Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

With the new CLE Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its long tradition of four-seater open-top dream cars. Expressive design, intelligent technology and upmarket equipment guarantee driving pleasure at an exclusive level. This new model is based on the sporty CLE Coupé. However, the classic fabric acoustic soft top and additional high-quality details give it a character of its own. The CLE Cabriolet combines dynamic driving characteristics with a high level of everyday comfort for year-round open-air enjoyment.

Open-air fun any time of year

The AIRCAP® electric wind deflector system and the AIRSCARF® headroom heating system are standard equipment. Both systems have been further developed. They make open-top driving in cool outside temperatures more pleasant. AIRCAP® consists of two elements: the wind deflector on the windscreen directs airflow over the occupants’ heads. It extends at the touch of a button. The automatic wind deflector behind the rear head restraints reduces turbulence more efficiently. AIRSCARF® produces even warmer airflow around the necks and throats of front-seat occupants – even in unfavourable wind conditions.

The standard-fit fabric acoustic soft top also contributes to the year-round usability of the CLE Cabriolet. It is available in the colours black, red or grey. The multi-layer structure with extensive insulation provides the basis for the best thermal comfort in all seasons. It also reduces wind and driving noise. The soft top opens and closes within 20 seconds up to a road speed of 60 km/h. For the first time, it is powered exclusively by electricity, making it even quieter. The standard-fit powered roller divider automatically separates the folded soft top from the remaining luggage compartment.

Sporty luxury in a class of its own

The freestanding 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display and the 11.9-inch driver-oriented central display in portrait format are eye-catchers in the interior. The latter can be electrically tilted from 15 to 40 degrees to prevent distracting glare when the soft top is down. Another highlight is the optional dynamic ambient lighting. Bands of light sweep from the cockpit over the doors and rear side panels to behind the rear seats. This stylish wraparound feel is enhanced by two further details: the top of the dashboard, the beltlines and the soft-top stowage lid are upholstered in black man-made nappa leather effect. Added to this is the chrome trim that runs around the entire passenger compartment.

To prevent the optional leather seats from heating up too much in the summer, they have a special coating which reflects the sun’s near-infrared rays. As a result, the leather remains up to 12 degrees cooler in direct sunlight than untreated standard leather. Even with the top closed, the interior heats up less thanks to the cool seat covers. The choice of colours offered for the sun-reflecting leather and nappa leather are: black, macchiato beige/black, tonka brown/black, power red/black and white/black. The standard AVANTGARDE Line offers ARTICO/MICROCUT man-made leather in black.

The front seats developed exclusively for the CLE have an integral sports seat design. In conjunction with the optional Burmester® 3D surround sound system, they each have two loudspeakers level with the head restraints. This creates a particularly personalised and immersive music experience with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio close to the ear. This premium sound system has a total of 17 loudspeakers.

Generous space inside

As the largest convertible in the mid-size segment, the sporty two-door model offers a high level of long-distance comfort for four people. The dimensions are: 4,850 millimetres long, 1,861 millimetres wide, 1,424 millimetres high and a wheelbase of 2,865 millimetres. Rear passengers in particular benefit from the extra 25 millimetres on the wheelbase. Among other things, they have 72 millimetres more knee room and 19 millimetres more shoulder and elbow room. This makes the vehicle significantly more spacious than the C-Class Cabriolet.

With a volume of 385 litres (295 litres with the top down), the boot is extremely practical for everyday use. If required, this is extendable using the folding rear seat backrests. Customers can conveniently fold them down from the boot in a 60:40 split. Access to the luggage compartment is contactless and fully automatic with HANDS-FREE ACCESS. KEYLESS-GO is also part of standard equipment. The vehicle doors lock and unlock by touching the door handle.

Exceptionally interactive and customised

The entertainment offering is highly interactive and personalised. The third generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system enables third-party apps. The MBUX Entertainment package is optionally available via the Mercedes me Store. It includes internet radio, music streaming and a data package from a selected third-party provider.

Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX also offers a new level of personalisation with automated convenience functions. At market launch, customers will be able to use templates for standard routines. Examples include “Cold days” (seat heating switches on at a certain outside temperature) or “Date night” (romantic music plays via Bluetooth audio; the ambient lighting turns pink). Users access the templates via a carousel in the central display. They can also create their own routines, by linking several functions and conditions. They do this on the central display and the resulting routines appear under the “My routines” menu heading.

Dynamic and comfortable driving experience with a powerful, top-of-the-range six-cylinder engine

The chassis of the new CLE Cabriolet enables driving pleasure on winding roads. At the same time, it offers exceptional ride comfort on long journeys. The comfort suspension, which has been lowered by 15 millimetres, is fitted as standard. It combines a supremely comfortable ride with responsive, sporty handling. A sports suspension with an amplitude-selective damping system is available as an option.

