a bold, dark front with a large V-inspired mesh grille and new horizontal LED headlamps with strong vertical signatures, making it distinctly Cadillac. Lower aero components and Gloss Black side window surround trim provide the performance sport sedan’s chiseled exterior with a dark and distinguished look. New, unique 20-inch V-Sport wheels with summer-only tires[1], lower aero components and spoiler further express the sedan’s performance capabilities. New, summer-only performance tires developed exclusively for Cadillac V-Sport are tuned to deliver crisp response and track capable performance while retaining isolation and comfort. Mechanical limited-slip rear differential increases traction at the limit and provides more predictable performance during spirited and track driving. V-Sport specific suspension tuning for improved roll control, cornering capability and steering response. A new 19-inch Brembo brake system developed specifically for the CT6 high-performance application. Brembo monoblock, fixed-opposed, four-piston Equipped with performance linings and air deflectors that direct air to cool the brakes during sporty, aggressive driving Modified steering and Magnetic Ride Control damper calibrations Exhaust system with active valves offering reduced back pressure and more sound character Tuned for V-Sport model, with a performance oriented exhaust note TRACK MODE, OPTIMIZED FOR PERFORMANCE Maximized Magnetic Ride Control damper control Re-mapped steering efforts for sportier, dynamic feedback Track-tuned Active Rear Steer Revised AWD torque split Unique, track-focused stability controls Track focused active exhaust valve calibration “The CT6 V-Sport was developed for driving enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: a high-performance sports sedan and a luxury car with all the comforts and technology that come with it,” said Lyndon Lie, CT6 chief engineer. “With its lightweight architecture, an all-new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 coupled with the tightened suspension and revised AWD torque split, we’ve enhanced the CT6 to be well-balanced and capable of all conditions.” REFRESHED CT6 LINEUP CT6 retains a dominant vertical light signature and adds horizontal elements to give the front end a more aggressive appearance. That inspiration continues to the back with the new rear lighting graphic, which is most visible at night. "The V-Sport gave us the opportunity to accentuate the aggressive dynamics of the architecture," said Andrew Smith, executive director of Cadillac Design. "The CT6 is the first entry that incorporates cues for the new Sport and V-Sport model strategy, which allowed us to make the car look as powerful as it drives." In addition to the introduction of the CT6 V-Sport, the 2019 CT6 lineup incorporates Cadillac’s new “Y” trim strategy for its models — each model will have Luxury and Sport trims with distinct personas and features. On non-V-Sport CT6 models, new horizontal high-lumen headlights and a revised taillight design refresh Cadillac’s signature lighting, inspired by the Escala Concept. INTUITIVE TECHNOLOGIES Led by the latest Cadillac user experience — the brand’s most advanced infotainment interface — the CT6 offers a connected environment. The Cadillac user experience is a dynamic platform that offers a smartphone-like experience with an intuitive interface, faster response and improved voice recognition from previous generations. The system can be updated over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs. It leverages the cloud and available embedded 4G LTE connection to enable personalization, available connected navigation and news, marketplace and entertainment applications via the app store and a new rotary controller that offers users alternative ways to interact with the system. The new controller includes volume and seek forward/back controls for the audio system; shortcut buttons for fast access to the most frequently used apps such as Audio, Phone, Navigation (if available) and Home; and a large center dial to operate primary features of the most frequently used apps, scroll menus and lists and select other apps to be displayed. Additional CT6 technologies include: Super Cruise, the first truly hands-free driver assistance feature for the freeway, is available (non- V-Sport only)[ii]. The 10-inch diagonal Cadillac user experience interface screen has 1080p HD resolution. Next-generation, 5-watt wireless charging with larger charge area for better phone compatibility[iii]. Available Cloud-connected navigation provides real-time traffic and routing. Rear-seat Infotainment has media input through USB, HDMI or Wi-Fi connection to a phone. The second-generation Rear Camera Mirror has a new frameless design and zoom and tilt features. The full suite of available active safety features includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, and Safety Alert Seat Available Surround Vision provides a 360-degree camera view around the vehicle, displayed on the Cadillac user experience screen, helping the driver avoid nearby objects during low-speed