Mercedes-Benz brings top lineup to Chengdu auto show

The three-pointed star shined its "The best or nothing" motto in Southwest China as it unveiled a star-studded line-up of its Mercedes-Benz, AMG and smart brands at the ongoing 15th Chengdu Motor Show, representing Mercedes-Benz's confidence and dedication to its future development in the market, as well as its commitment to bringing more fascinating products to Chinese customers.

A total of 32 models were displayed at the 1,800 square meters booth, showcasing the automaker's strongest product portfolio in China's luxury auto market. Most of these exhibited models feature the comprehensive BlueEFFICIENCY technology, exemplifying Mercedes-Benz's unending commitment and dedication toward sustainable development. In addition, Mercedes-Benz's StarElite Pre-Owned Program was also presented with stand-alone booth at the Chengdu Motor Show for the first time.

"In the first seven months of this year, Mercedes-Benz in China has seen steady sales momentum. In particular, the all-new M-Class, which has been very popular among customers, achieved a 94 percent year-on-year growth in July," said Klaus Maier, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd.

"A strong and comprehensive product portfolio is the key driving force for Mercedes-Benz's sustainable development. Apart from the three new models - the all-new B-Class, all-new ML 300 4MATIC, and R 350 BlueEFFICIENCY - presented at Chengdu Motor Show, Chinese customers can also expect more exciting models to come within this year, all of which we believe will power Mercedes-Benz for bigger success in China," said Maier.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class Luxury Sports Tourer saw its market launch in China on the eve of the Chengdu Motor Show. With its amazingly dynamic design inside out, an all-new drivetrain that boosts driving fun with high efficiency, as well as safety features that set the benchmark in its class, the all-new B-Class once again redefines the luxury compact segment.

Updated with the latest BlueDIRECT V6 engine, the R 350 BlueEFFICIENCY offers more power and greater efficiency for the same price. This latest model features the same practicality and comfort for which it is well known and maintains its position as the pioneer within its segment.

"In addition, we will also push forward in all aspects including dealership network expansion, training initiatives and corporate social responsibility, to achieve healthy and stable long-term development for Mercedes-Benz in the China market," Maier added.

On the afternoon of Aug 31, Mercedes-Benz Region West celebrated the opening of its office in Chengdu. The regional strategy is also part of the automaker's measures to attain sustainable development.

"As the inventor of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz is always at the forefront of the auto industry with our cutting-edge technology. Especially today, when environmental awareness has greatly increased, Mercedes-Benz will further fulfill our commitment to the market and environment with our leading BlueEFFICIENCY technology," said Bjoern Hauber, executive vice-president of sales and marketing for Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd.

"By the end of 2012, more than 70 percent of Mercedes-Benz model lines offered in China will adopt the BlueEFFICIENCY technologies, covering all segments, from sedans and SUVs to sports tourers and roadsters," said Hauber.

Tailor-made for the Chinese market, the all-new ML 300 4MATIC, also equipped with the BlueDIRECT V6 engine, was officially launched, extending the "Master of All Surfaces" lineup and attracting more customers with its competitive price tag of 799,000 yuan ($125,443).

The all-new M-Class has just successfully completed the "The Road Less Travelled" national media test-drive event that had lasted for nearly 40 days. Composed of three themed legs, the event expressed different values inspired by encounters between man and nature, creating unique driving experience from self-exploring journeys.

With a total mileage of about 60,000 kilometers traveled by the whole fleet of 20 ML 350, the all-new M-Class has conquered different road conditions with its outstanding durability and competence.

"The whole program ought to take the journalists on a wondrous journey with soulful experiences. And the excellent performance of the all-new M-Class in the long test-drive clearly demonstrates its undisputable title as the 'Master of all Surfaces'," said Anthea Wang, vice-president of public relation and media communication for Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd.

Besides, Mercedes-Benz's lifestyle icon smart brand has struck again, with 10 fascinating models on display at the Chengdu Motor Show, including smart's newest member - the smart 2012 sharpred special edition, which was launched recently in Shanghai and is limited to 700 units.

Also, the smart stand at the motor show has been redesigned to celebrate the arrival of the smart sharpred special edition in Chengdu.

lifangfang@chinadaily.com.cn