Snowboarding with the C350 Coupe, Take a Look!

Mercedes-Benz CLA Images Leaked!

The first official images of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA have made their way on to the web weeks ahead of its January public debut in 2013 NAIAS in Detroit.
For months, we’ve been bringing you leaked info, rumors,spy photos and videos, and now we are finally able to bring you the official CLA photos. The baby CLS has inherited quite a bit of its design from the Style Concept Coupe, specifically the “floating dots” front grille.
The CLA is based on the all new A-Class, and is about 4.60 meters (181.1 inches) long and will be offered at initially with three gasoline engines and a diesel: CLA 180 with 122 HP (90 kW), CLA 200 with 156 HP (115 kW), CLA 250 with 211 HP (155 kW) and the more frugal CLA 220 CDI with 170 HP (125 kW). In September 2013, Mercedes-Benz will unveil the range-topping CLA45 AMG which is rumored to offer 335 HP (246 kW).
Mercedes has already confirmed a new type of 4MATIC all-wheel drive system for the CLA.

Courtesy of EMercedes-Benz

Another 5-Star Review, Another Happy Customer!

"I got a very nice S550 at a far better price than offered to me in Walnut Creek, and nice people to work with on top of it. Marie, Bret, Bao, Mary and Mo were all great, I enjoyed the buy/lease experience and love the new wheels. I can confidently recommend Mercedes of Fairfield to you here on Yelp." -Scott G. 

To read more Yelp reviews click here.

Mercedes-Benz: The Vision Ener-G-Force G-Class Concept 2012

2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Refreshed Down to its Sheetmetal

Mercedes-Benz introduces the extensively updated 2014 E-Class Sedan and Wagon, featuring highly efficient engines, an array of new driver assistance systems and even more refined styling. No less than eleven new or optimized assistance systems from the future S-Class celebrate their world premiere in both the sedan and wagon models. They combine a host of comfort and safety features, referred to by Mercedes-Benz as "intelligent drive." These groundbreaking systems include technologies that can help prevent accidents with pedestrians or vehicles crossing in front, Active Lane Keeping Assist for avoiding collisions with oncoming traffic and anti-glare continuous high-beam headlamps. All this and more ensures that Mercedes-Benz maintains its pioneering role in vehicle safety. The new E-Class also takes a major step forward in terms of efficiency, thanks to the new four-cylinder diesel engine. An extensive package of design updates round-off the new and compelling features of the MY14 E-Class, delivering an accomplished combination of efficiency, intelligence and style. The 2014 E-Class Sedan and Wagon will be in U.S. showrooms this Spring.

By conducting such a comprehensive redevelopment of the E-Class range, Mercedes-Benz is ensuring that its customers benefit from the very latest technical advances as soon as possible. The new E-Class also comes with distinctive updates in its styling for an elegant and sporty look, as well as significantly enhanced comfort features and upscale equipment, rounded-off by an exceptional level of efficiency and everyday driving pleasure. All of this comes together to ensure that the E-Class continues to consolidate its leading position in the luxury segment.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: "We are setting clear trends in terms of safety, design and efficiency with the new E-Class. It puts many technical innovations on the road and undoubtedly is the best E-Class ever. This also finds expression in its design and its carefully revised interior, which bring a breath of fresh air to the luxury class. The 'E' thus continues to hold its place at the very top of this demanding segment."

Design – a choice of two new front-end styles

Numerous intelligent modifications have given the E-Class a new front-end design and revised proportions. Designers applied the new Mercedes-Benz design language to reinterpret the brand's classic design values on the existing basis. The outcome is an elegant, refined and yet sporty look.

The front end has been completely revised with new headlamps that incorporate all light functions within a single lens, while flowing light elements within the headlamps help to retain the "four-eyed" appearance that is such a distinctive E-Class signature. When it comes to light and sight, the E-Class sets the benchmark – low beam and daytime running lights both come with partial LED as standard, while full-LED headlamps are available as an option for the first time in this class.

In another first, the MY14 E-Class is available with two different front-end designs. The Luxury version comes with the classic sedan grille with 3-louver look and star on the hood. The Sport version, on the other hand, features the sports grille with integrated star, forming a visual link to the brand's high performance sports car models.

The hood and front bumper have also been completely redesigned. With its flowing lines, the hood offers a smooth, sleek expression of the new design language. The bumper has new, contemporary styling with an aerofoil shape along its lower edge for an even more distinctively sporting character. Sport models receive an even more confident front design, using the AMG styling package that features larger air intakes and a distinct aluminum trim line along the entire lower rim of the front bumper.

