2010 Audi A5
The 2010 Audi A5 lineup gains a new convertible body style and a 4-cylinder base engine. In pricing and size, this sporty 2-door slots between Audi’s compact A4 and midsize A6. The A5 and S5 Cabriolet models have a power soft top and join the A5 and S5 coupe. The new-for-2010 A5 2.0T comes in both body styles. It has a turbocharged 211-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 2.0T Cabriolet is available with front-wheel drive or Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive. The 2.0T coupe is AWD only. The mid-line A5 3.2 comes as an AWD coupe only and has a 265-horsepower 3.2-liter V6.
The high-performance S5 models are also AWD only. The Cabriolet has a supercharged 333-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, while the S5 coupe retains its 354-horsepower 4.2-liter V8. Transmission availability is as follows: The front-drive 2.0T Cabriolet has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic; the AWD 2.0T, 3.2, and S5 coupe offer a 6-speed automatic; a 7-speed automated manual that behaves much like an automatic is standard on the S5 Cabriolet.
A 6-speed manual is available on 2.0T and S5 coupes. The manual-transmission 3.2 has been discontinued. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Options include a navigation system and up-level audio system. Audi Drive Select, which includes upgraded power steering and an adaptive suspension, is also optional.
2009 Audi A4
The 2009 Audi A4 is redesigned, growing larger and gaining more power. Audi’s top-selling car line features 4-door sedans and Avant wagons. The Cabriolet convertible will continue with the 2008 body style, as will the 340-hp V8 high-performance S4 version of the Cabriolet. All body styles offer Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive. Some versions of the sedan and convertible are available with front-wheel drive.
Sedans and Avants come in 2.0T trim and feature a turbocharged 211-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 3.2 quattro is a sedan only. It has a 265-hp 3.2-liter V6. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on front-wheel drive 2.0Ts. 2.0T quattro models are available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. 3.2 quattros are automatic only.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Other available features include a navigation system; Audi’s MMI control for audio, climate, and other functions; a self-opening trunklid; Audi Drive Select, which allows the driver to customize steering and suspension settings; blind-spot alert; keyless entry and starting; a wireless cell phone link; and a rearview camera.
2010 Audi A4
The 2010 Audi A4 lineup gains a refreshed high-performance S4 sedan. Audi’s top-selling car line features 4-door sedans and Avant wagons. The Cabriolet convertible is redesigned and is sold as part of Audi’s A5 lineup. Both the sedan and wagon continue to offer Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive, and the sedan is also available with front-wheel drive. Sedans and Avants come as the 2.0T and feature a turbocharged 211-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.
The V6-powered 3.2 quattro has been discontinued. Front-drive 2.0T models have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. 2.0T quattro models are available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. S4 comes only with all-wheel drive and is powered by a supercharged 333-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual that behaves much like an automatic.
S4 has 18-inch wheels and unique exterior and interior trim. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, rear-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Other available features include a navigation system; Audi Drive Select, which allows the driver to customize steering and suspension settings; blind-spot alert; keyless access/engine start; a wireless cell-phone link; and a rearview camera.
2009 Audi A3
The 2009 Audi A3 receives freshened exterior and interior styling. This 4-door hatchback is smaller and less costly than Audi’s A4 compacts. Two A3 models are available. The 2.0T has a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The 3.2 S line has a 250-hp 3.2-liter V6.
Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system is standard with the V6, and for the first time, optional on the 4-cylinder. 2.0T models come standard with front-wheel drive. The 2.0T is available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is only available on 2.0Ts that have the 6-speed automatic. Standard on the 3.2 is the 6-speed automatic.
Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Optional with either engine is Audi’s Magnetic Ride Control adjustable suspension, which allows drivers to choose between “normal” and “sport” modes. A navigation system is optional on both models.
2010 Audi A3
The 2010 Audi A3 lineup sees a few changes, including the addition of a new diesel model. This 4-door hatchback is smaller and less costly than Audi’s A4 compacts. A3 comes with a choice of two engines. 2.0T versions have a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
It’s available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual that behaves much like an automatic. The 2.0 TDI has a 140-horsepower turbodiesel 4-cylinder and the automated manual only. The V6-powered 3.2 S line has been discontinued. All A3s have front-wheel drive.
Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive is available on automatic-transmission 2.0Ts. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, rear-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Leather upholstery, sport front seats, and a navigation system are available.
2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup expands with the addition of a diesel sedan, as well as new convertible and station wagon body styles. The 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe versions of Mercedes’ premium-midsize car see no major changes. Reprising their roles are the V6-powered E350 and V8-powered E550. Also offered is the high-performance E63 sedan, which is tuned by Mercedes’ AMG performance arm. New for 2011 is the turbodiesel E350 BlueTEC sedan.
The coupe and convertible come only as the E350 and E550. Gas E350s have a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, E550s a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8, and the E63 a 518-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. The E350 BlueTEC has a 210-horsepower 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. A 7-speed automatic transmission is standard on all E-Class models. All coupe, sedan, and convertible models have rear-wheel drive. E350 and E550 sedans offer Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The station wagon is AWD only and has the gasoline V6 engine.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, front-side airbags, rear-side airbags, hip-protecting side airbags, and a driver-knee airbag. Mercedes’ driver-adjustable air suspension is standard on the E550 sedan. Available features on the E-Class include adaptive high-beam headlights, which use a camera designed to recognize oncoming traffic and adjusts lamp intensity between low and high beams. Also available are a night-vision system and Mercedes’ active multi-contour seats with massage function. Other options available on most models include a navigation system, rearview camera, electronic trunk closer, keyless access and engine start, and adaptive cruise control. The sedan’s optional Sport Package includes specific wheels and trim.
The convertibles are available with Mercedes’ AIRSCARF, which blows warm air across the necks of front-seat occupants. Making its debut on the E-Class Cabriolet is a feature that Mercedes calls AIRCAP. It consists of two parts: A 2.4-inch-deep net built into the windshield frame as well as a draft-stop between the rear seats. They’re designed to work together to reduce wind buffeting in the cabin. Evaluations of the E-Class coupe and sedan are based on the 2010 model; our impressions of the convertible are based on preview test drives.
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class gets slightly freshened exterior styling. This premium midsize car is essentially a reskinned version of the company’s E-Class sedan. CLS seats four vs the E-Class’ five and does not offer all-wheel drive or a wagon body style. Two CLS-Class models are available. The CLS550 has a 382-hp 5.5-liter V8 engine.
The high-performance CLS63 AMG has a 507-hp 6.2-liter V8. Both have a 7-speed automatic transmission and an air-spring suspension that adjusts firmness within three driver-selectable modes. The CLS63 adds firmer chassis tuning and cosmetic touches by Mercedes’ AMG performance division. An AMG Sport Package for CLS550 includes specific trim and steering-wheel shift paddles for the automatic transmission.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front and rear side airbags. Standard is a full-length center console and twin bucket-type rear seats. Newly standard on the 2009 CLS is a navigation system and wireless cell-phone link. Options include front- and rear-obstacle detection, adaptive cruise control, and heated and cooled front seats. CLS550s have 18-inch wheels, while CLS63 AMG models have 19-inch wheels.
2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is largely unchanged. This premium midsize car is essentially a reskinned version of the company’s 2002-2009-generation E-Class sedan. CLS seats 4 vs the E-Class’ 5 and does not offer all-wheel drive. Two CLS-Class models are available. The CLS550 has a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8 engine. The high-performance CLS63 has a 507-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 tuned by Mercedes’ AMG performance arm.
Both have a 7-speed automatic transmission and an air-spring suspension that adjusts firmness within three driver-selectable modes. The CLS63 adds firmer chassis tuning and cosmetic touches by Mercedes’ AMG performance division. An AMG Sport Package for CLS550 includes specific trim and steering-wheel shift paddles for the automatic transmission.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags. Standard is a full-length center console and twin bucket-type rear seats, a navigation system, and wireless cell-phone link. Options include front- and rear-obstacle detection, adaptive cruise control, and heated and ventilated front seats.
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is largely unchanged, though high-performance models tuned by Mercedes’ AMG performance division are no longer offered. CLKs are available as coupes or convertibles. The coupes have hardtop styling with no middle roof posts. Convertibles have a power fabric top, heated-glass rear window, and roll bars designed to pop up if sensors detect an impending rollover.
The CLK’s model lineup consists of the CLK350 with a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and the CLK550 with a 382-hp 5.5-liter V8. The CLK63 AMG and CLK63 AMG Black Series have been discontinued. The CLK350 and 550 have a 7-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags (coupes), and front and rear side airbags.
Heated seats and a 6-disc CD changer are standard on all CLK-Class models for 2009. Options include a navigation system and keyless entry and starting. We have not yet tested the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class.
2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class has been discontinued, and has been replaced by the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe. The model is still heavily disguised, wearing about the same amount of camouflage it was a year ago, but the shots still provide a fresh look at how development of the model is coming.
As for when we can expect to see the next CLK’s official unveiling, the next generation of the coupe is expected to be unveiled this fall at the Paris Motor Show, with deliveries rumored to be commencing in Europe at the end of the year (or early 2009 for those of you residing in the U.S.). Power is expected to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, which includes your choice of either a 3.5-Liter V6 (CLK350), 5.5-Liter V8 (CLK550) or the AMG built 6.3-Liter V8 (CLK63 AMG).
We will of course keep you posted as new details about the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK emerge; in the meantime, you can check out the full 2010 CLK spy photo gallery over at Automotive Traveler.
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class lineup gains all-wheel drive as a new feature. The CL550 and CL63 use V8 engines of 5.5 and 6.2 liters, respectively. CL600 and CL65 versions have V12 engines of 5.5 and 6.0 liters, respectively. All CLs have an automatic transmission: 7 speeds on the CL550 and CL63, 5 speeds on the CL600 and CL65. For 2009, the CL550 is newly standard with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive; the rear-drive CL550 has been discontinued.
All other CL-Class models are rear-drive only. CL-Class is essentially a 2-door coupe version of the 4-door S-Class sedan. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front and rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class has a standard navigation system and wireless cell-phone link. All models now have steering-wheel gearshift paddles.
Mercedes’ Parking Guidance system–which assists drivers with parallel parking maneuvers–is now available. Also available for 2009 is the company’s Blind Spot Assist, which alerts drivers to the presence of another vehicle in their blind spot.
2010 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class gets a few new features. The CL550 and CL63 use V8 engines of 5.5 and 6.2 liters, respectively. CL600 and CL65 versions have V12 engines of 5.5 and 6.0 liters, respectively. The CL63 and CL65 are tuned by Mercedes’ AMG performance division.
All CLs have an automatic transmission: 7 speeds on the CL550 and CL63, 5 speeds on the CL600 and CL65. The CL550 has Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. All other CL-Class models are rear-wheel drive. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front- and rear-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags.
CL-Class has a standard navigation system, wireless cell-phone link, and adaptive headlights. A parking guidance system is optional on the CL550 and CL63 and standard on the CL600 and CL65.
2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is largely unchanged following its 2008 redesign. Four models are offered. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport have a 228-hp 3.0-liter V6. The C350 Sport has a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6. The C63 AMG is tuned by Mercedes’ performance division and has a 451-hp 6.2-liter V8. C300 Sport is available with manual or automatic transmission.
All other C-Class cars use a 7-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models. The C300 is available with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Rear-drive C300s with the automatic transmission can run on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. Sport models have a sport suspension and unique interior and exterior styling.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Available features include a navigation system which includes a hard drive for storing digital music files, bi-xenon headlamps, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat.
2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available with some new features and option packages. Four models continue in this lineup. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport have a 228-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. The C350 Sport has a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The C63 AMG is tuned by Mercedes’ performance division and has a 451-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. C300 Sport is available with manual or automatic transmission. All other C-Class cars use a 7-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models. The C300 is also available with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
All C300 models can run on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. Sport models have a sport suspension and unique interior and exterior styling. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front- and rear-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Newly standard are front hip-protecting side airbags. Available features include a navigation system which includes a hard drive for storing digital-music files, bi-xenon headlamps, and 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
Newly available on the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class are keyless entry/engine start and rearview camera. Also available on rear-drive Sport models is a Dynamic Handling Package, which includes active suspension, specific 18-inch wheels, and steering-wheel shift paddles on cars with the automatic transmission. An optional AMG P31 Development Package for the C63 includes a 174-mph top-speed limiter and 30 additional horsepower, bringing the total to 481. The limited-slip differential that was previously included in the P31 package is now a standalone option.
2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is largely unchanged. Four models continue in this lineup. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport have a 228-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 that can run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. The C350 Sport has a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The C63 AMG is tuned by Mercedes’ performance division and has a 451-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. The C300 Sport is available with manual or automatic transmission.
All other C-Class cars use a 7-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard. The C300 is also available with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Sport models have a sport suspension and unique interior and exterior styling. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front- and rear-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Available features include a navigation system which includes a hard drive for storing digital-music files, bi-xenon headlamps, and 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
Also offered are keyless entry/engine start and rearview camera. A Dynamic Handling Package, which includes active suspension and specific 18-inch wheels is available on rear-drive Sport versions. An optional AMG P31 Development Package for the C63 includes a 174-mph top-speed limiter and 30 additional horsepower, bringing the total to 481. The limited-slip differential that was previously included in the P31 package is now a standalone option.
