Road Review: Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a handsome beast, this acknowledged by some appreciative waves from sidewalk strutters as I passed by, making the whole driving experience (even in the traffic) just that much more pleasurable.

Cars are tactile things and before even getting to power and performance, it is the sensation of the seats, the leather, the steering wheel and the cabin ambience that sets a tone and path for buyers – if you are not absolutely comfortable and happy sitting in the car while it is stationary, don’t buy it because you will likely come to hate it as each payment waves your wallet goodbye.

The GLC is certainly comfortable enough, the electrically adjustable seats moving into just the right position for the driver, while touch and slide controls on the multi-function steering wheel take care of many oft-used necessities.

The 12,3-inch high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver appears to float, while the 11,9-inch central display rises seamlessly and without joints from the centre console and, like the dashboard, the screen surface is slightly angled towards the driver. 

With a length of 4,716 mm, it is 60 mm longer and 4 mm lower than its predecessor. The track widths have been increased by 6 mm at the front (now 1,627 mm) and 23 mm at the rear (now: 1,640 mm). The longer vehicle length benefits the wheelbase and the front and rear overhangs. The vehicle width has remained the same at 1,890 mm. 

The luggage capacity benefits from the larger rear overhang and has increased significantly to 620 litres (+70 litres compared to the preceding model) and it has achieved this growth without growing bulky, retaining all of its ease of manoeuvrability and never becoming intimidating in more confined spaces.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC300d 4Matic Avantgarde steps into the rings at R1 426 244 before any of the options are added on. This puts it in the same price playpen as the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque D200 Autobiography, Volvo XC90 B5 AWD Plus Dark and Audi SQ5 Sportback TFSI quattro.

The test car came fitted with R268 943 worth of optional extras such as the Off-Road Engineering Package, AMG-line Exterior, Engineering Package and Premium Package and, while I understand the marketing philosophy behind the German automaker’s love for optional add-ons, I sincerely believe in this day and age where customer expectation is already so high, the ‘what-you-see-is-what-you-get’ approach is far more appealing to buyers.

Indeed, sometimes making sense of the various option packages is overly complicated especially when there conditions that say “if you want A you have to have Z”!

And, talking of buyer expectations – at this price level it is hard to understand why items such as autonomous braking and automatic headlight adjustment are not standard but buried deep in one of the option deals.

Nit-picking perhaps, but it is kind of inevitable when it is really hard to find any fault with the current crop of Mercedes-Benz products, the GLC just one of them.

The cars are well designed, superbly engineered, inviting to drive and exude an ambience that make them a nice place to be.

One of the defining design highlights of the GLC is the front end, with headlamps that connect directly to the radiator grille to emphasise the vehicle’s width, and the new radiator grille as part of the standard Avantgarde exterior, which has a chrome surround and a sporty louvre in matt grey with chrome trim. 

The body design is characterised by a full, spanned surface design with shaped edges on the sides that emphasise the proportions, accentuate the wheel arches and create a balance between elegance and off-road performance.

The GLC is available only as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and includes the 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as ‘gliding’, boost or recuperation and significant fuel savings.

The 2,0-litre turbo-diesel engine generates 215 kW and 550 Nm driving through a 9-speed automatic gearbox to propel it from rest to 100 km/h in 6,4 seconds and to a top end around the 240 km/h mark.

For a large-frame vehicle weighing in at 2 570 kilograms, the GLC is remarkably agile both on and offroad and this is largely due to a four-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent rear suspension mounted to a subframe.

The standard suspension provides a high level of damping, ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving enjoyment. It is equipped with an amplitude-dependent damping system. In conjunction with the AMG Line Exterior, the GLC has a sports suspension. 

The Engineering package (optional) with Airmatic air suspension includes level control and rear-axle steering.

Thanks to more powerful environment sensors, the parking systems support the driver when manoeuvring, improving safety and comfort. Integration into MBUX makes operation more intuitive and is supported by the visual display. 

Standard equipment for offroad use includes an off-road driving mode and DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation). 

The new off-road screen uses the two displays for clearly arranged information, controls and functions. Among other things, the driver’s display shows inclination, gradient, topographical altitude, geo-coordinates and a compass as well as road speed and engine speed when operation is with an internal combustion engine.

In addition, the central display shows the current position of the SUV on the terrain as well as the steering angle of the front wheels and, if rear-wheel steering is available, the steering direction of the rear wheels. All the driving functions relevant to off-road operation can be controlled very easily on one screen. 

The Engineering package (optional) with Airmatic air suspension brings its comfort advantages to bear when off-road, where it offers additional benefits. For example, it allows a high ground clearance off-road, regardless of the load, and a long suspension travel for the best possible traction. The rear-axle steering increases off-road manoeuvrability even further, while the 4MATIC all-wheel drive provides traction on any surface.

