The Most Powerful and fastest accelerating E-Class ever, that will be the E63 4Matic+

• Most powerful and fastest-accelerating E 63 yet, with up to 612 hp
• Prices start at £78,935 OTR for Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+
• Available to order now, with first UK deliveries from June

The Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+ is now available to order, with prices starting from £78,935. The E 63 S 4MATIC+ costs £88,295, while the E 63 S 4MATIC+ Edition 1 is available for £106,585. First deliveries are due in June.

All models are powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 571 hp in the E 63 and 612 hp in the E 63 S. The E 63 can sprint from standstill to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds, compared to 3.4 seconds for the E 63 S (previous models generated 557 hp and 585 hp and achieved 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds and 4.1 seconds respectively). 

Both models are electronically limited to 155 mph – unless specified with the AMG Drivers package which increases the top speed to an electronically limited 186 mph.

For the first time all E 63 models – whether in left-hand or right-hand drive – feature 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive. This newly engineered, intelligent system brings together the advantages of various drive configurations, including a Drift mode (only on E 63 S) that makes the car rear-wheel drive. Torque distribution on the front and rear axles is, for the first time, fully variable – making it easier to make full use of the car’s potential in all conditions.

The E 63 comes as standard with AMG Ride Control sports suspension; 19-inch AMG five twin-spoke alloy wheels; Nappa leather upholstery; split folding rear seats; Comand Online with a 12.3-inch display; and 12.3-inch widescreen cockpit display. The E 63 S adds 20-inch AMG five twin-spoke alloy wheels; active dynamic engine mounts; AMG performance seats; and a steering wheel finished in Nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre.

The Edition 1 – based on the E 63 S – adds 20-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels in black; designo Selenite Grey magno paint; and AMG Night package. Extra detailing in Titanium Grey above the side skirts is also standard. Inside, standard equipment includes AMG sports seats and Dinamica steering wheel with yellow contrast stitching, plus AMG carbon fibre trim.

For £6,995, E 63 S and Edition 1 customers can opt for AMG high-performance ceramic brakes, while the AMG performance exhaust can be added to all models for £1,000.

An AMG carbon fibre package adds front splitter, side sill panels, and rear bumper finished in carbon fibre for £3,370. The AMG Night package adds black detailing on the side sills, black exterior mirror housings and a black front splitter, all for £595.

The optional Premium package (standard on Edition 1) is available for £2,595 and adds a panoramic sunroof; Keyless-Go Comfort package; Burmester surround sound; and Multibeam LED intelligent light system.

As on all E-Class models, an array of advanced driver assistance features is available. The Driving Assistance Plus package costs £1,695, and includes Active Blind Spot Assist; Drive Pilot; Active Lane Keeping Assist; and Pre-Safe Impulse Side. Drive Pilot is made up of Steering Pilot; Active Lane-Change Assist; Distance Pilot Distronic; and Speed Limit Pilot.

Latest third generation AUDI TT gets pricing and spec reveal.

All-new Audi sports car with revolutionary all-digital virtual cockpit heads for the UK with a choice blend of performance, efficiency and equipment

• All-new TT Coupé models now available to order in the UK priced from £29,770 OTR to £35,335 OTR –  first deliveries in December
• 310PS TTS version follows in October – first deliveries in March 2015
• Sport and S line specification options – highlights of both include fully digital Audi virtual cockpit, MMI touch, xenon or LED headlights, Audi Music Interface, Audi drive select, Alcantara/leather sports seats, keyless go
• Engines at launch – 2.0 TFSI 230PS in conjunction with front-wheel-drive and quattro all-wheel-drive, 2.0 TDI 184PS exclusively with front-wheel-drive
• Further improved aluminium and steel hybrid construction processes help to reduce entry level model kerb weight by 50kg
• Efficiency-focused TT ultra combines 67.3mpg capability with CO₂ output of just 110g/km, yet can also reach 62mph in 7.1 seconds and top out at 150mph

Automotive supercomputer meets state-of-the-art sports car in the all-new Audi TT, which is available to order in the UK from today priced from £29,770 OTR ahead of first deliveries in December. Enveloping its stunning all-digital virtual cockpit and advanced new chassis in a beautiful new body that is unmistakably TT but also distinctly contemporary, the third generation car looks set to incite another quiet revolution in its class. It will even set the agenda in terms of efficiency – despite appropriate performance the new 184PS ultra version will be capable of in excess of 67mpg with CO₂ emissions of just 110g/km.   

Two specification levels – Sport and S line – will initially be offered in the UK for the all-new TT. Both include the Audi virtual cockpit, which is based around a 12.3-inch, high resolution LCD display that completely fills the driver’s instrument binnacle and replaces the traditional analogue dials. Its brilliantly sharp images are courtesy of a powerful Tegra 30 graphics processor from Nvidia’s Tegra 3 series.

