In its latest promotion, Mercedes shot a short film starring none other than the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.  Around Chicago, used Mercedes fans are excited to see “Manx Meister”, the movie that claims to be the fastest 3D movie ever shot on land.

While this car alone is enough to star in its own movie, it has a great cast of characters around it.  “Manx Meister” was shot in Britain on the historic Isle of Man, the only public road in Britain without a speed limit. Also, it stars David Coulthard, a former Formula 1 driver behind the wheel, maneuvering the SLS AMG to top out at a blazing 162 miles per hour.

In and around Chicago, Mercedes G500 fans probably think this film can’t get any better, until they realize that the chase car tracking Coulthard is none other than another SLS AMG driven by World Rally Championship racer, Robbie Head.

This film is the latest of several promotions featuring the iconic SLS AMG.  Around Chicago, Mercedes G500 drivers complained that the SLS AMG has simply received way too much publicity and in turn has become boring and lost any of its surprise factor. I’d have to disagree – how can an icon like the SLS AMG ever become a bore? G500 owners however would probably prefer the G-Class to get some of the spotlight too.

The Mercedes G500 is certainly worthy of its own film with its impressing resume.  The G500 has served as not only the official transportation for the leader of the Catholic Church, but it was designed at the request of none other than the Shah of Iran, and can be found in nearly every major country as a military vehicle. Should Mercedes start queuing up its next film?

If you weren’t in Britain and missed the airing of this film, this film will be coming soon to Chicago. Used Mercedes and new Mercedes fans alike will be able to check out this film online or at your local Mercedes showroom starting this fall.  We promise it will be the fastest 4 minutes and 2 seconds of film you’ll ever watch.

Around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz fans cannot wait to get their hands on the all-new 2011 CL63 AMG.  Expected to arrive in showrooms later this year, AMG enthusiasts are drooling over what the latest AMG offspring has to offer.

The CL63 AMG is truly a dream car and one that many would be willing to sell their house for to be able to drive a beauty like this on the streets of Chicago.  Certified Mercedes dealers will have this one of a kind vehicle in November, but for those of you that can’t wait to see the real deal; here is what you have to look forward to.

As part of the CL-Class facelift, the CL63 AMG gets some styling tweaks both on the outside and inside that really make this an eye catcher.  On the exterior, you’ll notice a redesigned front bumper that includes LED lights for daytime, as well as a more aggressive look courtesy of the V-shaped grille, a sleeker hood, and larger headlamps.  In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers will probably also notice the updated tail pipes which make this car scream speed and toughness.  However, some critics have said that the exhausts detract from the car’s other features and may be a bit too gaudy.  You can make your mind up on this one, however it is no surprise that people who buy these types of cars buy these mostly for the attention, and the tail pipes alone will definitely get you that.

On the interior, you’ll notice a customized AMG sports steering wheel covered with luxurious nappa leather, as well as a sleek start screen in the AMG instrument cluster.  Probably the most striking change in the interior however is the exclusive diamond-patterned black and white leather upholstery on the seats and door center panels.

While the cosmetic changes alone make the CL63 AMG sound like it can’t get any better, the best feature of the CL63 AMG lies under the hood.  Just like all other AMG models, the engine is assembled by hand, following the highest of quality standards.  The CL63 AMG has a new 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo unit that has a peak output of up to 571 horsepower and torque of up to 900 nM.  So what this means is that you will be able to hit speeds of up to 155 miles per hour, and go from zero to 60 in a jaw dropping 4.4 seconds.

The amazing result is that the CL63 AMG is faster and more powerful, while simultaneously decreasing its fuel consumption by 27% and its C02 emissions by a whopping 30% which given gas prices, has drivers excited in Chicago.  Certified Mercedes engineers and designers really outdid themselves this time.  Not only do we get a sleeker, faster car, but we also reap the benefits of a more fuel efficient and cleaner car.  Just when we thought the AMG family of vehicles couldn’t get any better, Mercedes has outdone itself. We’re counting down the days until November to take this speed demon on a test drive!

