Official: Citroen DS High Rider Concept Interior

The French carmaker has released new images and details of the Citroen DS High Rider interior. Citroen released today the first images of the interior of DS High Rider concept presented in Geneva in March and expected to anticipate the future design guidelines of DS4 and also of the C4.

The interior door panels are trimmed with a graduated grey to gold shading that’s supposed to match the golden tone of the DS High Rider Concept car’s golden exterior paintwork. You can also spot a colour screen in the centre console and the ‘Hybrid’ badge just below the gear stick.

The concept’s interior offers a clear contrast, as its dark-shaded roof lining meets the vehicle’s large panoramic windscreen. The luxurious details are complemented by a set of bespoke badging: the dashboard features embossed DS initials, while the seats use chrome DS inserts.

On the instrument panel, seats and door panels the automaker uses full-grain leather, chrome detailing around the dials, steering wheel, air vents, gear knob and center console, plus various golden and grey accents.





Press Release

STEP INSIDE CITROËN'S DS HIGH RIDER

Citroën has revealed the interior of the DS High Rider concept - which was originally showcased at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. In line with the car's distinctive exterior styling, DS High Rider's cockpit exudes strength, dynamism and refinement, with the utmost care and precision applied to even the smallest details. The ergonomic design of the controls, the quality of the carefully selected materials and the prestigious atmosphere on board convey status, elegance and the promise of luxurious comfort.

With a clear contrast between DS High Rider's large panoramic windscreen and its dark-shaded roof lining, the cabin is an exclusive environment with an emphasis on sporting luxury - also evidenced by the extensive application of leather and chrome detailing.

The instrument panel, seats and door panels are all finished in a quality, full-grain leather with clearly defined over-stitching and a ‘bracelet' design on the seats. The DS initials are also subtly embossed into the leatherwork of the dashboard.

Completing the dynamic ambience of the interior, chrome detailing is used around the dials, steering wheel, air vents, gear stick and the arch that connects the instrument panel to the console. Chrome ‘DS' inserts also feature, positioned just below the headrests on each of the front seats.

Mirroring the golden tone of the DS High Rider's bodywork, the interior door panels are trimmed with a graduated grey to gold shading that required the careful application of specific varnishes to achieve the gilded, metallic look.

DS High Rider's technology can be glimpsed in the controls mounted on the sculpted steering wheel, the colour screen in the centre console and the ‘Hybrid' badge just below the gear stick - which asserts the model's ecologically sensitive drivetrain.

Beijing _ 2010 BMW Concept Gran Coupe

BMW unveiled the Concept Gran Coupe today at the Beijing Auto Show, China. the all-new 2010 BMW Concept Gran Coupe has been revealed, finally confirming BMW’s intention to enter the burgeoning four-door coupe market.

The four-door includes a variety of distinct features like the vaulted hood with forward-facing lines, a longer wheelbase, coupe-style roofline and short front overhang. BMW describes the intent of the concept: “the BMW Concept Gran Coupé carries the essence of brand values and the genes of BMW design into the future.”

At 1.4-meters high, the car is 10-cm shorter in height than the 5er and 7er sedan. Current rumors suggest that the car is already approved for production and will be marketed as the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe to rival the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, a car which BMW does not directly compete against at this time.

According to BMW sources, the car is headed for production in 2012 and will be built on the same platform that underpins the 5-Series, 7-Series and the 5-Series Gran Turismo. The production model will be offered with the same mix of 6- and 8-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines as those models.





Press Release

Elegance and dynamic performance at the first BMW Design Night in Beijing.

Munich. With an exclusive Design Night on the evening of the first press day at Auto China in Beijing (April 23rd to May 2nd 2010), BMW provides an in-depth insight into its design philosophy and development strategy. The program of the BMW Design Night is modular in structure and presents extensive background information on the premium automobile manufacturer's innovative design culture. In addition to highlighting the long versions of the BMW 5 Series developed specially for the Chinese market, the main focus is on an elegant 4-door vehicle with striking dynamic proportions: the BMW Concept Gran Coupé.

