MERCEDES-BENZ, smart and AMG once again converged in Shanghai to showcase 42 fascinating models at Hall E7 of Auto Shanghai, which opened its doors today. With three world premieres and seven new model launches as part of Mercedes-Benz' 2013 product offensive, the three brands in the Mercedes-Benz family came out in full force this year.

Mercedes-Benz Premium Compact Cars

The Concept GLA is unveiled to global audiences for the first time, revealing the future of the compact premium SUV. Once in series production, it will join the newly-launched all-new A-Class as another member of Mercedes-Benz' New Generation Compact Car (NGCC) family.

Combining dynamic styling with clear benefits for recreational use, the Concept GLA identifies trends for development of the premium compact SUV, as well as highlights the further potential of Mercedes-Benz' compact vehicle architecture.

Its distinctive exterior combines SUV design cues with coupe elements, while the premium interior boasts a sophisticated look and exceptionally high-quality materials. The instrument panel creates a futuristic impression with the instrument panel covered by chic Plexiglas, which protects a leather-upholstered surface and supports an aluminum framework underneath. Meanwhile, headlamps that utilize laser technology represent another major breakthrough for the Concept GLA. The laser light is not only used for driving light, but is also capable of projecting pictures or films, creating a mobile entertainment system.

The world premiere of the Concept GLA is the second consecutive time a Mercedes-Benz NGCC concept car has debuted in Shanghai, following the unveiling of the Concept A-Class at Auto Shanghai 2011.

In 2013, the A-Class is coming full circle with its China launch in Shanghai. The all-new A-Class has an extraordinarily progressive design that incorporates a young and sporty style. A number of features were taken directly from the Concept A-Class, such as the flashy diamond grille in the A 260 Sport. Meanwhile, distinctive character lines along the side profile, and the dynamic dropping line in particular, help create interplay between concave and convex surfaces.

Using the latest Mercedes-Benz design language, the interior of the all-new A-Class mirrors its sporty exterior with a three-spoke sports steering wheel, X-shaped air vents, and standard sports seats that give drivers an instant shot of adrenaline. Meanwhile, the panoramic sunroof opens up the interior and brings in a breath of fresh air.

At the same time, the all-new A-Class delivers impressive agility for a compact car. Its turbocharged direct injection engine gives customers three power choices ranging from 90 kW to 155 kW, while the sports suspension combined with electromechanical power steering (EPS) allows for dynamic handling and excellent control.

New E-Class Long

Auto Shanghai also witnesses the world premiere of the locally-produced new E-Class Long, a pillar product that has been reborn with new dynamism. In order to meet the needs of different customers in this segment, for the first time, the new E-Class Long will be launched with two distinct models under a new offering strategy for the China market.

The extraordinarily dynamic new E-Class Sport Sedan Long incorporates a sports car radiator featuring the central star for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class car, exuding an unprecedented level of sportiness and energy.

The timelessly classic new E-Class Sedan Long, on the other hand, will maintain the car's heritage and timeless appeal that consumers have grown to love with Mercedes-Benz' emblematic grille design and standing star on the bonnet.

At the same time, the new E-Class Long embodies the perfect combination of innovation and heritage. The all-new headlamp design integrates all lighting functions under a single lens, while LED lights outline the "four-eyed" layout. The side profile utilizes Mercedes-Benz' latest design language with character lines that interact to define the E-Class' sleek and distinct silhouette. Meanwhile, two-toned LED tail lights make the rear sides look more elongated and elegant.

smart family

In addition to fascinating new debuts from the three-pointed star, urban lifestyle icon smart also featured the world debut of the smart Jeremy Scott edition. Together with the launch of smart's premium BRABUS tailor made service, this highly exclusive special edition takes the smart brand to new heights of individuality.

The smart brand brings personalization and individualization to new heights with two new offerings at Auto Shanghai.

One is a unique model created together with internationally renowned fashion designer Jeremy Scott, which will be available based on the BRABUS 75 kW model as an extremely limited special edition licensed for road use. The smart Jeremy Scott edition debuted in Shanghai with an iconic wing design borne from the smart forjeremy concept car. This special edition perfectly encapsulates the smart brand's individuality and status as an urban lifestyle icon.

In addition, smart brought its exclusive smart BRABUS tailor made service to the Chinese market, giving consumers an unprecedented level of personalization. Also based on the smart BRABUS 75 kW model, smart BRABUS tailor made can turn the most colorful fantasies into reality by personalizing every detail to fit each customer's preferences and needs.

Customers can choose from different color options for the body, tridion safety cell, and even rims, and a choice between metallic or matte paint finishes. The interior is just as brilliant and colorful with 20 leather color choices, two types of seat designs, and a variety of stitching patterns. Over a billion different combinations are possible.

Mercedes-Benz' rich and diverse produce line-up together with its strong brand strategy fully reflects the three-pointed star's determination and confidence for every market segment, as well as Mercedes-Benz' unwavering commitment to the China market. Mercedes-Benz has never slowed its relentless pace of innovation. Instead, constant breakthroughs continuously inject vitality into the century-old brand, ensuring that the Mercedes-Benz star will shine even brighter in the future.