In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz dealer fans may recall that back in 2002 Pope John Paul II pleaded that the term ‘Popemobile’ not be used since it sounded undignified.  Since then, it has also been referred to as the Papal Limousine or the Papal Car.  Whatever you call it, it is one of the most famous vehicles on the planet and one which Mercedes is extremely proud to be a part of.

Mercedes-Benz has been the purveyor of Popemobiles since 1930, back when Pope Pius XI was provided a Nurberg 460 Pullman limousine.  Over these seven decades, Mercedes has customized a wide range of vehicles for the Pope, leader of the Catholic Church, ranging from sedans to sports utility vehicles.

This is not a car you will see while driving on the streets of Chicago.  Certified Mercedes engineers and designers carefully produce and customize these one of a kind vehicles for the Pope alone. Probably the most well-known feature of the Popemobile is the six foot tall, bulletproof glass enclosure which hoists the Pope above the crowds. This safety feature was installed in 1981 after there was an assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II.  Other hard core security features include armored plating and specialized tires.

Around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz dealer fans probably regard the Mercedes ML 430 as the favorite Popemobile given its sleek and fancy appearance.  In 2002, this was donated to the Vatican, completely customized with the Vatican coat of arms, specialized license plate reading “SCV 1”, and the famous glass cupola.  In the Pope’s white and gold colors, the interior featured white plush leather.

The latest Popemobile has a lot of people talking around Chicago.  Certified Mercedes engineers and designers did it again with the customized M-Class sports utility vehicle that the current Pope Benedict XVI most often uses.  Not unlike the other Popemobiles in the past, it has the traditional enclosed glass in the back of the vehicle. Despite the vehicle being designed to operate at low speeds, around 10 miles per hour, it can certainly go faster if needed, going from zero to 60 in under eight seconds.

Around the world, millions of people gather to see the Pope any chance they get, hoping to catch a mere glimpse of the Catholic leader.  However, maybe, just maybe, they are also trying to get a glimpse of his sweet Popemobile.

Several of the Mercedes models you have come to love are getting facelifts and will be arriving soon at your local showrooms in and around Chicago.  Mercedes G500 drivers as well as those that covet the C-Class wagon are in for a real treat with the 2011 models.

Known as the G-Wagen in Germany, the G500 remains unchanged on the outside so you may not notice the difference as you see this model cruise down the streets of Chicago.  Mercedes G500 fans however will indeed notice the new interior and upgrades under the hood.

Under the hood, the G500 will boast a 7-speed transmission and ever so powerful 5.5-liter V8 engine.  This should come as no surprise since this large, boxy vehicle needs some serious power to get it running.  The G500 is a behemoth, weighing almost 5500 pounds and not only is it tall, but it is very spacious on the inside too.

Originally designed to be a durable, off-road military vehicle, this model has been modified for civilian use and surprisingly has a smoother, firmer ride than what you would expect from a rugged off-roader. Once you peer inside the G500, you will notice a newly designed steering wheel and a sleek instrument panel, among other small changes.  It is expected to be released in September, where you will be able to check out the changes to the G500 for yourself.

In and around Chicago, C-Class wagon drivers are also excited about the 2011 C-Class wagons which come packed with new safety features and the latest technology Mercedes has to offer.  On the outside, you’ll notice a tougher looking grille, new bumpers and LED tail lights.  On the interior, you’ll be able to add elegant extras such as wood trim and ergonomic seating. This shows that it is possible to drive a wagon, without sacrificing toughness and style.

The 2011 C-Class is also jam packed with safety features which can come in handy while driving on the sometimes mean streets of Chicago.  C-Class wagon drivers will feel very safe with features such as Brake Assist that may help drivers avoid accidents. Also, the C-Class wagons come equipped with eight airbags and seatbelts that have sensors that in case of an emergency will loosen or retract tension, enhancing both driver and passenger safety.

In and around Chicago, C-Class wagon drivers are excited about what new safety features and innovative technology awaits them inside new Mercedes vehicles soon. And it seems like they won’t be disappointed, since several exciting features are coming down the pipeline with benefits ranging from added safety, to introducing smartphone capability and even increased fuel efficiency.