The concept study on display symbolises the outstanding design expertise of BMW. The BMW Concept Gran Coupé concentrates the fundamental values of the brand. Its body design authentically captures a sense of superior dynamic performance and high-quality elegance. The shaping style, which follows a coherent pattern down to the last detail, convincingly visualises BMW's philosophy as an automobile manufacturer. As with the Concept CS 2007, BMW once again sets new benchmarks in the design of 4-door coupes with a distinctive sporty character.

Based on a powerful tradition in this segment, the BMW Concept Gran Coupé carries the essence of brand values and the genes of BMW design into the future. The concept shows the classic features of all BMW coupes: the long wheelbase, the vaulted bonnet with forward-pointing lines, the set-back greenhouse, the flat silhouette, the coupe-style roof line and the short front overhang reflect the dynamic potential of the vehicle. The surface structures and the fact that the design quality is geared towards perfection illustrate the aspiration of the brand BMW to build 4-door high-performance coupes with the sportiest proportions and the most elegant design.

In the BMW Concept Gran Coupé, BMW presents the vision of a 4-door vehicle which combines the exclusivity of a Gran Turismo with the fascination of a high-performance sports car. The design of the concept study underscores the expertise of the brand BMW in the development of vehicles with a distinctive sporty character which offer space for more than two occupants. This reflects the particular quality of the BMW Group design philosophy, which consists in precisely and authentically translating the specific values of product substance into an aesthetically convincing shaping style. The design process is set through with a passion for aesthetic appeal and dynamic performance, precision and perfection. This is how the uncompromising premium aspiration of a BMW Group product, the unmistakable style of the brand BMW and the precisely defined character of each model are given concrete form.

The body design of the BMW Concept Gran Coupé expresses sporty flair in its ultimate form. The 4-door vehicle clearly signals the very highest level of dynamic performance with its extremely elegant, flat and coupe-like proportions. Stretching the entire length of the vehicle and therefore measuring almost 5 metres, flowing lines dominate the design, giving rise to outstanding aerodynamic levels, just as the low centre of gravity reflects an agile driving response.

The front section is defined by the BMW kidney grille characteristic of the brand - an icon of body design which is not just central but also a dominating element of front design. The kidney grille of the BMW Concept Gran Coupé has a flat appearance, with an asymmetrical side view which emphasises the close attention to detail. The central section with the kidney grille is formally separated from other BMW icons such as the headlights and air inlets. The clarity of the LED front lights highlights the vehicle's precision and premium aspirations. The air inlet runs back an extremely long way into the side section, making the front section appear particularly wide. All elements of the front section appear to merge to form a single, elegantly curved movement.

The sporty, flat silhouette provides an impressive body height of just under 1.40 metres. This makes the BMW Concept Gran Coupé up to 100 millimetres flatter than the BMW 5 Series or the BMW 7 Series Sedan. The roof line tapers off gently into the rear, thereby elongating the vehicle's proportions. The forward-tilted shark nose visually extends the bonnet and creates characteristic BMW proportions with its forward-pointing dynamism. This stretched character is also highlighted by the side lines, where there is a deliberate avoidance of the typical sill line. The flat proportions make the window graphics appear extremely narrow and dynamic at the same time. Another BMW design icon, the Hofmeister kink, is especially strikingly formed - additionally emphasising the exclusive character of the vehicle. The frameless doors give the BMW Concept Gran Coupé a modern character since the glass surfaces appear to merge seamlessly without being interrupted by columns.

At the rear, only design elements such as the lights and tailpipe trim appear to be visible at first sight. The entire rear section appears slimmer and lighter at the centre, though still exuding power and dynamic performance since the volume is reinforced towards the sides. The L-shaped light banks feature a slight, almost subtle curve and the entire design of the lines and surfaces highlights the vehicle's elegant overall appearance. The third brake light, positioned in the rear window, is also fitted with LED technology. It takes up the kink in the roof and illuminates the entire width of the rear window. The powerfully flared wheel arches above the rear axle highlight the particularly sporty character of the BMW Concept Gran Coupé.

