2021 Mercedes-Benz Model Line Updates & Changes

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Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Introduces New SUVs and AMG Performance Models, Refreshes Entire E-Class Family and Expands Innovative Technologies Across Model Lines for the 2021 Model Year.

  • All-new GLA SUV rounds out refreshed Mercedes-Benz SUV family as redesigned attractive gateway
  • All-new AMG GLE 63 S and AMG GLS 63 SUVs set new standards for Intelligent Performance, Versatility and Luxury
  • New generation of Mercedes-AMG SUV Coupe trendsetters completely reconceived
  • Mercedes-Maybach GLS expands the Maybach product portfolio with its first-ever SUV
  • Entire E-Class Family is redesigned, introduces first-ever E-Class All-Terrain for U.S. market
  • AMG introduces new gateway to GT 4-Door Coupe Family and expands new ’35’ model line with AMG GLA 35 & GLB 35 SUVs
  • All new and refreshed models benefit from innovative safety and convenience features, Mercedes-Benz User Experience technology and latest driver assistance systems

Mercedes-Benz USA enters the 2021 model year with an array of exciting new vehicle debuts and performance and technology upgrades across the vehicle range.

New gateway to the Mercedes-Benz SUV family

In the past year, Mercedes-Benz has updated its entire SUV lineup – from welcoming the first-ever compact GLB with an optional 3rd row, allowing for flexible configurations, to introducing the redesign of the best-selling midsize GLC. The new-generation GLE also debuted a highly compelling new design and an optional 3rd row seat for the first time, and the all-new full-sized GLS now offers Captain’s Chairs for six passengers, or a rear bench to seat up to seven. The all-new GLA now seamlessly rounds out the lineup as the attractive and sporty gateway to the refreshed Mercedes-Benz SUV family.

While the GLA remains a compact SUV in a versatile city-sized package, the new generation displays a more grown-up appearance as it is now taller (+ 3.6″), wider (1.2″) and has a longer wheelbase (+ 1.1″) than its predecessor. With more front headroom, more rear legroom and more cargo space than its predecessor, the vehicle is as dynamic as its customers’ lives – equally suitable for everyday driving and weekend getaways.

The new GLA 35 is Mercedes-AMG’s latest entry to the brand and combines high style with superior performance in a sporty and versatile crossover package. Featuring an AMG- enhanced 2.0-litre Inline-4 turbocharged engine boasting 302 hp, the GLA 35 is capable of powering from zero to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds.

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The AMG GLA 45 is powered by the newly developed, Handcrafted M139 2.0-liter engine, the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production. With 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, it boasts more power than its predecessor and completes zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The active, variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive distributes power to the rear axle selectively with AMG TORQUE CONTROL, providing the basis for top traction in any driving condition.

Intelligent  performance meets  everyday functionality

The new AMG GLE 63 S and AMG GLS 63 SUV models represent the continued evolution of Intelligent Performance. The GLE 63 S clearly defines automotive athleticism and joins the successful GLE family as the muscular performance leader from Mercedes-AMG, while the GLS 63 represents the pinnacle of a large SUV with AMG Performance Luxury – combining the luxury of abundant space and day-to-day functionality with refined performance.

At the heart of these new models is a Handcrafted Mercedes-AMG 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo engine that has been paired with an EQ Boost Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) — a first for a Mercedes-AMG SUV. In both vehicles, the 4.0-litre V8 generates 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Augmenting the engine, the EQ Boost starter generator provides a momentary increase of 21 hp and up to 184 lb-ft of torque on acceleration, while charging the 48-volt battery and imperceptibly restarting the engine in conjunction with the ECO start/stop function.

These vehicles demonstrate intelligent performance with features like AMG Performance 4MATIC+ and AMG Cylinder Management. In combination with our AMG Cylinder Management, the EQ Boost technology significantly optimizes fuel efficiency.
Furthermore, the ISG offers instant throttle response: zero to 60 mph is estimated at 4.1 seconds for the GLS 63 and 3.7 seconds for the GLE 63 S.

A number of new features on these vehicles – such as active roll stabilization, AMG active engine mounts and the new electronic rear differential – also make them more agile and dynamic than ever before.