Dynamic, elegant proportions

A new feature line and a repositioned three-dimensional trim line bring new proportions to both the sedan and wagon. The feature line runs below the structure line from the rear door to the tail light, giving the car greater visual length. This is reinforced by the side trim, which is now much lower. The overall effect is to make the MY14 E-Class look longer and more elegant, and at the same time both dynamic and composed.

Broad, distinctive rear end

The rear end of the MY14 E-Class features modifications to the lights and the bumper. The new LED tail lamps have a horizontal design that emphasizes the width of the vehicle, while the two-tone look comes with a distinctive nighttime signature. Sport models feature exposed dual exhaust pipes.

Premium interior

The generously proportioned interior of the E-Class has been subtly revised and harmonized with the expressive exterior. Premium materials, precise lines and clearly defined surfaces combine to create a sophisticated overall look - and feel.

A new feature is the two-part trim extending across the entire soft-touch dashboard, which is available in two wood finishes – burl walnut or black ash. Also new are the 3-tube instrument cluster, the trapezoidal head-unit display, the air vent design and the analogue clock between the two central vents.

"Intelligent drive" with new assistance systems

What started with PRE-SAFE® and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS® has emerged as a new dimension of driving at Mercedes-Benz, where comfort and safety merge into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this "intelligent drive." A whole host of new or optimized systems from the future S-Class celebrate their world premiere in the E-Class, delivering increased comfort and safety, such as the all-new DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist.

The basis for all this is new state-of-the-art sensors and their associated algorithms. Mercedes-Benz has taken a major step forward with the introduction of the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera. Just like the previous Mono Multi-Purpose Camera, it is located on the windshield near the rearview mirror. However, this camera features two "eyes," set at an angle of 45 degrees to produce a three-dimensional view of the area up to 55 yards in front of the vehicle and with an overall range of up to 550 yards. The stereo camera gathers data for processing by various systems using intelligent algorithms. The systems can detect vehicles driving in front, oncoming or crossing and evaluate this three-dimensional visual information to determine their speed and position. They can also identify pedestrians within a large field of vision.

Along with the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera, Mercedes-Benz is also introducing enhanced versions of the Multi-Mode Radar sensor system. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with Adaptive Brake Assist is standard equipment on both the sedan and wagon. It helps to reduce significantly the risk of a rear-end collision. Also part of standard equipment is ATTENTION ASSIST®, which now warns of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider range, and provides visual information on attention level and time driven since the last break. The sensitivity of the new generation ATTENTION ASSIST® can be adjusted by the driver.

Also available are a number of assistance systems that are either new or now feature significantly enhanced functionality. In overview:
- DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist can help the driver keep the vehicle centered in its lane and can semi-autonomously follow in-line traffic.
- For the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians, and boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly.
- The PRE-SAFE® Brake can now detect pedestrians as well and initiate autonomous braking.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS can identify an imminent rear-end collision and then prompt the PRE-SAFE® system to trigger occupant protection measures that reduce the forces exerted on passengers. If the vehicle is stationary, it can also prevent secondary accidents in the event of a rear-end collision by applying the brakes.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist can now detect when the adjacent lane is not clear, including the presence of oncoming traffic, overtaking vehicles, crash barriers etc. Under threat of a collision, even if the lane marking is not a solid line, the system can prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side. This system pairs perfectly with Active Blind Spot Assist.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS allows high beam to remain permanently switched on without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams' cone of light.
- Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and perpendicular spaces
- The Surround View Camera will cover all four sides of the vehicle and enable a 360-degree view including virtual bird's-eye perspective – a top view of the vehicle and its immediate surroundings. Dynamic guide lines help during parking and maneuvering.

Excellent performance with high gas mileage

Both the E-Class sedan and wagon boast a range of powerful and efficient gasoline and diesel engines. All come with the ECO start/stop system as standard equipment and are highly efficient. Mercedes-Benz offers the broadest range of ECO start/stop systems in the United States, as well as the most seamless, smooth, and unobtrusive algorithms.

The gasoline engines offered in the MY14 E-Class are the highly successful V6 and V8 units in the E350 and E550, which will go on sale in Spring 2013. They combine excellent response characteristics and outstanding power delivery with exceptional efficiency.

