Tag Archives: Mercedes-Benz

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Toyota Plans Compact Land Cruiser to Rival Baby G-Class

The battle for dominance in the rugged yet increasingly urban-friendly SUV segment is heating up. After Mercedes-Benz confirmed a downsized G-Class is on the way, industry insiders suggest Toyota is preparing a similar move by introducing a compact Land Cruiser variant — one that could revive the spirit of the iconic FJ Cruiser in a modern, more accessible package.

While initial rumors pointed to a global debut as early as October 2024 at the Japan Mobility Show or November’s LA Auto Show, recent developments indicate the unveiling has been pushed into early 2025. Still, the buzz surrounding this new model — potentially dubbed the Toyota “FJ” — continues to build.

Retro Looks, Modern Engineering

Design cues for the upcoming mini SUV are expected to draw heavily from Toyota’s Compact Cruiser EV concept, blending the nostalgic boxy styling of the classic Land Cruiser with contemporary touches. Expect a square-jawed, upright silhouette that harks back to the brand’s off-road heritage — a strategy that has proven successful with recent retro-inspired designs from multiple automakers.

According to leaked dimensions from Japanese media, the vehicle will measure approximately 4.35 meters in length, 1.86 meters in width, and 1.89 meters in height, positioning it squarely in the compact SUV class. While that might seem small for a Land Cruiser, it could prove ideal for buyers looking for genuine off-road capability in a more urban-friendly footprint.

Powertrain Variety: From Gasoline to Hybrid

Unlike the purely electric Compact Cruiser EV, the production version of this mini Land Cruiser will reportedly offer multiple powertrain options. These could range from traditional internal combustion engines to hybrid systems — a logical move given Toyota’s mastery in the hybrid space.

Speculated engines include:

  • A 2.7-liter gasoline inline-four, likely aimed at markets favoring simplicity and durability.
  • A 2.8-liter diesel mild-hybrid system, potentially borrowed from the Toyota Hilux.
  • The 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain already proven in the RAV4.
  • Even the 2.0-liter gasoline engine from the Corolla Cross could make an appearance in entry-level trims.

Platform Debate: IMV or TNGA?

The model’s platform remains a topic of speculation. Some sources suggest it could ride on the IMV platform, shared with the rugged Hilux Champ and designed for emerging markets. Others insist that Toyota will use its more refined TNGA architecture, the same one that underpins the latest Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 600. If the latter proves true, expect the mini Cruiser to offer class-leading ride quality and off-road competence, blurring the lines between utilitarian function and everyday comfort.

A Strategic Move in a Growing Segment

With global interest in compact off-roaders at an all-time high — think Suzuki Jimny, Ford Bronco Sport, and the upcoming baby G-Class — Toyota’s timing couldn’t be better. A downsized Land Cruiser promises to bring genuine off-road DNA to a broader audience, appealing to younger buyers, adventure seekers, and urban dwellers alike.

While Toyota has yet to confirm the model’s official name or exact debut date, the arrival of a compact FJ-style SUV could mark the start of a new chapter in the Land Cruiser legacy — one that’s smaller in size, but no less mighty in spirit.

Source: Toyota

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Mercedes-Benz Slashes EQ Prices, But Is It Too Little, Too Late?

Mercedes-Benz entered the EV race with bold ambition, crafting its first dedicated electric vehicles—the EQE and EQS—in both sedan and SUV forms with futuristic, wind-cheating curves and slippery silhouettes. These models marked a dramatic departure from the brand’s traditionally conservative styling. However, in an unexpected twist, the bold design and high-tech approach failed to resonate with customers.

Now, Mercedes-Benz is pivoting. The upcoming electric CLA signals a strategic realignment, built on the same platform as its internal-combustion sibling—a sign that the company is pulling back from its bespoke EV architecture. But in the meantime, there are deals to be had—at least for those willing to take a chance on the current EQ lineup.

According to a now-deleted TikTok video from a dealership employee, later confirmed by Mercedes, the company is making significant price cuts across its 2026 EQ models. Here’s a snapshot of the changes:

Model2026 Price2025 Price
EQE Sedan$66,100$76,050
EQE SUV$66,100$79,050
EQS Sedan$101,400$105,550
EQS SUV$91,100$106,400

These reductions—some upwards of $15,000—particularly impact the Alabama-built SUVs. But there’s a catch: production of the EQE and EQS models for the U.S. market will halt indefinitely starting September 1st. Mercedes-Benz has not committed to a restart date, citing “competitive reasons” and emphasizing its “local-for-local” manufacturing strategy spread across more than 30 global plants.