In concert with the mild hybrid the GLC 300d has a miserly fuel consumption and our test run returned an average of 5,6 l/100 km, giving it a tank range upwards of 1 000 kilometres in normal usage conditions.

It is an extremely easy car to live and work with, capable beyond its intended use offroad pushing it into the ‘ideal’ range when it comes to balancing work and play.

Colin Windell – proudly CHANGECARS

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Colin-on-Cars - Merc offers online ease

From the comfort of an office or favourite recliner at home, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class luxury cruiser is now available to order online.

Thanks to the Mercedes-Benz Online Store, prospective owners of the V-Class may order their dream car online, in just a few clicks. Nationwide, interested parties can browse a selection of preconfigured V-Class vehicles at the Mercedes‑Benz Online Store and secure their order, easily and conveniently.

“We are excited to offer our customers the convenience and flexibility of purchasing their chosen V-Class online," says Nadia Trimmel, the President of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa. “Our goal is to make the purchasing process seamless and enjoyable, offering our customers the best digital experience possible.”

With the online store, customers can explore different V-Class models and view available colour options as well as vehicle specifications.

This feature allows customers to find their ideal V-Class, which reflects their individual style and personality, at the click of a button.

To purchase a V-Class online, simply follow these five steps:

- Visit https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/shop-v-class to find your dream V-Class.

- Choose your preferred payment option and confirm your order with Mercedes-Benz.

- Your personal offer will be sent to your email inbox immediately.

- Finalise your payment and invoice details.

- Your vehicle will be prepared and delivered right to your doorstep or the Mercedes-Benz agent of your choice for collection.

Vehicles in the online store are subject to availability whilst stocks last.

Furthermore, prospective customers may choose between various leasing and financing products with attractive rates. Down payments and instalments can be conveniently calculated online and tailored to individual needs.

Specifically, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services provides exclusive options to help customers find the right financing solution for their needs and can choose between an Agility Finance option or an instalment agreement from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

When choosing Agility Finance - exclusive to Mercedes-Benz Financial Services - prospective customers can now drive their very own brand new V300d Exclusive from R20 399 a month.

https://bit.ly/3AVCbRJ

Colin-on-Cars - More comfort for commuters

Tens of thousands of South Africans rely heavily on taxi services to commute to and from work, these often overcrowded and uncomfortable mini-bus vehicles make the journey quite a chore.

Designed specifically for the South African traveller and landscape, the Mercedes-Benz Inkanyezi offers the ideal balance between functionality and comfort. With a seating capacity of up to 22 passengers plus a driver, the Inkanyezi offers the South African taxi industry maximum efficiency and economy whilst ensuring top-notch safety and comfort.

Speaking of the updated model, Marinus Venter, the Head of Product & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, says: “At Mercedes-Benz Vans, we are committed to continuously seeking new ways to embrace our customers, to provide them with the most desirable vans and services.

“With the latest version of the Sprinter Inkanyezi, I am pleased to say that we have achieved this commitment. By keeping our customers at the forefront of every decision along the way, we have managed to keep all the best-loved features of the original Inkanyezi whilst creating exciting enhancements to further delight our customers.”

At the core of the new Inkanyezi is an updated, all-aluminium OM 654 Engine, which offers a significantly more compact engine design than the previous unit. Additionally, the new design includes an innovative placement of all exhaust-gas-cleaning technologies close to the engine, resulting in low heat losses and favourable working conditions.

Further enhancements to the Inkanyezi include more comfortable seat finishes. The material finish looks both stylish and offers a soft-to-the-touch texture, which is more pleasant for travelling. To match the seats, the Inkanyezi’s interior has also been redesigned with a dark finish, complete with jet-black window frames, to instantly create a luxurious atmosphere.

New technological additions include a Bluetooth radio and speaker system, which has been included as a standard equipment feature in the new Inkanyezi. The vehicle also comes with USB Ports in each row, which are conveniently located for passengers to easily charge their electronic devices.

Other standard equipment additions include lightweight parcel shelves on both sides of the van, for passengers to stow their belongings. A remodelled lap belt design ensures maximum safety is matched with maximum comfort when travelling.

https://bit.ly/3UPBR0e

Colin-on-Cars - See Africa in style

With tourism steadily returning to normal, Mercedes-Benz Buses has launched a new Coach Chassis that comes packaged with an all-inclusive Service and Maintenance Contract package and in-house tailor-made finance solutions through Daimler Truck Financial Services (DTFS).