Drivers can choose between two display modes: In the classic view, the speedometer and rev counter are in the foreground; in “infotainment” mode the virtual instruments are smaller. The space that becomes free as a result provides ample room for other functions, such as the navigation map. At the lower edge of the Audi virtual cockpit, the displays for outside temperature, time and mileage are permanently visible. Warning or information symbols are also displayed there.

Interior technology highlights from the equipment list for Sport models also include the Multi Media Interface with the MMI touch pad for fingertip data entry, navigation preparation, Audi Music Interface and Bluetooth connectivity, the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system and keyless go. Complementary comforts also include Alcantara and leather combination upholstery for the standard sports seats and manual air conditioning with controls integrated into the air vents in another break with convention. Outside the cabin, 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, sports suspension, xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights and a speed-dependent active rear spoiler all also feature as standard.

LED headlights as standard for S line

S line specification is the most comprehensive and the most performance-oriented in the initial TT line-up. It adds larger 19-inch alloy wheels with a five-arm star design, all-weather LED headlights and LED tail lights flanked by dynamic rear indicators with a directional sweeping function and S line body styling. It also offers particularly committed drivers the no cost option to swap to tauter S line sports suspension bringing a further 10mm reduction in ride height.

From the options list, even more of the remarkable Audi virtual cockpit’s potential can be unlocked by the Technology Package, which includes hard disk-based navigation mapping that can completely fill the 12.3-inch TFT monitor, and also beams the Internet to the car via Audi connect.

This brings features such as Google Maps, Google Street View, Audi traffic information online, price-graded refuelling locations in the vicinity and the latest news, flight and train information to streamline every journey. It also adds Audi music stream and access to social media services such as Facebook and Twitter. For sound that is as attention-grabbing as the cabin’s visuals, a 680-watt, twelve-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system can be specified in addition.

On the outside, the range of nine paint colour options for Sport models includes two shades that are new to the Audi range – Tango Red and Nano Grey. The list of available colours for S line versions includes one extra choice – Daytona Grey. Another highlight exterior option is matrix LED headlights, each of which features 12 separate LED bulbs which dim individually when sensors detect oncoming or following traffic to automatically divert light around obstacles without the need to deactivate the high beam setting.

A sports car for everyday use

At 4.18 metres long, the Coupé is almost exactly the same length as its predecessor, though its wheelbase has grown by 37 mm to 2,505 mm, making for especially short overhangs. It is 1,832 mm wide, and has the same height as the previous model at 1,353 mm. As a 2+2 seater, it is a sports car that is suitable for everyday use, with a load area capacity of 305 litres - 13 litres more than before - which can be increased to 712 litres by folding the rear seat backrests forwards.

The remarkable blend of performance and economy offered across the TT range is partly attributable to its advanced Audi Space Frame composite construction, which has been carried over and further evolved for the all-new model. Blending steel with a high proportion of lightweight aluminium in areas such as the side sills and side sections, roof, bonnet, doors and hatch lid has helped the 2.0-litre TFSI model to tip the scales at an impressive 1,230kg – 50kg less than its equivalent predecessor.

The 2.0 TFSI – one of two engine options available at launch - is suitably technologically advanced in keeping with its new habitat. The EU6-compliant four-cylinder unit combines direct and indirect fuel injection for optimal combustion, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) for precise valve stroke control on the exhaust side and thermal management, which uses a rotary valve module and an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head.

In the TT the high-tech unit is combined with either front-wheel-drive and a six-speed manual gearbox or quattro all-wheel-drive and a six-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. Developing peak torque of 370 Nm from 1,600 to 4,300 rpm, it powers the front-wheel-driven version from 0 to 62mph in 6.0 seconds, and on up to a top speed of 155mph. Combined economy is a creditable 47.9mpg, delivered with CO₂ output of 137g/km.

S tronic with freewheeling function

In the version with six-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, performance is even more brisk: the sprint from 0 to 62mph takes 5.3 seconds; top speed is 155mph; in this version combined economy tops out at 44.1mpg with CO₂ emissions of 149 g per km. The dual-clutch transmission shifts through the six gears without any noticeable interruption in traction, and in manual mode it can be controlled by paddles on the steering wheel. When the Audi drive select system is set to its ‘efficiency’ mode, the S tronic transmission decouples and ‘freewheels’ each time the driver takes his or her foot off the throttle pedal.

The second engine option – the 2.0 TDI – powers the exclusively front-wheel-driven and six-speed manual-equipped ultra model. It features two balancer shafts in the crankcase, adjustable camshafts and a common rail injection system delivering maximum pressure of 2,000 bar.