The optional DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension facilitates a highly adjustable driving experience ranging from extremely sporty to comfortable through continuous, adaptive damping front and rear. The active suspension individually controls the damping characteristics for each wheel in conjunction with the engine, transmission and steering characteristics. This takes into account the driving situation, speed and road conditions. The DYNAMIC SELECT switch gives the driver a choice between a comfortable or firmer, sportier setup.

All engines are mild hybrids. Each has an integrated starter-generator and 48-volt on-board electrical system.

“Sublime, that’s the word that I would use to describe the all-new CLE model offerings that we have made available to our customers. These are the cars that people dream about, and they do not disappoint. We have come in very competitively with our pricing and customers have unmatched choice in terms of crafting their desired CLE model to their specification.” Alex Boavida. Vice President Sales and Marketing MBSA.

Bucket Seat: Merecedes Benz EQS 680 - Maybach

Mercedes-Maybach, the legendary brand is entering a new era of unrivalled electrification - in line with Karl Maybach’s maxim: “What is good must also be beautiful. The Maybach brand is synonymous with performance, luxury, and exclusivity, now, thanks to Mercedes-Benz it is also electric. For just over a century, Maybach has meticulously handcrafted objects of desire which have led to this moment where Mercedes-Benz South Africa welcomes the arrival of a new benchmark in the all-electric luxury space – the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV Maybach.

The special exterior with the iconic upright Mercedes star on the bonnet and a striking black panel front adorned with the Maybach lettering, ensures an unmistakable appearance. The optional two-tone paintwork is also typical of the luxury brand.

Thanks to exquisite materials, perfect craftsmanship and exclusive details, the spacious interior offers a holistic comfort experience with a cocooning effect. With its consistent interpretation of Sophisticated Luxury, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV sets the new benchmark in the all-electric top-end luxury SUV segment. The South African market has been allocated a limited number of this exclusive vehicle entrenching its exclusivity amongst the most discerning of clientele.

“The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is our first all-electric, full-size luxury SUV and a testament to our vision. The interior is an emotional and stylish statement, a blend of luxury and technology in the most harmonious sense. The immense power offered by the latest electric technology ensures an effortless driving experience. Together with the innovative, progressive SUV proportions, we are completely redefining the SUV luxury of the future not just globally but locally as well.” Mark Raine Co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The exterior design with a front end typical of the brand, chrome accents and iconic brand emblem

Mercedes-Maybach enriches the dynamic purpose design of the EQS SUV from Mercedes-Benz with exclusive elements that give it its very own character. The renowned Mercedes star sits enthroned on the hood, defining the status. The front is characterised by the brand-typical black panel with vertical, chrome-plated trim strips in a three-dimensional depth look. The large black panel is smooth closed for the first time. The high-tech element for the radar sensors is fully integrated and no longer visible. Mercedes-Benz development succeeded in using the material indium, which is permeable to radar beams, in the entire panel area. The wafer-thin, shiny silver material is covered with a black lacquer finish. This creates a unique high-gloss black appearance with an extraordinary depth effect.

Chrome-plated, filigree slats can be found on the air intake of the bumper. The classic MAYBACH lettering is discreetly incorporated into a chrome-plated decorative strip, which forms a unit with the continuous light strip of the standard DIGITAL LIGHT headlights. The Maybach pattern with several small brand emblems can also be found in trim parts of the side bumper. DIGITAL LIGHT welcomes and says goodbye to the driver with a special light show. When the doors are opened, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV also welcomes its passengers with a Maybach emblem that is projected onto the ground next to the vehicle via the exterior mirrors.

When viewed from the side, specific features include the bold chrome surrounds on the side windows and the chrome-plated B-pillar trim. This decorative element is an integral part of the Mercedes-Maybach signature and highlights the length of the rear seating area. A Maybach emblem on the D-pillar underlines the high quality. The lettering EQS is subtly integrated into the front window triangle. The pronounced wheel arches with claddings in high-gloss black emphasise the SUV’s power and emotional presence. Appropriately, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV rolls on exclusive 21 or 22-inch alloy and forged wheels. The MAYBACH lettering can be found on the integrated, exquisitely designed wheel hub caps. Another eye-catcher are the standard running boards, which are illuminated in the dark. The treads are made of anodised aluminium, which echoes the pinstripe look of the black panel front. The Maybach emblem is also stylishly integrated here.

At the rear, the rear lights underline the exclusive character as a continuous light strip with a two-part helix. The lights are animated across the entire width. There are also chrome trim elements on the tailgate, on the rear apron and the spoiler lip, as well as the MAYBACH lettering.