The new 0500 RSD 2442 Coach Chassis is specifically designed for Sothern Africa conditions and allows operators a wide spectrum of choice in tailoring the bodies to suit their specific needs.

Jason Brunninger, General Manager Mercedes-Benz Buses says: “I am elated as we officially present our new 0500 RSD 2442 Coach Chassis, which ticks all the boxes in the coach segment.

“The introduction of this model marks an important milestone in the continued expansion of our product range, and further strengthen our commitment in the bus and coach industry across the region.

Future

“I am excited to say that the future of our industry has never been this bright and as Mercedes-Benz Buses, we remain committed in keeping Africa moving – proving mobility solutions that not only add value to our customer’s businesses but to our country’s economic growth as well”.

The new 0500 RSD 2442 Coach Chassis comes standard with a 6-cylinder, OM 457 engine coupled with a new automatic gearbox that ensures maximum efficiency, reliability, and durability.

Safety in the new Coach Chassis includes systems such as the electronic brake system (EBS), electronic stability control (ESP) and anti-lock braking system.

Saving

Also standard is the ASR-anti slip regulation which limits wheel spin in wet and gravel conditions. This provides huge savings on tyres and maintenance costs.

Furthermore, comfort and ease of operation are at the core in the new Coach Chassis with better driver ergonomics – offering automatic transmission, adjustable steering column, cruise control and air suspension with level control.

The new cluster provides the drivers’ area with a completely new interface for information and communication, making it easier to view and manage different functions, creating less distraction.

https://bit.ly/3AUOQ7e

Colin-on-Cars - Special tribute to Stirling Moss

“Who do you think you are? Stirling Moss?” This, so the story goes, is what a policeman asked the legendary British racing driver following a particularly ‘daring’ overtaking manoeuvre on the streets of London. “Yes sir, I am” was the honest reply.

There’s a nod to this legendary tale – and a number of other aspects of Moss’s life and career – in ‘The Last Blast., a new short film by Mercedes-Benz Classic.

A police motorcycle outrider admonishes the over-enthusiastic driver of the very Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR made famous by Moss’s win in the 1955 Mille Miglia race. As the camera zooms in on the front wing of the bike, we see a sticker bearing the famous question.

With this, part of a police-escorted drive across central London, ‘The Last Blast’ celebrates the life of Moss, who died on April 12, 2020 at the age of 90. Filming took place at the end of September 2021 in London – where he lived for more than 60 years – yet somewhere the famous Mercedes-Benz racing car, with its legendary Mille Miglia starting number of 722, has never been driven before.

But, while the Silver Arrow is the visible star of the show, there’s an invisible one, too: the late racing driver himself. In this very car, together with navigator Denis Jenkinson, he achieved a famous victory for Mercedes-Benz in the 1955 road race from Brescia to Rome and back.

And it is in Moss’s honour that the company had the straight-eight engine howl for one last blast on a drive across central London before the car is retired, returning to its permanent home in the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.

The result is a moving three-and-a-half minutes of film. The starting point of the drive, very early one Sunday morning, is The Temple. It then takes in the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, the Royal Automobile Club and The Ritz hotel. On the way, ‘722’ passes what was Sir Stirling’s very own 300 SL Gullwing – the car in which he travelled from London to the Mille Miglia in 1955.

Its drive through the city ends in front of Moss’s own home in a Mayfair mews. There, his son, Elliot Moss, stands in front of the door and looks at the watch on his wrist, which his father wore for many years. It’s exactly 7:22 am, the original start time of Moss and Jenkinson’s Mille Miglia entry and the reason for the car’s racing number. The 300 SLR rolls to a halt one final time, and its engine is switched off.

 

The unique drive through London ended in Mayfair at the Moss’ family home. At the door: Elliot Moss, Stirling’s son.

This is Mercedes-Benz Classic’s tribute and thanks to Sir Stirling Moss who dedicated decades of service to the brand. And also to his family, for the unwavering support they showed him, and for their personal involvement in this very special film project.

Factsheet for ‘The Last Blast’

- Feature-film cinematography and production- Drive with the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (W 196 S) through London

- Designed to honour Sir Stirling Moss and ‘his’ 300 SLR number 722 from the 1955 Mille Miglia road race

- Multiple references to the life and work of the British racing driver

- Also a farewell tour for this original 300 SLR racing sports car before it returns to the Mercedes-Benz Museum: it has also made guest appearances at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the British Grand Prix and the Goodwood Revival in 2021

- Elaborate film work- Filmed on a Sunday morning with around 50 cast and crew

- Eight police motorcycle outriders on duty

- Renowned production advisers INP Media Limited and Samuelson Wylie Associates with considerable Hollywood action movie experience

- Helicopter shots by the team best known for their aerial work for the James Bond franchise, as well as for flying under Tower Bridge for the 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony film

- Preparation of the 300 SLR by Mercedes-Benz Classic

- Special permits for trucks entering London

 
https://bit.ly/31EdBXi

Road Review Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S Coupé 

This car is legally insane!