Audi engineers never lost sight of the fact that the overtly efficiency focused TT ultra is first and foremost a sports car, and helped by a strong torque peak of 380 Nm it proves the point by accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 7.1 seconds and reaching a top speed of 150mph. Equally importantly it can also return up to 67.3mpg according to the combined cycle test, which translates into CO₂ emissions of 110 g/km, a new record low level in the sports car world.

The chassis also reflects the technological expertise behind the new Audi TT. The front suspension is based on a MacPherson system, and integrates aluminium components which reduce the weight of the unsprung chassis masses. The four-link rear suspension can process the longitudinal and transverse forces separately.

A progressive steering system is another technical highlight and is fitted as standard to all versions – its rack is set up in such a way that the ratio becomes more direct as the steering wheel is turned, enabling the TT to be steered precisely with little movement of the steering wheel in urban traffic and on winding country roads. The highly efficient, electromechanically driven steering adapts its assistance to speed and forms the basis for the Audi active lane assist system which is standard for the TT 2.0 TFSI, and for the various park assist options.

Customisation of settings

The degree of steering assistance is one of the elements that can be controlled via the standard Audi drive select adaptive driving system. Offering Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency, Individual and Auto modes, Audi drive select can also influence the operating parameters of the engine, the S tronic transmission and, when Efficiency mode is selected, the operation of the air conditioning and start-stop system.

In time-honoured fashion, quattro permanent all-wheel drive delivers additional high speed composure and traction in the new Audi TT, but the multi-plate clutch-based system has evolved alongside the iconic sports car. A newly designed hydraulic pump reduces weight by around 1.5 kg compared with the previous model, and the software that determines the level of torque distribution between the front and rear axles in a split second has been completely redeveloped. The innovative control system continuously senses the ambient conditions, driving status and the driver’s wishes and adjusts torque distribution accordingly in real time.

Networking quattro drive with the standard Audi drive select system has given the driver greater control over the operating parameters of the all-wheel-drive system. In “auto” mode, optimum traction and balanced driving dynamics are given priority. In “dynamic” mode, torque is distributed to the rear axle earlier and to a higher degree. And in another new departure for the new TT, when the “efficiency” mode is selected the system can precisely determine driving conditions and driver type and can temporarily shut down the quattro system if conditions suit this. In this operating state, the intelligent software carefully monitors the driving situation and can reactivate all-wheel drive as soon as it is required again.

Electronic stabilisation control (ESC) stands guard in all versions, but the advanced system can also be switched off either partly or completely. When negotiating bends, it redistributes torque from the inside front wheel to the outside front wheel (front-wheel drive) or, on quattro models, to the rear wheels, if required. Thanks to the difference in propulsive forces, turn-in to corners is very easy, which is helpful for the driver. In this way, bends can be navigated with great precision and neutrality. ESC also offers a Sport mode which supports more committed driving, facilitating steering and control at high speeds.

Speed modulation is very effectively taken care of by disc brakes, which are ventilated at the front and have a diameter of up to 338 mm depending on model. A button-operated electromechanical parking brake acting on the rear wheels is another new TT feature which is standard across the board.

A portfolio of driver assistance options

To minimise stress in everyday driving, a portfolio of advanced electronic aids is also available for the new TT. Audi side assist uses rear-mounted radar sensors to help drivers change lane more safely; camera-based traffic sign recognition can alert the driver to speed limits even when they have been temporarily imposed; the park assist system with display of surroundings independently guides the car into suitable spaces; and the Audi pre sense basic safety system takes protective action such as closing the windows and tensioning the seatbelts if sensors detect an impending collision.

Last but not least, Audi active lane assist helps the driver if required by steadily correcting steering or warning if there is a danger of unintentionally drifting out of lane – this feature is standard for the 2.0 TFSI model and optional for the 2.0 TDI ultra.

Picture caption

TT makes a sporting comeback - The all-new Audi TT Coupe opens for order in the UK this week priced from £29,770 OTR. The Sport and S line models powered by 184PS and 230PS TDI and TFSI engines are the first to feature an all-digital Audi virtual cockpit.

The all-new Audi TT – UK OTR pricing

Version	Power	Transmissions	CO2 g/km	ROTR
2.0 TFSI Sport	230PS	6-speed manual	137*	£29,860.00
2.0 TFSI quattro Sport	230PS	6-speed S tronic	149*	£32,785.00
2.0 TDI ultra Sport	184PS	6-speed manual	110*	£29,770.00
	Power	Transmissions	CO2 g/km	ROTR
2.0 TFSI S line	230PS	6-speed manual	137*	£32,410.00
2.0 TFSI quattro S line	230PS	6-speed S tronic	149*	£35,335.00
2.0 TDI ultra S line	184PS	6-speed manual	110*	£32,320.00

*The choice of wheel may affect fuel consumption figures and CO₂ emissions and corresponding vehicle excise duty (VED) payable.