The special appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV also includes the brand-typical two-tone paintwork with a filigree pinstripe. It is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria and is available in five colour combinations: high-tech silver/obsidian black, high-tech silver/nautical blue, obsidian black/selenite grey, obsidian black/Kalahari gold and velvet brown/onyx black.

Distinguished in a class of its own: automatic opening and closing doors.

AnOther exclusive feature are the automatic comfort doors at the front and rear. If the driver approaches the vehicle from the side, the recessed door handles extend from a distance of around six metres. The driver’s door opens automatically when the driver approaches the vehicle at a distance of about 1.5 metres. This exceptional welcome function can be activated and deactivated in the MBUX central display. All other doors can be opened and closed remotely via MBUX – with a simple press of the vehicle key or in the central display or the standard MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment. The driver’s door also closes automatically as soon as the brake pedal is depressed.

In each door there is an electric servomotor on the catch strap. On command of the control unit, the doors are swung open and closed in a controlled manner. To prevent damage, the system uses the ultrasonic sensors of the parking assistance systems. They are located in the bumpers and monitor the surroundings when parking. As soon as they detect an obstacle, additional information from the cameras in the exterior mirrors is used. When opening the doors, the system considers any detected obstacles. Proximity sensors in the doors are also active when the vehicle is stationary. They scan the surroundings while opening.

The interior design is a fusion of tradition and avant-garde luxury

The design of the interior also consistently follows the Maybach credo “What is good must also be beautiful”. A highlight for the front passengers is the standard MBUX Hyperscreen with “zero layer” and Mercedes-Maybach specific start-up animations on all three displays. The overall visual appearance is specially designed for the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV in an elegant deep blue. The numerous exclusive features include the animated display of the instrument cluster in “MAYBACH” mode. The pointers in the two tubes are designed like a silk scarf that moves elegantly in the wind according to the speed and driving style. At the same time, the digits change their size and are dynamically faded in or out. The surrounds for the round instruments are in rose gold, which is typical of the brand. An alternative display form to the tubes is the sporty “Pure EV” style. A three-dimensional performance bar conveys the respective driving status (driving, accelerating, charging).

The central display starts with the familiar home screen and the so-called “zero layer”. In this basic setting, the navigation map dominates. The driver can carry out 80 percent of the most common interactions directly without changing the application. The system reacts situationally and is personalised with intelligent suggestions and forward-looking offers.

The rear passengers experience the same extensive range of infotainment and comfort features with two 11.6-inch displays on the backrests of the front seats. With the standard MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment, content can be shared quickly and easily on the various displays. It is also possible to select and modify the navigation destinations from the rear seats. The standard equipment also includes the MBUX rear tablet, which can also be used outside the vehicle, and the MBUX Interior Assist.

Natural materials made with perfect craftsmanship create a stylish contrast to the high-tech look. Natural woods are available as trim parts: MANUFAKTUR brown open-pore birch wood and brown open-pore MANUFAKTUR walnut wood, as well as MANUFAKTUR piano lacquer black flowing lines. The Mercedes‑Maybach EQS SUV comes standard with Exclusive Nappa leather in the warm colours espresso brown/balao brown pearl. Macchiato beige/bronze brown pearl is optionally available. For an even more sophisticated look, Maybach MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather is available as an option in crystal white/silver grey pearl. The leather in all interior colours comes from sustainable processing.

The Maybach emblem, which is integrated at various points as a design element, underscores the high-quality appearance that is typical of the brand. It adorns the stainless steel pedal system, the cushions on the headrests, the front seat backrests and, as a projection, the footwell in the rear. In conjunction with the first-class rear, it can also be found on the wood trim between the rear seats. When the boot is open, it can also be seen on the inner lining of the tailgate. The brand lettering differentiates the steering wheel and welcomes all passengers on the stainless steel door sills in illuminated form.

Resource-saving luxury: Mercedes-Maybach introduces vegetable-tanned Nappa leather

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is the first model from Mercedes-Benz AG to be fitted with vegetable-tanned leather. Among others, coffee bean shells are used as tanning agents. The water used for tanning is conducted in a closed circuit and flows back into natural bodies of water after recycling. The fat liquoring agents used in tanning are also exclusively plant-based. The sustainably processed leather is not preserved with salt. This saves around 45 kilograms of salt per vehicle with leather seats. New upcycling products such as compostable flowerpots, insulating foams or decking boards are created from the “by-products” of tanning. The sustainably processed leather is therefore resource-saving. The coffee farmers also benefit as they receive a second income from selling the coffee bean shells.