The timing of the announcement is notable. As InsideEVs highlights, the federal EV tax credit ends September 30th, and the recent rollback of CAFE standards removes another layer of regulatory pressure from automakers. It’s unclear whether the EQ lineup’s pause is a short-term strategy adjustment or a longer-term retrenchment of Mercedes’ EV plans in the U.S.

Meanwhile, more new EVs are on the horizon. The electric CLA is already on sale in Europe, with U.S. availability expected soon. AMG is reportedly developing a high-performance four-door EV, and an electric GLC—one of the brand’s bestsellers—is also in the pipeline.

But with the EQ brand suffering from rapid depreciation and lukewarm consumer interest, it’s tough to frame these price cuts as an outright win for buyers. Used EQS sedans can already be found for under $40,000—less than half their original MSRP—and there’s still inventory of unsold 2025 models sitting on dealer lots, likely ripe for even deeper discounts.

Mercedes-Benz may be trimming prices, but whether that’s enough to reignite consumer enthusiasm—or merely a final clearance before a wider EV reset—remains to be seen.

Source: Motor1

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Ola Källenius Previews the Electric GLC Ahead of IAA Debut

At the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center (MTC) in Sindelfingen, a quiet revolution is underway. With CEO Ola Källenius behind the wheel, the brand’s best-selling model – the GLC – is being reborn as an all-electric SUV, promising a bold new era of sustainable performance and luxury. Källenius offers an exclusive first look at the all-new electric GLC, subjecting the prototype to a series of five dynamic challenges designed to highlight its innovation, agility and comfort.

Following the electrifying previews of the CLA and G-Class in Austria and Sweden last year, the stage is now set for Mercedes-Benz’s next big debut: the electric GLC, set to be unveiled at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich on September 7th. And by all accounts, it’s shaping up to be a game-changer.

Redefining a Bestseller

“The biggest product-launch programme in our company’s history continues with the all-new GLC,” said Källenius. “We’re not just introducing a new model – we’re electrifying our top seller.”

The electric GLC isn’t merely an adaptation of a combustion vehicle — it’s a reimagining. Built on a dedicated EV platform with an 800-volt electrical architecture, it allows ultra-fast charging of up to 260 km of range in just ten minutes. That means a short coffee stop can now translate into hundreds of kilometers of clean driving.

S-Class Technology Meets SUV Versatility

Borrowing flagship features from the prestigious S-Class, the electric GLC comes equipped with AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering (up to 4.5 degrees), seamlessly blending long-distance comfort with athletic handling. Whether cruising down city streets or carving through winding roads, the GLC maintains a poised, stable, and exceptionally smooth ride.

This EV is more than just a commuter’s delight — it’s built for everyday adventures. With a 2.4-ton towing capacity, the GLC 400 4MATIC can easily haul caravans, boats, or even horse trailers. Its 100 kg tongue weight even supports e-bike carriers — a nod to the increasingly active and mobile lifestyle of Mercedes-Benz customers.

Spacious, Smart, and Sensational

The new electric GLC grows in every meaningful way. With an extended wheelbase (+8 cm), rear passengers benefit from increased legroom and headroom, while the boot offers a cavernous 570 litres, expanding to 1,740 litres with the seats folded. There’s even a 128-litre frunk accessed via touch control — a rare and welcome feature in the premium SUV class.

Inside, the vehicle is an immersive digital sanctuary. At its core is the next-gen MBUX Hyperscreen, powered by the brand’s new MB.OS software architecture. This digital “superbrain” combines intuitive interaction with AI-powered intelligence, offering a deeply personalized and seamless experience across driver and passenger interfaces.

A New Face for a New Era

Design-wise, the electric GLC introduces a refined new aesthetic for Mercedes-Benz EVs — a face that balances status, sportiness, and timeless luxury. It’s the first of an upcoming family of vehicles to showcase this evolved design language, positioning the GLC not just as a tech-forward SUV, but as a harbinger of the brand’s electric future.

As the automotive world prepares for the IAA in Munich, all eyes will be on the new GLC — not just because it’s electric, but because it might just set a new benchmark for what an EV SUV can be.

Source: Mercedes-Benz