Friday afternoon traffic in LA is not the ideal environment for a $ 217,325 supercar, but that's exactly where I was on my first day with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. I also had an eye on my fellow commuters on the face of the Gullwing coupe, turned in the car-crazy, paparazzi breaking the law. The first time in my rearview mirror was a Audi S6, the tailgating driver with both hands the wheel in an attempt to focus snap photos of his iPhone. Ditto the Prius driver on my left. Never mind the risk of a big ticket or the SLS is more than three times thirstier than its fuel-sipping hybrid - his Facebook wall now has an epic picture of the SLS.

This particular SLS wore a matte finish called Designo Magno Monza Grey, but it's actually brown. Despite the relatively stealthy paint job, it was almost impossible under the radar while driving what one admirer later called "a futuristic military submarine on wheels." With traffic still crawling, I decided to check out the boundaries. Depending on your stature - I'm 5'9 "- the A-pillar of the border is about two feet away from your eyes, the roof is even closer to your head, and the door of the waistline is just below the neck cozy. but not cramped like a C6 Corvette. Claustrophobic for extreme, the next roadster is a good substitute if you do not mind sacrificing the doors.

Some SLS' interior bits like the climate control and COMAND interface are essentially pulled from other Benz models. The three-spoke steering wheel also looks like it could have been pulled from another model. Functionally, it's fine -- the steering wheel fits in the hand perfectly and the paddle shifters operate as they should -- but the overall look doesn't scream "flagship." Steering wheel aside, the cabin's overall feel is definitely special thanks to the perforated leather-wrapped AMG seats, optional carbon fiber trim, metallic-like gauges, and Alcantara headliner. Visibility is surprisingly good, too, and the standard Blind Spot Assist system is an added bonus.

At normal highway jaunts, the SLS is more Grand Tourer than supercar. The optional AMG Dynamic Suspension System in Sport mode, the ride feels no different than that of an SL550. The suspension has an admirable job of enjoying everything from Botts Dots to city potholes big enough to make a whining G550. Comfort mode, however, feels strange on the highway, where the back of the SLS bounces uncomfortable. The third and final suspension mode, Sport +, I decided to test out a few winding roads around my childhood home in northern San Diego County.

After a quick pit stop to show my family the Gullwing door, my brother and I dare to take a piece of Highway 78 that runs from Escondido to Julian. The road runs through a good mix of small hills with tight turns and fields with long straights and wide sweeping turns. Speeding up the slopes is easy to hand-built 6.2-liter V-8 engine M159. Although it shares with the lower displacement engine installed in other AMG M156, some tweaks boost power to 563 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the use of a dry sump lubrication system allowed engineers to lower the engine mounted in the chassis behind the front axle and excellent distribution of its strong 3765-pound curb weight - 47 percent of the seat in front, 53 percent in the rear.

The engine is coupled to a rear-mounted, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the 20-inch wheels (19s roll on the front), wrapped in sticky Continental ContiSportContact. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes just 3.6 seconds. A quarter mile in 11.7 seconds come and go at 124.3 mph. The accompanying exhaust note is just as intoxicating, the piercing bark when starting the guttural wail at the 7200 rpm redline. The optimized AMG 7-speed contains three modes, with Sport + is perhaps the best all around, especially when it's time to hit the track or in my case, the corners of Highway 78.

Go hard on the brakes for a corner was met with rev-matched downshifts followed by snaps and pops from the exhaust. Although I am a strong supporter of the third pedal, I find I do not want my own rowing gears. I even gave the manual mode to try, but quickly switched to Sport +.

Despite weighing nearly two tons, the SLS is surprisingly agile through corners and remained the same. Control is excellent and responsive, providing decent feedback on the road. With speed and confidence building after each turn, I debated switching traction control off. Then, warnings from fellow employees MT plays in my head. "The SLS is REALLY happy tail," they said, "Keep traction control!" After the testing gurus had their turn, I was glad I did. While the SLS course have our figure eight in just 24.1 seconds at 0.85 g (avg), reaching that number to require some hard work.

"Put in aggressive enough and slides SLS predictably toward the tip. You need fast hands to catch him, although once you start with the gas, which is very squirrely," says associate editor Carlos Lago test drive. "The SLS, for me is a better car than 8/10ths to 7/10ths or 10/10ths of it. It is much better suited for long, fast drives."

