Mercedes-Benz Revises E-Class Engine Range

In tune with the times, Mercedes-Benz has announced a comprehensive suite of mechanical upgrades for the E-Class series, which result in significant gains in fuel economy. From now on, all models are fitted with the firm’s eco-friendly BlueEfficiency package, direct injection technology and start-stop systems. In addition, all automatic models are equipped with the improved 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed transmission.
The V6 and V8 petrol engines in the E350 and the E500 have been heavily revised, with both featuring Merc’s third-generation direct injection system called BlueDirect. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, which had the V-angle reduced from 90 to 60 degrees for more refinement, receives a new air intake system and the direct injection system, resulting in a more power and greater fuel-efficiency.
The six-cylinder now develops 306HP (up from 292HP) and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque (previously 365 Nm). Fuel consumption has dropped by a whopping 20 percent, from 8.5 liters/100 km (27.7 mpg US) to 6.8 liters/100 km (34.6 mpg US) in the E350 sedan. CO2 emissions were also reduced by 20 percent, from 199 to 159 g/km. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 6.3 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than before.
The V8 unit in the E500 model is brand new employs a twin turbocharging system to compensate for the reduction in displacement from 5.5 to 4.6 liters. It is rated at 408HP (up from 388HP) and 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque (previously 530 Nm). Fuel consumption has been reduced by 17 percent, from 10.8 lt/100 km (21.8 mpg US) to 8.9 lt/100 km (26.4 mpg US), while CO2 emissions dropped from 253 to 209 g/km.
The four-cylinder diesel engines in the E 200 CDI, E 220 CDI and E 250 CDI also consume less fuel thanks to the Eco start/stop function and the 7G-Tronic Plus gearbox. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 2 to 16 percent across the range.
The four-pot gasoline engines in the E 200 and E 250 also post improved fuel-efficiency by up to 15 percent, especially on the versions equipped with the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic gearbox.
Finally, Mercedes has also revised the E 200 NGT BlueEfficiency version that runs on natural gas and petrol. Rated at 163 horsepower, it has the advantage of 50 percent lower fuel costs and 20 percent lower CO2 emissions in natural gas mode (in Europe). In petrol mode, fuel-economy has been improved by 13 percent to 8.1 liters/100 km (29 mpg), while in natural gas operation the car consumes 5.5 kilograms per 100 km, 0.6 kg less than before. CO2 emissions are rated at 149 g/km.

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New Porsche Cayman S Black Edition

Porsche is once again making use of its “Black Edition” nameplate for one of its models, this time for the Cayman S, which benefits from a power boost and additional standard equipment. Limited to 500 units worldwide, the Cayman S Black Edition features an upgraded version of the 3.4-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, with output increased by 10 horsepower to 330HP at 7,400 rpm (200 rpm higher). Maximum torque remains unchanged, however, at 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) at 4,750 rpm.

The added ponies allow the Cayman S Black Edition to complete the standard sprint to 100km/h (62mph) 0.1 seconds faster at 5.1 seconds when the car is fitted with a six-speed manual transmision. With the optional Porsche PDK double-clutch box, the car performs even better achieving the sprint in 5 seconds flat.

For those still unimpressed, the limited edition Cayman can shave a further 0.2 seconds off the 0-100 km/h time with the optional Sport Chrono package and Launch Control activated. Top speed is also 2 km/h higher than on the standard Cayman S, with the Black Edition reaching 279 km/h (173 mph) with the manual transmission, and 277 km/h (172 mph) with the PDK gearbox.

As you've probably noticed by taking a peek at the photos, the Black Edition name comes from the extensive use of black on the car's body and the interior. The bodywork and the 19-inch wheels are painted black, while the headlights are smoked as well. Inside, the car sports a black dashboard, gear lever and instrument dials and the “Black Edition” inscription on the stainless steel sills. The lid of the glove compartment bears the badge of the limited edition with the production number below.

The Cayman S Black Edition's standard equipment includes Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering function and LED daytime running lights, anti-dazzle interior and exterior mirrors with integrated rain sensor, black seats with partial leather upholstery, automatic climate control, Sport Design steering wheel and cruise control. In addition, the Porsche Comfort, Infotainment and Design packages are also included. The starting price in Germany for the Cayman S Black Edition is €67,807 ($98,500), including VAT, while U.S. prices are even much lower starting from $67,500 (€45,600).

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