McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

Mercedes-Benz News

Mercedes-Benz news fromduPont REGISTRY News, updated daily, covering the S-Class, the Maybach range, the AMG models, the G-Class and the electric line-up. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, bespoke builds and the auction results that set collector values. Mercedes-Benz competes across more segments than almost any rival, so the news here runs unusually wide. Our marketplace supplies the part most publications leave out entirely. A great many of these cars are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, which puts a review and a real asking price side by side. For Mercedes-Benz news today, and the luxury car market news around it, start here.

By Michael Van Runkle – August 12, 2025

Mercedes-Benz Vision V Preview: A New Concept For Van Lux...

About half the time when I land in Europe for automotive media launch programs, a Mercedes-Benz Metris or V-Class picks me up from the airport. Diesel engine chugging away, stiff suspension sending every last bump in the road straight to my spine, seats that barely recline– at least the air conditioning works, so I don’t overheat after 20 hours of air travel on the typically short trip to a nearby hotel. Fleet taxis like these represent a perfect application for electric vehicle adoption, thanks to smooth driving dynamics, repeated short journeys interspersed with downtime for charging, and the packaging made possible by skateboard battery layouts. No wonder Mercedes-Benz envisions a global market, and earlier this year, it debuted an all-electric concept van dubbed “Vision V” in Shanghai. Now, Vision V arrives in the USA for Monterey Car Week 2025, and Mercedes offered select media a chance to preview the concept in Los Angeles the week before. Staged above Dodger Stadium, north of Downtown LA, the van served as a true design exercise, with functional features but not yet ready for journalist driving impressions. So of course, I climbed aboard to fiddle with as many of the screens and seats and nifty tech solutions as possible, while stillknowing that plenty will change – or vanish entirely – by the time the eventual series version reaches production in 2026. Concept Meets Reality Surprisingly, Mercedes reps on hand insisted that the Vision V very strongly resembles what will come to reality. If so, that design will definitely inaugurate a newly futuristic styling era for vans. An enormous chrome grille dominates the nose, surrounded by 190 illuminated louvers that resemble tiny black-and-white piano keys, as well as another 200 stretching across the recessed headlight bar, complete with tri-star motifs. Above, an illuminated Benz badge givesway to dual bulges on the “hood” despite the complete lack of an internal combustion engine. The sides and roofline then swoop backward dramatically. Note the lack of rails for a sliding door or two, for which Mercedes instead invented a nifty hinging system that retracts entirely into the underfloor—both to clean up the exterior styling but also to improve aerodynamics. At the rear, that aero theme continues with 450 more illuminated louvers at the crisp edge of a subtle roof spoiler that’s complemented by a chrome lower diffuser. By Michael Van Runkle By Michael Van Runkle By Michael Van Runkle None of the aero elements prioritize downforce, because the Vision V is certainly not a supercar nor a traditional performance vehicle. Instead, performance in this case means range – but Benz declined to share just how good of a coefficient of drag the slick design produces. Which, in turn, suggests how serious the changes to the overall form on the way to a finished production van might be, even if the total exterior dimensions will reportedly measure only fractions of an inch different for everything other than height. From afar, the design certainly helps to minimize the impression of size: I’d have never guessed the length comes in at a substantial 18 feet, anyway, on a wheelbase of 139 inches. That’s over a foot of wheelbase more than a current S-Class, for context, but under eight inches of added length overall thanks to smaller overhangs past the wheels. Luxury is Tech, Tech is Luxury By Michael Van Runkle The eventual production versions will skip the infamous EQ naming structure, despite riding three or four inches taller than the Vision V, and will be known as the VLE and VLS. This positions similarly to the GLE and GLS, with the former as more of a people hauler that can seat up to eight, and the latter an executive limousine jam-packed with creature comforts and tech as seen on the concept. I climbed inside to put a hand on the white Nappa leather and feel the open-pore wood elements of the retro-futuristic aesthetic. Chess pieces in a clear cubby to my left and fine glassware for beverages disappeared from my mind, however, once a massive 