U.S. based automakers are revelling in joy because car buyers in America are back as certain marques post double digit sales growth for 2011. More interestingly, Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG’s brand may have outsold Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz last month to cement its victory as the top-selling luxury brand for the year, according to estimates by Autodata Corp.

BMW’s U.S. sales was estimated to have increased by 16 percent, levelling out at 27,000 in December 2011 as compared to December 2010 and both sides are currently playing the waiting game, hoping that the other will release their report first.

Autodata Corp. estimates that BMW’s total U.S. sales for 2011 is currently at 248,073, outselling Mercedes by 2,804 vehicles who’s sales was aided by a face-lifted C-Class and M-Class SUV, which helped to increase Mercedes’ sales by 28 percent to 25,778 vehicles in December 2011 alone; settling at a total of 245,269 deliveries of Mercedes vehicles for 2011 in the U.S., which is a 13 percent increase.

A new version of the 3-Series is being introduced next year and Jim O’Donnell, then-head of BMW’s U.S. operations, had warned in August that Mercedes could gain ground as BMW wound down the old version.

Mercedes’s discounts for buyers per C-Class peaked at US$4,234 in December 2011 and the average discount for 2011 (From Jan-Nov) was US$3,516 compared to US$3,237 for the same period in 2010.

However, BMW’s discount peaked at US$4,289 per 3- Series for December 2011 and from January to November 2011, the average discount provided as US$3,167 compared to US$3,370 compared to the same period in 2010.

These results exclude Daimler’s Mercedes Sprinter and Freightliner vans and Smart cars and BMW’s Mini brand, being non-luxury vehicles.

Lexus has lost its seat as the top-selling luxury vehicle in the U.S. after a reign of 11 years in a row, which was seriously hampered by a lack of production due to the Japanese earthquake and tsunami in March 2011. Lexus sales fell 8 percent to 25,355 in December 2011 to settle on a total of 198,552 units sold for the year, which is a 13 percent increase from 2010.

BMW’s new U.S. Chief Executive Officer Ludwig Willisch reiterated that he expected BMW to finish on top in 2011. “Competition is tough,” he said. “If you’re in the No. 1 position, everyone else would like to be in your place.”

Mercedes-Benz USA has recently announced their 2012 Fashion Collaboration that combines the new SL Roadster with supermodel Lara Stone in Calvin Klein Collection.

The scene you see above was captured by American photographer and filmmaker Alex Prager who states Fellini and Hitchcock characters as her Icons of Style. Dutch supermodel Lara Stone sets the scene alongside the Mercedes SL-Roadster, she plays an updated Hitchcock blonde and the scenario is described as:

“A beautiful woman stands alone in the desert, suitcases in hand. Yet in this 21st century update on classic Film Noir, the blonde is her own getaway driver, outpacing a tornado in a sleek SL Roadster by Mercedes-Benz.”

The SL Roadster featured in the latest Mercedes-Benz Icon of Style campaign, combines technical innovation with sleek sportiness and classic luxury and reinterprets the legendary Mercedes-Benz classic of the 1950s for today.

Lara Stone commented, “It’s an honour to work with Mercedes-Benz on a project like this. Both Mercedes-Benz and Calvin Klein Collection brands represent great luxury and timeless elegance and it was a really unique experience.”

Mercedes-Benz has recently unveiled two new hybrid versions of its midrange E-Class which will debut at the upcoming 2012 Detroit Auto Show next month.

One of them is the petrol-electric E400 Hybrid which is intended initially for the U.S. market and the other is the diesel-electric E300 Bluetec Hybrid which will go on sale first in Europe, and will be available as a sedan and a wagon.

The heart of both models is what Mercedes-Benz calls the “intelligent modular hybrid concept,” which features a lithium-ion battery pack and a 20kW electric motor that produces 27bhp and 250Nm of torque.

The hybrid powertrain can accommodate either a diesel or petrol engine, and includes a stop/start system to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions, as well as regenerative braking to help keep the battery charged.