Imagine driving at a high speed, going past the point where braking would be effective, yet still being able to avoid a collision through steering.  It would be great, right? This is exactly what the Emergency Steer Assist (ESA) is capable of doing.  And before you freak out, no this feature does not take over and do your steering for you – it only suggests the type of steering given a particular braking situation by inducing the correct steering by for instance, stiffening the suspension.  Around Chicago, used Mercedes drivers are even excited for the implications this could have on for instance, car insurance rates since technically, a feature like ESA makes the car safer. For now, we’ll just have to wait and keep our eyes on the road.

Another technology that may soon be available to Mercedes drivers is one that may be familiar to you video gamers out there.  The technology that allows force feedback controllers to provide a haptic response based on user inputs will now be put to use behind the wheel.  Called the active force feedback pedal, this is a pedal that can pulse back on your foot based on whether or not you are accelerating too hard or too often.  Also, if it is synced up to other safety devices in the vehicle, the pedal can vibrate or buzz to alert the driver.  The best part is that the driver can still push through the force feedback if they really do for instance, need to continue accelerating.  The other great feature of the active force feedback pedal is one that is sure to please drivers in Chicago.  Used Mercedes fans know all too well that all of that accelerating leads to lots of visits to the fuel pump.  The pedal feature can actually help reduce fuel consumption and even emissions since the pedal technology helps the driver to maintain optimal speed.

Now this one is going to make those people who are attached to their smartphones very happy.  Known as AutoLinQ, this technology is a mix of information/entertainment system that brings the perks of your smartphone into the car with you.  For instance, AutoLinQ is able to read things such as emails and RSS feeds aloud, so you are not distracted while you are behind the wheel. It also offers features such as real-time traffic updates, a must-have feature for drivers in Chicago. C-Class wagon drivers could get really excited about AutoLinQ given the headache that rush hour can bring. And if you can’t avoid the traffic, you’ll at least be able to sit in it and be entertained by apps such as the popular Internet radio, Pandora.

Rounding off the list of the five up-and-coming technologies are the Intelligent Tire System/Fill Assist and the customization of driving “profiles”.  The tire system can really optimize fuel consumption and improve safety by notifying the driver if for instance, tires are balding, or if more air pressure is needed in order to optimize efficiency.

The improvements to the “profile” of cars basically revolve around giving vehicles the ability to go from Sport, to Normal, to Comfort mode with a push of a button.  However, this technology takes it one step further by offering an Eco mode where for instance, if you drive in a way that is eco-friendly, a graphic will come up on the LCD screen and you can take this in for rewards at your local Mercedes dealer.  Not only will this encourage green driving, but will also foster relationships between Mercedes drivers and local dealerships.

It looks like an SLS AMG with its blazing speed, gullwing doors and is even coated in AMG’s signature Lumilectric Mango colored paint, but it’s too quiet to be an SLS AMG which is known for its rumbling roar. So what is it? Say hello to the 2013 Mercedes SLS AMG E-Cell prototype electric car, a fully electric version of its gullwing SLS counterpart.  In appearance and dimensions, the SLS E-Cell very closely resembles the SLS AMG but the difference is under the hood.

Around Chicago, Mercedes dealers are excited to learn more about the SLS AMG E-Cell which is an electric car that runs on a 400-volt electrical system and consists of four individual motors, with each corn of the car carrying its own motor.  The electricity is provided to the motors via six lithium-ion batteries that as of today’s technology need 8 hours to fully recharge.

What is truly remarkable about this car is the blazing speeds it can achieve – just picture yourself driving this down the streets of Chicago.  Used Mercedes-Benz drivers crazing speed are in for a treat.  The SLS AMG E-Cell can go from zero to 62 mph in just four seconds, reaches 130 mph in under 12 seconds and can reach up to 155 mph (you can go up to 197 mph but then you would end up doing some jail time).  However, don’t think that you can fly in this thing forever.  With the battery technology available today, its range is only 90 miles, but engineers are hoping that they can extend it to about 130 miles in between recharging.

For many, this is a major letdown.  In and around Chicago, used Mercedes-Benz fans can’t understand how a car that is slated to cost about a quarter of a million dollars would only be able to perhaps drive you to the mall and back?  It would seem that a much longer range would be needed for this model to be functional.  While this is a valid point, the battery technology has not yet caught up yet, and the hope is that by the time this car is officially released, it could be charged at a station in under an hour, or even have the ability to swap out batteries if no time to recharge.