65-inch screen unfurled from beneath the floor. Mercedes calls this rear passenger compartment a “private lounge” and the tech features “interactive worlds.” So the huge screen can obviously play movies and TV shows, while offering a gaming controller setup, online shopping, and even karaoke via a microphone. A camera hidden into the molding in the ceiling above the screen also allows for video chats– as a further commitment to work-life continuity that Mercedes made possible with a recent Microsoft Teams partnership. But there’s also a calming fireplace mode that drops the screen lower, so that flames become visible beneath the curvature between the floor and pedestal. By Michael Van Runkle By Michael Van Runkle Up to 42 speakers, including in-seat exciters, and seven digital projectors further increase the immersion into an inescapable digital world, though I actually enjoyed a digital detox more by reclining the surprisingly comfortable seats as far as possible. These cross-cylindrical pads will likely not survive to production, but actually provide a pillowy level of support that works well whether upright or in a nearly flat sleeping mode—great for catching up on shuteye after a long flight while the chauffeur drives, or alternatively while plugged in at a charging station. So far, the Vision V’s EV range and charging stats remain a mystery. Mercedes declined to specify battery capacity, other than a range target of 300 miles. The skateboard battery will run on an 800-volt architecture; however, to improve charging speeds, and will come in both front- wheel-drive (for efficiency) and 4Matic layouts. Whether that means a single, dual, tri, or quad-motor system also went unanswered. I can confirm that the vans will use rear-wheel steering to further optimize the skateboard battery’s low center of mass and suspension to make driving as similar to a normal car as possible, rather than a Spartan delivery van. And in the USA, Mercedes plans to use NACS charge ports to enable access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, as on the new electric CLA-Class. By Michael Van Runkle By Michael Van Runkle Rear-wheel steering should improve maneuverability in tight European city streets, which helps both fleet drivers and private buyers alike. And the Vision V’s front cockpit looks almost as comfortable as the rear, despite the inability to recline the two seats nearly as far. But plenty of high-tech inclusions hint at a market not just dedicated to the chauffeur and taxi driver. For Mercedes, that means a ton of screen, or the infamous three “Superscreen” displays that stretch all the way across the dash. But luxury touches throughout include the similar seats, metal throttle and brake pedals, and glass cases in the doors that match the rear’s—for holding sunglasses, this time, not champagne flutes. Separating the rear passenger compartment from the front, an expansive liquid-crystal pane of glass can switch from clear to opaque in milliseconds. The same goes for the side windows, while the roof gets a full canopy shade. And the roof even features 168 solar cells, which can charge at rates up to 539 watts. Converting that to as much as 3.44 kilowatt-hours on a sunny day means that the roof alone might contribute to low double-digit range increases without ever plugging into a charge station – enough for many drivers who only commute short distances to and from work. Can the Vision V Revive Van Life in the USA? Can the Vision V Revive Van Life in the USA? To my eye, the Vision V caters less to a private buyer, and barely even to the American market. Here, luxury hired cars will probably switch over from ubiquitous Escalades to GM’s own massive EV, the Escalade IQ. The more widespread acceptance of chauffeured vans in both Europe and Asia seems more ripe for the Vision V to succeed. I also left the preview surprised at how little the Vision V prioritized autonomous driving capabilities, in the era of Waymo and Zoox, and Tesla’s “any day now” Robotaxi. Mercedes arguably leads the industry with the only Level 3, or truly hands-free, driving system available on the market as an option on the S-Class and EQS since model year 2024. The fact that this concept van even includes a steering wheel, therefore signals that perhaps Mercedes still viewsfull autonomy as far enough in the future that it’s still worth developing a whole new vehicle platform in the interim period. Suffice to say, the Vision V raised as many questions as any typical concept car—or even more, given the unique nature of a futuristic electric van. Regardless of exactly how much of the design and technology eventually survives to the production VLE or VLS, I fully expect to get picked up in an electric Mercedes van for those airport transfers starting regularly just next year. View All Mercedes-Benz Metris For Sale Images Source: Michael Van Runkle, Mercedes-Benz

