For The First Time

First of all, they ditched the four separate headlamps, an E-Class staple since 1995, in favor of a single one-piece unit on each side that encompasses all lighting elements. Mercedes says that the graphic design of the inner elements retain the “four-eyed” look while both the day-time running lights and the dipped beam have partial LED lights as standard and full LED lights are offered as an option. For the first time, the E-Class, like the smaller C-Class, will be available with two different front-end designs. The base and Elegance trim levels feature the classic grille with three louvers and the three-pointed star on the bonnet, while the Avantgarde gets the sporty treatment with the star integrated in the grille. In the cabin, the main highlights are the redesigned center console, the new instrument cluster, a two-part wood or aluminum trim that runs across the entire dashboard and a new analogue clock between the central air vents. All versions of the E-Class will be equipped with an electromechanical Direct-Steer steering that combines speed-sensitive power assistance and a variable ratio of the steering gear. The 2014 model will be available with four suspension set-ups. In Europe, Mercedes-Benz will offer the new E-Class with either a six-speed manual or the 7G-Tronic seven-speed auto transmission and no less than 18 engines, all of them fitted with an auto stop/start system. Of course, there’s also an armada of safety systems.

Keeping the car settled at the rear without sacrificing passenger comfort, a four-link independent setup with the springs and shock absorbers positioned apart from each other are matched with a separate sub-frame and another tubular anti-roll bar. The sport-tuned arrangement comes with an added benefit - increased cargo space - by allowing for a larger rear hatch opening. Helping the Volkswagen Golf GTI to head into the corners with ease is an electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system. With good on-center feel, confidenceinspiring responsiveness to driver input at all positions, active-return steering, and straight-ahead driving correction assistance, the system seamlessly unites the GTI and its driver. New for the sixth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI is a standard Electronic Limited Slip system that Volkswagen has named XDS. The system electronically monitors input from various wheel sensors and, in the event of slippage, transfers extra torque to the wheel or wheels with the most traction. Like all Volkswagens, the GTI also includes the Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of 40 standard safety features.

The 2010 GTI continues its performance showcase inside the cabin, with accommodations that will delight both driver and passengers. Heavily bolstered front seats are wrapped in patterned sport fabric with red and white doublestitching throughout, come standard with eight-way manual adjustment, adjustable lumbar support and head restraints, and are heated. On two-door models, both front seats incorporate the Easy Entry System for improved access to the rear seating area. The three-spoke flat bottom steering wheel has been upgraded with an embossed center section, aluminum trim on the spokes, red stitching, and perforated leather along the top and bottom sections for better grip. The instrument panel has also been redesigned, with chrome trim surrounding the large tachometer on the left, which incorporates a smaller, integrated engine temperature gauge as well as the matching speedometer on the right, which features an integrated fuel gauge. Standing between the black analog gauges is a multi-function onboard computer display that provides the driver with key information regarding the fuel mileage, odometer, and more. Metallic highlights continue throughout the interior, gracing the gearshift knob, the trim inserts and the pedal cluster, and brushed-metal accents add a sense of sophistication to the HVAC controls and stereo unit. The Volkswagen Golf GTI's Autobahn options package for both the two and four-door models adds top sport front seats, leather seating surfaces front and rear, and a power sunroof.

Stuttgart/Bonn, Germany, Dec 22, 2010 - In its biggest order in Germany this year, Mercedes-Benz Vans will deliver a total of 1,300 Mercedes-Benz Sprinters to Deutsche Post DHL. Delivery of the Sprinters to the customer commenced in December 2010, and the last vehicles are scheduled to go into operation in one year’s time. Mercedes-Benz Vans won over the customer by offering the most economical solution and the best technology, putting it far ahead of the competition. The first vehicles were officially handed over today by Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, to Thomas Zuber, Head of the Letter and DHL Parcel Delivery unit at Deutsche Post DHL. The handover took place at one of the Mercedes-Benz dealerships for Cologne and Leverkusen in Frechen. “We’re very happy about this major order and are also proud that an important customer like Deutsche Post DHL is relying on our vehicles,” said Mornhinweg. The main reason why Mercedes-Benz Vans obtained the order for the parcel delivery vehicles is that the Sprinters meet very high technological standards and fulfill the customer’s special wishes. For example, the vehicles get good marks for their high durability and low-emission Euro 5-compliant engines.