Mercedes-Benz has defined binding criteria for sustainably processed real leather. An important procurement requirement for suppliers is that the leather supply chain must be free from any form of illegal deforestation. The grazing areas must not contribute to the endangerment or loss of natural forests. In this context, the partners must disclose their entire supply chain from the farm region to the end product. The leather skins may only come from animals that are kept in a species-appropriate manner. Only vegetable or alternatively sustainable tanning agents that are completely chrome-free may be used for tanning. For the refined leather, Mercedes-Benz requires its partners to carry out an eco-balance across all stages of the value-added process (Life Cycle Assessment).

Mercedes-Maybach wants to combine luxury with sustainability. In the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, a number of parts and components are made from resource-saving materials. For example, the interior is covered with Econyl carpet. It is made with a nylon yarn from recycled materials such as carpets and fishing nets. Secondary steel and recycled aluminium are also included. The use of recycled materials is an important measure on the way to decarbonisation. Added to this is the net carbon-neutral production of the Mercedes‑Maybach EQS SUV and its battery at the Mercedes-Benz plants in Alabama, USA. The aim of Mercedes-Benz is to at least halve CO₂ emissions per passenger car in the new vehicle fleet over the entire life cycle by the end of this decade compared to 2020 levels.

The rear: exclusive lounge with a holistic comfort experience for all the senses

In the rear of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, the combination of exquisite materials, perfect craftsmanship and exclusive details creates a self-contained feel-good atmosphere for all the senses - the so-called cocooning effect. Like the front seats, the standard Executive seats are equipped with ventilation, massage function and neck and shoulder heating. There is also a calf massage and the Chauffeur Package. As soon as the right rear passenger chooses the reclining position, the front passenger seat automatically moves forward to the chauffeur position. The massage programmes are also available as part of ENERGIZING COMFORT.

With the equipment First-Class Rear, the front centre console continues like a floating band to the rear seats. It was redesigned for the all-electric Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV. Wooden trim adorns the rear storage compartment for the first time. It complements the wooden trim on the backs of the front seat backrests and between the rear seats, visually reinforcing the cocooning feel-good atmosphere. Also new is a projector in the centre console that discreetly projects the Maybach emblem onto the floor. As in the Mercedes‑Maybach S-Class, the additional equipment includes two thermal cup holders and a shelf for the standard MBUX rear tablet. Four fast-charging USB-C ports and two HDMI interfaces also ensure that travellers can easily use their own digital devices. On request, the centre console can include two folding tables and a cooling compartment with space for champagne bottles. Matching silver-plated goblets are optional.

Diverse possibilities for individual lighting moods

A designer lamp is integrated into each of the C-pillars. The adaptive rear lighting offers additional reading lights in the grab handles and light strips in the headlining. Both the brightness and the size and position of the light spots can be adjusted. At the same time, a wide range between precise work and relaxed lounge light is possible. The setting of the light colour automatically follows the human daily rhythm but can also be adjusted by hand. Added to this is the Ambient Lighting, which runs through the entire vehicle, right up to the roof liner and behind the rear seats. In addition, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV contains Active Ambient Lighting with 253 individually controllable LEDs and 64 individually selectable colours. These include the Maybach-specific colour schemes of Rose Gold White and Amethyst Glow. The diverse options for individual lighting moods also underline the cocooning effect. The brand-typical “Welcome” presentation welcomes the passengers with a special light play: a carpet of light runs across the vehicle and particularly sets the scene for the rear doors.

Air quality: pollutants stay outside

ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus with HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air) ensures good air quality as standard. The air quality sensor supports the fresh air recirculation switch. The air-conditioned circulating air is filtered several times in circulating air mode. The HEPA filter effectively cleans the incoming outside air of fine dust, very small particles and pollen. 

A special activated carbon in both the HEPA filter and the cabin filter also filters sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides as well as odours. Flushing with fresh air takes place at regular intervals. The pre-air conditioning makes it possible to clean the interior air before boarding. The particulate matter values outside and inside the vehicle are also displayed in MBUX. They are listed in detail in their own air quality menu. If the quality of the outside air is low, the system can also make recommendations to close the side windows or sunroof.

Active scenting: exclusive magical fragrance – also to be experienced visually

The active scenting also appeals to the sense of smell and is part of the standard AIR BALANCE Package. A special fragrance was created for the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV. No.12 MOOD ebony is an extraordinary and polarising fragrance transporting one into the world of magic. It does not aim to please but to seduce. Soothing and fantasy-stimulating sandalwood gives a touch of the Orient. The combination with beguiling freesia and spicy clove evokes associations of an exotic spice market. No.12 MOOD ebony is an exclusive composition full of longing, attraction and devotion.

The sound experience: immersive music enjoyment and specific Maybach driving sound

With the standard Burmester® 4D surround sound system, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV offers the ultimate sound experience. It features the Dolby Atmos® immersive audio experience, which gives music more space, clarity and depth. Dolby Atmos® makes it possible to place discrete audio elements or objects in a three-dimensional sound field and adapt them to any playback environment. Passengers can hear their music with a clarity equal to the artist’s original studio composition.