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 12, 2025

New 1-of-25 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Emerald Isle Revealed

Mercedes-Benz celebrates coastal California beauty with a stunning Maybach sedan. The Mercedes-Maybach lineup has taken a celebrated, and iconic name that has earned a reputation for ultra-luxury in automotive history and pop culture alike, and transformed it with the introduction of not only luxury sedans with cutting-edge technology and engineering, but also SUVs, electric vehicles, and sporty roadsters, as well. However, it’s the Mercedes-Maybach S 680, the V12-powered flagship ultra-luxury sedan from the Mercedes-Maybach lineup, that is the subject for its latest unique and exclusive creation: the new Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Emerald Isle. Inspired by the stunning natural beauty of Pebble Beach and the Monterey area of California, the new S 680 Emerald Isle is debuting just in time for the highly anticipated and prestigious Monterey Car Week. The vehicle is limited to only 25 units, it’s exclusive to the United States, and it’s coming to Mercedes-Benz dealerships in fall 2025. The immediate eye-catcher regarding the new S 680 Emerald Isle is its unique two-tone paint, taking inspiration from the cypress trees and white sand beaches seen in the area and pairing MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Mid Ireland Green Metallic with MANUFAKTUR Moonlight White Metallic. The interior, meanwhile, features hand-stitched Nappa leather upholstery in MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Light Brown, which is specific for the edition, paired with a Nappa leather headliner that includes its own quilted diamond pattern like the seats. The four-seat configuration allows all passengers the ultimate Maybach luxury experience, while both special badging throughout and a bespoke fragrance inspired by the natural environment of coastal California help highlight the unique, ultra-exclusive special edition. Already based on an incredible ultra-luxury sedan, the new Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Emerald Isle is a masterpiece of ultra-exclusive Maybach excellence coming just in time for Car Week. View All Mercedes-Maybach S 680 For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 05, 2025

Mercedes-Benz's G-Class Production Reaches 600,000 With A...

Few SUVs carry a legacy quite like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. What started as a rugged, military-bred 4x4 has evolved into a modern symbol of luxury and status backed by track-inspired performance from the specialists at AMG. Since 1979, the big-box off-roader has stuck to its unmistakable silhouette and go-anywhere attitude, building a cult following that stretches from military bases to Malibu. Now, the G-Class's legacy reaches a major milestone as Mercedes-Benz just completed its 600,000th chassis. Its latest one, a fully electric G 580, rolled off the line in Graz, Austria. While the G 580 trades its gas engine for zero-emissions power, it keeps everything fans love: the ladder frame, three locking differentials, and an iconic upright stance still recognizable on Rodeo Drive as on a rocky trail. Of course, it wouldn't be a G-Class celebration without a look back at its heritage. Mercedes-Benz has never been shy about the model's backstory, and recent limited editions, like the STRONGER THAN THE 1980s tribute, highlight just how much nostalgia there is. That 500,000-unit version sparked such a wave of enthusiasm that Mercedes followed it up with even more retro-inspired versions. And given how the G-Class combines modern tech with old-school charm, it makes sense that it keeps growing without losing its soul. Whether you're into the raw off-road feel of the early W460s or prefer a fully kitted-out AMG version with quilted leather and 20-speaker audio, there's a G for you. Another part of the G-Class's success? Personalization. Mercedes has relied on letting owners spec their dream builds through its MANUFAKTUR program, which lets you choose from over 20,000 paint colors and a near-infinite number of interior combinations. Nearly every one that rolls out today has at least one bespoke touch, and most have several. That attention to detail reflects just how far the G-Class has come, from a utilitarian workhorse to a high-end statement piece that can still out-climb most SUVs on the market. With 600,000 and counting, the G-Class isn't slowing down anytime soon. View All Mercedes-Benz G-Class For Sale Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Khris Bharath – July 25, 2025

V8 Power and a Giant Wing: Mercedes Concept AMG GT Track ...

