The C-Class adds a two-door model for the first time since Mercedes dropped the hatchback from the US lineup in 2006. The C-Class coupe is almost identical in size to its German rivals, the BMW 3-Series and Audi A5. Three engines are offered: a 1.8l turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.5l V6, and a 6.2l V8. A seven-speed automatic is standard on C250 and C350 models, whereas the C63 AMG is equipped with a 7-speed sequential manual.
The second generation CLS-Class debuted for the 2012 model year. The new CLS retains the overall sleek profile, but wears harder styling lines and a more upright grille. In terms of size, the new model is slightly longer (.9 inches) and wider (.4 inches). Under the hood, the CLS offers two new engines. The CLS550 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine rated at 402-bhp, whereas the CLS63 AMG utilizes a 5.5-liter V8 rated at 518-bhp. Even though both engines are smaller in displacement, they are more powerful and fuel efficient. The CLS550 has a 7-speed automatic and the CLS63 includes a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic.
The 3rd generation M-Class is longer and wider, yet shorter in height than its predecessor. Four models are offered: the ML350 with a gasoline powered V6, and the ML350 BlueTEC with a diesel burning V6, the ML550 with a 402-bhp V8 and the ML63 AMG with a 518-bhp V8. All-wheel-drive (dubbed 4MATIC) is standard.
The SLK roadster enters its third generation for 2012. The new model is roughly the same size increasing by only about an inch in length and width. A vertical front grille and more pronounced hood define the new styling. The SLK retains its hard top convertible, although a new feature adds a glass roof with the ability to block the light. Mercedes offers the US model with either a 1.8l four-cylinder engine (SLK250) or a 3.5l V6 (SLK350). A six-speed manual is standard on the SLK250, with a seven-speed automatic optional. The seven-speed automatic is standard on the SLK350.
A roadster version of the SLS joins the lineup for 2012. The roadster has a power-operated cloth top that can be operated at speeds up to 31mph. The 6.2l V8 is rated at 563-bhp.
The C-Class wears updated styling in the front and rear. On the inside, the dashboard has been restyled. A number of powertrain changes include a new 7-speed automatic transmission, more powerful V6 engines and the return of a four-cylinder model.
The E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet have updated powertrains for 2012. The E350 models are powered by a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 rated at 302-bhp, 273 lb-ft of torque. The E550 will include a 4.6-liter V8 rated at 402-bhp, 443 lb-ft of torque.
The E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet have updated powertrains for 2012. The E350 models are powered by a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 rated at 302-bhp, 273 lb-ft of torque. The E550 will include a 4.6-liter V8 rated at 402-bhp, 443 lb-ft of torque.
The E-Class sedan features updated powertrains for 2012. The E350 models are powered by a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 rated at 302-bhp, 273 lb-ft of torque. The E550 will include a 4.6-liter V8 rated at 402-bhp, 443 lb-ft of torque. The E63 AMG model is powered by a 518-bhp, 5.5-liter twin turbo V8.
The E63 AMG wagon returns for 2012. All E-Class body styles feature updated powertrains for 2012. The E350 Wagon is now powered by a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 rated at 302-bhp, 273 lb-ft of torque. The E63 AMG Wagon is powered by a 518-bhp, 5.5-liter twin turbo V8.
A new diesel powered model joins the lineup. The S350 Bluetec 4MATIC features a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine and all-wheel-drive. The S550 gets a new 4.6-liter V8 rated at 402-bhp, 443 lb-ft of torque.