Changes to E-Class geaboxes mean better economy and more power.

From September there will a number of changes for the E-Class range, including the introduction of the new 9G-Tronic gearbox, new standard equipment, more power and lower emissions. 

Mercedes-Benz developed the 9G-Tronic gearbox in-house and will be twinned with the E 350 BlueTEC engine in the Saloon, Estate, Coupé and Cabriolet. The pairing brings a significant reduction of up to 17 g/km of CO₂ emissions which now start form 149 g/km for the Coupé, 154 g/km for the Saloon and Cabriolet and 159 g/km for the E 350 BlueTEC Estate.  Power has also been increased to now total 258 hp (+ 6hp).

At the same time the E 220 BlueTEC will see an increase in power to 177 hp (+ 7hp), with a reduction in CO₂emissions of up to 16 g/km whilst still being paired with the 7G-Tronic transmission.  The E 220 BlueTEC SE Saloon now boasts the lowest CO₂ emissions of the range at 116 g/km.  Capacity of the E 400 AMG Sport will be known moving forward as the E 400 AMG Line and capacity of the V6 will increase for both the Coupe and Cabriolet to 3,498 cc, again with lower emissions of up to 17 g/km.

Collision Prevention Assist Plus will be fitted as standard to every E-Class Saloon, Estate, Coupe and Cabriolet to reduce the impact of rear-end collisions.  The system provides visual and acoustic warnings when a head-on collision is imminent.  The adaptive brake boosting effect and activation of Pre-Safe® take place when the driver applies the brake, and if the driver fails to respond autonomous braking will be activated at speeds up to 62 mph to reduce the severity of a collision with slower or stopping vehicles.

The system can also brake in response to stationary vehicles at speeds up to 30 mph and prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 24 mph.

A Premium and Premium Plus Package will also be available offering customer added value of up to 27 per cent over purchasing each item separately.  The Premium Package for the Saloon includes a Panoramic Glass Sunroof, Memory Package, Rear Split Folding Seats, and a Reversing Camera for £2,695 while the Premium Package adds Keyless-GO Comfort Pack and a Harman Kardon® sound system for £3,895.  Costs for the Estate variant are £2,395 and £3,495 for the Premium and Premium Plus Packages respectively, as they already have the split folding seats and powered tailgate as standard.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe prices and specs announced.

The acclaimed S-Class Coupé is set to arrive in the UK in September – priced from £96,565 OTR.

The eight-cylinder S 63 AMG Coupé – priced at £125,595 OTR – generates a mighty 585 hp and 900 Nm of torque to provide effortless performance. For those wishing even more performance, the S 65 AMG Coupé – priced at £183,065 – produces 630 hp and develops 1000 Nm of torque.

One further engine - the S 500 Coupé AMG Line – will follow in early 2015 – priced from £96,565 OTR.

Across the range, Active Parking Assist with a reversing camera, an expansive panoramic roof, an ultra-sharp TFT 12.3” display, the clever Magic Vision Control system, COMAND Online and a choice of nine metallic paint options come as standard.

In addition, the S 63 AMG Coupé is equipped with the Seat Comfort Package, the spookily smooth Magic Body Control, and thumping Burmester surround sound system with 13 high-performance speakers. As if that wasn’t enough, the S 65 AMG Coupé adds a Head-up display, a TV Tuner, a 360 camera, and Night View Assist – capable of detecting hazards on the road ahead via an infrared camera.

The Premium Package (£4,995 when applied to the S 500) adds 20” alloy wheels, illuminated door sills, the Seat Comfort Pack, Keyless-Go Package, Burmester sound system, Climatised Seats to keep you cool or warm, depending on the weather, a 360 camera and Air Balance – a system through which air is passed to remove pollutants and fragranced with a choice of perfumes.

The AMG Exterior Carbon-fibre Package (£5,000) adds carbon-fibre elements to the outside of the car while the AMG Night Package (£765) offers the AMG sports exhaust system with two black chrome finished twin tailpipes, and high-gloss black highlights.

Further options include the Panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL (£4,030), refrigerated compartment in the rear (£1,130), and brake calipers painted in red (£620 available on the S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG).

The equipment offered on the new S-Class Coupé combines to make it one of the most refined and comfortable cars on the road today. It’s the quietest series-production car of all in terms of wind noise with excellent aeroacoustic performance due to improved insulation and aerodynamic bodyshell.

UK prices:

Model	Power (hp)	Torque (Nm)	CO2 (g/km) from:	Price (OTR)
S 500 4663 cc, eight-cylinder	455	700	219	£96,565
S 63 AMG 5461 cc, eight-cylinder	585	900	237	£125,595
S 65 AMG 5980 cc, 12-cylinder	630	1000	279	£183,065