Mercedes-AMG has just dropped a bombshell, and it appears to be headed straight for Porsche’s turf. Meet the Concept AMG GT Track Sport, a V8-powered prototype that seems to be aimed squarely at the 911 GT3 RS. While AMG readies its recently previewed all-electric GT for 2027, this track-bred monster proves the three-pointed star’s love affair with internal combustion isn’t over just yet. Built upon the second-generation AMG GT platform that debuted back in 2023, the Track Sport is far more than a trim upgrade. This is a full-blown engineering flex from the folks over at Affalterbach, all in a bid to shatter lap records. No technical specs on this one just yet, but AMG confirmed the concept will expand the GT family and, crucially, it’s powered by a V8. All signs point to a successor to the 2022 GT Black Series, which packed 730 horsepower from a heavily tuned twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. This new car is likely gunning to eclipse that number. While the car in the teaser images dons heavy camouflage, it still paints a clear picture that what we’re looking at is something that is designed for track duty. A massive Pan-Americana grille, extended front splitter, chunky diffuser, and wider front and rear tracks give the Track Sport a menacing stance. Additionally, louvered fender vents, hood extractors, and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport rubber hint at serious aero and thermal upgrades. The pièce de résistance? A massive GT3-style swan-neck rear wing with substantial end plates designed for serious downforce. Mercedes-AMG hasn’t confirmed drivetrain layout, but if the Track Sport sticks with rear-wheel drive like the entry-level GT43, it could aim for a new RWD lap record at the Nürburgring. The previous GT Black Series held that crown with a 6:43.62 lap until a Porsche GT2 RS with Manthey upgrades snatched it away. Then came the record-breaking AMG One, which dominated the ’Ring in 6:29.09. While the Track Sport likely won't match that hybrid hypercar, it just might redefine what’s possible for a rear-drive track machine. All this while the 992.1 GT3 RS with Manthey kit, which is yet to set an official record at the ring. Expect the production version to shed the GT’s current 2+2 layout. This is a two-seat, road-legal track car designed to bring back the rawness some felt was missing in the new GT. AMG is under pressure to homologate a road-based car for its next-gen GT3 race car, and the Track Sport could be that missing link. AMG is already testing a new flat-plane crank V8, rumored to debut in the upcoming CLE 63. That engine might feature mild-hybrid tech and power this car as well. We wonder if the neon green accents on the body work have anything to do with the hybrid tech. With the GT63 Pro already delivering 603 horsepower, AMG has more firepower on tap. A full reveal is likely coming sometime before the end of this year. Watch this space. View All Mercedes AMG GTs For Sale Source: Mercedes-AMG

By Tyler Rampersaud – July 15, 2025

World's First Maybach Brand Center Opens In Seoul

Maybach opens a new chapter for its brand in Seoul. A name synonymous with automotive ultra-luxury and stunning design, Maybach has spent the 21st Century thus far transforming its historic name into an aspirational pop culture icon. Now with a more diverse and evolved lineup than ever before, including a sporty yet serene convertible, an all-electric SUV, and of course, the celebrated ultra-luxe SUVs and sedans that bear the Maybach nameplate, Maybach is in a golden era of being a household name in the automotive world. Now, a new chapter has been opened for Maybach, as the world’s first Maybach Brand Center has opened in the cosmopolitan Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea. The new Maybach Brand Center is a new retail concept that showcases the comprehensive lifestyle that Maybach offers, nestled in the premier luxury district of one of Asia’s biggest cities. The standalone building is five stories tall, with a unique design that reflects the aesthetic and brand values of Maybach along with traditional Korean architecture. The facility offers sales and service for Mercedes-Maybach and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models, as well as unique configuration experiences, a barista, and a garden. The new Maybach Brand Center is made specifically for customers who desire an ultra-luxury sales and aftersales experience, and with a growing Maybach lineup, the time couldn’t be better to inaugurate the first one. At the exclusive grand opening celebration, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series was unveiled, along with the ultra-exclusive Mercedes-Maybach Silver Lining lineup, and a historic 1932 Maybach Zeppelin DS 8. With its own Brand Center for the first time, Maybach is coming into its own in a bigger way than ever before. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Tyler Rampersaud – July 02, 2025