Powerful diesel engine and hybrid drive for outstanding efficiency

New in the MY14 E-Class sedan is the incredibly efficient four-cylinder diesel engine powering the E250 BlueTEC with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, available Fall 2013. Compliant with emissions legislations in all fifty states, the latest diesel model from Mercedes-Benz shows that premium elegance and outstanding economy are not mutually exclusive. The E250 BlueTEC generates 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, replacing the V6-powered E350 BlueTEC engine that only was available with rear-wheel drive.

A further feature of the MY14 E-Class range is the highly economical E400 HYBRID. Supplemented by an electric motor (27hp, 184 lb-ft), the E400 HYBRID offers the powerful and refined performance of the Mercedes-Benz 3.5-liter V6 (302hp, 273 lb-ft) paired with an outstanding gas mileage of 24/30 mpg (est. city/highway).

New-generation transmission for dynamic and economical driving

The engines in the MY14 E-Class are mated to the seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT SELECT shift paddles. This latest evolution of the seven-speed transmission offers significant benefits in terms of efficiency and ease of maintenance.

A new feature is the short-term M mode. If the driver shifts up or down manually, the transmission independently switches back to the fuel-efficient automatic shift mode after a pre-determined period of time elapses.

Traction and stability can also be enhanced across the MY14 E-Class lineup with the 4MATIC® permanent all-wheel-drive system – particularly effective in challenging surface conditions.

The E63 AMG sedan and wagon, launching in Fall 2013, comes with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT seven-speed MCT and 4MATIC in the United States, delivering incredible performance. More technical details will follow in January 2013 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Refined suspension for excellent handling

Mercedes-Benz offers three suspension configurations for the MY14 E-Class:
- Configured for comfort, the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with stroke dependent damping system is the standard suspension setup for the Luxury model.
- In the Sport model, the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with stroke dependent damping system is 15 mm lower and has a more sporty setup.
- The E63 AMG comes with the AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension.

All suspension variants feature outstanding sensitivity and ride characteristics and help to ensure an excellent level of road holding.

All models in the MY14 E-Class lineup are fitted with an electromechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. This combines speed-sensitive power steering with a variable ratio across the steering angle range. The rack-and-pinion steering gear is controlled on-demand and therefore contributes towards efficiency. Advantages of the electromechanical Direct-Steer system include:
- improved agility thanks to more direct steering response
- comfortable handling and smooth steering characteristics at all speeds
- improved efficiency, as energy is consumed only while steering
- enables innovative assistance systems, e.g. Active Parking Assist

Premium equipment

The MY14 E-Class already comes with a comprehensive range of premium equipment as standard. Optional packages include the Premium 1 package with Rearview camera, COMAND navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, Harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound, power rear window sunshade, heated front seats (standard with E550), active ventilated front seats and garage-door opener. Further packages available at launch are the Lighting package, Parking Assist package, Lane Tracking package, Wood Trim package and Wheel package.

The Driver Assistance package and KEYLESS-GO package will be available shortly after launch. The KEYLESS-GO package will feature electronic trunk closer and HANDSFREE ACCESS, which enables opening and closing of the trunk lid without physical contact by simply holding your foot beneath the bumper. This extremely convenient feature is particularly useful when loading and unloading the vehicle.

When it comes to infotainment, Mercedes-Benz delivers the MY14 E-Class sedan and wagon with the COMAND® system featuring AM/FM/WB radio, indash DVD/CD player, in-dash memory card slot, and Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling. Standard equipment also includes a central controller with a 7-inch, high-resolution display and a color display in the instrument cluster.

Courtesy of AutoBlog

Maintenance Monday! Don't Make Compost in Your Car

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As you tackle fall's bounty on your lawn, leave some energy for removing the leaves that find their way into your vehicle.

Leaves, twigs and other organic matter can cause havoc with gutters on your house -- and the equivalent on your car. When debris builds up in areas of your car where water is supposed to flow out, you can get leaks or corrosion.

The air plenum near the windshield is a classic spot where this can happen.

If you have a sunroof, open it up and poke around in there, too. Sunroofs have drains that flow water that sneaks past the seals down to the ground. Leaf gunk in there can make for wet headliners or worse.

Less common, but more problematic: Animals may make nests under the hood. You may need a mechanic and an animal trapper to fully solve this problem.

Courtesy of KipLinger

Two More 5-Star Reviews!

"Glad to report that we had a very pleasant buying experioence at your dealership and were most impressed by the professionalism and courtesy extended to us by your representative Muy Phan." -Michael A. 

