The C-Class has sported a cleaner, more angular appearance since its redesign, and that look continues into 2011. Exterior features include both Luxury and Sport versions(Luxury models have comfort suspension and traditional Mercedes-Benz grille and hood ornament, while Sport models have a large grille-mounted star, subtle ground effects, sport-tuned suspension and new LED daytime running lights) as well as new 17-inch five-spoke wheels that come standard on Sport models with the optional choice of 18-inch wheels.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is largely unchanged following its introduction for the 2010 model year. GLK is a 4-door wagon that shares its basic design with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class premium-compact car. It's available with rear-wheel drive, or the company's 4Matic all-wheel drive. Newly optional on the 2011 GLK-Class is an AMG Sport Package, which includes specific exterior trim and 20-inch wheels.

The 2010 Mercedes Benz GL gets positive performance reviews mainly due to the fact that it drives like a much smaller vehicle, while still maintaining good off-road abilities. This is in large part thanks to its uni-body construction, instead of the body-on-frame construction that is typically used in most large SUVs and trucks.

The class-leading 2011 SL63 AMG hardtop roadster takes driving dynamics to an entirely new level: its Race Start function enables the 2011 SL63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. For the first time, the all-new, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT-7-speed sports transmission is the central component of the driving experience, enabling the most responsive automatic gearbox from AMG to date.

Changes are minor for 2011, with the previously optional Sport Package now standard on the CLS550, including 18-inch AMG wheels, high-performance summer tires and steering-wheel shift paddles. Also, the new "mbrace" telematics system is standard, offering features such as remotely locking and unlocking the vehicle with an iPhone or BlackBerry.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible has exactly the same exterior dimensions as the E-Class coupe, and like the CLK line before it, is based on the C-Class platform architecture (yes, despite the fact that it's being called an "E"). Engines are carryovers in the 2011 E-Class convertible, so don't look for Mercedes' new direct-injected CGI power plants at launch. Instead, you'll have your choice of the E350 convertible with its 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and the E550 Cab with it 382-hp 5.5-liter V8, either one with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The E-Class convertible is also the first Mercedes Cabrio to offer head airbags. Safety is increased by reinforced A-pillars and other braces.

The GL450's 335-horsepower V-8 delivers plenty of power along with superb fuel economy. Its 7,500-lb towing capacity, ride-balancing air suspension, and optional Off-Road Package keep the best of both worlds open to you. When treating your passengers to a ride, the GL offers three rows of adult-sized seating for seven. When cargo takes priority, the liftgate opens wide for easy loading and the second- and third-row seats fold flat to give you more than 83 cubic feet of packing space.

The M-Class SUV is the original luxury sport utility in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Comfortably sized, it seats five with room for plenty of luggage, drives like a sedan, and is a capable off-roader. All five models are equipped with an automatic transmission and electronically managed 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The gasoline version of the ML350 is also available with rear-wheel drive.

For 2011 the R350 4MATIC gets a new nose with a taller hood, deeper, wider grille, revised lower fascia with LED driving lamps, and wider-looking headlights replacing the vertical almonds from the original. The taillamps are now ribbed, sandwich-style stacks typical of most Mercedes models, perched above a new, more intricately detailed rear bumper. Alas, there are no mechanical changes to accompany the brave new face.

Even before you step inside, the S550 mesmerizes - from the V-shaped trunk lid, to flared wheel arches and LED side marker lamps, to the iconic hood ornament. And throughout the cabin, furnishings like ambient lighting and Burl Walnut wood trim set an enchanting tone. But it's under the hood where the S550 truly dazzles. With a 382-horsepower V-8 powerplant paired with a seamlessly smooth 7-speed automatic transmission, it doesn't just move down the road, it devours it.

The award-winning SL-Class profile is so seductively engineered its lines are copied for practice in design schools around the world. Crowned by its signature retractable hardtop - which silently conceals itself in just 16 seconds - it's a virtuoso performer, deftly balancing raw power with unrivaled luxuries. In short, it's the ride of your life, with the handling to match.

Remaining beautiful but getting different, starker lines for 2011, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class will remain a stellar, beautiful, high-performance vehicle but with a more masculine appearance than has typically been found in the SLK line. This makes for the promise of an interesting look and feel for the SLK in 2011.