Another highly sporty and also elegant feature is the rim concept in which the individual spokes extend deep into the centre of the rim towards the hub, giving the rim a striking three-dimensional quality. The spokes themselves are not solid but relief-milled, giving them a visual lightness.

The sculptural shaping style characteristic of the entire body design of the BMW Concept Gran Coupé permits a unique interaction between concave and convex surfaces. It also enables the light to be selectively reflected and channelled. Thus the exterior mirrors integrated in the window shaft appear very light, blending harmoniously into the side view since their shape assimilates the entire line styling. The BMW Concept Gran Coupé is a further development of the classic design of a notchback sedan in which the individual body sections merge harmoniously into a flat, elongated and at the same time dynamic overall image. The effect of this 4-door vehicle derives not just from specific highlights but from its overall appearance, which authentically reflects its character. The car's dynamic potential is embodied in its proportions and lines, signalling power but also elegance and forward thrust.

TechArt Panamera Entertainment Package

TechArt has unveiled several new interior options for the Porsche Panamera.

The TECHART Entertainment Kit W2 includes two 7-inch monitors seamlessly integrated into the design of the front seats. It is incorporated in the high-quality TECHART leather monitor console in the color of the vehicle’s interior and located at the front seat backrests. A 6 DVD Changer attends to media playback – discreetly hidden in the trunk of the car.

Another option is the roof mounted Entertainment Kit, available with a pivoting 10.2 inch monitor. The media console with DVD player and integrated USB host, framed in the leather or Alcantara, is integrated into the roof liner of the Panamera. Connection options for a memory stick or a hard disk drive are available. As well as playing all popular media formats, they also offer an infrared remote control and provide the passengers with stereo sound via wireless headphones.






Press Release

TECHART Entertainment & Comfort

The TECHART interior manufactory sets a benchmark in terms of individualization for the Porsche Panamera models. In addition to the existing range of interior options, a choice of further high-quality entertainment and comfort is immediately available. The use of the finest materials, the right instinct for aesthetics and the matchless technical precision of the finish formed the basis for two unique entertainment packages and rear fold-away tables, built into the front seats, which deliver significantly more fun during the journey for passengers in the rear of the four-seater.

The TECHART Entertainment Kit W2 includes two 7-inch monitors seamlessly integrated into the design of the front seats. It is incorporated in the high-quality TECHART leather monitor console in the color of the vehicle's interior and located at the front seat backrests. A 6 DVD Changer attends to media playback - discreetly hidden in the trunk of the car.

A further alternative is the TECHART roof mounted Entertainment Kit, available with a pivoting 10.2-inch monitor. The media console with DVD player and integrated USB host, framed in the finest leather or Alcantara, is entirely integrated into the roof liner of the Panamera. Connection options for a memory stick or a hard disk drive guarantee universal applications as a DVD player or as a presentation medium. As well as playing all popular media formats, they also offer the convenience of infrared remote control and provide the passengers with brilliant stereo sound via wireless headphones.

The high-quality TECHART rear fold-away tables, which harmoniously retract into the seat upholstery of the front seats, offer additional convenience. Thanks to a robust mechanism and high-quality materials, the tables function on the one hand as a mobile work station during travel and on the other as a relaxing area for longer trips with the Panamera.

Mercedes SLK R171 Performance RS

Mercedes SLK R171 Performance RS Piecha Design has just been released and includes a full body kit that makes the car sportier.

The package is finished by 19 inch and 19/20 inch combination Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels. Also, the car has been lowered by 30 mm – not only for the perfect visual impression, but also to ensure the required wheel cover.

Dubbed the Performance RS, the package features an aerodynamic body kit with new front (€1,590) and rear (€1,355) fascias, aggressive side skirts (€450 each), a rear lip spoiler (€255), and SLR-style mirrors (€690). Wheel choices include 19- (€2,700) and 20-inchers (€2,900), with the latter having a 100mm stainless steel outer rim that "perfectly emphasizes the SLK Roadster's wedge-shape."