Another critique is the giant price tag on this car.  It seems as if they could have started off with a cheaper model instead of modeling the already expensive SLS AMG.  However, it seems like the goal of this prototype at this stage of development is to generate interest in the new electric technology, not so much sales.  So what better way to get attention than to style it after the eye-catching SLS AMG?

Don’t go asking your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for purchasing details just yet though.  Around Chicago, Mercedes dealers anticipate having to wait a long time for this car since the 2013 SLS E-Cell is still in its very early stages of its development.

In and around Chicago, used Mercedes fans have been talking about how well Mercedes did in this year’s International Engine of the Year Awards which was held in Stuttgart, Germany.  Every year an independent group of 65 renowned motor journalists from across the world choose the best engines of the year based on a variety of categories to crown the most efficient engines on the market.

This year, Mercedes took home the “Best Performance Engine” and the “Above 4.0 Liter Engine” prizes, marking the second time in a row that Mercedes takes home “Best Performance Engine” top honors.  Around Chicago, used Mercedes fans are not surprised by this given the AMG’s high performance engines that have incorporated motorsport technology, bringing over that speed and power from the race track to vehicles driven on roads in Chicago.  Used Mercedes dealer fans would claim that the AMG engine should have won these awards based on the engine sound alone!

For those that understand the engineering jargon, the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine produces between 457-525 hp and develops up to 630 Nm of torque.  You can find this engine in several Mercedes models including the C63 AMG, S63 AMG, SL63 AMG, CL63 AMG, E63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG, and the ML63 AMG.

Mercedes also did well in other sectors, which is an accomplishment to be very proud of considering that the International Engine of the Year Awards rank among one of the most prestigious honors in the automotive sector and car fans are taking notice in Chicago.  Used Mercedes dealer fans were excited to see Mercedes take 3^rd place in the overall “International Engine of the Year” category, as well as placing 4^th in the “Best New Engine” category, 4^th place in the “1.4 Liter to 1.8 Liter Engine” category, and taking 2^nd place in the “2.0 Liter to 2.5 Liter Engine” category.  Mercedes is also making strides in the green car segment as evidenced by its 6^th place finish in the “Green Engine of the Year” award.

Based on this year’s results, Mercedes still has a lot of work to do to keep up with the likes of its competitors Volkswagen and BMW, with these both going 1-2 in the “International Engine of the Year” segment and overall dominating across several other categories.  Hopefully this competition will foster the folks over at Mercedes to keep at it and outperform others at next year’s International Engine of the Year Awards.

Mercedes-Benz and Gran Turisimo 5 have joined forces to make every sports car racing and gaming enthusiasts’ dreams come true.  Through the end of November, across the country and in and around Chicago, used Mercedes-Benz fans are being summoned back to school a bit early to the Mercedes AMG Driving Academy.

The AMG Driving Academy offers students the opportunity to test-drive the 2011 Mercedes SLS AMG out on the top two race tracks in the U.S., Road Atlanta and Laguna Seca Raceway. On top of this, participants will get to test out trackside demos of Grand Turisimo 5, thus giving participants the unique opportunity to first get a realistic test-drive via the video game, and then get to actually get behind the wheel of the real thing.

In Chicago, Mercedes G500 drivers are also excited to be able to test out the iconic SLS AMG, especially since sometimes we all want to drive something smaller and faster.  Driving in Chicago, Mercedes G500 drivers may not always have the opportunity to go the blazing speeds the SLS AMG can hit.  By going to the AMG Driving Academy, drivers will be able to personally experience the all-new SLS AMG that has been clocked at going from 0 to 60 in just 3.7 seconds. In addition to the 2011 SLS AMG, participants will also get the opportunity to take other members of the AMG family out for a spin such as the E63 AMG, SL63 AMG, C63 AMG, SLK55 AMG and the CLK63 AMG Black Series.