maneuvering Available industry-first Surround Vision Recorder video recording system can record front and rear views while driving, and 360 degrees of recording if the vehicle’s security system is activated. Night Vision helps identify people and large animals via heat signatures on a display in the driver information center. Available Automatic Parking Assist with Braking steers the vehicle and applies the brakes at idle speed to help park in parallel or perpendicular spaces while the driver follows text commands, selects gear, and overrides braking and acceleration as needed. Available Front Pedestrian Braking provides pedestrian detection indications, alerts and automatic braking to help avoid collisions or reduce the harm caused by one. New available Rear Pedestrian Detection alerts the driver, when in Reverse, of an imminent collision with a pedestrian by providing visual notification on rear view camera display. Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver's responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle's owner's manual for more important feature limitations and information. Cadillac Introduces First-Ever Twin-Turbo V-8 Engine Sophisticated, all-new 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 is at the heart of new CT6 V-Sport’s exemplary performance Cadillac begins a new chapter in its high-performance legacy with today’s introduction of the brand’s first-ever twin-turbo V-8 engine. It is the centerpiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sports sedan infused with DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned motorsports program. Developed as a small-displacement V-8 in the classic vein and offering exceptional power density of 131 hp (98 kW) per liter, this new Cadillac-exclusive 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 — GM estimated at 550 horsepower (410 kW) and 627 lb-ft of torque (850 Nm) — elevates the CT6’s performance to a new plateau and offers drivers an unparalleled experience behind the wheel. An optional 500-horsepower version will also be available. “Cadillac’s performance technology reaches new heights with the new and exclusive 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “The engineering prowess embodies the very spirt of Cadillac performance on and off the racetrack.” The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 is a clean-sheet design that also introduces unique design elements developed to balance performance and efficiency with compact, mass-efficient packaging. “Designing an all-new engine was the best way to achieve the performance goals for the CT6 V-Sport,” said Jordan Lee, 4.2L TT V-8 chief engineer. “It builds on Cadillac’s well-established turbocharging know-how and forges new ground with innovative features that deliver exceptional performance and refinement.” At the center of the 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 is a “hot V” configuration that transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems to mount the turbochargers at the top of the engine — in the valley between the heads — to virtually eliminate turbo lag and reduce the engine’s overall packaging size. In a conventional turbocharged engine, the cylinder heads receive the pressurized air charge through ports at the top of the engine and the exhaust exits through ports on the lower outside of the heads into manifolds connected to the turbochargers. With Cadillac’s innovative hot V design, the intake-charged air enters through the lower outside of the heads and exits through the top inside — where the turbochargers are integrated with the exhaust manifolds — for quick spool-up that translates into more immediate power delivery. The design also allows closer mounting of the catalytic converters, for efficient packaging. Additional engine highlights: Twin-scroll turbochargers Electronic wastegate control Twin water-to-air charge coolers Twin throttle bodies Direct injection Dual-independent camshaft phasing Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) Variable-pressure oiling system Stop/start technology Each engine will be hand-built at the Performance Build Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky. SMALL DISPLACEMENT, LARGE EFFECT The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8’s foundation is an all-new, durable and lightweight aluminum cylinder block that houses an equally robust, lightweight rotating assembly composed of a forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods and high-strength aluminum pistons. The crankshaft’s 90.2mm (3.55 inch) stroke complements the cylinder bores’ 86mm (3.39 inch) diameter to give the engine its 4.2L (255 cubic-inch) displacement. Its comparatively small bore dimension enables the reduction in the size and weight of the pistons, optimizing the engine’s geometry to match the fast-rev capability permitted by the engine’s low-inertia, twin-scroll turbochargers. The result is exceptional responsiveness and immediacy of power across the rpm band. The turbochargers produce up to 20 pounds of boost (1.38 bar) and are matched with electronic