So it is perhaps not the most agile track star in the supercar world, but that's OK. The SLS is still rewarded drivers and casual enthusiasts with a fine as a commuter car - provided they do not mind the attention - and is also a capable canyon carver.

MSRP: $37,100-$44,700

The 2012 A5 is a 2-door, four-seater luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in 4 trims, ranging from the 2.0T Premium Coupe quattro 2.0T Cabriolet quattro Manual for the Tiptronic Premium.

At its introduction, the 2.0T Premium Coupe quattro Manual equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard. The 2.0T Cabriolet quattro Tiptronic Premium features a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. An 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 A5 is a relic from 2011.

MSRP: $ 22,145 - $ 37,845

The 2011 Mustang is a 2-door, four-person family coupe, sports coupe, convertible, or convertible sports car, available in 8 finishes, ranging from the V6 Coupe to the GT Premium Convertible.

At its introduction, the V6 Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 305 hp engine that reaches 19-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The GT Premium Convertible is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 412 hp engine with 16-mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the motorway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard on both the finish, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2011 Mustang is a relic from 2010.

MSRP: $ 24,895 - $ 42,780

The 2011 Challenger is a 2-door, 5-passenger sports coupe, or sports car, available in three finishes, ranging from the SE to the SRT8.

In the introduction, the SE is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 305 horsepower, flexible fuel engine that reaches 18-mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The SRT8 is equipped with a standard 6.4-liter, V8, 470 hp engine that reaches 14-mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2011 Challenger is a relic from 2010.

MSRP: $ 34,800 - $ 61,430

The 2012 C-Class is a 2 - or 4-door, 5 passenger luxury sports coupe to luxury sedan or luxury sports sedan, available in 9 finishes, ranging from the C250 Sport Sedan C63 AMG Coupe on.

At its introduction, the C250 Sport Sedan is equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 201 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The C63 AMG Coupe is equipped with a standard 6.3-liter, V8, 451 hp engine that reaches 13-mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. A 7-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The C250 Sport Sedan is refreshed for 2012. The C63 AMG Coupe is redesigned for 2012.

MSRP: $ 15,605 - $ 23,455

The 2012 Civic Coupe is a 2-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 9 finishes, ranging from the DX 5-Spd MT to the EX-L 5-Spd AT w / Navigation System.

At its introduction, the DX 5-Spd MT is equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 140 hp engine that reaches 28-mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard. The EX-L 5-Spd AT w / Navigation System is equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 140 hp engine that reaches 28-mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Civic Coupe is redesigned for 2012.

MSRP: $24,995-$43,995

The 2012 Challenger is a 2-door, 5-passenger sports coupe, or sports car, available in three finishes, ranging from the SE to the SRT8.

In the introduction, the SE is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 305 horsepower, flexible fuel engine that reaches 18-mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The SRT8 is equipped with a standard 6.4-liter, V8, 470 hp engine that reaches 14-mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Challenger is a relic from 2011.

2012 BMW 3 Series Coupe
MSRP: $38,500-$51,900

The 2012 3 Series Coupe is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, available in 5 trims, ranging from the 328i to the 335is.

Upon introduction, the 328i is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 230-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 335is is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 320-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 7-speed manual transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2012 3 Series Coupe is a carryover from 2011.

2012 Ford Mustang
MSRP: $ 22,310 - $ 40,310

The 2012 Mustang is a 2-door, four-person family coupe, sports coupe, convertible, or convertible sports car, available in 9 finishes, ranging from the V6 Coupe to the Boss 302.

At its introduction, the V6 Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 305 hp engine that reaches 19-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The Boss 302 is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 444 hp engine 17-mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the motorway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Mustang is a relic from 2011.

2012 Hyundai Veloster
MSRP: $17,300-$17,300

The 2012 Veloster is a 3-door, 4-passenger sports coupe, available in one trim only, the Base.

Upon introduction, the Veloster is equipped with a standard 1.6-liter, I4, 138-horsepower engine that achieves 28-mpg in the city and 40-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2012 Veloster is all-new for 2012.

2012 BMW 1 Series
MSRP: $31,050-$43,900

The 2012 1 Series is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in 4 trims, ranging from the 128i Coupe to the 135i Convertible.

Upon introduction, the 128i Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 230-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 135i Convertible is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 300-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 7-speed manual transmission is optional.

The 2012 1 Series is freshened for 2012.

MSRP: $24,995-$43,995

The 2012 Challenger is a 2-door, 5-passenger sports coupe, or sports car, available in three finishes, ranging from the SE to the SRT8.