The E400 Hybrid mates the electric motor to a 3.5L V6 petrol engine rated at 302bhp and 370Nm of torque. The combination should achieve projected EPA fuel economy of 9.8L/100km in city driving, 7.6L/100km on the highway and 8.7L/100km when combined.

The E300 Bluetec Hybrid, on the other hand, couples the electric motor with a 2.1L four-cylinder diesel engine with 201bhp and 500Nm of torque. Thanks to this setup, the car will reportedly accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 241 km/h.

In terms of efficiency, the model is expected to return a combined 4.2 L/100km with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. Additionally, the 0.8 kWh lithium-ion battery should enable the vehicle to travel approximately 1.6 km on electricity alone.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is officially out of the bag before its debut at next month’s 2012 Detroit Auto Show. And like its predecessors over the last five decades, the new SL continues to offer S-Class luxury and innovations in a svelte, drop-top package.

Weight reduction across the board is one of the most outstanding design characteristics of the new SL. For the first time, Mercedes-Benz has implemented an all-aluminium bodyshell in a series-production model. The designers used even lighter magnesium for the cover panel behind the fuel tank and roof. High-strength steel tubing is integrated into the A-pillars for added safety.

The new aluminium bodyshell weighs around 109 kg less than it would using the steel technology of its predecessor. “The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car” says Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, responsible for the aluminium bodyshell at Mercedes-Benz. “The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means improved performance and efficiency. In other words, the driving pleasure increases and the environmental impact decreases.”

Despite the weight loss, the new-generation SL is much longer (+50 mm) and wider (+57 mm), compared with its predecessor.

Shoulder room (+37 mm) and elbow room (+28 mm) have been increased, exceeding the norm for this class of vehicle. Clear lines create a coherent look & feel in this comfortable interior.

A generous sweep of fine wood trim extends from the centre console across the dashboard into the doors, creating a pleasant wrap-around effect.

A choice of two wood trims is available. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car.

The sixth generation of the SL also offers a retractable hard top that can be operated using a space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism, converting the SL from coupe to roadster and back again in a matter of seconds.

In contrast to its predecessor, the new SL offers two versions of the retractable hard top – glass or the unique panoramic roof with Magic Sky Control.

The transparent roof switches between light and dark at the push of a button. In the light setting it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather.

In its dark state, the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up in bright sunlight.

The engineers have refined the operating mechanism for the roof. It now takes less than 20 seconds to open or close the roof completely.

The car’s various infotainment features are corralled through the brand’s COMAND telematics system. Safety is addressed with features like a lane-departure warning system, along with brakes that are automatically applied if the car detects an emergency. The windshield wipers have been calibrated to deliver washer fluid evenly and in a manner that doesn’t obstruct the driver’s vision, Mercedes said.

Under the hood, two engines are available. The entry-level 3.5L V6 produces 302bhp and 370Nm of torque. It enables the convertible to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds while averaging 6.8 L/100km.

If that isn’t powerful enough, the SL500 has a twin-turbo 4.7L V8 with 429bhp and 699Nm of torque. This allows the car to run from 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Both engine variants come an ECO stop/start function as standard equipment while the 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission has been optimized for fuel consumption and comfort.

The classic Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the most capable off-roaders money can buy these days but it’s also one of the longest-standing models in the auto industry having been originally launched in 1979.

While Mercedes-Benz has tried to keep up with the times by constantly refreshing its mechanics and equipment features, the G-Class shows its age, especially in the interior. And that’s where Bulgarian interior specialists, Vilner, steps in to update the classic Mercedes-Benz 4×4 model.

The tuning house has completely revamped the G-Class’ interior with high quality materials such as leather and Alcantara that have been applied everywhere. And by ‘everywhere’, we do mean everywhere as even the rear-view mirror and seat-belts have been trimmed in beige Alcantara.

A new Ground Zero sound system along with a fresh set of alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights round off the tune.

At this year’s Bologna Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz and Ducati have joined forces to unveil the new SLK 55 AMG and the new Ducati Streetfighter 848 in a move set to underscore the importance of the cooperation entered into by Mercedes-AMG and Ducati one year ago.

