Frankfurt: new products from smart to S-Class

At the Frankfurt International Motor Show, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class from the 221 series celebrates its public world premiere. In the two concept cars "Vision S 350 DIRECT HYBRID" and "Vision S 320 BlueTEC HYBRID", based on the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz presents forward-looking drive concepts that are as environmentally compatible and economical as they are dynamic. The R-Class (251 series) is shown in Europe for the first time, including the short-wheelbase variant, destined exclusively for European markets. The near-series Vision R 63 AMG and the ML 63 AMG, the first production model equipped with the new 6.2-litre AMG high-performance engine M 156, also have their world premieres. Moreover, Mercedes-AMG presents the convertible variant of the Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG. The high - performance sports car with its 428 kW / 582 hp 5.5-litre supercharged V8 engine and electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h is the fastest open four-seater in the world. Delivery of the small series, a limited edition of 100 units, begins in May 2006. The Viano debuts in the all-wheel-drive 4MATIC variant, which is offered for the two four-cylinder diesel models. Mercedes-Benz also presents the "Viano X-clusive" study with V8 engine and exceptionally high-quality exterior and interior design. smart presents the "crosstown" show car – a vehicle with hybrid drive intended to demonstrate smart's competence in engineering and design.