 This car is the Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S Coupé kitted with an AMG 4,0-litre V8 biturbo engine whacking out 450 kW and 850 Nm. 

Impressive numbers indeed. However, the numbers themselves do not mean that much despite much beer-fuelled banter around the braai fire. Consider a race car with similar numbers that offers them up only in small band between, say 6 000 r/min and 9 000 r/min. 

Not ideal for negotiating the morning traffic. What makes the numbers significant is how they are delivered and the GLE releases maximum torque from 2 250 r/min with peak power around 5 750 r/min – mean it is not only blisteringly fast but gives and keeps on giving. 

In fact, on the private landing strip used during my test I ran out of road before the GLE ran out of breath. 

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h comes up in 3,9 seconds!

For the first time, the new GLE 63’s 4,0-litre V8 biturbo engine is fitted with an integrated EQ Boost starter-alternator that combines a starter motor and an alternator in a single, powerful electric motor. It provides an additional 16 kW of output and 250 Nm of torque which can be called upon temporarily and also supplies the 48-volt on-board electrical system to use as a power generator and perform hybrid functions. These include boost, recuperate, load point shift, gliding and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.  

Power is regulated through a 9-speed transmission, which features extremely short shift times and fast multiple downshifts, and delivers an especially emotive gear shifting experience thanks to the double-declutching function. 

For increased efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has also equipped the V8 engines with cylinder shut-off. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which crucially reduces fuel consumption. When the driver has selected the Comfort drive program, the cylinder deactivation system is available from 1 000 r/min to 3 250 r/min. The transition between these two operating states is so smooth and immediate passengers will scarcely feel it. 

And, herein is the conundrum. The ‘G’ portion of the nomenclature signifies a car with off road capability but, why would anyone want to take this high-rise on steroids off-road? 

Perhaps it is just the ‘old school’ in me but, when I’m nudging over the 200 km/h mark, I like my butt to be mere millimetres from the ground. Talking of that 200 number, from that speed the GLE picks up some buffeting from its own wind both smashing a hole in the air ahead of the car and from the vacuum effect created at the rear. 

It is not hugely significant, rather a touch disconcerting.

Perhaps, even surprisingly, the GLE handles rather well for what it is and will take on tight corners with minimal body roll and even less feeling of wanting to come unglued from the road, even with its 2 445-kilogram mass. 

Being a 4Matic all-wheel drive, it will plough on at initial turn-in but quickly steady and follow steering directions precisely. 

In ‘Race’ mode all bets are off though and ill-considered entry into corners will produce some lurid moments as the ‘nanny’ systems cease to provide assistance to the driver. 

For daily driving and standard use set in ‘Comfort’ mode, the best is tamed and remains absolutely gentle, just the choogling boogies of the V8 a delicious reminder of what lurks within. In this frame of mind, fuel consumption is around 12,9 l/100 km. 

The exterior design of the AMG GLE is muscular and distinctive, with specific radiator grilles with vertical louvres affirming its membership of the AMG model family. The side skirts, exterior mirror housings and flared wheel arches are painted in the vehicle colour and seamlessly blend into the overall look. 

I mulled over the look for a long time and could not get away from the side view appearing a bit like one of compacted cartoon drawings of a car. It is a big vehicle, yet the proportions just did not seem right to me – perhaps just missing that elongated bonnet of the sedan. 

Also, unless you are a tallish driver with the seat position set low, the more vertically challenged (like me) with a higher seat position tend to fall foul of the rake coupé shape, clocking the head on the door frame getting in and out. 

Once inside, it is more spacious than it might convey from the outside, although tall people in the rear seats may be compromised by the sharply dropping roofline.

 

AMG-specific interior appointments and controls lend the cockpit a hallmark AMG atmosphere and the latest generation, three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles looks the business. 

AMG seats are upholstered in Nappa Leather, as a standard and individually adjustable ambient lighting also comes as standard, while the second seat row is optionally available with full electric adjustment. 

The vehicle functions are directly visualised on the instrument cluster on the left side and on the touchscreen display on the right, and visually blend into a Widescreen Cockpit. The centre console has an AMG-specific control panel with additional switches with which the 3-stage ESP, manual transmission mode, the adaptive damping adjustment, the optional AMG Performance exhaust system and the suspension level can be controlled.  

Through the voice control – activated with the phrase ‘Hey Mercedes’ – the AI software recognises and understands practically all commands common in infotainment and vehicle control.  

The standard AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension and the adaptively adjustable ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System) can be preselected in three stages - Comfort, Sport and Sport+, allowing a much more obvious distinction between high long-distance comfort and sporty vehicle dynamics.  

Thanks to pneumatic self-levelling, the GLE maintains a constant ride height regardless of the vehicle load. This can be adjusted depending on the driving mode, or manually using a rocker switch in the centre console. The vehicle level is generally lowered by 10 mm in Sport, Sport+ and RACE mode, while in Comfort mode, the vehicle is lowered by 10 mm from a speed of 120 km/h, and raised back to normal level when the speed falls below 70 km/h.

In Trail and Sand modes, the suspension is raised by 55 mm to increase ground clearance on poor surfaces, and automatically lowered to normal level when the speed reaches 70 km/h. This function can also be controlled using the rocker switch. 

The all-wheel drive is controlled depending on the selected stage of the 3-stage Electronic Stability Program ESP – from sporty, with a focus on safety, to highly dynamic. To further improve traction the it has an electronically controlled locking differential at the rear axle as standard. The slip is thus suppressed at the inner wheel on bends, allowing the driver to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power thanks to the improved traction. 

The GLE 63 Sis equipped with 400 mm x 38 mm brake discs at the front, plus 370 mm x 32 mm discs at the rear. As an option, a high-performance ceramic brake system can be ordered.  

As with all Mercedes-Benz products there are raft of options that can be added to the basic package including the AMG Night Package, MBUX Innovation Package, MBUX Augmented Reality for navigation, AMG Performance Exhaust system and Magic Vision Control among them. 

Base Price - R2 970 920.

 Loads of space in Mercedes-Benz GLB250

Compact, in automotive speak, is a word that has an amazing elasticity to it so, while the Mercedes-Benz GLB is glibly referred to as a ‘compact’ SUV, the 4,6-mtre long and 1,8-metre wide vehicle truly stretches the definition of compact. 

It is 1 658 millimetres high and, as a result, headroom in the first seat row is 1 069 millimetres with 967 millimetres the effective legroom in the rear of the five-seater where two optional additional individual seats can seat people up to 1,68-metres tall in comfort.

 The doors reach over the side bar, improving ease of access, and keep the door apertures free of soiling as well as increasing protection in a side impact. All-round protective claddings divide the overall proportions and emphasise the vehicle's off-road character, as does the stylised skid plate at the front and rear. 

The boot compartment capacity goes from 570 litres to 1 805 litres and the second row can be moved fore and aft, enabling the boot to be enlarged by up to 190 litres.

 

So, it is not a small car and stands its ground against many of those more formally in the ‘C’ segment of the market. Ranged against the GLA, GLC and GLE it is also, perhaps, the most conservatively styled, the two-box square shape, however, suggesting absolute practicality. 

The more time I spent in the car, the more I liked the expansive view over the bonnet (with both corners visible) and the excellent view of the road ahead. Certainly if I was planning some long-haul touring this would feature high on the list of vehicle choices. 

My test unit, the GLB 250 does not have the permanent all-wheel drive system fitted to the GLB220d but, even so, for reasonable off-tarmac driving the high ground clearance of the GLB250 is more than up to the task. 

With a base price of R839 460 it is also quite a lot more expensive than opposition such as the Audi Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI, the BMW X1 sDrive 20d and the Volvo XC40 T5 – all of which come standard with an all-wheel drive setup 

Power from the 2 999 cc six-cylinder engine is 320 kW with 520 Nm of torque on tap. The Volvo has a tad more power and the BMW better torque. 

The GLB 250 offers a combined fuel consumption of 9,6 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 214 g/km. It will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 5,3 seconds and top speed is limited to 250 km/h. 

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

 

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

As is usual with Mercedes-Benz there are a host of options that can be attached to personalise the vehicle and the test car came fitted with such things as Driving Assistance Package, panoramic sunroof, traffic sign assist, trailer coupling ESP, night package, navigation package and engineering package. 

All this to bolster the long list of standard items fitted to the ‘base’ model that include smartphone integration, Advanced connectivity Plus, Active Brake Assist, LED High Performance headlamp, windscreen wiper with rain sensor, multifunction sports steering wheel in leather, steering wheel shift paddles, tyre pressure monitoring system and touchpad without controller among them. 

Of that last item – not my favourite and difficult to control with any accuracy unless the vehicle is stationary. However, once conversational familiarity with ‘Hey Mercedes’ is established, manual changing of things becomes largely unnecessary. 