wastegate control for more precise boost management and more responsive torque production. In fact, 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque is available at only 2000 rpm, and it is carried through 5200 rpm for a confident, virtually bottomless power reserve. TWIN-SCROLL TURBOCHARGERS The turbos’ twin-scroll design broadens their performance capability, offering quicker response and greater efficiency. Rather than a single spiral chamber (scroll) feeding exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold to drive the turbine on each turbocharger, the twin-scroll design has a divided housing with two exhaust gas inlets and two nozzles to drive the turbine. Generally, one of the nozzles contributes to quicker response and boost production, while the other contributes to overall peak performance. Each of the engine’s integrated exhaust manifolds/turbocharger housings splits the exhaust channels from the cylinder head so the exhaust flows through separate scrolls based on the engine’s exhaust pulses. When matched with precise valve timing, that separation leverages exhaust-scavenging techniques to optimize gas flow, improves turbine efficiency and reduces turbo lag. The electronically controlled wastegates — one per turbocharger — are used for more precise management of the engine’s boost pressure and subsequent torque response for smoother, more consistent performance. They are independently controlled on each cylinder bank to balance the turbo compressors’ output, for greater boost pressure response. WATER-TO-AIR CHARGE COOLING AND DUAL THROTTLE BODIES An efficient water-to-air charge-cooling system contributes to the engine’s performance, enhancing the turbochargers’ effectiveness. Similar in concept to an engine’s radiator, the system’s intercoolers cool the boosted air charge before it enters the cylinders. Cooler air is denser, which means there is more oxygen in a given volume, resulting in optimal combustion and more power. The system features a pair of heat exchangers located above the valley-mounted exhaust manifold/turbocharger housings. The turbos pump pressurized air directly through the heat exchangers and into the cylinder heads. The heat exchangers are cooled by their own coolant circuit. The intercoolers lower the air charge temperature by more than 130 degrees F (74 C), packing the combustion chambers with cooler, denser air. Also, the system achieves more than 80 percent cooling efficiency with only about 1 psi (7 kPa) flow restriction at peak power, which contributes to fast torque production. Before entering the combustion chambers, the cooled air charge flows through a pair of throttle bodies, one for each engine bank. Each electronically controlled throttle body has a 59mm diameter opening. NEW 10-SPEED TRANSMISSION The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Its wide, 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance and contributes to reduced engine speed on the highway, which enhances refinement and efficiency. Smaller steps between the gears also help the engine maintain the optimal speed for maximum power at almost all vehicle speeds. ADDITIONAL TECHNOLOGIES Direct fuel injection is used to optimize efficiency and performance. With direct injection, a higher compression ratio — 9.8:1 — is possible because of a cooling effect as the injected fuel vaporizes in the combustion chamber, reducing the charge temperature to lessen the likelihood of spark knock. A pair of engine-mounted, camshaft-driven high-pressure fuel pumps supplies fuel to the specialized injectors at 5,075 psi (350 bar), with each pump supplying fuel to one bank of the engine. Active Fuel Management (AFM), also known as cylinder deactivation, imperceptibly shuts down half of the engine’s cylinders in certain light-load driving conditions to enhance fuel economy. Unique deactivating rocker arms are used for each of the four valves of the cylinder being deactivated. Dual overhead camshafts and a virtually silent chain-driven valvetrain contribute to the smoothness and the high output of the Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8, while dual independent continuously variable valve timing helps deliver optimal performance and efficiency. The dual independent system, which allows the intake and exhaust valves to be phased at different rates, promotes linear delivery of torque with near-peak levels over a broad rpm range, and high specific output (horsepower per liter of displacement) without sacrificing overall engine response or drivability. Oil jets located in the block are employed for performance and temperature control. Four jet assemblies in the engine drench the underside of the pistons and the surrounding cylinder walls with an extra layer of cooling, friction-reducing oil. The jets reduce piston temperature, allowing the engine to produce more power without reducing long-term durability. Variable-pressure oiling system. A variable-displacement vane oil pump enhances efficiency by optimizing oil pressure as a function of engine speed. With it, the oil supply is matched to the engine load rather than the linear operation of a conventional, fixed-flow oil pump. The engine uses 10 quarts of General Motors’ dexos2 0W40 motor oil. Stop/start technology shuts down the engine when the vehicle stops momentarily, such as at stoplights. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes their foot off the brake. An auxiliary battery powers electric accessories such as the climate system, power windows and radio during engine restarts. SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type: 4.2L twin-turbocharged DOHC V-8 with Active Fuel Management, direct injection and stop/start Bore and stroke (in / mm): 3.39 x 3.55 / 86 x 90.2 Block configuration: 90-degree V-8 with five cross-bolted nodular iron main bearing caps; with provisions for jet-spray oil cooling Block material: A319 sand-cast aluminum with pressed-in iron liners Crankshaft: Forged steel Pistons: High-strength hypereutectic aluminum with friction-reducing polymer skirt coating Connecting rods: Forged steel with floating wrist pins Cylinder heads: Cast aluminum “hot V”-type with 36mm intake valves and 29mm sodium-filled exhaust valves Compression ratio: 9.8:1 Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshafts; four valves per cylinder with and dual independent valve timing Firing order: 1-5-4-3-6-8-7-2 (1-4-6-7 with Active Fuel Management engaged) Ignition system: Coil-on-plug Fuel delivery: Direct injection with dual electronically controlled 59mm throttle bodies Turbocharging system: Two low-inertia twin-scroll turbochargers with electronically controlled wastegates and water-to-air intercooling Max boost: 20 psi (1.38 bar / 138 kPa) Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 550 / 410 @ 5700 (CT6 V-Sport) – est. 500 / 373 @ 5000-5200 (CT6) – est. Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 627 / 850 @ 3200-4000 (CT6 V-Sport) – est. 553 / 750 @ 2600-4600 (CT6) – est. TRANSMISSION Type: Hydra-Matic 10L90 ten-speed electronically controlled automatic Gear ratios (:1) 4.696 – 1st 2.985 – 2nd 2.146 – 3rd 1.769 – 4th 1.520 – 5th 1.275 – 6th 1.000 – 7th 0.854 – 8th 0.689 – 9th 0.636 – 10th 4.866 – Reverse View full article

Mercedes-Benz used the Geneva Motor Show to introduce an updated version of the C-Class sedan. Next week at the New York Auto Show, Mercedes will follow this up with the introduction of the 2019 C-Class coupe and cabriolet. The exterior is slightly re-worked with a new grille and LED head and taillights. C43 models feature more prominent diffuser and circular exhaust tips at the rear. Inside, all C-Class coupes and cabriolets get a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen as standard. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is available as an option. The C 300's turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder sees a slight boost in horsepower from 241 to 255. On the other end, the C43's 3.0L twin-turbo V6 sees horsepower bumped from 362 to 385. On the safety front, the C-Class coupe and cabriolet can be optioned with the Intelligent Drive suite of driver assistance technologies. This includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, land change assist, active steering assist, and automatic emergency braking. Like the 2019 C-Class sedan, the coupe and cabriolet will be available at Mercedes dealers later this year. Source: Mercedes-Benz Press Release is on Page 2 The new C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet The two-door C-Class models are now even sportier Mar 20, 2018 – Stuttgart: Just a few weeks after the world premiere of the newly updated C-Class sedan and wagon, the two-door version of the C-Class appears in top form with the redesigned coupe and cabriolet. Sportiness and driving pleasure have been enhanced with a sharper design, digital cockpit and new, more powerful engines. The new, efficient four-cylinder engine on the C 300 and C 300 4MATIC models and upgraded AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter V6 in the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC underscore the dynamic nature of this highly emotional and appealing C-Class model. The redesigned 2019 C- Class Coupe and Cabriolet will be celebrating their World Premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018 and will go on sale in the U.S. by late 2018. The secret of the C-Class's success is partly due to the wide model range, also including two sporty two-door versions: the coupe, launched at the end of 2015, and the cabriolet, launched in 2016, each address the heart and mind in equal measure. Shortly after the redesigned C-Class Sedan was introduced, the two-door models too are benefiting from extensive revisions. The most important enhancements at a glance: New four-cylinder engine for sporty driving pleasure with high efficiency Advancement of the sporty design in particular at the front and tail end, new light-alloy wheels, new colors Standard LED High Performance headlamps with new design; optional LED Intelligent headlamps with ULTRA WIDE Highbeam Enhanced interior with larger central media display equipped as standard (10.25 inches), optionally available digital instrument cluster (12.3 inches) and new multifunction steering wheel with Touch Control Buttons. Many opportunities for individualization, e.g. through new Natural Grain trim elements Future-oriented driving assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz with S-Class functions and cooperative driver support Sport plus efficiency: new four-cylinder The following C-Class Coupe and models are available: Coupe C 300 C 300 4MATIC AMG C 43 Cylinders/arrangement 4/in-line 4/in-line 6/V Displacement (cc) 1,991 1,991 2,996 Output (hp) 255 255 385 at rpm 5,800-6,100 5,800-6,100 6,100 Max. torque (lb-ft) 273 273 384 at rpm 1,800-4,000 1,800-4,000 2,500-5,000 Acceleration 0-60 mph (s) 5.9 est. 5.9 est. 4.5 est. Top speed (mph) (electronically limited) 130 130 130 Cabriolet C 300 C 300 4MATIC AMG C 43 Cylinders/arrangement 4/in-line 4/in-line 6/V Displacement (cc) 1,991 1,991 2,996 Output (hp) 255 255 385 at rpm 5,800-6,100 5,800-6,100 6,100 Max. torque (lb-ft) 273 273 384 at rpm 1,800-4,000 1,800-4,000 2,500-5,000 Acceleration 0-60 mph (s) 6.1 est. 6.2 est. 4.6 est. Top speed (mph) (electronically limited) 130 130 130 More powerful, more efficient engine The 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet will also benefit from a new 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine that produces 255 hp (vs. 241 previously), an increase in 14 hp, and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Coupe and Cabriolet are also equipped with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission that affords a dynamic driving experience. Mercedes-AMG: More performance for the C 43 With a multitude of carefully coordinated measures the AMG developers have enhanced the vehicle dynamics even further. The AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter V6 engine now produces 385 hp (vs. 362 hp previously), an increase in 23 hp. The peak torque of 384 lb-ft is available in a wide engine speed range from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. The new C 43 Coupe accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds (estimated), and the Cabriolet in 4.6 seconds (estimated). 4MATIC all-wheel drive: Traction even in difficult road conditions At market launch the C 300 is available with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive for improved traction and driving stability, especially in adverse road conditions. The 4MATIC has an active all-wheel torque distribution of 45 % to the front and 55 % to the rear. As ever, the combination of the ESP® driving dynamics control system with the 4ETS electronic traction system makes regular differential locks superfluous. This saves weight and noticeably improves handling safety as well as ride comfort. The all-wheel drive is standard equipment for the Mercedes-AMG C 43, and features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. More dynamic design and LED High Performance headlamps as standard The newly redesigned C-Class combines emotion with intelligence. The vehicle's appearance is defined in particular by its front and tail end and the design of the headlamps and taillamps. The front design exudes sportiness at first glance. Powerful styling elements such as the new bumper and the standard-fit diamond radiator grille lend the two-door C-Class models an individual character. The standard-fit LED High Performance headlamps have a new design that lends an especially distinctive appearance. For the first time in this model series, LED Intelligent headlamps with ULTRA WIDE high beam are additionally available (see below for details). The rear appears broad and agile, thanks to dynamic details and a standard-fit two-pipe exhaust system. A particular highlight both day and night are the revised, more accentuated all-LED taillamps. The sporty design features are heightened with the AMG Line. For example, the AMG Line exterior includes the diamond radiator grille with chrome pins plus an AMG-specific front bumper with new geometry, sporty air intakes and its chromed trim element. The exterior with the Night Package sports an even more athletic look with its black design features. These include the black trim elements in the AMG front bumper and the AMG rear bumper plus exterior mirror housings painted in high-gloss black. The paint color spectrum has also been broadened. New colors are Mojave Silver Metallic and – exclusively for the coupe and cabriolet within the C-Class family: Graphite Grey. Digital cockpit The sporty interior with its individual integral-look seats is characterized by further-enhanced perceived quality and flowing shapes and the facelift takes it into the digital era. The center console is characterized by an elegant flowing trim element with new materials: Natural Grain Brown Walnut or Natural Grain Grey Oak. Magma Grey/Black are newly available as interior colors. The KEYLESS-GO starting function is standard. The start/stop button comes in a new turbine-look design. The vehicle key also features a new design. On the cabriolet, the soft top can be operated from the outside with