Mercedes-Benz Tests Upcoming VLE Electric Van In Rome

Mercedes-Benz makes a big step towards realizing the future of its vans. Mercedes-Benz is on the cusp of bringing forth a new era for its vans. Known as canvases for incredible customization and for their versatile potential, Mercedes-Benz vans have earned a reputation over the years for being vessels for luxury vehicles, adventure vehicles, workhorses, and more. However, the new era of vans is set to showcase more versatility and innovation than ever before, with Mercedes-Benz introducing the VAN.EA electric architecture for its vans, and envisioning a hyperfuturistic ultra-luxury van with its Vision V concept vehicle. Now, a prototype of the Mercedes-Benz VLE in camouflage drove to Rome from Stuttgart to showcase its incredible real-world driving capabilities and its readiness to shake up the landscape of vans and luxury vehicles as a whole. The route from Stuttgart to Rome included tricky mountain passes, highways, rural routes, and of course, urban streets, with a total distance of around 677 miles. The 13 hours of driving required two 15-minute charging stops for the electric vans, and the rear-axle steering helped with maneuverability in trickier situations. Despite the temperature differences between the two cities and along the route, the cabin’s climate control effortlessly maintained a stable temperature. Next year, Mercedes-Benz is set to unveil a new modular, scalable van architecture, completely changing the way the historic manufacturer is able to create its range of vans, allowing for a new platform with clearer distinctions between van limousines and commercial vehicles. The upcoming Mercedes-Benz Grand Limousine models will be the VLE and the VLS, and while the VLS will feature luxury accommodations for up to 8, the VLS is expected to occupy its own segment of van luxury. Thanks to new architecture that is already proving robust, Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionize its van lineup soon. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Tyler Rampersaud – July 01, 2025

New 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S Final Edition Unveiled

Mercedes-AMG ends an era. When the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 was introduced, it marked a new chapter in the legacy of the AMG lineup. As the performance-oriented version of the compact Mercedes-Benz CLA, the CLA 45 featured all-wheel drive and an immensely powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. That formula has remained integral to the CLA 45 as the years have gone on, and today’s iteration of the CLA 45 features an incredible 416 horsepower and 369 lb/ft of torque, sending power to all four wheels in a small footprint for a truly impressive driving experience. For the 2026 model year, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S “Final Edition,” bowing out the captivating compact luxury performance car with a spectacular and exclusive special edition. To set the special edition apart, the exterior is finished exclusively in MANUFAKTUR Mountain Grey Magno, which is complemented by striking black and yellow graphics, 19-inch wheels with black and yellow accents, the body kit pieces of the AMG Aerodynamics Package Plus, and more. Meanwhile, the interior of the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S Final Edition is finished with black upholstery, yellow stitching, and special “45 S” branding on the front headrests. Edition-specific badging on the center console also commemorates its importance and exclusivity. With the compact performance luxury machine bowing out, its new Final Edition is a proper send-off. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Khris Bharath – June 18, 2025

Teased: Mercedes-AMG Previews Hypercar Inspired by Vision...

