What with the high price of gasoline these days and a shortage of patience on many California highways, consumers can only wish that auto dealers would offer more “cool” cars that are also affordable and fun to drive. While getting behind the wheel of a vehicle that looks good doesn’t mean your temper won’t flare when you get cut off or get stuck in traffic, it can mean that your ride will be a little easier, perhaps putting a smile on your face in spite of it all.
Mercedes Benz
Mercedes recently reported that for 2008 they intend to broaden the current Bluetec portfolio into North America. Currently the E320 Bluetec is available in some states, but Thomas Weber, head of development at Daimler Chrysler AG and the Mercedes Car Group says, “In addition to the E320 Bluetec, we aim to have another three Bluetec models in the lineup as early as 2008 that meet the 50-state BIN 5 standard, the R-Class, ML-Class and the GL-Class.”
For now, the E320 is only an option in some states, but it’s still an easy ride and one that has been much hyped by the suits.
The first thing to remember is this is a diesel and the price tag will range from around $52,000 to $68,000 like the current offering. The miles per gallon will make you smile with 26 in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway and you can’t even hear the diesel engine rumble.
The good news too is the standards like leather and wood-trim, a dual-zone climate control, rain sensing windshield wipers and power, just about every button is a power button for something. One really fun feature for the driver and passenger in the front seat is the power seat controls located on the door panel. The steering is made to order with a tilt up and down option and it also telescopes in and out so you can find just the right angle as you are toddling along. I was more than surprised at the 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds, but I found it to be true. While it doesn’t seem to have the power in standstill mode, acceleration is amazing as you put the pedal to the floor while passing everyone else on the highway.
The bottom line is that the standard bells and whistles are there with a six-disc CD changer and power glass sunroof. The engine is a 3.0, V6 with 208 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Safety has been well-thought out too with six airbags including front and back, an emergency traction and electronic stability control, belt tensioners front and back, an emergency calling system, disc brakes with ABS and brake assist and speed-sensitive power steering.
Another addition in the Mercedes world is the 2008 SUV lineup. The GL550 will offer a more powerful V8 engine with a larger grille and in the R-Class family changes include the disappearance of the R500/R63 AMG models; slightly updated styling; and the addition of a 2WD R350 variant.
Look for more information on the 2008 models next month with a review of Toyota, Lexus and Acura.