SUV Coupe trendsetters completely reconceived

The new Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe models uniquely combine sporty design with exhilarating performance and high day-to-day usability. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe continues to pave the way for high-performance, highly versatile, sporty utility vehicles, while the new AMG GLE 63 S Coupe raises that bar even higher with exhilarating performance capabilities.

The GLE 53 Coupe is powered by an AMG-enhanced 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with an EQ Boost starter generator. Driving dynamics are further enhanced by the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension based on AIRMATIC. The progressive interior design features the latest MBUX infotainment system, including AMG-specific functions and displays.

Powered by a Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo engine, featuring an electrified EQ Boost starter generator, the GLE 63 S Coupe delivers an impressive 603 hp. Dynamic handling is guaranteed thanks to the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension with AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL roll stabilization, fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission.

The new generation of AMG SUV Coupes offer all the advantages of a Mercedes SUV, with ample space for passengers and luggage, extensive safety features and superior traction on a variety of surfaces and road conditions.

A new form of luxury

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC represents a new form of luxury in the SUV segment and extends the portfolio of the Mercedes-Maybach brand by combining the body design and technical basis of the GLS with the luxury of a top-class sedan.

The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach uses the generous dimensions of the GLS to offer drivers and passengers luxurious, comfortable and spacious seating; all seats are electrically adjustable, heated, ventilated and equipped with massage functions as standard. The rear compartment especially, with seats 4.7 inches (120 mm) further back than they are in the Mercedes-Benz GLS, serves as both an office and a private relaxation zone. The outer rear seats with their footrests and the exceptionally wide backrest that can be inclined backwards up to 43.5° are ideal for deep relaxation on long journeys or even a rejuvenating power nap. Additionally, the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS offers the high standard of comfort appointments one would expect in the luxury class and features many of the latest-generation Mercedes-Benz driver assistance systems as standard.

The Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is driven exclusively by the powerful yet discreet electrified variant of the V8 gasoline engine with a 48-volt on-board electrical system and EQ Boost Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), providing effortless power to meet even the most discerning standards. ISG is responsible for hybrid functions such as energy recovery, while allowing fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology. The engine produces an output of 550 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque, and an additional 184 lb-ft of torque and up to 21 hp output are available temporarily via EQ Boost.

With generous interior space and appointments, customization options exclusive to the Maybach brand and powerful V8 performance, the Maybach GLS is the ultimate in SUV luxury.

Upgrades to the entire E-Class Family

With over 14 million units delivered globally since 1946, the E-Class and its predecessor models are the best-selling model series in the history of Mercedes-Benz. With its recent redesign, the E-Class family continues to set the benchmark for intelligence within the Mercedes-Benz lineup through top levels of comfort, luxury and safety.

The model range introduces a refreshed, more dynamic design on the exterior and even more comfort and technology in the interior with a completely newly developed steering

wheel with capacitive sensor technology and hands-off detection that eases the operation of semi-autonomous driving.

The cabin experience for the driver and passengers has also been enhanced by the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system with enhanced Voice Control, along with available features such as MBUX Interior Assistant, MBUX augmented video for navigation and the advanced driver assistance systems and safety technologies. The powertrain in the E 450 and E 450 4MATIC models has also been electrified with a 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder engine with a 48-volt onboard electrical system.

With expressive proportions, clear and sensual design and long-distance comfort for four people, the new E-Class Coupe combines the beauty and classic virtues of a grand tourer with state-of-the-art technology, and the E-Class Cabriolet ensures all-season open-top driving and comfort for four with standard sun-reflecting leather, AIRCAP® wind-deflector and AIRSCARF® neck-level heating. The new E-Class All-Terrain, available for the first time in the U.S. market, boasts an SUV-like design and character with its raised height, black matte body cladding, radiator grille and a stylized skid plate that sports a mirror chrome finish.

The extensively updated Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Sedan and Wagon also feature a striking new design, improved aerodynamics and more comfort. The restyled front section features a larger central air-cooling inlet, while also newly incorporating the distinctive AMG-specific radiator grille, with vertical slats and a larger central star. Newly redesigned, flatter, all-LED headlamps also enhance the more dynamic exterior appearance. The iconic Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo engine remains, producing 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.