While this experience is pretty sweet, as one would expect it does not come cheap.  There are various levels of the program, ranging from a one-day basic course for $1795 to a three-day pro course that comes with a ticket price of $3995.  Keep in mind that this does not include travel to either of the tracks from Chicago.  Used Mercedes-Benz drivers will need to dig deep into their pockets to fulfill this dream.  For some, it just may be worth it though.  Otherwise, you can wait until Grand Turisimo 5 for Playstation 3 hits stores later this year.  However, Sony has failed to meet its first 3 or 4 release dates for this game so wait at your own risk.

Just before the U.S. Tennis Open is underway this summer in New York City, Mercedes-Benz recently announced that it is expanding its global marketing partnership with Swedish tennis ace, Roger Federer.  This means that in and around Chicago, C-Class wagon advertisements will almost certainly feature Federer since as with any celebrity endorsement, this partnership makes Mercedes the proprietor of Federer’s image, as well as allows them to use his image in product placement.

Mercedes teaming up with Roger Federer is nothing new.  The 16-time Grand Slam Champion has had ties with Mercedes since 2008 when he served as am ambassador for Mercedes-Benz China.  So what will this new partnership mean for Federer and for Mercedes fans in Chicago?  Used Mercedes-Benz dealer locations will most likely take full advantage of this deal and use Federer’s widely recognized celebrity to help them sell cars.  Be prepared to see Federer in a lot more television ads, Mercedes print materials and maybe even in showrooms in and around Chicago.  C-Class wagon drivers would certainly not turn down the opportunity to see the tennis phenom who until very recently ranked as the world’s number one tennis player (he has recently fallen to number 2 in the rankings for the first time since 2003).

Federer, also known as “The Federer Express” or “The Swiss Maestro” is considered by many to be one of the greatest tennis players of all time and holds several records in the world of tennis. For instance, he was ranked number one for 237 consecutive weeks, has appeared in 22 career Grand Slam finals and has won the Olympic gold medal in doubles representing his native Sweden.

Around Chicago, used Mercedes-Benz dealer fans should expect to see a whole lot more of Federer lending his name and image to market Mercedes products.  The jury is still out as to how many more vehicles Mercedes will be able to sell because of this.  One thing is for sure, everyone is certain to recognize him and who knows; maybe it will even make you take out that long forgotten tennis racket from the closet and hit the tennis courts.

The “Baby Benz” of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is all grown up and flexing its muscle.  With features such as its intimidating shark vents and a bulging hood, not to mention that huge Mercedes star on the grille, it is certain to be a head turner in and around Chicago. Mercedes M-Class diesel fans however may have the last laugh.

Before we start raving about the 2010 C63 AMG, a note about fuel economy; it basically does not exist on this car.  This model has one of the lowest fuel economy ratings for a compact car, giving drivers only 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.  I guess that is the price you have to pay for being able to go from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds down streets in Chicago.  Mercedes M-Class diesel drivers know that in stark contrast, the diesel models can get up to 21 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

However, the M-Class can not bring you the street cred that the ridiculously powerful C63 AMG can.  Under the hood of this compact sedan, you will be blown away by this high-performance sports car.  The 6.2-liter V8 allows this car to fly, while the 7-speed automatic transmission allows you to choose from comfort, sport or manual modes, all the while growling along, intimidating other drivers on the road if not by its sound, by its aggressive exterior.

But get ready to pay extra for all of this attention you will be sure to get on the streets of Chicago.  C-Class wagon drivers are well aware of this, but C63 AMG drivers may not expect it.  Lots of options you would expect to come standard on this model do not.  For instance, the iPod interface which you would imagine in this day and age would come standard does not.  Neither does the Harman Kardon audio system which is a must add-on since the standard audio system is a bit sub-par, especially since you need to compete with the rumble of the C63 AMG’s V8.

In and around Chicago, C-Class wagon drivers looking to downsize to a more compact car with some mad speed are pumped for the C63 AMG, however its important to note that because of the poor fuel efficiency, in addition to the non-stop loud growling, this car is not really practical for daily driving, and instead should be reserved as a toy to take out for fun joy rides on the weekends.  If you can afford to add this to your collection as a second or third vehicle, you will certainly not regret it.