First Look 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL Class

The GL wears a Benz badge--a big one at that--but it's called Tuscaloosa, Alabama, its home since it was new in the 2007 model year. A sales hit from day one, the GL is a competitor for the likes of the Cadillac Escalade and Infiniti QX56, with a price tag ranging from about $62,000 to almost $88,000, before you pile on the choicest options.

It's an ultimate luxury SUV, but the GL doesn't go down the blingy trendy trail carved by those other sport-utes. The GL isn't quite as angular as it was last year, but it's still a little more traditional and subdued than its competition. The front end's more pronounced, and the rear fenders taper upward a bit--but it's still a very familiar, rugged look.

Inside, the GL takes another step up the luxury ladder. It doesn't look so different but some of the features are, like a larger seven-inch screen on the dash for infotainment, and the knob controller on its console that runs them through an operating system called COMAND. Wood trim and leather upholstery give the cabin a warm, rich feel.

First Look 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Mercedes-Benz is nearing completion of its 2013 S-Class sedan, with the latest prototypes recently spotted testing in Europe.  Sporting the least amount of camouflage to date, we are able to closely compare the latest renderings of the S-Class to the real thing.

Set for a reveal later this year as a 2013 model, the new S-Class will likely be slightly longer than this year’s model, and will be offered with a wide range of fuel efficient engines consisting of I4, V6 and V8 gasoline and BlueTEC diesel units.  For those craving the latest green technology, Mercedes-Benz will offer the S 400 HYBRID (‘mild’) boasting over 300 hp as well as the all new S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID delivering around 415 hp.  And, in case you were wondering whether the S 600 version would be lost amidst the new trend of fuel efficiency, fret not, as a new V12 powerplant outputting over 550 hp is currently in the works and will likely be ready in time for the S-Class market launch. Lastly, we can’t forget to mention the  AMG versions of the 2013 S-Class: the S 63 AMG with 544 hp and the S 65 AMG with 630 hp.

Design wise, look for the next generation S-Class to have a much larger grille than previous generations; a markedly sculpted hood and LED-infused headlights; and a dual exhaust system and taillights similar to those seen on the CL-Class.

First Look 2013 Audi A1 Convertible

2013 Audi A1 Convertible

The A1 Convertible will be offered with the same engines as the A1 hatchb Labels ack version: those from the TDI and FSI ranges. TSI and TFSI are expensive and performance orientated, which makes them less likely to be offered for the new Audi base model. Rumors also talk about a future hybrid version.

The design will be inspired by that of the 2005 Audi Shooting Brake concept, especially in the rear. Two or four doors will be offered for passenger access plus an extra door for the generously sized trunk. The general look of the car will be a sporty and dynamic one, a match for the already announced competitor, the Volvo C30.

To prove its Audi genes, the A1 will feature the single-frame front grille, a dynamic sideline, large size tires, short consoles and small side windows. Besides the hatchback, a roadster and a cabriolet are also considered to expand the A1 range.

The A1 will consistently cheaper than the A3 with prices ranging between $16,000-20,000. The cost reduction can be achieved due to the use of the new platform with a semi-rigid rear axle, a lot cheaper than the multi-link. In addition, the body will be made from steel, not aluminum, as used in the A2, further reducing production costs.

First Look 2013 Audi A3 Sportback

2013 Audi A3 Sportback

2013 Audi A3 Sportback

The 2013 Audi A3 will be a completely new model when it arrives here in the U.S., and we will see the all-new five-door Sportback model and a four-door sedans arriving in showrooms in October of next year. New details about this five-door Sportback were released by Audi as Auto Blog attended a workshop covering the tech inside on the next-generation A3.

The 2013 A3 will be using the new VW Group MQB architecture, or "tranverse modular system" platform. The new universal architecture design will allow Audi to incline the engines rearward 12 degrees reducing front overhang by two inches while creating more front passenger legroom as the front axle can move forward now by 1.6 inches.

This classically-rendered vehicle is a triumph, continuing to deliver top-notch execution in the luxury segment! A turbocharger is also included as an economical means of increasing performance. Top features include front dual zone air conditioning, power windows, rear wipers, and leather upholstery.