The interior is thoroughly enhanced with the new Widescreen Cockpit, AMG Performance steering wheel and MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays. Thanks to a special air spring and damper set-up as well as the Adaptive Damping System, the new three-chamber air suspension combines exemplary AMG driving dynamics with excellent road noise and enhanced overall comfort characteristics.

Expansion of AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Family

New for the model year 2021, the Mercedes-AMG GT 43 4-Door Coupe further expands the AMG GT family, combining AMG-developed dynamics with everyday usability, seating for four and a more accessible point of entry.

As the third model to be developed in-house by Mercedes-AMG, the new AMG GT 43 pairs a highly intelligent and efficient powertrain with a uniquely developed AMG chassis that is delivered at an approachable point of entry. At the heart of the new GT 43 is the 3.0-litre Inline-6 Turbo engine with EQ Boost. EQ Boost utilizes stored electric power from the 48- volt battery through an Integrated Starter Generator, a powerful electric motor that combines the functions of a starter and an alternator. This EQ Boost unit assists the internal combustion engine with up to an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque at low engine speeds.

With the new GT 43 Coupe, the AMG GT family has expanded even further to those looking for a vehicle that combines the impressive driving dynamics of the AMG GT models with everyday practicality. The GT 43 4-Door Coupe offers ample space for four passengers, the latest technology including the revolutionary MBUX, with the unparalleled level of performance and luxury expected from Mercedes-AMG.

New ’35’ models from Mercedes-AMG

The AMG brand continues to introduce a variety of dynamic and awe-inspiring new entry points to the world of AMG driving performance, establishing highly compelling new gateways with different body styles and power outputs to suit a wide variety of lifestyles.

With an AMG-enhanced 2.0-litre Inline-4 Turbo engine that provides an output of 302 hp and 295 lb-ft, the new AMG GLA 35 and AMG GLB 35 offer an attractive entry into the world of SUV AMG driving performance, allowing customers to a choose the vehicle that best suits their needs without compromising power, performance or versatility.

These models come standard equipped with AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed dual-clutch transmission, AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, an AMG Sport Suspension and 3-Stage Electronic Stability Program, providing the AMG ’35’ customer the performance and precision synonymous with AMG.

Expanded safety technologies & convenience features

The all-new Mercedes-Benz dashcam is newly available for the 2021 model year. Using the camera in the windshield, the dashcam films and saves what’s happening on the road in front of your vehicle, including the time and speed. This helps to protect drivers in the event of an accident. The dashcam’s resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels and a frame rate of 30 Hz also allows for the driver to use the dashcam as a recording device, to film landscapes and routes for video documentation.

With the introduction of the 2021 E-Class, Mercedes-Benz presented a newly developed steering wheel with capacitive hands-off detection. A two-zone sensor mat is located in the rim of the steering wheel, which detects whether the hands are grasping the wheel. As a result, the driver no longer needs to make an active steering movement to signal to the assistance systems that he or she is in control of the vehicle. This increases the ease of operation during semi-automated driving in the E-Class models and, at the same time, marks a further step towards autonomous driving.

Mercedes-Benz continues to roll out advanced driver assistance features along with new technologies throughout the Mercedes-Benz lineup for the new model year, including Active Brake Assist that is standard on all vehicles. Further Intelligent Drive functions are available with the Driver Assistance package including Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with route-based speed adjustment, Active Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist with exit warning, Active Parking Assistant with PARKTRONIC and 360° camera.

Mercedes-Benz continues to advance technologies within the cabin, with features such as, the optional MBUX Interior Assistant that allows intuitive, natural operation of various comfort and MBUX functions through movement recognition. For example, when a hand approaches the touchscreen or the touchpad on the centre console, the media display changes, and individual elements are highlighted. As part of the revolutionary multimedia system featuring innovative technology based on Artificial Intelligence and an intuitive operating system, Mercedes-Benz User Experience, MBUX, is pioneering a new level of in- car experience. The system has learning capabilities and intelligent Voice Control with Natural Language Understanding and a verbal cue of “Hey Mercedes.” When the navigation function is active, the MBUX Augmented Video Navigation, superimposes a video image of the surroundings is enhanced with arrows or house numbers automatically superimposed directly onto the image in the media display.

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