I have mentioned the logical opposition to the GLB but all three of those have sportier shapes, so the GLB is easily my choice for comfort motoring, especially over longer distances where the airy and spacious cabin never comes close to feeling claustrophobic.

Its road behaviour is composed and confident and it will get up and go in a hurry when clicked into Sport mode but I found the standard ‘Comfort’ setting provided enough of everything for just about all needs.

 Road Review - Mercedes-Benz C53 AMG 4Matic+

Fortunately, I live in the Southern regions of KwaZulu-Natal where winters are warm enough mid-morning to go top-down motoring without fear of hypothermia or frostbite so, giving the Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG Cabriolet a blast on my favourite roads was a rather engaging experience. 

I am not a particular fan of the cabriolet in general. Early experiences with performance-orientated topless cars tended offer up plenty of scuttle shake along with visible body flexing. Additionally, in this – sadly – crime-ridden land of ours, cabrios are not all that practical. 

Also, I have always viewed them as boulevard cruisers to drive at slow speeds in order to take in the admiring glances. 

However, things have very definitely changed and this car has top-drawer body stiffness with none of that scuttle shake and it sits, planted firmly on the road even under vigorous wheel-twirling directional changes.

The back story of the Mercedes-Benz cabriolet dates to 1991 when the company debuted a four-seater with a fabric top at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. It was initially known as the 300 CE-24, and revived a long tradition of four-door open-top vehicles in company’s brand history. It was renamed the E-Class in 1993. 

Fast forward to 2021, and Mercedes-Benz launched a comprehensive facelift for its E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. Upgrades included a healthy facelift, with the front sections, in particular, being given a fresh look; a good dose of new technology, including the next generation of driving assistance systems and the MBUX infotainment system. 

The key feature is the AMG-specific radiator grille with 12 vertical louvres. The A-shaped design of the front, which becomes broader towards the bottom and the flatter, sharper-cut all-LED headlamps create a powerful impression. 

Viewed from the side, the standard 19-inch light-alloy wheels in the aerodynamically optimised 5-twin-spoke design are quite eye-catching. As an option 20-inch light-alloy wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design are available, with the optional AMG Night Package offering an even sportier appearance with outside mirror housings, window frames plus trim elements in the front and rear apron styled in high-gloss black. 

On the inside, the upper section of the dashboard appears to hover, resting on trim elements that flow through into the doors. 

The E-Class is fitted with an entirely new, intelligent steering wheel as part of the facelift. This is available as a leather steering wheel and in a super sports variant. It is also equipped with the latest generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system, which comes standard with two large 10,25-inch high-resolution screens, arranged side by side.

 Under the bonnet, the electrified 3,0-litre engine with twin turbo-charging via an exhaust gas turbo-charger and an electric additional compressor generates an output of 320 kW and produces a peak torque of 520 Nm. This results in a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4,6 seconds, with top speed governed to 250 km/h (or 270 km/h, if the AMG Driver's Package is selected). 

The engine is coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and it features all-wheel drive with braking to match the performance in the form of cross drilled and internally vented 370 mm x 36 mm discs, with four-piston fixed callipers and AMG lettering at the front, while the rear axle is fitted with internally vented 360 mm x 26 mm discs with single-piston floating callipers. 

With the five Dynamic Select drive programs - Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, the characteristics of the new Mercedes-AMG E53 4MATIC+ models can change from efficient and comfortable to very sporty at the touch of a finger. The modes modify key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. 

The test car was also fitted with the optional AMG Track Pace although I am at a loss to understand why anyone would want to put this car (sans roll cage) onto a race track. 

It is brisk, make no mistake about that and it is very easy while highway cruising not to notice the speed ramping up until you are well past the national limits – fortunately there is cruise control and a speed limiter option. 

Having had the CLA45 AMG on test fairly recently, the comparison between the two cars puts the E53 in the greater comfort zone. Where the C-Class version reacts quite strongly to road ripples, the heavier and bigger E-Class rides them with more panache. 

That additional mass also results in a little more ‘push’ at the front going into tight corners but the bigger road footprint also means less fidgeting from the back end trying to break traction – all of which means with a minor adjustment to driving style, the cabriolet can be hurled around pretty much at will.

 

Of course, it is also well suited to being the boulevard cruiser and, with Active Brake Assist will coddle the driver in traffic by reacting quickly to slowing traffic, stationary vehicles or pedestrians. It also has hands-off detection, allowing the car to react quickly and intelligently if the driver is unable to do so. 

The hands-off detection feature of the steering wheel means if the system detects the driver does not have their hands on the steering wheel for a certain time, a warning cascade is started, which finally activates Emergency Brake Assist if the driver continues to be inactive. 

Fuel consumption in normal Comfort mode on my test cycle came in at 9,3 l/100 km and you really do not want to know what it becomes when absolute hooligan mode is put into play. 

In the lexicon of Mrs W, this is a “growly” car – and, indeed it is, and that is perhaps the true beauty of a convertible, where you can hear that gentle growl grow into the full-throated symphony that is petrolhead bliss.

 More investment as C-Class rolls of the East London production line

With the manufacture of the latest generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class having started at the company’s East London plant, it has also announced an additional investment of R3-billion. 

The plant upgrades feature environmentally-friendly buildings including a technologically advanced paint shop, body shop, assembly and logistics warehouse. 

Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, responsible for Production and Supply Chain Management says: “South Africa is an important location in our global Mercedes-Benz production network. The team in East London made a remarkable contribution to the international ramp-up of the new C-Class that we produce through efficient, flexible, digital and sustainable operations.

 

Thanks to the exceptional work of our colleagues in South Africa and all over the world and their first-class cooperation, our modern plants are able to produce outstanding vehicles like the new C-Class. With our additional invest of R3-billion in East London Plant, we underline our commitment to contributing to the South African economy and the Eastern Cape region."  

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

Since the investment announcement in 2018, the R10-billion investment was utilised for a wide modernisation of the East London plant. The plant upgrades include a new Body Shop, which has been designed for higher capacities and features more than 500 ‘Internet of Things’ Industry 4.0-enabled robots. To allow the East London Plant to increase volume outputs, optimise the assembly line and achieve commercial synergies, a new Body Shop has been built at the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), where vehicle parts for the New Generation C-Class are manufactured. 

More than 700 tons of steel have been installed for the additional three lines in the assembly shop and a new logistics warehouse. Utilising new methods such as art application technology, the new paint shop is now even more energy efficient and more environmentally-friendly. 

Overall, the new buildings comprise an area of approximately 100 000 sq/m. This reflects an addition of two thirds of the already existing buildings for the passenger vehicle production. At the Mercedes-Benz Learning Academy, additional robotics were installed for training. The Mercedes-Benz Learning Academy (MBLA) is a flagship and sustainable Public Private Partnership in cooperation with the National Treasury and the Jobs Fund.

 

Commenting on the successful ramp up of the New Generation C-Class, CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director of Manufacturing, Andreas Engling said: “Despite a tough year in 2020, we were able to accomplish what we had planned. To date, all of our buildings are complete and we are ready for the production of the new generation C-Class in full force.” 

With Ambition 2039, Mercedes-Benz strives for a fully networked and completely CO2 neutral vehicle fleet in less than 20 years, aiming to have plug-in hybrids or all-electric vehicles to make up more than 50% of its sales by 2030. 

In support of Ambition 2039, locally, the Mercedes-Benz Plant in East London has embarked on numerous initiatives to help preserve the environment for future generations. The new paint shop is more energy-efficient, reducing energy consumption per vehicle by 25%. The new buildings have been equipped with energy efficient LED lighting, which uses up to 90% less energy per lumen output. 

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

“At Mercedes-Benz South Africa we are committed to an environmentally-friendly production. As such, we focus our efforts on the efficient use of resources. Through the certification and carbon offset strategy, the East London Plant will become CO2 neutral as of January 2022. As an organisation, we remain committed to a sustainable present and a bright and hopeful future,” added Engling.

 

Good cause to celebrate

This year is an important one for Daimler Trucks & Buses with several anniversaries being celebrated from the 125 years of the first truck as presented by Gottlieb Daimler in 1896 to 25 years of the Actros. 

Michael Dietz, CEO of Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa says: “It is such an honour and privilege to commemorate these key milestones and to be a part of this strong heritage. What makes these remarkable accomplishments special is remembering where it all started, and who has been with us throughout this journey. 

“Our esteemed customers, who have placed their trust in our products, our employees across all sections who remained committed in making sure that we have the right products for our customers, and lastly our dealer partners for serving our customers diligently. As Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa (DTBSA) our ambition is to remain the truck & bus brand our customers want to associate with.” 

1896 – The first truck

When Gottlieb Daimler presented his first truck in 1896 – sporting iron-clad wooden wheels – the world certainly hadn't been waiting for this vehicle. In Germany no buyer could be found and in England where the vehicle was finally sold, a member of the crew had to walk ahead, waving a red flag to warn other road users. 

And yet, this four-horsepower conveyance with a rear two-cylinder engine and a displacement of 1,06 litres known as the Phoenix was to spark an unparalleled success story in the transportation of cargo. 

However the Phoenix had little in common with a proper truck: strictly speaking it was a converted wagon typical of those then pulled through the streets by horses. Its chassis was fitted with leaf-springs that were mounted transversely at the front and helical springs at the rear. 

The suspension wasn't just necessary because of the poor condition of the roads, but also because the engine was very susceptible to vibrations. 

The last section of the drivetrain was modern: a belt transferred the engine power to a shaft that was mounted transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Each end of the shaft was fitted with a pinion, a small gear wheel. Each tooth on the pinion meshed with the internal teeth of a ring gear which was firmly connected with the wheel to be driven. Much later this construction was to become a design trademark of Mercedes-Benz trucks: the planetary hub reduction axle – on the ‘new generation’, on the SK (heavy-duty class) and even today on construction vehicles. 

1946 – The first Unimog prototype

In 1946 the ‘Prototype 1’ Unimog completed its first test drive. Chief designer Heinrich Rößler himself was at the wheel, and he tested the prototype, which had no cab and was fully laden with wood, on rough forest roads near Schwäbisch-Gmünd. The creation of the Unimog is closely linked to the difficult situation in the post-war period, when Germany was suffering supply shortages. 

In 1945 and 1946, there was a dire lack of food. It was this situation that gave Albert Friedrich, who for many years was head of aircraft engine development at Daimler-Benz AG, the idea of an agricultural motorised vehicle which could help to increase agricultural productivity. 

After the war ended, Friedrich had renewed his contacts with Erhard & Söhne, a metal construction company and supplier of Daimler-Benz in Schwäbisch-Gmünd, and in December 1945 the department responsible for the agricultural market began work. 

Friedrich passed the leadership of the project on to his former subordinate, designer Heinrich Rößler, who took up the post on  January 2, 1946. In only a few weeks, a new overall design was developed, with the engine and gearbox positioned directly to the right of the vehicle's centre. 

This meant that the torque tubes – which protect the drive shafts – could be at right angles to the axles. As a result, only four drive joints were needed for the chassis. This was a brilliant design which, 75 years later, is still used for the Unimog of the highly mobile U 4023/U 5023 series. 

In March 1946, Hans Zabel from Gaggenau, who had been part of the project from the beginning, coined the term Unimog (Universal-Motor-Gerät, ie universally applicable motorised machine) and in October 1946 the vehicle was taken on its first test drive. 

1951 – The first Setra bus

The Setra brand is proud of its roots. In1951 Ulm-based Kässbohrer Fahrzeugwerke presented the S 8 and gave the brand its name – Setra – which stands for ‘self-supporting’. 

The first bus manufactured in series production with a self-supporting body, rear engine and direct drive to the rear axle was presented at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. 

Over the last 70 years the brand has not only set standards for European bus design with six model series, but has inspired, changed and advanced this sector in an exemplary fashion. 

The current flagship of this traditional brand which has always stood for the highest degree of individuality is the S 531 DT, a double-decker bus from the Setra TopClass 500 range. 

1996 – Mercedes-Benz Actros

At the end of September 1996 Mercedes-Benz presented a new heavy-duty truck at the IAA Commercial Vehicles that was to revolutionise the industry: the Actros was the first truck to be fitted with disk brakes and the electronic brake system (EBS). Together they made the Actros the safest vehicle in its class. 

Furthermore, innovative technology such as the ‘Telligent systems’ improved efficiency considerably. Amongst other things maintenance intervals were extended by more than double, fuel consumption was reduced by three to seven percent depending on the type of operation and payload was increased by up to 400 kg. 

Safety and comfort were also significantly improved. Thanks to the Telligent braking system with disk brakes, for example, it was possible to shorten the braking distance of the Actros travelling at a speed of 85 km/h by the length of a tractor/trailer combination. The design engineers also paid great attention to detail: a new type of wing lining reliably reduced the spray when driving in rain. 

Environmental compatibility was also improved with newly developed, more efficient V-engines and by improvements to vehicle assembly for example: here energy input was reduced by almost 50 percent. New cabs provided their occupants with up to 47% more space in the interior and were designed to meet the specific needs of the driver. 

The cabs were safer too – they had all passed the huge range of different crash tests both in simulation and real driving conditions. The airbags and seats with integrated seat belt tensioner were also new. Every newly presented Actros was voted ‘Truck of the year’ and even today the Actros remains a pioneer with regard to safety. 

“Looking ahead, the future is certainly bright and exciting for the DTBSA brands, as there is a rapid shift in the truck & bus industry to autonomous driving, electrification and connectivity. As we adapt to these evolutions, we remain resolute and committed to continue to provide our customers with reliable, fuel efficient, and safe vehicles to address their demanding business needs,” says Maretha Gerber, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.