the vehicle key and the "Open/Close" buttons. An eye on the future: fully digital instrument cluster available as an option The standard multimedia display above the center console has a 10.25-inch screen. The C-Class also features a new optional, fully-digital instrument cluster with the three visually distinguishable styles "Classic," "Sport" and "Progressive," which also transform the look of the central display when equipped with this option. The C-Class has touch-sensitive controls in the steering wheel that respond to swiping motions like the screen of a smartphone. They enable the driver to control the functions of the instrument cluster and of the entire infotainment system without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. The operation of DISTRONIC and cruise control with controls directly on the steering wheel is another new feature. The infotainment system can additionally be operated via the touchpad with controller (new: haptic feedback) in the center console or by means of voice control. Vehicle functions such as the seat heating can now also be voice controlled. The optional head-up display is now adjustable over an even wider range. Future-oriented assistance systems on a par with the S-Class The new C-Class features the latest Mercedes-Benz driving assistance systems offering the driver cooperative support, and therefore provides a higher level of active safety than its predecessor. The C-Class is able to drive semi- autonomously in certain situations. To do this it keeps a close eye on the traffic situation: improved camera and radar systems allow it to see up to approximately 1,640 feet (500 m) ahead. The vehicle's surroundings are scanned by radar across a distance of up to approximately 820 feet (250 m) to the front, 130 feet (40 m) to the sides and 260 feet (80 m) to the rear, while with the camera a range of up to 1,640 feet (500 m) is possible to the front, including 295 feet (90 m) in 3D. The C-Class also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driver Assistance Package is able to give the driver map-based support in numerous situations, and predictively adjust the speed e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Other new developments include intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist as new functions of Active Steering Assist. The new C-Class comes with extended Active Brake Assist as standard. Depending on the situation, this can help to mitigate the consequences of rear- end collisions with slow-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead, and even with crossing pedestrians and cyclists, or prevent them altogether. LED Intelligent headlamps: Optimum visibility in all conditions LED Intelligent headlamps are new and available on request in the coupe and cabriolet. These allow electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic situation. In high-beam mode, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus enables continuous long- range illumination of the road ahead. When no other road user is detected, the road ahead is straight and the vehicle speed is above 25 mph, ULTRA WIDE high beam is switched on automatically. When there are oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead, the high beam is automatically switched off. The ULTRA WIDE high beams are always active only if high beam mode has been manually switched on. The multimedia systems: Tailor-made information and music offerings The C-Class comes as standard featuring Apple CarPlayTM and Android Auto smartphone integration, two USB ports, an SD card reader, Bluetooth connection and media interface. The latest-generation COMAND Navigation available as optional equipment offers fast 3D hard-disc navigation with topographical map display, photo- realistic 3D buildings and 3D map rotations. Comprehensive information is displayed on the navigation map: in addition to real-time traffic density information it can e.g. include Car-to-X warning messages, the weather, filling stations including current fuel prices and free parking spaces. With the Concierge service (included for one year in conjunction with COMAND, and available as a subscription service thereafter), Mercedes me connect customers have a host of individual services at their disposal: from making restaurant reservations and obtaining tips about tourist routes, to gathering information on cultural or sporting events and sending navigation destinations directly to the vehicle. The C-Class uses NFC technology Mobile devices corresponding to the Qi standard can be charged conveniently while on the move with the optional wireless charging system. The charging surface in the quick stowage tray at the front of the center console is also suitable for large smartphones. Both C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet models are produced at the Mercedes-Benz Bremen plant. The redesigned 2019 C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet will be celebrating their World Premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018 and will go on sale in the U.S. by late 2018. View full article