Mercedes SLK R171 Performance RS Piecha Design has some other accessories like aerowing on the hood, a module that allows you to raise of close the roof at 60km/h and aluminum insertions.

Source: Piecha Design





Press Release

Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 Performance RS by Piecha Design

Sneak Preview

Stylish tuning is a tradition at Piecha Design. For the current Mercedes Benz SLK R171, the Rottweil tuners present the new performance RS package. It offers a perfect mixture of sportiveness and elegance, as is typical for the company.

The SLK is all grown up now!

The new aerodynamics programme's style is as sportive as it is elegant. It fits seamlessly into the design language of Mercedes-Benz. For the cult Roadster's front, Piecha developed a complete bumper including LED daytime headlights, a wide central spoiler sword and additional brake air channel, integrated fog lamps and lateral double gills. The grille keeps its traditional Mercedes star and is also equipped with polished stainless steel lamellae at the much wider grille bars that reach far to the sides. Rounded side skirts with large air intake channels at the rear end ensure a wedge-shaped looking deeper profile. Optional LED skirt lamps make for gigantic night-light effects. They come on automatically when the vehicle is opened in the dark and indirectly light the area of the side skirts. The striking tear-shaped sports mirrors are attached to two hinged arms and make the SLK look like a true sports car. The re-designed mirrors can be set and heated electrically and folded manually. Piecha Design delivers them completely painted and mounted. For the rear area, Piecha developed a completely new design for the rear skirt. It has a wide grille insert, diffuser and additional under-floor wings. Optionally, the rear skirt is also available with cut-outs for the serial exhaust system or 4-pipe-exhaust systems. An unobtrusive rear spoiler lip integrated flush into the rear lid and reaching all the way to the outer edges provides additional output. The popular Piecha QUADRO exhaust systems were reworked completely and are delivered as a half system from the catalytic converter. It is mounted to the original flange connections without any cutting. The 6-cylinder models are equipped with a flow-optimised X-pipe-adapter and the 4-cylinder version with an adequate connection pipe with V-flange adapter.

The complete aerodynamics programme fits all SLK R171 models incl. facelift and the SLK 55. The only thing to be observed is whether or not the vehicle is equipped with a parktronic (PDC), and, if so, if it is pre- or post-Facelift 2008.

Matching wheel/tyre combinations are 19 inch and 19/20 inch combination Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels. The 19 inch ones are ideal from a driving-dynamics point of view, at the front in 8.5 x 19 with 225/35 ZR 19 and at the rear in 9.5 x 19 with 255/30 ZR 19 tyres. An optical treat, however, is offered by using 8.5 x 19 with 225/35 ZR 19 tyres in front and combining them with 9.5 x 20 drop-centre rims at the rear axis and 265/25 ZR20 tyres. A special drop-centre rim version with a gigantic 100 mm stainless steel outer rim was developed particularly for the 9.5 x 20 rims. This version perfectly emphasises the SLK Roadster's wedge-shape and fits under the serial body with only little reworking. A basic prerequisite for this, however, is that the car is lowered by about 30 mm - not only for the perfect visual impression, but also to ensure the required wheel cover.

To top everything off, the SLK R171 Performance RS programme must of course include popular accessories such as the aerowings for the hood, the comfort vario roof module with "one touch function" and the possibility of opening or closing the roof at up to 60 km/h, the "must have" power converter for perceptibly improved acceleration and a more dynamic reaction and small attributes such as door pins with high-quality aluminium. The real glass wind deflector with perforated inserts for the roll-bar are necessities as well, since it not only enables a clear view to the rear but also reduces air vortices in the interior to a minimum and offers an optical contribution to the overall package.

Prices

Front skirt complete as indicated 1,590.00 Euros
With PDC 1,690.00 Euros

Rear skirt complete as indicated 1,355.00 Euros
With PDC 1,455.00 Euros

Side skirt with grille insert per side 450.00 Euros

Surcharge for LED skirt illumination 298.00 Euros (both sides)

Rear spoiler lip 255.00 Euros

Glass wind deflector set with bar inserts 398.00 Euros

Painted sports mirrors Pair 690.00 Euros

Complete wheel set dp2 Phantom
8.5x19 with 225/35 ZR19 front
9.5x20 with 265/25 ZR20 rear 2,900.00 Euros
Alternative
Rear 9.5 x 19 with 255/30 ZR19 2,700.00 Euros

QUADRO half system for SLK 200 1,190.00 Euros
QUADRO half system for SLK 280-350 1,285.00 Euros

Mercedes-Benz Shooting Break Concept [Video]

Well now this car sees actual form as a concept and it’s called the Mercedes-Benz Shooting Break Concept.

The car that Mercedes unveiled today shows that there still may be hope for the estate buyer just as the CLS revived the estate as a good looking car. The Stuttgart automaker has announced that this concept will make its debut at the Beijing Motor Show, sometime later this week.

This model brings together features from the F800 Concept, from the Mercedes SLS AMG, from the FASCINATION Concept car and is hailed by Mercedes as some future insight in the design possibilities of the Coupe Concept.

The bonnet of this concept covers up a 3.5 liter V6 engine that develops 306 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque that features BlueEFFICIENCY technology in order to obtain better fuel consumption. Some other interesting technology that can be found on this concept is the dynamic full LED headlamps that are a world premiere on any car.

Inside, the car makes good use of contrasting cream and brown leather, though a third leather shade needlessly creates a tri-color scheme.  The use of the cream tone as the dominant color that carries into the headliner works to make the concept feel more spacious and comfortable.  This is further accentuated by the large glass roof that extends over the heads of the rear passengers.  Behind the rear seats are stylish storage units meant to fit items like a laptop or tool kit, with a drawback that they may be hard to reach.  A flat wooden floor in back will make sliding luggage or golf clubs in and out of the car a bit easier.

Should this concept hit production, it will be the best competitor for the BMW 5 Series GT and i have to admit, as far as looks are concerned the Mercedes-Benz Shooting Break Concept is already winning.






Press Release

THE SHOOTING BREAK CONCEPT CAR: TAKING THE COUPÉ DESIGN TO NEW HEIGHTS

World premiere at "Auto China 2010"

* Innovation four-door Coupé with sloping tail end

* World premiere: dynamic full LED headlamps

* Forerunner: new V6 petrol engine with direct injection

In October 2004 Mercedes-Benz established a new market segment with the four-door Coupé CLS. In September 2008, the brand revealed a fresh and exciting interpretation of the emotionally-appealing Coupé-based design in the form of the FASCINATION concept car. Now making its premiere at Auto China 2010 is the Shooting Break concept car - a further insight by Mercedes designers into the possible future development of the Coupé concept. The Shooting Break concept car also represents a clear indication of the further emotional appeal of the Mercedes design idiom.

Wide and flat, with a long bonnet and a roof which continues through to the rear: the Shooting Break concept car features some astonishing proportions which at the same time are clearly reminiscent of another design icon - the CLS. The design of the front is completely new, but makes use of elements which are mindful of the SLS AMG super sports car: the radiator grille, with the large star and eye-catching, bionic slats, is not integrated into the bonnet but has been designed separately in the form of a "soft nose". The grille is flanked on each side by full LED headlamps, which for the first time feature LED technology for all of the usual dynamic light functions. The side profile is given a touch of dynamism thanks to the high, exaggerated beltline sweeping towards the rear, and the dramatic character line which is supported by the powerful-looking rear wheel arches. The coupé-like side view is also emphasised with a low window design which also highlights the greenhouse with polished aluminium trim.

The interior is dominated by natural wood and leather materials. One eye-catching feature is the large full-length centre console. It highlights the four- seat layout as well as the high levels of comfort afforded by the Shooting Break concept car. The wooden floor of the luggage compartment reflects the true interpretation of this area of the vehicle, where the dark-stained silky oak contrasts against inlaid aluminium protective loading strips.

The Shooting Break concept car is driven by the forerunner to the forthcoming new V-engine generation from Mercedes-Benz. The V6 benefits from a 60° cylinder angle and a displacement of 3.5 litres, and is characterised by direct injection featuring a control system which enables lean-burn operation. The six-cylinder engine produces 225 kW (306 hp) with a maximum torque of 370 Nm and in line with the BlueEFFICIENCY criteria of Mercedes-Benz also sets new standards among the competition in terms of fuel consumption.

The exterior: stylish and sporty

The proportions are clearly those of a coupé: the long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, and dynamic roof sloping back towards the rear create a basic stance with which it looks ready for the off. It is only when taking a second look that it becomes clear that the Shooting Break concept car actually has four doors and an estate rear. As such, this study in design reveals its philosophical links with the four-door CLS Coupé, a car which has established a new market segment since 2004 and today is already seen as a design icon which is likely to occupy a very special place in the history of the motor car. The Shooting Break concept car may well be looked back on at some point as having played a similar role, taking ideas from the FASCINATION concept car premiered in 2008 and projecting them into the future.

"The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes Coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further," explains Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz. "At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz."

The vocabulary of the design idiom includes the contrasting play between lines and exaggerated areas, which combine to create an animated area of interaction. The expressive design of the front immediately catches the eye, using elements which are mindful of the SLS AMG super sports car, and with a radiator grille which for the first time has been designed as a "soft nose" and is not integrated into the bonnet. This contributes to better pedestrian protection and at the same time also helps to improve the focus on the long, sporty bonnet. The grille is dominated by the large central star, highlighting its relationship to the other Coupés of the Mercedes brand. It is supported by bionic, curved grille slats. Their curved design is reflected in the expressive look of the front apron and air intakes.

Particularly eye-catching are the full LED headlamps, which for the first time offer all of the regular dynamic light functions using LED technology. Inside they are divided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offering LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the dipped beam function is switched on, thereby creating a novel and separate night-time design and distinctive look. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LEDs not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

The side profile of the Shooting Break concept car is dominated by the low, frameless side windows, the coupé-like shape of which is further highlighted with the incorporation of a polished aluminium frame along the body. Thanks to the positioning of the outside mirrors on the beltline, the side line is emphasised and all-round visibility has been improved in the region of the A-pillars. The side windows are supported on a high beltline, which slopes towards the rear in a fresh interpretation of the classic "dropping line" of iconic Mercedes Coupés. An additional exciting touch has been made with the prominent, muscular hip points which forcefully support the side line. This interaction gives the impression of a sprinter, poised in the starting blocks, ready to release an explosive forward surge of energy. The roof follows through to the rear and also drops away in typical coupé fashion. Another special feature is the recessed, filigree door handles, which emerge on being touched with the aid of sensors to allow access to the interior.

The side view is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology. As such they form a linking element to the low, steeply-angled estate car rear end with top-hinged tailgate. The shape is emphasised by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the lowered-look greenhouse. The twin pipe exhaust system, with two polished exhaust covers, is integrated into the rear bumper, which features an elegantly curved wing.

Also contributing to the special appearance of the Shooting Break concept car is the exceptional paint finish. A satin-finish clear coat has been used, which gives the vehicle's allanite grey magno colour a mysterious glint and also further brings out the Coupé's exquisite lines.

The sporty look of the Shooting Break concept car is complemented with large 20-inch sterling silver wheels, featuring a special bionically arranged five-spoke filigree design. They allow a glimpse of the large brake discs behind. The front wheels are fitted with 255/30 ZR 20 tyres, while the rear of this exceptional vehicle sits on 285/25 ZR 20 tyres.

The interior: design makes quality noticeable; high-quality materials, hand-crafted perfection

A large panoramic glass sunroof provides a glimpse into the high-quality, perfectly hand-crafted interior of the Shooting Break concept car, where natural materials such as wood and leather dominate. Wood is used on the trim elements and door pulls, the instrument panel and centre console, and primarily on the luggage compartment floor in the rear. When it came to choosing the wood, the interior designers opted for silky oak on account of its unusual, lens-shaped texture. The wooden floor in the luggage compartment has inlaid aluminium protective loading strips, and is reminiscent of finishes normally seen in yacht building.

Four saddle bags along the sides of the luggage compartment are useful for storing small tools. They are finished in leather, a material which has been used extensively throughout the Shooting Break concept car: in fact, almost ten square metres of leather have been incorporated into the interior. Light sections of porcelain-coloured nappa leather form an attractive contrast to the dark-brown natural-coloured aniline leather and perforated metallic-silver finish seat cushions and door centre panels. Extensive double-lapped stitching and discerning colour-coordinated upholstery seat piping reflect the hand-crafted perfection and attention to detail, as does the tuck stitching on the instrument panel, door sill covers and seat backrests, all of which highlights the contours of the components extremely well.

Perfection and attention to detail also apply to the trim elements. While on the exterior they are polished to a high-sheen finish, in the interior they feature a matt finish. A total of seven manual processes are necessary - from grinding to polishing - to transform the components, which are milled completely from aluminium, into their final decorative form. The matt finish of the interior trim has also served as inspiration for the metallic-silver leather on the seats, door centre panels and bags in the luggage compartment. The deep-pile carpet in the footwell - finished in porcelain colour - is a luxurious material used by Maybach-Manufaktur. The light-coloured roof liner made of silk cloth adds the finishing touch to the impression of comfortable elegance in the interior.

The Shooting Break concept car is clearly a four-seater. The four identically shaped leather seats have a touch of the sports car about them thanks to their integrated head restraints. Openings in the upper area of the backrests make it possible to see through the seats. A large full-length wood console on the transmission tunnel provides a visual divide between driver and front passenger and at the same time indulges the occupants with two large leather-covered armrests. It also houses two cup holders as well as controls for the rear-compartment air conditioning. The centre console is finished off at the rear with inlaid work: curved Mercedes lettering which harks back to the style of the 1920s. The striking cursive-script lettering is also repeated on the front door sills.

Since the central screen has been integrated into the upper part of the instrument panel, the cockpit has a "wrap-around" effect. The elegant verve and bionic details of the exterior are captured, among other things, in the dynamic wave-design air vents in the instrument panel. An analogue clock sits in the centre. The instrument cluster comprises three tubes for dial-type gauges as well as a colour display for service indications.

The headlamps: exciting LED technology offering full functionality

The Shooting Break concept car has dynamic full LED headlamps, which combine the exciting daylight colour impression of LED technology with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today's bi-xenon light generation. The new light system, due to make its debut in series production this year, features the Intelligent Light System which has already been tried and tested in Mercedes models with bi-xenon headlamps. Its five light functions - country lights, motorway lights, enhanced fog lights, active curve lights and cornering lights -have been specifically designed for typical driving or weather conditions.

The light specialists at Mercedes-Benz have also been able to combine LED technology with the innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist for the first time, leading to a completely new level of safety at night.

The engine: enhanced performance, enhanced efficiency

The Shooting Break concept car is driven by the forerunner to the forthcoming new V-engine generation from Mercedes-Benz. The special features of the spray-guided direct injection engine include the latest generation of piezo-electric injection valves which enable multiple injections. Better lean operation is possible thanks to load monitoring of the pressure information. Even the operation of the ancillary components has been made efficient and there is also a start/stop function. The V6 with a 60° cylinder angle and displacement of 3.5 litres produces 225 kW (306 hp) with a maximum torque of 370 Nm.

It's all in a name: the origins of the name "Shooting Break"

Break, or the homonym Brake, was the name once given to carriages used to "break" in wild horses and also to restrict (or "brake") their urge to move, so that they could be put to use as work horses. Since the carts could easily be broken as part of this process, people tended not to use ones which they may have urgently needed for other purposes. Where necessary, "Brakes" were often fitted out with variable bodies, which were only really used to carry along anything that may have been necessary for the hunt, for example. Any such vehicle which was used when going out shooting was called a Shooting Brake or Shooting Break. In the 1960s and 1970s motorised Shooting Breaks were popular in Great Britain - exclusive cross-over vehicles, which combined the luxuriousness of a coupé with the luggage space of an estate.