The sound system includes 15 speakers: two front bass speakers in the front footwell, one midrange and one tweeter in each door, two 3D speakers in the headliner, two surround speakers in the luggage compartment cover and a center speaker in the instrument panel. There are also two exciters in each seat. The direct reproduction of structure-borne noise in the seats makes the listening experience four-dimensional. Passengers in the front passenger seat and in the rear can also apply the 4D sound to the audio content of the headphones. The sound can be individually adjusted for each MBUX user profile.

With different sound worlds, the driving sound also becomes an acoustic experience. “Aerial Grace” is the name of the driving sound that was specially created for the all-electric Mercedes-Maybach model and can be heard in the interior. It is interactive and reacts to a dozen different parameters including accelerator pedal position, speed and recuperation. Using intelligent sound design algorithms, the sounds are calculated in real time on the amplifier of the Burmester® 4D surround sound system and played back by the loudspeakers.

The suspension: comfortable, adaptable and with a special MAYBACH driving programme

The highest standards also apply to driving comfort. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard. To increase the ground clearance, the vehicle level can be raised by up to 25 millimetres. Rear-axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5

degrees is also standard. Alternatively, the rear wheels can be turned up to 10 degrees. This enables a turning circle of 11.0 instead of 11.9 metres, which corresponds to that of many compact models.

In addition to the DYNAMIC SELECT driving programmes ECO, SPORT, OFFROAD and INDIVIDUAL, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV has the special MAYBACH drive programme. It replaces the classic COMFORT programme and is designed entirely for maximum driving comfort for the rear passengers. It ensures that there are only minimal body movements under the rear seats. An oscillation node is located there, so that the amplitudes are at their lowest. The MAYBACH driving programme is the standard setting.

“Mercedes-Maybach customers expect the extraordinary, and we aim to exceed their high expectations. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV unites our ambition to lead in digital and electric with our focus on the luxury segment. The very first all-electric vehicle from Mercedes-Maybach complements the best technologies from Mercedes-Benz with the extra comfort and individual details that are only available from Mercedes-Maybach.” Alexandra Boavida, VP Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz South Africa

Bucket Seat: Mercedes Benz A200 Hatch

When the A-Class was first introduced to the world, it served as a more affordable option to own a brand that was seen as elite and a pinnacle of what cars should be. While it didn’t have the allure of the S-Class, it still gave owners the bragging rights to say they drive a “Merc”. The A-Class was an odd looking thing at the time though, to use the American term, “mini van” comes to mind when looking at the first generation of it. Even the launch of the A32K AMG didn’t do much for its image as a whole but credit to them, the A-Class did sell decently in local and overseas markets with it being the ideal type of “city car” for Europeans and “soccer mom” cars for the rest of the world. The second generation saw it get a nice nip tuck with sharper angles and a more neater trim but by then the appeal of it seemed to have died down, Mercedes took cognisance of it and hence the 3rd generation saw a shift in the A-Class’s from being a mini van to hatchback and spurred on an epic rival of the line. This offered the company the ideal platform to take on a whole new segment which was long enjoyed by another German rival. With the 4th generation just receiving a light update, the A-Class, remains one of the more popular models in the Merc range and with the range topping AMG derivatives in the A35 and A45S pushing mind boggling performance figures, the normal A200 and A250 still deserve a fair shout. I spent a week with the A200 hatch in AMG trim and this is what I thought about it.

DESIGN

There’s just something about a good looking car in black. Yes, the colour automatically makes the car look good but when the design of the is great, the colour black just accentuates the design and make it that more bolder. The lines of the A-Class are sublime, from the angular shark like nose flowing with the subtle curves that extend into the body and ties into the rear so well. The headlights feature the new multibeam LED’s which do a little dance when the car is powered up in the dark. While they do serve a very good purpose, the blue hues do add a cool contrast to that front end that’s dominated by the three pointed star emblem which is poised perfectly in the centre. With the AMG trim the grille gets the tri-star treatment ad well. The car came fitted with optional 19-inch multi-spoke AMG rims finished off in black which gave the car a stealth like look. The interior does receive some minor tweaks but nothing too evident, apart from the removal of the track pad that now is just is an oddly shaped storage tray.