In the introduction, the SE is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 305 horsepower, flexible fuel engine that reaches 18-mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The SRT8 is equipped with a standard 6.4-liter, V8, 470 hp engine that reaches 14-mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Challenger is a relic from 2011.

MSRP: $37,100-$44,700

The 2012 A5 is a 2-door, four-seater luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in 4 trims, ranging from the 2.0T Premium Coupe quattro 2.0T Cabriolet quattro Manual for the Tiptronic Premium.

At its introduction, the 2.0T Premium Coupe quattro Manual equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard. The 2.0T Cabriolet quattro Tiptronic Premium features a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. An 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 A5 is a relic from 2011.

MSRP: $22,805-$39,775

The 2011 Camaro is a 2-door, four-seater sports car, or convertible sports car, available in 10 finishes, ranging from the LS Coupe to 2SS Convertible.

At its introduction, the LS Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 312 hp engine 17-mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the motorway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2SS Convertible is equipped with a standard 6.2-liter, V8, 426 hp engine that reaches 16-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2011 LS Coupe is a relic from 2010. The 2SS Convertible is all-new for 2011.

MSRP: $ 23,200 - $ 40,600

The 2012 Camaro is a 2-door, four-seater sports car, or convertible sports car, available in 10 finishes, ranging from the LS Coupe to 2SS Convertible.

At its introduction, the LS Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 323 hp engine 17-mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the motorway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2SS Convertible is equipped with a standard 6.2-liter, V8, 426 hp engine that reaches 16-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Camaro is a relic from 2011.

MSRP: $ 24,895 - $ 42,780

The 2011 Challenger is a 2-door, 5-passenger sports coupe, or sports car, available in three finishes, ranging from the SE to the SRT8.

In the introduction, the SE is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 305 horsepower, flexible fuel engine that reaches 18-mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The SRT8 is equipped with a standard 6.4-liter, V8, 470 hp engine that reaches 14-mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The 2011 Challenger is a relic from 2010.

MSRP: $ 34,800 - $ 61,430

The 2012 C-Class is a 2 - or 4-door, 5 passenger luxury sports coupe to luxury sedan or luxury sports sedan, available in 9 finishes, ranging from the C250 Sport Sedan C63 AMG Coupe on.

At its introduction, the C250 Sport Sedan is equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 201 hp, turbo engine that reaches 21-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The C63 AMG Coupe is equipped with a standard 6.3-liter, V8, 451 hp engine that reaches 13-mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. A 7-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard.

The C250 Sport Sedan is refreshed for 2012. The C63 AMG Coupe is redesigned for 2012.

MSRP: $ 22,145 - $ 37,845

The 2011 Mustang is a 2-door, four-person family coupe, sports coupe, convertible, or convertible sports car, available in 8 finishes, ranging from the V6 Coupe to the GT Premium Convertible.

At its introduction, the V6 Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 305 hp engine that reaches 19-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The GT Premium Convertible is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 412 hp engine with 16-mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the motorway. A 6-speed gearbox with overdrive is standard on both the finish, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2011 Mustang is a relic from 2010.

List price: $ 126,750 - $ 134,700

The 2011 Quattroporte is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sports sedan, available in two cuts, the S and Sport GT S.

At its introduction, the S is equipped with a standard 4.7-liter, V8, 430 hp engine that reaches 12-mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. The Sport GT S is equipped with a standard 4.7-liter, V8, 440 hp engine that reaches 12-mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both workmanship.

The 2011 Quattroporte is redesigned for 2011.

MSRP: $ 31,750 - $ 34,450

The 2012 Maxima is a 4-door, 5-passenger sports sedan, available in two cuts, the S and SV.

At launch, both finishing with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 290 hp engine that reaches 19-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Maxima is freshened for 2012.

MSRP: $ 32,000 - $ 44,750

The 2011 G Sedan is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sports sedan, available in 10 finishes, ranging from 25 to 37x AWD Limited Edition.

At its introduction, the 25 equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, V6, 218 horsepower engine that reaches 20-mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The 37x AWD Limited Edition is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 328 hp engine that reaches 18-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both workmanship.

The 2011 G Sedan is a relic from 2010.

Is it a van? An SUV? Or just a big station wagon? Those are some reactions from people when they see that experience as a 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class for the first time.

