With the C-Class top-of-the line model C 63 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has given an impressive statement in the medium class. Where else can you get an enormous larger than 6 litre V8 engine in a relatively small car? But as the power output is comparably low, the high-tech manufacturer Carlsson activates the hidden potential. With up to 565 hp, the Carlsson CK63 leaves its competitors behind its (stainless steel) end pipes. And equipped with new wheels and even more sporty aerodynamics, the top-of-the line C-Class model refined by Carlsson also shows clear features of a top athlete.

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If Drake, the ur-vampire from Blade Trinity, were a car, this is the car he would be. Starting with a CL600, tuning firm Kicherer didn’t waste time throwing pieces at the car’s already aggressive styling. Instead, Kicherer attacked the CL’s jugular: sloppy performance due to the car’s portliness.

The biturbo V12 gets 53 extra horses to corral 570 in total, torque gets smacked up to 664 lb-ft., the engine gets a new transmission control module to better deal with the extra juice, and out back, the rear axle gets a locking rear differential. The car is lowered an inch, and firmer springs help keep things settled when it’s go time. Will all this turn the car into a cheetah? Probably not, but with the carbon goodies added throughout and the 20-inch Kircherer RS-1 wheels, it will look mighty good doing whatever it does. You can see for yourself in the gallery below.

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When Jaguar launched its latest XK coupe, the ad campaign that accompanied it was called “Gorgeous”. When the Mercedes-Benz ConceptFASCINATION eventually becomes the next E-Class, the first thing Mercedes should do is call Jag to see if Gorgeous needs a friend. The shooting brake is absolutely stunning in person, the ultimate rendition of MB’s current design language. Whereas a few of the 3-pointed-star’s current cars have signature elements that ring true, this E-Class-Coupe-Wagon is the first time the entire theme sings in sweet harmony. The interior is the kind of thing that bespoke dreams are made of, with richly stained wood alternating between low-gloss metal and buttery suede. It is as if Mercedes discovered its inner passion, and if the next E-Class shares these qualities with the ConceptFASCINATION, then BMW and Audi better start worrying. You can discover more about the concept in the press release after the jump, as well as view it live in the gallery of high-res images below.

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Not to be outdone by the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport, this is Mercedes’ own ultra-fast open-top. Snappily named as the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, it’s a convertible version of the special edition 722 variant. And yes, Merc is indeed eking all it can out of the SLR supercar before the SL Black and SLC/Gullwing arrive.

Just 150 722 SLR S models will be built and that ‘722’ designation (sadly) doesn’t refer to the brake horsepower output, but the number of Stirling Moss’s race-winning 300 SLR from the 1955 Mille Miglia.

Is this Mercedes 722 S drop-top merely a mix of other SLR parts?

Essentially yes. The S is an SLR roadster with all the 722′s special tweaks.

So we start with a carbonfibre SLR, but add a ’722 S’ etched wind deflector and an aluminium-reinforced folding fabric roof with carbon-look weave – though said roof still needs to be manually unlatched.

The supercharged 5.5-litre V8 is then tweaked, lifting power from 617 to 641bhp, while torque climbs from 575 to 605lb ft. That means the 0-62mph sprint passes by in 3.7 seconds, 125mph flashes up in 10.6 and the top speed is raised to 209mph. And all these figures are achieved through a five-speed automatic – those AMG engine builders in Affalterbach are clearly doing a decent job.

What about other tweaks and changes?

There are new 19-inch forged aluminium wheels, hiding huge ceramic brakes and red callipers. The springs and shocks are stiffer, while the suspension has been lowered 10mm front and rear. The SLR 722 S retains the huge air brake and diffuser.

The 722 updates include a new front splitter, lots of ‘722 S’ badges, plus leather and Alcantara seats with contrasting red stitching and red seatbelts. The interior also features a suede-covered gearlever and handbrake, climate control, a Bose stereo and paddles for the gearbox

All 722 S editions are made by McLaren in Woking, England, the first cars will be available from January 1 2009 and prices should start at around £370,000.

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In celebration of its special-protection unit’s 80th anniversary, Mercedes-Benz has launched the new S600 Pullman Guard state limousine for those officials who like to feel a bit of extra security. Based on a the S600 Guard, the Pullman has been stretched out to a total length of 6,356 mm with a 4,315 mm wheelbase that’s about the size of a compact hatchback. Power comes from twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 engine developing 517 and 830 Nm of torque.

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