"Solid customer service was evident from my first stop at the receptionist to my meeting with the General Manager. The process was unhurried, no pressure, and friendly. The price for the vehicle and the trade-in were very fair. No games were played here. You can tell this new dealership was constructed with the customer in mind. From the customer lounge to the service shop viewing area - first class. I would highly recommend you explore your car buying opportunities at MB of Fairfield." -Richard D.

To read more like this click here.

The All-New Mercedes-Benz E-Class!

Thank you, Richard, for this great review. We appreciate you!

"I am closer to other Mercedes dealers; however, I just wanted to see what this one was like.  Glad I did. Highly recommend! Left with an excellent 2013 E350 Lux. Thank you, Fritz, for your courtesy and customer service" -Richard D. 

To read more reviews click here.

Toast of the Valley with Fenestra Winery!

It's almost here...The Toast of the Valley with Fenestra Winery! This Friday, December 14th, join us for a celebration, wine tasting, and performance by the Benicia Ballet. For more details click here or visit our website and RSVP now!

Mercedes-Benz Back at the SuperBowl!

Mercedes-Benz may have skipped advertising during last year's Super Bowl, but according to Automotive News, the manufacturer will be back for 2013. The company plans to introduce its new CLA to the public at large during the game, using the opportunity to reach some 111.3 million US viewers.

While speaking with Advertising Age, Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Steve Cannon said the CLA is a "highly stylized four-door coupe" that will bow with "a surprising price." In addition to pulling the wraps off the new model, Cannon said he hopes the advertising campaign will help Mercedes-Benz reach a wider consumer base than it typically accesses.

The automaker typically sees buyers with an average age of around 50 years old for its C-Class, but the Super Bowl should show off the CLA to its target demographic: 30 and 40-year-old buyers. And what exactly will the spot look like? Mercedes-Benz isn't saying, but Automotive News suggests both Kate Upton and Usher may play a part in the spot.

Mercedes-Benz says Thank You!

Check Out This New Vehicle Special!

The gorgeous 2013 E350 Cabriolet. Exquisitely tailored for your enjoyment. Come in now for a test drive and you will fall in love! Plus, for a limited time you could recieve 2.49% APR or a $709 36-month lease. See all the details here, but don't take too long, time is running out!

See What's New From Mercedes-Benz!

Mercedes-Benz just debuted its latest concept vehicle – the Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force – at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. At first glance the Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force looks like an oversized SUV, which brings up memories of the now extinct Hummer vehicles – but what lies under the hood is a green fuel cell power train that only emits water. According to Mercedes-Benz, the concept is a design study that demonstrates how the genes of the classic G-Class from 1979 may still assert themselves far into the future.

“The Ener-G-Force is the vision of an off-roader that, while reflecting tomorrow’s adventures, also invokes the genes of the Mercedes-Benz off-road icon, the G-Class. Modern and cool, it could also be a clue about a new beginning for the off-road design idiom of Mercedes-Benz,” stated Gorden Wagener, Director of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept was created for the Los Angeles Design Challenge 2012, which called upon designers to envision the perfect Highway Patrol Vehicle for 2025. The notion of designing tomorrow’s off-roader intrigued the designers at the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in Carlsbad, California to such an extent that they evolved the police version into a civilian version and even built a 1:1-scale model.

The Ener G-Force Concept draws many styling cues from the iconic G-Class, but under the hood is a futuristic power train. The Ener-G-Force stores recycled water in tanks on the roof, and transfers it to the “hydro-tech converter,” where natural and renewable resources are converted into hydrogen for operating the fuel cells. The Ener-G-Force emits nothing but water and has an operating range of about 500 miles. Four wheel-hub motors provide the pulling power, and side skirts house energy storage units or hot-swappable battery packs. Changes in the color of the illumination of the side skirts indicate the operating and charge status of the energy packs.

Courtesy of Inhabitat

Maintenance Monday! Here's the 411 on Your Oil

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Engine efficiency depends on oil level in it. Therefore, keep checking oil level and change it after the recommended period. Besides, not every type of engine oil is best fit for efficiency. High quality Lubricants of a reliable company can be best. From time to time, changing lubricant in engine is necessary. In general, you are advised to change it after every three thousand miles of running.

Use dipstick to check oil level. Get dipstick out, clean it with a cloth, and dip it again in the reservoir. Now remove it to see oil level. Make sure it is up to the acceptable level. Otherwise, put more oil but be sure you do not overfill it.

Courtesy Word Press