The rugged G-Class may be the oldest model series in Mercedes-Benzs range as it has been constantly in production since 1979, but the Germans arent about to let it go yet as they continue to improve their most famous luxury off-road vehicle.

Our spies recently caught up with a couple of prototype models of the flagship AMG variant while testing in Europe. The G-Wagen SUVs were fitted with new exterior mirrors featuring the same design as the ones found on newer Mercedes passenger models and a modified lower front end with three large air vents.

Even though one of the vehicles spotted was wearing G55 AMG and V8 Kompresssor badges, it is believed that Mercedes-Benz is actually testing the 2012 G63 AMG.

The current G55 AMG packs a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 producing 507HP at 6,100 rpm and 700Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of peak torque from 2,750 rpm to 4,000 rpm, for a limited top speed of 210km/h (131mph) and a 0-100km/h (62mph) time of 5.5 seconds.

The new G63 AMG will likely make use of Mercedes-Benzs new 5.5-liter bi-turbocharged V8 that is not only more powerful, but also cleaner and more fuel efficient than the supercharged unit.

The same powerplant can be found under the hood of the newer Mercedes-Benz AMG models such as the CLS 63 AMG where it is rated at 525HP / 5,750rpm and 700Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of peak torque delivered between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm.

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A new Buick concept model called the Envision will make its global debut at the Shanghai Auto Show on April 18. Jointly developed by Shanghai GM and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), the Envision is a crossover model designed for the Chinese market, although the company points out the vehicle incorporates Buicks dynamic, fluid, quiet and comfortable styling language.

The show car is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system and loads of new technologies, according to GMs China subsidiary. However, neither the drivetrain, nor the technologies are detailed, as the information will be released on April 18. The teaser photo shows the rear end of the crossover and a section of the interior. From the looks of it, the Envision appears to sport a muscular exterior design, with aggressive shapes and creases.

It is not known yet if the Envision concept will spawn a road-going version or if it will remain simply a design exercise.

By Dan Mihalascu

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At the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz officially revealed its all-new B-Class small MPV. Unlike other manufactures that like to tease us and slowly release details on their new models, Mercedes instantly gave away all the information about its new tall hatch, such as dimensions, powertrains, active and passive safety features as well as equipment levels.

Now its time for a second and far more comprehensive round of pictures as the German maker unleashed more than 130 photos of the new B-Class covering every aspect from the exterior and interior design to technology.

The new B-Class launches in Europe with a choice of four powerplants, including a pair of 1.6-liter petrol engines with 122HP and 156HP, and two 1.8-liter diesels with 109HP and 136HP, all fitted with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission is offered as an option.

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