Both the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 are finished in an identical paint hue called the “streetfighter yellow” to ensure an exciting appearance from all angles.

The overall look is also perfectly complemented by the interior of the SLK 55 AMG: the contrasting yellow stitching creates a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel.

Yellow illuminated AMG door sill panels featuring LED technology round off the striking effect of the interior.

SLK 55 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 complement each other not only visually but also technically. Both models are the perfect embodiment of distinctive driving dynamics, expressive design and intense driving pleasure.

The SLK 55 AMG is powered by AMG’s 5.5L naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 422bhp and maximum toque of 540Nm.

Its fuel consumption of 8.4L/ 100 km (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195g/ km are some 30% lower than those of its predecessor. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Forming part of the third-generation of the SLK, the new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its individuality even at first glance: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG bodystyling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions, while adding a markedly athletic touch.

Ducati Streetfighter 848

The new Ducati Streetfighter 848 provides unbridled biking pleasure in its purest form, while combining innovative technology with an outstanding appearance: a revised 848 Testastretta 11° engine with 132bhp and an exciting 93.5Nm of torque as well as a modified frame geometry help to guarantee safe, agile handling. This is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, revised ergonomics and a specially tuned traction control (DTC) system.

In addition to the colour variant in traditional red with red frame, the new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. The Dark Stealth colour variant, meanwhile, with frame in Racing Black underscores the fierce attitude of the Streetfighter.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the 2012 ML63 AMG just ahead of its world debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show on 16th November.

According to the German automaker, the estimated combined fuel-economy for the 2012 ML63 AMG has been improved rather dramatically over the previous unit by 33% and now features a rating of 14.7 litres/100 km.

The 2012 ML63 AMG is powered by a 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, generating about 518bhp and 699Nm of torque.

Customers wanting more power can opt for the AMG Performance Package which boosts the V8′s output to 550bhp and a maximum torque of 758Nm.

Mercedes-Benz says that acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.7 seconds and 4.6 seconds for the 518bhp and 550bhp models respectively, while top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h and at 280 km/h with the AMG Performance Package.

The 2012 ML63 AMG is equipped with a permanent all-wheel drive system that distributes engine power at a ratio of 40:60 to the front and rear axle, and a standard AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission featuring three driving modes; Controlled Efficiency (C) for improved fuel economy, Sport (S) and Manual (M).

For the first time, the AMG sports suspension with AIRMATIC Air Suspension, independent damper struts, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System (ADS) is combined with the company’s ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM that features active stabilizers on the front and rear axles to compensate for body roll during cornering.

Braking power comes from ventilated and perforated brake discs at all four corners, while the 2012 ML63 AMG is also equipped with an electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with speed-based power assistance.

On the outside, the 2012 ML63 AMG gains a full body kit that includes unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts and wider front fenders, plus distinctive quad tail pipes and newly styled 20” wheels wrapped on 265/45 R 20 high-performance tyres or optionally, 295/35 R 21 tyres on 21” AMG alloy wheels.

Inside, AMG’s designers granted the 2012 ML63 AMG with new leather-covered sport seats, a four-spoke performance steering wheel, aluminium trim accents and a bespoke instrument cluster with a colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class will be hitting U.S. showrooms soon, but before it makes it State-side in late 2012, the automaker wants us to get a little familiar with what this particular premium compact has to offer.

We all know that its important to keep your eyes on the road, but in some cases there are just the oddest things that happen which can steal your observational attention from the road.

It only takes just a few seconds of being distracted and voila, you’ve managed to get yourself into a sticky situation, but the B-Class has your back and works as an extra set of eyes by telling you that you’re about to collide with something.

Now hit the play button below and check out how it works.

Its all systems go as Sepang International Circuit (SIC) gears itself to host South East Asia’s biggest endurance race, the Malaysia Merdeka Millennium Endurance (MMER) which enters its 12th edition starting with the qualifying session today.

Even without defending overall champion, Tengku Hammam and co from Arrows Racing who opted out of this year’s event because of problems with his Lamborghini, the fans are still in for a treat as the threat of a German invasion is imminent in the premier GT Class, with 3 German carmakers set to take over the grid.

BMW, Mercedes and Audi are set to unleash their hottest machines; BMW Z4, Mercedes SLS and Audi R8 LTS with all of them declaring their intentions of bringing home the title.

Top of the list is current Le Mans champion, Marcel Fassler who will be helming Belgian Audi alongside Frank Biela from Germany and compatriot, Marco Werner.

However, the 35 year old Swiss feels that having two former Le Mans champions on board, does not give them any distinct advantage, as the MMER will be an entirely different ball game.

‘‘It is correct that in Marco Werner, Frank Biela and myself, we have three Le Mans winners on board. But I would like to point out that it is hard to directly compare a 12 hour GT race with a 24 hour race in a sports prototype.

“One thing is sure: All my team mates have a lot of endurance experience. This will help us to be in good shape.

“I think we all know how to prepare well for an endurance race. I hope that there will be a level-playing field and that the performance of the different types of cars in the GT class will be balanced out evenly. Then we have every good reason to be looking forward for a fine competition in a great race,“ added Fassler.

Belgian Audi have also confirmed another entry in the GT Class with Canadian born Chinese touring car driver, Darryl O’ Young at the helm of the Audi R8 LTS, ably supported by Seiji Ara from Japan by his side and our very own former Formula One driver, Alex Yoong.

A total of 47 cars have confirmed their entry with the bulk coming from the Touring Production with 28, followed by 11 in the GT Class and 8 in the Sport Production.

Local hopes will be pinned on Petronas Syntium Team to fly the flag for Malaysia after Nobuteru Taniguchi, Masataka Yanagida and Dominic Ang created a storm by finishing third in the race last year.

Malaysian driving ace, Fariqe Hairuman will lead the other Mercedes SLS car for Petronas Syntium with team mates, Bernd Schneider and Tatsuya Kataoka hoping to upstage their more formidable rivals.

In the Sports Production Category, Masatama Kawaguchi, Masayuki Ueda and the third driver which will be confirmed later will hope repeat their winning performance for Tracy Sports in the Honda S2000 while Eddie

Liew is gunning for his second consecutive title, this time under the guise of JC Racing in a Honda DC5 after romping home to victory with Honda Malaysia Racing Team.

Local carmaker, Proton have continued their support since 2000 with their British subsidiary, Lotus, will again be making their appearance in the Sports Production category with 3 cars on the grid, one from BTB racing and 2 from Aylezo Motorsports.

Aylezo Motorsports will be hoping to erase the painful memory last year when an unfortunate incident at the pits caused their race to end prematurely in the Sports Production with Denis Lian vowing not to repeat the same mistakes this time around.

Meanwhile, during the pre-race drivers press conference, Project Leader of Audi Sport Customer Racing, Dietmar Ponticelli, reiterated his side’s commitment is continuing their support for the MMER by handing over 2 safety cars for use during the race tomorrow.

“I wish to record my thanks to SIC for giving me the opportunity to hand over the safety cars on behalf of Audi.
“Hopefully we can continue this relationship for many years to come. This is the second time we are providing the safety car for MMER.

“This safety car is a RS V10 model and one of its kind in the world. We have produced only a limited 333 cars and all of the models are already sold out. I’m delighted to announce that 54% parts of this racing car can also be found in the cars we produce for the road.

Mercedes will present its 2012 DTM AMG C-Coupe at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and the race car will be unveiled by Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg.

And before the 2012 DTM AMG C-Coupe makesits public appearance, Mercedes has released a teaser video of the 2012 DTM AMG C-Coupe. In this short clip, 2005 DTM champion, Gary Paffett explains the key differences between the 2012 DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé and the current DTM AMG Mercedes C-Class. The race car has larger wheels, a huge rear wing and is now a three-door coupe.

According to Mercedes Motorsport Vice President Norbert Haug, “This new-generation vehicle, based on our Mercedes-Benz C- Coupé, will mark the introduction of an even more spectacular racing car from the start of 2012. I am certain that the spectators will get their money’s worth from the three-way fight between Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the DTM next year.”