PERFORMANCE

Powered by 1.4 litre turbocharged engine, the A200 doesn’t boast big numbers like its AMG siblings, but it does offer a spirited feel to it. 120kW is derived from the engine along with 270Nm of torque which translates to an adequate drive but also maintaining a level of economy that won’t get you visiting the filling station every week. If driven properly, the A200 could be quite frugal I’m told but with only 5 days with it, I wasn’t going to be pussyfooting this things around the streets of Durban. The shape and size of this car makes it the perfect weapon to navigate the twistys and hills and that’s where I went hunting with it. The car is so accurate with the steering, it almost felt like you’re in a go-kart at times, the torque factor gets the acceleration in for the short bursts of speed required and that is what makes the drive in this entertaining. Many will say that yes, while it is fun, its not that fast, yes, if you want fast you buy the AMG's. If you want something that can do your daily drives, but provide that a drive that's not completely boring, you get this. 

COMFORT

Seeing it's the smallest car in the Mercedes-Benz stable, you'd expect it to be a tiny cabin but thanks to modern ergonomic design practices, the A200 is roomy enough to seat 4 adults. There are still some questionable design practices on the dash that I have personal issues with, like the height of the cubby hold that is in front of the front passenger seat. A tall person like myself has to move the seat a bit more back to avoid it hitting my knees, this affects the leg room for the passenger behind me. Mind you, the design does look great but perhaps on the next one they could re-look at this. I did mention that the track pad for the car has disappeared, that is thanks to the new MBUX system that includes a touchscreen infotainment center and intuitive AI which takes commands via voice. It works damn well and can understand just about any voice and any accent without a hassle. I hardly found myself having to repeat myself when giving it instructions as mundane as they were. Apple and Google could learn a thing or two from Merc's tech as I battle with Siri most of the time! The car comes standard with pretty much all the tech you'd expect to find in a modern day luxury car. While some of the materials do feel a bit low quality compared to other models in the Merc line up, one must understand that this is the entry level car you're getting into so you can't have everything at a cheaper price. One thing I must take my hats off to Mercedes for is their ambient lighting, in pictures it looks tacky but when you're sitting in the cabin at night with it illuminated in the colours of your choice, it's just something else. 

VERDICT

The A200 has a lot to offer, even with it being the entry level Mercedes-Benz, they try to stay true to who they are as a premium luxury brand. While the costs of the cars are quite high, it's nice to see them as a brand taking note of this and offering financial support facility with Mercedes-Benz Agility drive, which can be customised to the individual's spending power. With each car being a direct representation of the owner, given the choices of colours and specifications they can deck their ideal car to be like, it's worth considering if you want an A200 but unsure on how to finance it. Even though my first stint in the A class was the A45S then the A35 AMG's, I took quite a liking to the A200 as it served it's role perfectly as a daily drive that offered everything that one would need, in terms of looks, practicality, space and comfort. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.4 -litre turbo, 4 cylinder
Gear Box	8-speed automatic
Torque	270Nm
Power	120kW
Fuel consumption	6.4 liters per 100km
Price	R755,985*

*base price

Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Benz GLC300d

The crossover has fast evolved since its introduction to the motoring market, from being a mixture of a sedan or hatch on stilts, it's fast  becoming more of an SUV as newer models are introduced and that is exactly what Merc have done with the latest model of their GLC. Blending what the C-Class offers in terms of a luxury sedan but mounting it on an SUV platform that not only gives you the comforts you'd normally associate with the C-Class but the driving platform that gives the driver the option to venture in more tricky terrains. While I agree, the SUV culture in SA leaves much to be desired as the main purpose for people getting cars with raised ride heights and bigger tyres are to mange the poor road conditions we're faced with rather than exploring the beaten track, but that being said, we cannot ignore the massive upsurge in the segment, so much so that manufactures are creating more and more variants for people to choose from. The GLC is now in its second generation and after spending a few days with it, I will attempt to dissect my thoughts and experiences with you in this review. 

DESIGN

The exterior design of the GLC is a perfect mixture of elegance and robust, with it still looking classy but you can tell it can kick up some dirt if need be. The front grille which is the main focal point of the design has the new star pattern across it with the solid bar that links the main tr-star logo which sits bold and prominent in the center. With this particular test model being in black, the chrome accents really elevated the cars design and lines, making it stand out more. The headlamp cluster which feature the Digital light projection LED's has a different shape to the C-Class and integrates with the radiator grille following the lines of the nose down from the bonnet. The GLC came with the AMG style package which featured a sportier diffuser with black accents, 19-inch multi-spoke black rims and an aluminium look running board on the side with rubber studs, to serve as a step for the car. The new tail lights wrap around the well sculptured rear of the GLC, keeping that elegant look from back to front. The interior is a carbon copy of the C-Class sedan with a few minor tweaks to accentuate the SUV nature of the car. Overall, an extremely attractive looking package from the brand and one that fits in well to any environment. 

PERFORMANCE

All new Mercedes-Benz cars come fitted with engines that feature mild-hybrid technology which offer and electric boost from batteries that power an electric motor to give you extra performance and assist in lowering the fuel consumption of the car. This particular model came fitted with a 2-litre, 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine that produces 198kW plus an addition 17kW from that electric boost giving it a total power output of 215kW and 550Nm of torque. While the appeal of diesel engines is fast declining, it applications like an SUV, I still think they have a major role to play and I'm glad that Mercedes-Benz have invested the money into integrating the hybrid engines with the diesel motor which many brands are refusing to do. The performance in the GLC is felt almost instantaneously and this can be dialed up or down by scrolling through the various driving modes. With its 9G tronic gearbox, the car cruises through the gears with ease, knowing when to downshift or upshift at optimal times to give you the performance required at the time. Should you wish to be in charge, there is paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel for you take over which I found to be on very rare occasions. 

COMFORT

With the increase ride height and slight roomier cabin, the GLC interior makes for a very pleasant place to be. While the new design language hasn't completely won me over yet, the large displays do make me as a tech geek very happy. The MBUX interface is extremely easy to use and navigate which is a big plus in my book as some manufacturers still make it tricky for the user to perform simple tasks. Everything is very neatly laid out with most functions being controlled by the large infotainment screen, the car has wireless phone connectivity for mobile apps and USB C ports located in the storage space under the arm rest. The digital instrument cluster is customisable to each drivers preference and this is controlled via the multi-function steering wheel. I still find this a bit tricky to use at times so I normally opt to just use the touch screen interface. The AMG line means this cabin comes with the sporty seat upholstery and layout with redesigned headrests, all of which are electric adjustable via the controls on the door. It has AMG sport pedals finished in silver, dashboard and beltlines in ARTICO man made leather that has a black nappa-look to it. Most of the interior pieces are finished in high-gloss black with silver chrome surrounds. The car came with a glass panoramic sunroof which I made use of all the time, I just love the amount of natural light that gets into the cabin from it. The ambient lighting in the GLC, just like any other Merc is next level and really is a stand out feature for me.

VERDICT

Mercedes-Benz have done a stellar job on this second generation GLC, it feels a lot more SUV like than the previous gen, offering a great ride quality, modern interior and comforts that you can only experience in a Merc. Some of the gadgets do take some time to get used to but for an overall driving dynamic, it ticks all the boxes. The host of safety features in this car is quite a long list and each paying a pivotal role in keeping the driver and in occupants safe throughout any journey, The luggage space is plentiful and the automatic tailgate makes loading and unloading a breeze. When compared to the others in the segment, this one does stand out but seeing that it is one of the newer models, the others have to play catch up. This also explains the higher price tag than the others, which does raise ones eye brows when doing comparisons. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L 4 Cylinder Turbo Diesel
Gear Box	9G tronic
Torque	550Nm
Power	198+17kW
0-100km	6.3 seconds
Price	R1,323,894*

*base price

Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Benz C200

If there was ever a brand that signified luxury, safety and innovation, that brand would be Mercedes-Benz, for decades they've led the roost in producing cars that were admired by all, and when one purchased a car with the three-pointed star, it brought about a sense of accomplishment not only for the owner but for those around them too, a sort of "I own a Benz now, I made it in life". Till today the brand still has that level of superiority over the others in the market, even though some of their competitors are making better cars than Stuttgart based brand, something I feel that the brand themselves have started to realise, hence a kick up their own arse was required. In my family, we've owned two Mercedes-Benz models, both made in the late 80's but whenever we drove in them, there was that sense of snobbery we felt when driving in such luxury, something that many felt was drowned out in some of the later models, having never tested a car from the brand before, getting the call to have my first test car booked was pretty exciting. I was very happy that it was from the C-Class line, a car that I witnessed in its W204 generation being manufactured in the plant in East London, the very same plant that this car was assembled in, so it was nice knowing that my first test car from Merc started its journey of life on local shores. 

DESIGN

The new C-Class design just exudes luxury, with its sleek lines and dynamic curves, mimicking the bigger brother the S-Class in a slightly more compact frame. I say slightly because the C-Class is by no means a small car, it measures just over 4.7 meters in length and 2 meters wide. The look is claimed to be dynamic and progressive with Mercedes-Benz looking to minimize the lines with a more smoother sculptured surface, which translates in a minimalistic design. This gives the car a great overall look of a unique blend of sportiness and luxury that many other brands fail to hit on the head. With the cars wider stance and sleek appearance, it looks like its going to devour the road in front of it, with the newly designed diamond grille with in star design to the striking new headlamps with LED technology, it certainly looks the part when looking at it from head on. The rear of the car is stylish with the two-section tail lights encompassing a beautiful LED design which are mesmerizing when illuminated. The interior design is nothing short of blissful luxury, with the perforated leather seats looking very inviting to all. The futuristic design of the dash which is part of the new MB design language that has also been adopted in some of the EQ models is very unique and sets the brand apart from its competitors. Overall a very visually please place to be. 

PERFORMANCE

When Merc first released the engine details on the new W206 models, many were surprised by the sizes, the much loved C200 was now being powered by a 1.5L turbo with a mild hybrid power plant. What is this "mild hybrid" thing you talk about you must be asking? No, its not a sauce from Nandos, Mercedes actually call it a second-generation integrated starter generator but I think my way is the best way to describe this tech as the car having an electrical unit to help the petrol combustion engine achieve an additional boost when required without using more fuel, this helps in the overall fuel consumption. So to explain further, the engine itself produces 150kW and 300Nm of torque but thanks to this additional power boost, an additional 15kW and 200Nm can be achieved and the results are astounding! 0-100km/h time comes in at 7.3 seconds which wont flutter and eyelids but let me tell you, when this car builds up speed, it does so very very quickly! I cannot being to explain the drive feel of this car, smoothness is taken to another level, and while many won't appreciate it at first, when you realise how low the car sits to the floor and the large rims with low profile tyres, you tend to gather that the ride should be a bit more harsh but it isn't,  this is also helped with agility control with suspension that has selective damping system which lowers the car at higher speeds to obtain a better drag coefficient. The cars sleek gear changing thanks to its 9G-tronic automatic gearbox also helps keep the revs down and maximises that power build up and boost. Overall, very impressed with the overall drive of this car, really doesn't feel like a motor that is under 2L in capacity and gave me a very decent fuel consumption in the week I spent with it. 

COMFORT

Mercedes-Benz is known for its luxury and the new W206 C-Class lives up to that notion with a cabin based on the range topping S-Class. The standout feature without a doubt is the large infotainment screen that adorns the center of the dash, measuring in at 11.9" it dominates attention from anything else. Many say that it is unnecessarily large and might prove to be a distraction for the driver but I never found this to be the case. The driver gets a tablet styled instrument cluster that is also fully digital and can customized for each individuals preferences. The new MBUX interface is easy to use and with the large screen makes it even easier to see and do things. Connecting the mobile device was a synch and with wireless phone projection made it even easier to control things like satellite navigation, music and calls. The rest of the dash can be finished in a number of styles in materials but it is made out of this plastic that has a cheap feel and touch, visually it looks stunning but I just think they could have used a higher grade of material on this part. The rest of the detailing is stunning, with high gloss finishes for areas around the center storage and doors. Styling of the interior door arm rests are very modern and looks cool. The stitching and finishes on the seats are nothing short of sublime with seat heating options for the driver and front passenger as optional extra. This particular model coming with the AMG package had the sport type multifucntion steering wheel, which for me was a bit too much buttons and did too little to justify their place on there. Maybe its just my first time with the car so I wasn't sure on how to use it 100%. The ambient lighting which really turns the cabin into a spaceship at night, has an array of colours both singular or dual tone to set the mood for every occasion. It really is such a great feature that is subtle but quite eye catching at the same time. Space at the rear is much better than most of its competitors with a decent amount of leg and head room for adults, giving you a semi limo like feel. The car comes with thermotronic automatic climate control with 4 zones for each passenger. Sound wise, this particular model came with the standard Burmester sound system which I must be honest, didn't do much for me, but I'll reserve my right to comment once I hear the premium sound package. 

VERDICT

So what was my first proper experience with a new generation Mercedes-Benz like? Well overall, I quite enjoyed it, its a stylish car that draws a lot of attention as it would, there were certain things that disappointed me but not to the point where I would slate the car and the engineering because there is nothing I can really fault on that aspect. The direction in which the brand is heading to seems to be the correct path to have combustion engines still having some relevance going forward as the change over to pure EV cannot happen overnight for numerous reasons. The safety in the C-Class is unmatched, with the list of standard safety features being long and extensive, stuff like adaptive high beam assist, LED performance headlamps, which most other brands have as optional extras being standard on this car is a win in my book. The ergonomics of the car just work brilliantly for the driver and the occupants. The luggage capacity is massive as well, so you can pack this baby up and go on a long drive for a holiday and it would perform like a champion. While the C-Class might not be the entry level Mercedes any more, it certainly plays the part is serves on the market, competing fiercely with its competitors and giving them something to think about. Apart from a very attractive package, the luxury, tech and the performance from the engine really makes this car complete product that is very persuading for prospective buyers. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L Turbo
Gear Box	9G -Tronic
Torque	300Nm (200Nm boost)
Power	140kW (15kW boost)
Fuel economy	7.2L/ 100km/h
Price	R957,200*

*Base Price