The Mercedes Benz R-Class is a crossover with features borrowed minivans, SUVs, and even the coaches. Debut in 2005 as a 2006 model, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is currently in the first generation, and underwent a refresh last year, when it received a new grille, hood and other front-end design elements. The back had a similar treatment, while the interior received an update, especially the dashboard and center console design elements. Changes for this model year include a more sophisticated engine technology and additional features.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a people carrier and able to sit comfortably with six people including the driver. Seating for up to seven passengers is an optional feature. Two models are offered: the Mercedes-Benz R350 4Matic and the Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC. Both come with many standard features like sunroof and premium faux-leather (MB-Tex) with respect to the seats. Two premium option packages to add navigation and high-end sound systems, while the Sport Package adds 20-inch wheels.

Body style: crossover

Engines: 3.5-liter V-6, 3.0-liter diesel V-6

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Models: Mercedes Benz R350 4Matic, Mercedes Benz R350 BlueTEC 4Matic

The most significant change to the Mercedes-Benz R-Class for model year 2012 is the 3.5-liter V-6 to the R350 4MATIC model. More powerful yet more fuel efficient, the new engine generates 302 horsepower and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission for EPA-rated fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a stylish minivan-esque crossover capable of hauling six or seven people and their cargo. Changes to the exterior are minimal since the R-Class underwent an extensive refresh in 2011, which primarily included a new hood, grille, headlights, front bumpers, prominent character lines on the sides, rear bumpers, taillights, and exhaust pipe tips. 

Like the exterior, the interior of the Mercedes Benz R-Class underwent extensive revision last year. Instrument cluster, dash, and center stack layout were redesigned to be geometrical with the center stack controls better organized than last year's design.

As expected, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class interior is a quiet and luxurious place though spacing is not quite as large as it should be for a vehicle of this size. Both engines pull the R-Class strongly though the R350 BlueTEC is slightly quicker due to the diesel engine. The crossover never lets you forget it's a large vehicle, but handling is surprisingly stable for a vehicle of such size. The Mercedes Benz R-Class is ultimately a long-distance cruiser, so interior noise is kept at a minimal while road and wind noise are well controlled. We strongly recommend the optional rearview camera and other optional safety equipment like parking sensors especially if you'll be regularly encountering tight parking spots and such areas.

Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the 2012 Mercedes Benz R-Class is equipped with a huge assortment of active and passive safety equipment. Standard eight airbags include front row airbags; front and rear row side-impact airbags; and head-protection curtains airbags. Other safety technologies include antilock brakes system (ABS); electronic stability program (ESP) and stability control systems. Active safety systems include optional blind spot warning equipment and rearview camera. Mercedes-Benz’s own telematics system, known as mbrace, comes standard.

Mercedes Benz R350 4Matic: 16 mpg city/ 21 mpg highway

Mercedes Benz R350 BlueTEC 4Matic: 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway

All new for 2012, the Mercedes Benz M-Class remains the segment leader in the luxury mid-sized SUVs.

For 2012, the SUV has a new V-6 engine that is powerful yet more economical than the previous generation model. It is a sweet engine, generating more than 300 horsepower and is mated to a seven-speed automatic, rated at an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The BlueTEC diesel engine, however, is a powerhouse, with plenty of acceleration / torque (the torque) from the previous shot from a dead stop, drag more than7000 pounds, but achieving a fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz M-Class is, of course, loaded with technology. The new model year the automaker has added new safety technology including Attention Assist, which warns drivers when they are sleepy, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and a blind spot detection sensor system. Options remain staggering, but the price is rising fast as more features.

Body style: SUV

Engines: 3.5-liter V-6, 3.0-liter diesel V-6

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Models: ML350 4Matic, ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic

The Mercedes Benz M-Class is all-new this year, both the exterior and the interior redesigned for model year 2012. The automaker has subtle changes to the bodywork, especially the front and sides, making the big crossover a more muscular look and a lower position, while upgrading the interior materials with more premium looking materials and contemporary design.

Mercedes Benz redesigned the 2012 M-Class for the new model year, making it a more muscular appearance while maintaining its distinctive boxy crossover SUV look. The M-Class appear wider and lower to the ground, the side bars show the SUV more character. The back design looks generic, though the roof spoiler adds to more crouched watching M-Class. The grille has been slightly revamped to be more in line with the lineup of the automaker's overall appearance. We still think the crossover would have more distinctive wheels, though.

Mercedes M-Class update the interior and it shows. More premium looking materials were used on the dashboard, center console, and seating. The controls are easy to read for aging eyes, though we still depend on the number of climate control buttons. And steering wheel controls are minimal for a car this size and price. On the other hand, the heated and cooled cupholder system makes sure the SUV distinguish facilities. Interior dimensions are still large for all but the most passengers.

Mercedes update of the electronic control on the 2012 M-Class to feel more natural than the previous generation, making the SUV feels more solid and confident on the road. Suspension remains a fine balance of comfort and sporty, with the suspension just enough so that the road imperfections without hovering over them. Both the V-6 engines provide much power, but BlueTEC V-6 is strong acceleration and offers better fuel economy, as one would expect of a diesel.

Like most Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV is packed with safety equipment and technology. Standard equipment includes front and rear side airbags, driver knee airbag and curtain airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control (ESC) are accompanied by hills stop / start assist, blind spot detection (which warns the driver when someone in a blind spot of the vehicle), Lane Keeping Assist (nudges the SUV back in a lane) and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety equipment includes Mercedes' Attention Assist the driver with audio and visual warning signals if it detects that he or she is getting sleepy.

Mercedes-Benz ML350 4Matic: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway

Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic: 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway

ML350 BLUETEC Sport

ML350 Sport 

The GLK Mercedes SUV can be smaller, but it has the most flair to. At first glance, the GLK GL look like its big brother, but if you look longer at the GLK, you quickly notice its intricate lines, adding to the sporty compact SUV, Mercedes that no other sport / utility can offer. This vehicle does have it flaws, including his lack of off-road capability, and only one engine is offered.

The only engine available for the GLK350 is a 3.5-liter V-6. This engine produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and is coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission with available all-wheel drive. Acceleration is not bad, because it hits the 60 mph mark in 6.5 seconds.

Mercedes offers top-of-the-line technology in each of its vehicles, and the GLK is no exception. A 100-watt Audio 20 system is standard, which has a CD slot, telephone keypad, MP3 plug-in and Bluetooth interface. Optional on the SUV is a COMAND navigation system, complete with a seven-inch color display and a hard drive with map data for all of North America.

Body Style: Crossover SUV

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Models: GLK350, GLK350 4Matic

Entering the 2012 model, the GLK gets only a minor change. The optional media interface cable used for connecting an iPod, has been moved to the center console. In 2011, the GLK has received numerous changes, including a premium leather steering wheel and an AMG sports package, which AMG bumpers, 20-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, roof rails and aluminum features.

For some, the GLK looks like a scaled G-Class, but in reality, the GLK has a much sportier look than its larger relative. This compact SUV features intricate lines that surround the car, and an integrated rear spoiler. Also striking is the projection headlights and steep windshield.

The interior of the GLK is very clean and luxurious, but the steering is a bit messy. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has 12 buttons, check telephone and audio information among others. There is certainly no shortage of technology in this vehicle. It features a 100-watt Audio 20 system, along with a COMAND navigation system. The device includes a seven-inch screen that map data for all of North America.

The GLK is available with only one engine. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 that 268 horsepower and lb-ft of torque produces 258. This is accompanied by a seven-speed automatic transmission. This engine propels the GLK from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. It is equipped with a standard Agility Control suspension system that both soft and hard shock absorbers that allow for a comfortable and versatile driving experience.

The GLK is fitted with numerous safety features including an abundance of airbags, two-stage adaptive airbags for driver and front passenger knee airbag for driver and front-side pelvic airbags, curtain and side airbags. Also, active front head restraints, known as Neck-Pro, forward and upward to the head support in the event of a collision.

The Mercedes GL-Class debuted in 2007 as the first full-size Mercedes-Benz SUV. This vehicle offers features no other vehicle in the brand, as the G-Class. The full-size SUV offers third row of seats, as well as an unusually smooth ride for a car of this size. This SUV is not the best for off-roading, so if that's what you need, take a look at the military-inspired G-Class.

There are three different versions of the GL-Class to be held: the GL550, GL450 it, and the GL350 Bluetec diesel that an AdBlue exhaust treatment system that makes it possible to be legal in all 50 states functions. The GL550 model is powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 to 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque produced. Feeding the GL450 has a 4.6-liter V-8 that puts 335 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The Bluetec diesel has 210 horsepower and 400 pounds Whomping-ft of torque from the 3.0-liter V-6 engine.

The interior of this luxury SUV is to say the least. It is equipped with heated front seats and a sliding glass sunroof. To strengthen the sense of openness, Mercedes under a fixed glass panel in the third row. For the convenience of consumers, the third row seats are stowed with the push of a button. There is no shortage of opportunities for this full-size SUV.

Body style: SUV

Engines: 3.0-liter diesel V-6; 4.6-liter V-8; 5.5-liter V-8

Transmissions: seven-speed automatic

Models: GL350 Bluetec diesel, GL450, GL550

There are very few, minor changes for the 2012 GL-Class. All models get LED daytime running lights and an updated interior trim. Also for 2012, reversing camera receives new directional lines.

The outside of the GL-Class is unique. The GL550 is equipped with fenders, infrared reflective glass, and a large Mercedes star integrated into the grille. The SUV is 200.6-inches wide, and 76.4-inch wide and 72.4-inch.

The interior of the SUV is a luxury. At the front are heated and power seats, while a standard third row that is retractable with the push of a button. With both the second and third row seats stowed, there is more than 83 cubic feet of luggage space. Blind Spot Assist is available, along with a command system, a seven-inch color screen Bluetooth and optional Sirius Satellite radio control functions.

There are three available engines, but there's really only one if you're looking for power: the 5.5-liter V-8 that comes with the GL550. This engine produces 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, accelerating the 5500 pound SUV 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds. For such a large vehicle, the GL offers great handling with a smooth ride.

The SUV is equipped with a total of nine airbags, including seat-mounted side airbags front and rear. There are also belt tensioners and belt force limiters. The truly remarkable feature is Pre-Safe safety. When the system detects an imminent collision it tightens the front seatbelts and the front passenger seat moves to a position that gives better protection. Also windows closed, and it feels like a rollover, the sunroof.

GL350 Bluetec: 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway

GL450: 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway

GL550: 12 mpg city/17 mpg highway

The G-Class can carry the Mercedes logo, but it does not act like one. This SUV excels most in the sidewalk, where it is able to run free, and what it is actually able to show, climbing degrees to 36 degrees, and is stable even on slopes to 24 degrees. In the off-road, this climbing SUV shows its true colors, but that does not mean a slow road, for it is far from it.

The G-Class is available in only one version: the G550, which is powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 engine with 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. This is accompanied by a seven-speed automatic transmission. The G550 is an extremely heavy vehicle at £ 5600, but this engine sends the SUV from 0-60 mph in just 6.0 seconds. If you want more power, try a certified preowned G55 AMG, a model that was discontinued after the 2011 model year put to find. The G55 AMG version was characterized by a 5.5-liter supercharged V-8 to 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque produced. This engine accelerated the G55 AMG 0-60 mph in a remarkable 5.4 seconds.

The G550 is equipped with numerous standard features. Some of these are cruise control, central locking, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear heated seats, and rear reading lights. This is a Mercedes, but very robust.

Body style: SUV

Engine: 5.5-liter V-8

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Model: G550

New for 2012 is the "Select Edition" package. This package is available in three colors: Black, Arctic White, or Iridium Silver Paint. Features included in the package are flared AMG wings, and side exhaust pipes. Also included are silver painted five-spoke alloy wheels, carbon-look side molding, Designo floor mats and accompanied by a two-tone Designo Black / Porcelain interior.

2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Exterior

The G-Class was first developed for military purposes, which explains the rough exterior. This SUV is a five-person box, which is 184.5-inches long and 71.8 cm wide. The highlight of the exterior are the twin exhausts coming from under the side of the vehicle, available on the "Select Edition" package.

The exterior may be rough and rugged, but the interior is pure Mercedes, complete with technical features that ease and safety needs. The G-Class is equipped with premium leather, walnut trim, power windows, and 10-way heated and ventilated front seats with three memory positions. Also included is cruise control and rear heated seats.

The standard engine for the G550 has a 5.5-liter V-8 to 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque produced. Until the year 2012 model, this model was accompanied by an AMG version, which appeared in a major boost in power. The 5.5-liter V-8 puts 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine accelerated the AMG version of 0-60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, compared to 6.0 seconds for the G550.

safety

The G-Class is equipped with both front airbags and side curtain airbags that provide safety in a side impact or rollover. Electronic belt tensioners are also standard, which loosen the belts in the early stages of a collision. Of course, four-wheel ABS is standard, and Brake Assist.

G550: 12 mpg city/15 mpg highway