Mercedes-AMG has dropped two cryptic teaser images with a caption that reads ‘First sneak before its showtime’. It appears that the folks over at Affalterbach are preparing to unveil their long-rumored all-electric hypercar. Codenamed C592, it’ll bring nearly half a century of design and innovation with it, drawing cues from the radical and luxurious 2023 Vision One-Eleven concept, which itself drew inspiration from the legendary wedge-shaped Mercedes C111 experimental cars of the 1970s. Hailing from the Bruno Sacco era of Mercedes-Benz design, the C111 spans two generations and served as the test bed for everything from rotary wankle and turbo-diesel engines to high-speed runs at Nardo in southern Italy. More importantly, it also featured the iconic gull-wing doors reminiscent of the 300 SL, the production SLS, and, more recently, the Vision One-Eleven concept. Coming back to the teaser images, the first one shows a low, vented hood painted in the familiar two-tone orange and black paint that echoes the vibrant hues seen on the C111. The longitudinal strakes hint at air-flow management. The second image is even more mysterious, revealing a sculpted roof with a prominent aero channel and no rear glass. The oversized ‘AMG’ lettering stamped across the spine drives the point home that what you’re looking at isn’t just a badge-engineered EQ model. Source: Mercedes-AMG Instagram Powertrain details are under wraps for now, but expect the C592 to most likely ride on Mercedes' dedicated electric platform, AMG.EA that incorporates advanced hardware like axial-flux motors, from YASA, a British company that Mercedes acquired back in 2021, that are capable of 489 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, with each motor only weighing 53 pounds. Also expect 800-volt lithium-ion cylindrical batteries from California-based Sila Nanotechnologies, which utilize breakthrough silicon-anode chemistry, for 40% greater energy density than traditional graphite cells. What all this should mean is more power and range, which hopefully translates into real-world conditions. While a combined 1,000+ horsepower figure is possible and should be adequate for something like the upcoming all-electric Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door that was also teased in early May, in the hypercar space, most current models nearly make twice as much power. The Lotus Evija, Rimac Nevera, and Pininfarina Battista all make in the ballpark of 2,000 horsepower. Regardless of whatever AMG has planned for both models, we won’t have to wait too long to find out, as they represent a new era for Mercedes’ performance division. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-AMG/Instagram

By Tyler Rampersaud – June 03, 2025

New 1-of-450 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Arctic Silver Edition Un...

Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR emerges with a new limited-edition AMG model. Known for its unique finishes inside and out, MANUFAKTUR is the name that some of the most exclusive vehicles to roll of the Mercedes-Benz assembly line wear, evolving the historic luxury brand as an icon of modern luxury automotive excellence. However, when MANUFAKTUR joins forces with the performance-oriented arm of the Mercedes-Benz brand, AMG, truly special projects emerge, like the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Arctic Silver Edition, a new, ultra-exclusive variant of the luxurious performance SUV with a plethora of MANUFAKTUR touches to make it unique. The special edition is arriving to Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the United States later in 2025, and only 450 units of the vehicle are slated for production globally. It’s set apart by features like its exclusive Cirrus Silver Magno paintwork, 23-inch wheels in matte black with red accents and calipers, and an interior that echoes the sporty color scheme of the wheels. Carmine Red and Black upholstery in sumptuous Nappa leather is enhanced with diamond quilting. The visual experience of the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Arctic Silver Edition is completed with carbon fiber and chrome trim, MANUFAKTUR door sill trims with white illuminated AMG lettering, and AMG logos embossed and embroidered throughout. With formidable performance, plush luxury, a large footprint, and the unique looks of an ultra-exclusive special edition, the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Arctic Silver Edition is a truly enviable new luxury performance SUV. View All Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 For Sale Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 30, 2025

BRABUS-Customized 2021 Mercedes-AMG G 63 For Sale

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the world’s most iconic and recognizable luxury SUVs, with incredible off-road capabilities and a silhouette that has earned a defining status when it comes to automotive luxury. However, one of the most ubiquitous customization firms when it comes to the G-Wagon and any Mercedes-Benz model is BRABUS, and over the years, its customizations for the G-Wagon have elevated the vehicle’s existed luxury panache and transformed it into an even more unique head-turner. View Price & Listing This 2021 Mercedes-AMG G 63 with various customizations from BRABUS is currently available for sale At Reina International Auto in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Featuring BRABUS’s Widestar package, the vehicle has a wider stance than the standard vehicle, with eye-catching elements throughout the body kit in a sleek Designo Graphite Metallic color. Meanwhile, the interior of the luxury performance SUV features red and black leather upholstery, complementing the sleek exterior color with a vibrant hue that matches the iconic aesthetic of BRABUS-customized vehicles. With its various BRABUS customizations, this 2021 Mercedes-AMG G 63 for sale with the BRABUS Widestar package is an opportunity to own an extra iconic and head-turning rendition of one of the world’s favorite luxury performance SUVs.

Mercedes-Benz News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe