[photo update] Mercedes-Benz launches Bluetec M, GL and R-Class SUVs
03/19/2008, 11:03 AM
By Andrew Ganz
At today’s New York International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz officially unveiled its 50-state Bluetec SUVs, including the ML320 Bluetec, the GL320 Bluetec and the R320 Bluetec.
Mercedes’ Geoff Day began the press conference by urging the gathered media to “Vote for Bluetec,” capitalizing on the “clean running platform” of Mercedes’ Bluetec diesel engines.
In addition to introducing the revised “New Generation” 2009 M-Class SUVs, Mercedes premiered 50-state diesel SUVs powered by the automaker’s Bluetec diesel engines.
The revised M-Class SUV features a mildly facelifted front fascia with new headlamps, a larger grill, new seats and steering wheel and Mercedes’ Pre-Safe system.
Also going on sale this fall, the ML320 Bluetec, GL320 Bluetec and R320 Bluetec will meet 2009 emissions regulations for all 50 states. They replace CDI models that did not meet emissions for all 50 states.
Before urging journalists to “Vote for Bluetec,” Mercedes’ Thomas Weber introduced a white 1963 Mercedes-Benz 190D “Fintail” sedan, which was once driven by Motor Trend magazine from Los Angeles to New York using less than $35 in diesel fuel – in 1963 dollars. Mercedes-Benz intends to repeat that trip to showcase the efficiency of the 2009 Bluetec SUVs – and the vintage “Fintail” will go along for the ride.
The Launch
03/19, 11:06 AM
posted by:
A4
diesel is the future
03/19, 11:29 AM
posted by:
Jon Luc
I agree.
03/19, 2:18 PM
posted by:
Need more oil for GM
Mechanics across the globe are rejoicing.
New business.
03/20, 9:50 AM
posted by:
gilby7
I know I’ll get a beatdown for this, and even though it looks sort of (well, a lot) minivan-like, I like the R-series Benz. (cringe).. With a diesel and a non-existant 5 or 6-speed (which it will never have), I wouldn’t mind one. It’d be a great people mover. Diesel is a definite part of the future, but it’s still thinking of things in old ways. Powering vehicles with a fuel source that has a finite end may not be the best long-term solution. Short term (a decade or three) for sure, but.. The personal vehicle hasn’t really changed that much from the late 1800’s; it still has four wheels (in general) and a place to sit upright and you press on pedals and steer with a wheel in your lap. Somewhere, someone has to be working on a huge paradigm shift in personal transportation. Although, I’d still love a Jonny Quest-era jet pack..
03/20, 7:10 PM
posted by:
bigp
the stop sign to stop sign it will be so much fun
03/21, 10:21 PM
posted by:
The Stig
Where’s the 50-state E-class Bluetec?